The rumour that had reached South Georgia, however, made it more than ever important that I should bring out the rest of the Weddell Sea party quickly, so as to free myself for whatever effort was required on the Ross Sea side.
When we reached Husvik that Sunday morning we were warmly greeted by the magistrate (Mr.Bernsten), whom I knew of old, and the other members of the little community.

Moored in the harbour was one of the largest of the whalers, the 'Southern Sky', owned by an English company but now laid up for the winter.

I had no means of getting into communication with the owners without dangerous delay, and on my accepting all responsibility Mr.Bernsten made arrangements for me to take this ship down to Elephant Island.

I wrote out an agreement with Lloyd's for the insurance of the ship.

Captain Thom, an old friend of the Expedition, happened to be in Husvik with his ship, the 'Orwell', loading oil for use in Britain's munition works, and he at once volunteered to come with us in any capacity.