Stevens, Spencer-Smith, and Cope went to Cape Royds on the 20th, and were still there when the sun made its first appearance over Erebus on the 26th.
Preceding days had been cloudy, and the sun, although above the horizon, had not been visible.
"The morning broke clear and fine," wrote Mackintosh.

"Over Erebus the sun's rays peeped through the massed cumulus and produced the most gorgeous cloud effects.

The light made us all blink and at the same time caused the greatest exuberance of spirits.

We felt like men released from prison.

I stood outside the hut and looked at the truly wonderful scenery all round.