The party agreed, after a brief consultation, to adopt this plan.

Mackintosh felt that the depot must be laid, and that delay would be dangerous.

Spencer-Smith was left with a tent, one sledge, and provisions, and told to expect the returning party in about a week.

The tent was made as comfortable as possible inside, and food was placed within the sick man's reach.

Spencer-Smith bade his companions a cheery good-bye after lunch, and the party was six or seven miles away before evening.