The ice had closed around the ship during the night, and no water could be seen in any direction from the deck.

A few lanes were in sight from the mast-head.

We sounded in 312 fathoms, finding mud, sand, and pebbles.
The land showed faintly to the east.

We waited for the conditions to improve, and the scientists took the opportunity to dredge for biological and geological specimens.

During the night a moderate north- easterly gale sprang up, and a survey of the position on the 20th showed that the ship was firmly beset.