The two floes between which the 'Endurance' was lying began to close and the ship was subjected to a series of tremendously heavy strains.

In the engine- room, the weakest point, loud groans, crashes, and hammering sounds were heard.

The iron plates on the floor buckled up and overrode with loud clangs.

Meanwhile the floes were grinding off each other's projecting points and throwing up pressure-ridges.

The ship stood the strain well for nearly an hour and then, to my great relief, began to rise with heavy jerks and jars.