It had a personal interest for us all.

In this way we added to our scanty stock between two and three tons of provisions, about half of which was farinaceous food, such as flour and peas, of which we were so short.

This sounds a great deal, but at one pound per day it would only last twenty-eight men for three months.
Previous to this I had reduced the food allowance to nine and a half ounces per man per day.

Now, however, it could be increased, and "this afternoon, for the first time for ten days, we knew what it was to be really satisfied." I had the sledges packed in readiness with the special sledging rations in case of a sudden move, and with the other food, allowing also for prospective seals and penguins, I calculated a dietary to give the utmost possible variety and yet to use our precious stock of flour in the most economical manner.

All seals and penguins that appeared anywhere within the vicinity of the camp were killed to provide food and fuel.