The pack was being impelled to the east by a tide-rip, and two huge masses of ice were driving down upon us on converging courses.

The 'James Caird' was leading.

Starboarding the helm and bending strongly to the oars, we managed to get clear.

The two other boats followed us, though from their position astern at first they had not realized the immediate danger.

The 'Stancomb Wills' was the last boat and she was very nearly caught, but by great exertion she was kept just ahead of the driving ice.