The channels separating these desolate patches of rock and ice are from ten to fifteen miles wide.

But we knew from the Admiralty sailing directions that there were stores for the use of shipwrecked mariners on Deception Island, and it was possible that the summer whalers had not yet deserted its harbour.

Also we had learned from our scanty records that a small church had been erected there for the benefit of the transient whalers.

The existence of this building would mean to us a supply of timber, from which, if dire necessity urged us, we could construct a reasonably seaworthy boat.

We had discussed this point during our drift on the floe.