“One cannot fail to perceive that we are in a position of considerable disadvantage, though of very little peril unless the whole field of ice in which we seem to form the centre should subsequently be subjected to considerable pressure; even then it is expected that the ship would rise so that the ice would pass downwards, under her bottom.”

“No doubt the pack will open up in a week or two, but if this should not occur before the end of March, we should have to remain frozen in until next November, probably, which would be rather trying.”

“No-one contemplates for a moment that this is at all likely, and Sir Ernest least of all exhibits the slightest sign of anxiety about it.”

— Thomas Orde-Lees