Page:Scott's Last Expedition, Volume 2.djvu/571

After six hours the pressure eased and the Terra Nova was able to turn, taking, however, four hours' struggle to do so, and it took another twenty-six hours to escape from the ice which, on the day before, she had taken three hours to pass through. The alternative of leaving the ship in the ice and letting her drift with it past the Barrier was too dangerous to be more than thought of and cast aside, owing to the probable severe pressure that would be encountered while passing the Barrier itself.

The ship immediately proceeded to Cape Evans in order to report and to embark those going home, as it was probable that she would have to spend the remainder of her time trying to relieve Campbell.

As far as Cape Bird the ship passed through sea covered with pancake ice, and Ponting was able to get some very interesting photos of it in different stages of growth. Fortunately this ice only reduced her speed by about two knots.

After passing Cape Bird a strong southerly wind sprang up, so that great difficulty was experienced in making Cape Evans; but finally she anchored close in at 2 p.m. on the 25th, all the fast ice having gone out since she was last here. At 11 p.m. the gale lulled Feb. 25, 1912. Cape Evans. for a few minutes and a boat was sent ashore. Simpson at once came off with the news that Lieutenant Evans was at Hut Point and seriously ill, and should be taken off as soon as possible.