304 THE WORLD OF ICE.

loosened so much that it seemed as if the Dolphin
might soon get out into open water, and once more
float upon its natural element. Every preparation,
therefore, was made. The stores were re-shipped from
Store Island; the sails were shaken out, and those of
them that had been taken down were bent on to the
yards; tackle was overhauled; and, in short, every-
thing was done that was possible under the circum-
stances. But a week passed away ere they succeeded
in finally warping out of the bay into the open sea
beyond.

It was a lovely morning when this happy event
was accomplished. Before the tide was quite full,
and while they were waiting until the command to
heave on the warps should be given, Captain Guy
assembled the crew for morning prayers in the cabin.
Having concluded, he said :—

“ My lads, through the great mercy of God we have
been all, except one, spared through the trials and
anxieties of a lone and dreary winter, and are now, I
trust, about to make our escape from the ice that has
held us fast so long. It becomes me at such a time
to tell you that, if I am spared to return home, I shall
be able to report that every man in this ship has done
his duty. You have never flinched in the hour of
danger, and never grumbled in the hour of trial.
Only one man—our late brave and warm-hearted
comrade, Joseph West—has fallen in the struggle.
For the mercies that have never failed us, and for

 

our suceess in rescuing my gallant friend, Captain