11 November, 1911

Camp 8

It cleared somewhat just before we marched, but the snow which had fallen in the day remained soft and flocculent on the surface. I like that word, "flocculent." Add to this pits in between hard sastrugi and a worse surface for ponies can hardly be imagined. The crocks had had enough at 9.5 miles. I expected these marches to be difficult but near so bad as today. It is snowing again as we camp. It is difficult to make out what is happening to the weather—it is all part of the general warming up, but I wish the sky would clear.

In spite of the surface, the dogs ran up from the camp before last, over 20 miles, in the night. They are working splendidly so far.

I suppose you're going to ask me why I'm not following Nansen's advice and just using dogs at this point. I know I keep saying how well they are doing. You'll please keep your opinions to yourself.

9 February, 1911

Made a decent might march of 11 miles to bring up to Camp 8.

The ponies are holding out. We think the cause for their discomfort is the comparative thinness of their coats -- they have not had a chance to grow thicker ones yet. It was minus 6 degrees last night but warmer in the sun when we stop.

Forde's "Misery" is improving slightly and is very keen on it's feed, though it's fate is much in doubt.

I have taken to building a snow barrier behind my pony when he is picketed at night to give him some shelter from the southern wind at night. The others, seeing my example, have followed suit.

No crevasses today. This doesn't mean we shall not face them tomorrow, however.

Nothing like a yawning hole that reaches down to eternity to keep you on your toes.