The case required to be argued in some detail, since all hands knew
that the perils of the proposed journey were extreme. The risk was
justified solely by our urgent need of assistance. The ocean south of
Cape Horn in the middle of May is known to be the most tempestuous
storm-swept area of water in the world. The weather then is unsettled,
the skies are dull and overcast, and the gales are almost unceasing.
We had to face these conditions in a small and weather-beaten boat,
already strained by the work of the months that had passed. Worsley
and Wild realized that the attempt must be made, and they both asked to
be allowed to accompany me on the voyage. I told Wild at once that he
would have to stay behind. I relied upon him to hold the party
together while I was away and to make the best of his way to Deception
Island with the men in the spring in the event of our failure to bring
help. Worsley I would take with me, for I had a very high opinion of
his accuracy and quickness as a navigator, and especially in the
snapping and working out of positions in difficult circumstances--an
opinion that was only enhanced during the actual journey. Four other
men would be required, and I decided to call for volunteers, although,
as a matter of fact, I pretty well knew which of the people I would
select.
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