Mackintosh was fortunate for the
long journey in that he had these three men with him: Ernest Wild,
Richards, and Joyce.
Before proceeding with the adventures of this party I want to make
clear in these pages how much I appreciate the assistance I received
both in Australia and New Zealand, especially in the latter dominion.
And amongst the many friends there it is not invidious on my part to
lay special stress on the name of Leonard Tripp, who has been my
mentor, counsellor, and friend for many years, and who, when the
Expedition was in precarious and difficult circumstances, devoted his
energy, thought, and gave his whole time and advice to the best
interests of our cause. I also must thank Edward Saunders, who for the
second time has greatly helped me in preparing an Expedition record for
publication.
To the Dominion Government I tender my warmest thanks. To the people
of New Zealand, and especially to those many friends--too numerous to
mention here--who helped us when our fortunes were at a low ebb, I wish
to say that their kindness is an ever-green memory to me. If ever a
man had cause to be grateful for assistance in dark days, I am he.
The 'Aurora', under the command of Captain ?neas Mackintosh, sailed
from Hobart for the Ross Sea on December 24, 1914. The ship had
refitted in Sydney, where the State and Federal Governments had given
generous assistance, and would be able, if necessary, to spend two
years in the Antarctic.
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