This gentleman, Professor Andree, had his balloon in readiness for the
attempt last year.

He waited from the 23d of June till the middle of August for a favorable
wind to bear him northward.

While his party was still waiting, Dr. Nansen returned from his famous
expedition, in which he reached a point within two hundred miles of the
Pole.

After a few more days, it was decided that it was too late in the year
to attempt the aerial voyage, and so Mr. Andree had to postpone the
attempt.

Not at all discouraged by his failure, he stated that he would try again
the next year, and has spent the past winter making preparations for a
fresh venture.

The balloon will be filled and ready for the start about the middle of
June, when Mr. Andree and his companions will once more make the
attempt.

The Russian Geographical Society has printed hundreds of circulars to be
distributed among the natives of the lands lying around the pole,
showing them by the aid of pictures what kind of an object a balloon is,
and urging them to tell the nearest authorities if they see it. They are
also requested, if the balloon should descend, to treat the men who are
in it with the greatest kindness.

Mr. Andree is full of hope for his scheme, and expects to reach the