we made good passage to the island under steam and sail for the most
part. We stayed a couple of days coaling and taking magnetic observations
at Funchal, then ran out to the north-east Trades, let fires out, and
became a sailing ship.

Whilst lazily gazing at fertile Madeira from our anchorage we little
dreamt that within two months the distinguished Norseman, Roald Amundsen,
would be unfolding his plans to his companions on board the "Fram" in
this very anchorage, plans which changed the whole published object of
his expedition, plans which culminated in the triumph of the Norwegian
flag over our own little Union Jack, and plans which caused our people a
fearful disappointment--for Amundsen's ultimate success meant our failure
to achieve the main object of our Expedition: to plant the British Flag
first at the South Pole.

Under sail! Quite a number of the scientists and crew had never been to
sea in a sailing ship before, but a fair wind and a collection of keen
and smiling young men moving about the decks were particularly refreshing
to me after the year of fund collecting and preparation.

We learnt to know a great deal about one another on the outward voyage to
New Zealand, where we were to embark our dogs and ponies. The most
surprising personality was Bowers, considering all things.

Officers, scientists, and the watch worked side by side trimming coals
and restoring the 'tween decks as cases were shaken and equipment
assembled. The scientific staff were soon efficient at handling, reefing,
and steering. Every one lent a hand at whatever work was going. Victor
Campbell was christened the "Wicked Mate," and he shepherded and fathered
the afterguard delightfully.