"But our luck was out. We lost many days in finding these islands, and when we did get back to them, hardly had we got on board than the weather broke up.
"For days the snow was driven in whirling clouds all around us.
"The decks were covered feet deep.
"It was impossible to get out in search of food, and we were almost starved.
"At length the weather cleared up, and we, with difficulty, forced our way on deck.
"The whole view was changed.
"A sharp frost had set in, and bound the snow-covered country with iron bands.
"Fresh ice had formed round the brig.
"I don't want to tell of the horrors of that winter.
"Some of us were mad, I guess."