and flat as to be unapproachable, even in boats, nearer than two or
three miles. Indeed, beyond the 139th degree it was found impossible
to land on the main shore, except at one point; and there they were
most vexatiously detained eight days, in the best part of the season,
by fog.

Before Captain Franklin had reached more than half way to Icy Cape,
most of his party shewed symptoms of extreme suffering, from their
unavoidable exposure to wading in the water, for the purpose of dragging
the boats where they landed to rest or to get fresh water, or
when compelled by gales to seek the shore. The temperature of the water
was generally about the freezing-point, whilst that of the air seldom
exceeded 36 degrees. The coast westward of Mackenzie's river, under
any circumstances, was extremely hazardous to navigate; but under the
difficulties which Captain Franklin experienced, further perseverance on
his part would have been unpardonable rashness. The whole party being
of opinion that the obstructions were insurmountable, were compelled to
return, in the conviction, however, that the navigation of the northwest
passage is open.

The eastern party, under Dr. Richardson, who was accompanied by Mr.
Kendall, an intelligent young officer, succeeded in reaching the
Coppermine river on the 8th of August, and returned to Fort Franklin,
Great Bear Lake, on the 1st of September. Like that under the command
of Captain Franklin, they experienced repeated obstructions from ice,
and occasionally from strong breezes; but they were spared the foggy
weather, except on parts of two days.

The object of Dr. Richardson's party was to examine the intermediate
coast between the Mackenzie and the coppermine rivers. After