RELIEF THAT FAILED

Evening Post, Volume XCI, Issue 153, 29 June 1916, Page 6

RELIEF THAT FAILED

The evil fortune which shattered Sir Ernest Shackleton's elaborate expedition to Antarctica has defeated him again. He has, unfortunately, -been^ unable to reach, with, the relief ship lent him by the Government of Uruguay, his marooned companions, whom he left with scanty stores in an ice-cave on Elephant Island. The world is not so enthralled by the spectacle of war that it cannot spare concern for an adventure so moving. It will not readily forget the story of the party's retreat from the south, with its tragic hardships, its wreck of craft and hopes, and its sturdy adherence to the routine of work. The tale of this journey met the instant response that it deserved. The relief expedition that Sir Ernest has just concluded in vain did not fail for lack of good will. It had to be conducted in an unsuitable ship, the best that was immediately available ; and this vessel was stopped by ice-fields that required a special type capable of smashing through the pack, or at least of fighting it on reasonable terms. Consequently the relief of which the marooned explorers are so greatly in need did not get much within twenty miles. Sir Ernest brings back a little comfort; the winter ice is not wholly destitute of food, and penguins are available to add to the scanty rations of the waiting men. The fact that winter conditions this year have been unusually severe will not hinder another attempt being made to succour the Elephant Island party, as soon as a suitable ship can be found. That vessel will set oivt with a cargo of as good wishes as ever graced a voyage.