FATE OF ELLSWORTH

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXVI, 10 January 1936, Page 7

FATE OF ELLSWORTH

OPTIMISM EXPRESSED [By Telegraph—Press Association] •INVERCARGILL, 9th January. Mr M. E. Wiig, Norwegian Consul at Bluff, states that tlie absence of radio signals from Mr Lincoln Ellsworth does not necessarily mean tragedy. Mr W-iig’s theory is that the flyers will be found safe in Little America in such a position that tlie successful transmission of radio messages would be impossible. Mr Wiig bases his calculation on the experience of the old Sir James Clark Ross in those waters during ,the 1927-28 whaling season. The position was that the ship was held up in ice. All about her were immense icebergs, and these, higher than the vessel’s masts, bad completely “blanketed” her wireless. Mr Wiig is surveyor of shipping in the South Island for Norway. With the assistance of an expert, the Consul inspected the radio equipment on the Wyatt Earp at Mr Ellsworth’s invitation. Mr Wiig had a- look at the small radio set tlie explorer was taking with him for use on his flight from the base. “Remembering the wireless experience of Sir James Clark Ross, Ellsworth’s silence is readily understandable,” Mr Wiig said. “My own idea is that he and his companion are safe in an igloo of their own construction, and will be found eventually by one of the searching parties. Let us hope relief will not be too long delayed.” REPORT FROM DISCOVERY II SYDNEY, Bth January. Mr R. A. Parkhill. Minister of Defence, lias received a message from tlie Discovery II stating that the weather continues fine. The vessel has now crossed the Antarctic circle and open water is ahead. The aircraft and the Moth engine arc being overhauled, tlie sledge tried out and emergency rations prepared for tlie Wapiti plane.