END OF THE JOURNEY.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXV, Issue 19929, 24 April 1928, Page 11

END OF THE JOURNEY.

A SHORTAGE OF FOOD, FISHERMEN TO THE RESCUE. IMPORTANCE OF THE FEAT. Australian and N.Z. Press Association. COPENHAGEN, April 22. When Captain Wilkins and Lieutenant Eielson were compelled to land on Dead Man's Island, just north of Svalbard, they had little food. Fortunately some whale fishers sighted the machine from Fliers' Island and went to the aid of the airmen in a boat. They were astounded to learn they had flown from -Alaska. The fishermen replenished the fliers' food. When the latter reached Green Harbour the temperature was several degrees below zero. They said they were tremendously hungry. Captain Wilkins hopes to complete the flight to the European mainland shortly, provided that the machine will permit of the journey being made.

Everywhere the feat is regarded as of the greatest importance, as it will enable geographers to fill in upon the maps the Arctic Circle and the great white space between the north of Canada and the north of Siberia. RETURN TO AMERICA. POSSIBLY BY AEROPLANE. PILOT'S MESSAGE TO FATHER. Australian and N.Z. Press Association. (Received April 23, 6.55 p.m.) OSLO, April 23. It is beljevcd that Captain Wilkins and Lieutenant Eielson contemplate returning to America by air. The latter has informed his father that he expects soon to he back. This is taken to indicate a return journey by air, possibly direct to New York.