NOTES

Abstract

WE understand that the Admiralty have appointed a committee, consisting of Admiral Sir Leopold M'Clintock, Admiral Sherard Osborn, Admiral Richards, and Capt. Evans, the Hydrographer, to advise them on all points connected with the equipment and personnel of the Arctic Expedition. The first point has been to select suitable vessels, and last week Sir Leopold M'Cuntock proceeded to the northern ports to examine the whalers. It is probable that one steam whaler will be purchased, while a vessel of the Lyra class may perhaps be selected for the advanced ship. Both vessels will be strengthened and fitted out at Portsmouth, under the immediate superintendence of Sir Leopold M'Clintock. It is a most fortunate circumstance that the greit arctic explorer, the discoverer of arctic sledge travelling, should be Admiral-Superintendent at this juncture, and that the expedition should have the advantage of being equipped, in all its details, under his vigilant supervision. The next point will be the selection of a leader, and we believe'that the decision will be formed within a few days. Little doubt is entertained among naval men that the choice will fall upon Commander A. H. Markham, who acquired a knowledge of ice navigation during a cruise in Baffin's Bay and Prince Regent's Inlet last year, and who is universally considered to have all the qualifications for that important pest. The number of volunteers among lieutenants, sub-lieutenants, and men is extraordinary, and is daily increasing. The committee will certainly have a wide field for selection.