The Arctic Problem

Abstract

PROF. HEILPRIN devotes almost half of his little book to the narrative of the voyage of the Kite to the relief of Peary, a narrative which he invests with lively interest, despite the fact that it has been anticipated by the writings of his subordinates. The record gives a very clear account of the voyage, and some admirable descriptions of Arctic scenery, supplemented by photographic reproductions printed in two tints, with a very realistic effect. Perhaps the most interesting chapter is that devoted to the naturalist of Peary's party, Mr. Verhoeff, who mysteriously disappeared just before the time fixed for returning home. A large number of men from the Kite, as well as Eskimos, prosecuted a minute search for several days, with the result that footprints and bits of paper were discovered on a glacier, movements on which were made difficult by the extremely rough condition of the ice. The natural inference is that Mr. Verhoeff, being alone, had fallen into a crevasse and perished there, and in this belief the search-party returned. A more romantic explanation is, however, given by some of his relatives, who believe that, enamoured of the wild life he had been leading, Mr. Verhoeff deliberately stayed behind with the object of making further explorations on his own account. Faint though the hope is, we could wish it to be true, and that when Lieutenant Peary approaches his farthest north in the new venture on which he is now embarked, he may find his old companion awaiting him.

The Arctic Problem and Narrative of the Peary Relief Expedition of the Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia.

By Angelo Heilprin, leader of the Peary Relief Expedition. 8vo, pp. 165. (Philadelphia: Contemporary Publishing Co. 1893.)