LETTER III
To Mrs. Saville, England
July 7th, 17 - .
MY DEAR SISTER, - I write a few lines in haste, to say that I am
safe, and well advanced on my voyage. This letter will reach
England by a merchantman now on its homeward voyage from
Archangel; more fortunate than I, who may not see my native
land, perhaps, for many years. I am, however, in good spirits:
my men are bold, and apparently firm of purpose; nor do the
floating sheets of ice that continually pass us, indicating the
dangers of the region towards which we are advancing, appear to
dismay them. We have already reached a very high latitude; but
it is the height of summer, and although not so warm as in
England, the southern gales, which blow us speedily towards
those shores which I so ardently desire to attain, breathe a
degree of renovating warmth which I had not expected.
No incidents have hitherto befallen us that would make a figure
in a letter. One or two stiff gales, and the springing of a
leak, are accidents which experienced navigators scarcely
remember to record; and I shall be well content if nothing
worse happen to us during our voyage.
Adieu, my dear Margaret. Be assured that for my own sake, as
well as yours, I will not rashly encounter danger. I will be
cool, persevering, and prudent.
But success shall crown my endeavours. Wherefore not? Thus
far I have gone, tracing a secure way over the pathless seas:
the very stars themselves being witnesses and testimonies of
my triumph. Why not still proceed over the united yet obedient
element? What can stop the determined heart and resolved will
of man?
My swelling heart involuntarily pours itself out thus. But I
must finish. Heaven bless my beloved sister!
R. W.
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