Letter 3

Letter 3

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 untamed

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.