maintain the strictest discipline.  Indeed, this rule is so universal in its application, that many men find it advantageous to impose strict rules on themselves in the regulation of their time and affairs, in order to keep their own spirits under command.  One of the captain’s first resolves therefore was, to call the men together and address them on this subject; and he seized the occasion of the first Sabbath morning they spent in the Bay of Mercy, when the crew were assembled for prayers on the quarter-deck, to speak to them.

Hitherto we have not mentioned the Sabbath day in this story, because, while at sea, and while struggling with the ice, there was little to mark it from other days, except the cessation of unnecessary labour, and the reading of prayers to those who chose to attend; but as necessary labour preponderated at all times, and the reading of prayers occupied scarce half-an-hour, there was little perceptible difference between the Sabbath and any other day.  We would not be understood to speak lightly of this difference.  Little though it was in point of time and appearance, it was immeasurably great in fact, as it involved the great principle that the day of rest ought to be observed, and that the Creator should be honoured in a special manner on that day.

On the Sabbath in question—­and it was an exceedingly bright, peaceful one—­Captain Guy, having read part of the Church of England service as usual, stood up, and in an earnest, firm tone said:—­

“My lads, I consider it my duty to say a few plain words to you in reference to our present situation and prospects.  I feel that the responsibility of having brought you here rests very much upon myself, and I deem it my solemn duty, in more than the ordinary sense, to do all I can to get you out of the ice again.  You know as well as I do that this is impossible at the present time, and that we are compelled to spend a winter here.  Some of you know what that means, but the most of you know it only by hearsay, and that’s much the same as knowing nothing about it at all.  Before the winter is done your energies and endurance will probably be taxed to the uttermost.  I think it right to be candid with you.  The life before you will not be child’s play, but I assure you that it may be mingled with much that will be pleasant and hearty if you choose to set about it in the right way.  Well, then, to be short about it.  There is no chance whatever of our getting through the winter in this ship comfortably, or even safely, unless the strictest discipline is maintained aboard.  I know, for I’ve been in similar circumstances before, that when cold and hunger, and, it may be, sickness press upon us—­should it please the Almighty to send these on us in great severity—­you will feel duty to be irksome, and you’ll think it useless, and perhaps be tempted to mutiny.  Now, I ask you solemnly, while your minds are clear from all prejudices, each individually to sign a written code of laws, and a written promise that you will obey the same, and help me to enforce them even with the punishment of death, if need be.  Now, lads, will you agree to that?”