Dogs, ponies, motor sledges and man-hauling parties on ski were to perform the Polar journey by a system of relays or supporting parties.  Scott’s old comrade, Dr. E.A.  Wilson of Cheltenham, was selected as chief of the scientific staff and to act as artist to the expedition.  Three geologists were chosen and two biologists, to continue the study of marine fauna and carry out research work in depths up to 500 fathoms.  The expeditionary ship was to be fitted for taking deep-sea soundings and magnetic observations, and the meteorological programme included the exploration of the upper air currents and the investigation of the electrical conditions of the atmosphere.  We were fortunate in securing as meteorologist the eminent physicist, Dr. G. Simpson, who is now head of the Meteorological Office in London.  Dr. Simpson was to have charge of the self-recording magnetic instruments ashore at the main base.

Study of ice structure and glaciation was undertaken by Mr. C.S.  Wright, who was also assistant physicist.  The magnetic work of the ship was entrusted to Lieut.  Harry Pennell, R.N., an officer of more than ordinary scientific attainments and a distinguished navigator.  Lieut.  Henry Rennick was given control of the hydrographical survey work and deep-sea sounding.  Two surgeons were lent by the Royal Navy for the study of bacteriology and parasitology in addition to their medical duties, and Mr. Herbert G. Ponting was chosen as camera artist and cinematographer to the Expedition.

To my mind the outfit and preparations were the hardest part of our work, for we were not assure of funds until the day of our departure.  This did not lighten Scott’s burden.  The plans of the British Antarctic Expedition of 1910 were first published on September 13, 1909, but although Scott’s appeal to the nation was heartily endorsed by the Press, it was not until the spring of 1910 that we had collected the first 10,000 pounds.  Personally, I was despatched to South Wales and the west of England to raise funds from my Welsh and west country friends.  Scott, himself, when he could be spared from the Admiralty, worked Newcastle, Liverpool, and the North, whilst both of us did what we could in London to obtain the money necessary to purchase and equip the ship.  It was an anxious time for Scott and his supporters, but after the first 10,000 pounds had been raised the Government grant of 20,000 pounds followed and the Expedition came properly into being.  Several individuals subscribed 1000 pounds each, and Government grants were subsequently made by the Australian Commonwealth, the Dominion of New Zealand and South Africa.  Capt.  L.E.G.  Oates and Mr. Apsley Cherry-Garrard were included in the donors of 1000 pounds, but they gave more than this, for these gallant gentlemen gave their services and one of them his life.  An unexpected and extremely welcome contribution came from Mr. Samuel Hordern of Sydney in the shape of 2500 pounds, at a time when we needed it most.  Many firms gave