R. 29. Lunch Temp. -10º; Supper Temp. -4º. 13.5 miles. Again we are running short of provision. We don’t know our distance from the depot, but imagine about 20 miles. Heavy march – did 13 3/4 (geo.). We are pulling for food and not very strong evidently. In the afternoon it was overcast; land blotted out for a considerable interval. We have reduced food, also sleep; feeling rather done. Trust 1 1/2 days or 2 at most will see us at depot.
I realise this is a publication of Scott’s diary during the Terra Nova Expedition but diaries were also kept by the other members of the
expeditions returning party. It would be fascinating to see the diary entries of the other party members to give an insight into thier minds
during this. It is also useful to have an observer comment on the state of Scott himself as Scott very rarely mentions his own physical and
mental state. i was surprised to learn only recently from a entry in Wilson’ diary that even if the team had made one ton depot and salvation
Wilson believed that it was certain Scott would never walk again due to the severity of the frostbite in his feet. This is something Scott has
not mentioned at all as yet so was this a rapid onset of frostbite at the very end or has he been suffering in silence for some time.
Piers, Scott says in his diary entry of March 18, 1912: “My right foot has gone, nearly all the toes – two days ago I was proud possessor of best feet”.
This shows that the onset of frostbite came very rapidly: Scott had always been very careful in tending his feet because so much depended on their state but now the general deterioration had set in – and next day they reached their last camp.
Petra, Thank you very much for your reply. I had never realised that there had been so much suffering by all members of the party, i realised there were hardships faced by all of them but not that there was so much suffering. This is fascinating and each entry is getting more emotional as the inevitable approaches
Did you read Apsley Cherry-Garrard’s “The Worst Journey in the World”? A gripping account by one of Scott’s team members and one of the best travel books ever written which makes fascinating reading. It includes diary excerpts and accounts from several of his fellow explorers to give a complete picture. You should not miss it.
And you are right: the daily entries are getting more and more emotional and sad.
Hi Piers
I agree with Petra piers i’ve read the worst journey in the world….excellent read….all that suffering just to deliver an egg back to London.
I also read Scotts abridged diary and couldnt help thinking…keep going boys just keep on going
I’m reading The Worst Jorney now and as the previous comments it well worth reading. I also recently read Captain Scott by Ranulph Fiennes, also excellent reading, but gave me nightmares!