"Bay whetie is some 150 miles below Catala. Fortunately I had ordered extra supplies which will tide them over. Some of them want to go home and for this reason I am carrying back to Catala for pens for clothing. Whoses leaves will do so with the mail team about the first of January. The ship will break out in July and sail up after our equipment and specimens. Tonight it is morning with a warm southerly wind. While cracks and much open water have formed to the north of us. Ellis, I fear, will keep us here for a few days. I hope to arrive at chief by Mon 25th and back on Christmas morrow to get ready for my long trip in March. Am 41 today, Lottie. This natural