Two Strange Sail in Sight: July12th-14th, 1811

Between Friday and Sunday the Convoy made progress to southward, travelling from Lat 74 to Lat 72. The ice began to dwindle, though occasional large pieces had to be avoided. By Saturday morning, however there was “no Ice to see” and the crew continued their maintenance and repair of the ship:

… washed and scrubbed the sides with sand and urine then soap and water. Rigged the TG [Top Gallant] Masts and sent up Royal Masts. Aimwell Enterprize Lively and Volunteer in Company.

Thick fog followed on Sunday, and as the ‘Sky Scraper‘ sail was set for the first time, Scoresby made the ominous note: “Two strange sail in sight”.