"'That's true. Anyhow, he would not need to come on an expedition like this. But remember that a journey northward over the ice would be no child's play.' "'No, I know that well enough, but if it was with you I shouldn't be afraid. It would never do if we had to manage alone. We'd be sure to go wrong; but it's quite a different thing, you see, when there is one to lead that you know has been through it all before.' "It is extraordinary the blind faith such men have in their leader! I believe they would set off without a moment's reflection if they were asked to join in an expedition to the Pole now, with black winter at the door. It is grand as long as the faith lasts, but God be merciful to him on the day that it fails! "Saturday, September 15th. This evening we have seen the moon again for the first time--beautiful full moon--and a few stars were also visible in the night sky, which is still quite light. "Notices were posted up to-day in several places. They ran as follows: "'As fire here on board might be followed by the most terrible consequences, too great precaution cannot be taken. For this reason every man is requested to observe the following rules most conscientiously: 1. No one is to carry matches. 2. The only places where matches may be kept are-- (1) The galley, where the cook for the time being is responsible for them. (2) The four single cabins, where the inmate of each is responsible for his box. (3) The work-cabin, when work is going on. (4) On the mast in the saloon, from which neither box nor single matches must be taken away under any circumstances. 3. Matches must not be struck anywhere except in the places above named. 4. The one exception to the above rules is made when the forge has to be lighted. 5. All the ship's holds are to be inspected every evening at 8 o'clock by the fire-inspector, who will give in his report to the undersigned. After that time no one may, without special permission, take a light into the holds or into the engine-room. 6. Smoking is only allowed in the living-rooms and on deck. Lighted pipes or cigars must on no account be seen elsewhere. Fridtjof Nansen. Fram, September 15th, 1894.' "Some of these regulations may seem to infringe on the principle of equality which I have been so anxious to maintain; but these seem to me the best arrangements I can make to insure the good of all--and that must come before everything else.