Because I am soon to start on my own expedition towards the South Pole I am particularly interested in a letter Maury wrote under date of August 20, 1860, in which he said: “I have reason to believe that there is, about the South Pole, a comparatively mild climate. The unexplored regions there embrace an area equal in extent to about one-sixth of all the known land on the surface of the earth. I am quietly seeking to create in the minds of some an interest upon the subject, hoping thereby to foster a desire in right quarters for an Antarctic expedition.” RICHARD E. BYRD _Commander, U. S. Navy_ (_Retired_) September 26, 1927 PUBLISHER’S STATEMENT Measured by man’s calendar it has been a long stretch of time since he first ventured forth in crude canoes on the waters skirting his early habitations. The art of handling ships—seamanship and navigation—began before man could read or write; it was ships that first quickened his imagination and enabled him to measure his skill against Nature’s elements and released him from the encirclement of small operations. Western Europe and its civilization saved themselves from being pushed into the Atlantic by the flanking movement afforded by ships—increased knowledge of navigation. No single individual has done more for his fellow man in lessening the hazards of navigation than has MATTHEW FONTAINE MAURY. For the safe navigation of aircraft the world is waiting to-day for another MAURY. Aerology is in its infancy. No other life of this distinguished naval officer and scientist has been published in America and the author has spent the greater part of four years in its preparation. To Commander Byrd the author and the publisher are indebted for the Foreword. To the Hydrographic Office, Navy Department, appreciation for assistance and advice rendered is expressed. That MAURY’S fame and honor may ever grow greater and that his life’s work may be an inspiration for a future PATHFINDER OF THE AIR appears a sufficient reason for the publication of this biography by his brother officers of the NAVY. UNITED STATES NAVAL INSTITUTE September 27, 1927 PREFACE