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1860 Wednes. Dec 19th If I had it within my power to execute I think I could divise a way in which Ebierbing & Tuk-oo-li-too could be induced to give up all idea of going North - If I could propose to them that when sealing failed they should be supplied with [[strikethrough]] regular [[/strikethrough]] meals from the "George Henry" I think they would remain. Even beyond this I would go, if I should receive the approbation of Capt. B. & he would enter into the arrangement with a view to advance my Winter & Spring's labors. I am here with Six long months before me. Here we are, in the very heart of a country that needs to be visited & charted. In this time, not only can every preparation be made for my contplated voyage, but every important Bay, Land &c about here can be [[strikethrough]] now [[/strikethrough]] visited & mapped providing the small co-operating assistance be extended me which I require to carry it out. The whole matter hangs upon this one point - a very important one but nevertheless not an extensive one, Can provision be shared from the "George Henry" for two beside myself? If so, can I effect arrangements with Capt. B. to furnish [[strikethrough]] this supply on behalf [[/strikethrough]] this supply at a stipulated stage for & in behalf of the owners of the vessel? For simply the food requested I was confident I could secure the services of Ebierbing & Tuk-oo-li-too with our departure to King Williams [[end page]] [[start page]] 1860 Wedns Dec 19. Land. Not only securing their services which indeed would be invaluable, but thus securing them for the voyage. By [[strikethrough]] the return of [[/strikethrough]] Capt B. I wish to send an Esquimaux vocabulary prepared by the help of Tuk-oo-li-too. From various interviews with her, I am satisfied she is abundantly qualified to furnish me with matter that will exceed in importance all other works on the Esquimaux language perhaps excepting some eminating [[strikethrough]] with [[/strikethrough]] from the Danes among the Greenlanders - & from the Moravians among the natives of Labrador. This will be an important acquisition. But above all, I look to the completing of the geographic discoveries in this neighboring quarters. Ebierbing has a part of a team of dogs which with mine will make a [[underlined]] "whole team". [[/underlined]] With these, we can make quick transit from one place to another, adding here & there Capes, Bays &c to my Chart. I think nothing herein incorporated but what is feasible. With a full rig of Esquimaux dogs I can enjoy the cold, while without it I would congeal - blood & bones. Now what remains for me to do is to place this matter in its proper light before Capt B. receiving his assent, I hesitate not to take immediate [[strikethrough]] of [[/strikethrough]] steps toward executing my works, from day to day. Six months should find, with God Blessing much & important labor performed. I await the results of the conference. May they be propitious. Let Americans now do something worthy of Americans.
Transcription Notes:
Reviewed. Corrected for incorrect insertion designation, irrelevant strikethroughs & other transcription errors. @kdownunder