In the beginning it was the intention of Sir Ernest Shackleton to give Scout Marr the benefit of his guiding hand in the writing of this book; and indeed up to within a few days of the great explorer’s death, he spent many moments in talking it over with Marr, and incidentally gave valuable hints as together they went over the Scout’s notes of his observations. In this way the framework of the book may be said to have been laid down by Sir Ernest, and the earlier chapters bear the impress of his kindly advice as well as the reinforcement of his wide and wise experience.

From the sad moment of his death the narrative was continued by Scout Marr, and then when the MS. was completed, the young author’s work was given the valued editorial overlook of so experienced a writer of the things of the sea as Captain Frank H. Shaw.

In this way the book grew into its present form, and may be considered the more acceptable insomuch as it reflects the personality of the “Boss,” and is, moreover, just one more instance of his comradely spirit toward one on the threshold of life.