| RefNo | MS/547/7/12 |
| Level | Item |
| Title | Letter from Sir Clements Markham, 21 Eccleston Square, to [Alfed Bray] Kempe |
| Creator | Markham; Sir; Clements Robert (1830-1916); President of the Royal Geographical Society |
| Date | 23 February 1903 |
| Description | Outlining his views on the possible ways the Antarctic Expedition may proceed. Markham sees five possible scenarios concerning the return of the 'Discovery' and 'Morning'. If both ships are ordered to return home, the remaining balance of £3,858 will be sufficient for expenses. However, [Robert Falcon] Scott 'may be very anxious for a third navigable season to settle the Willies Island question'. In that case Markham would be willing to raise a further £6,000 while the ships are refitting, which will be sufficient if the 'Morning' is sold as well. Markham has offers from Dundee to buy the ship.
If 'Discovery' cannot return, then the 'Morning' would have to remain in New Zealand to take out new supplies in December. The men would have to be discharged to keep expenses down, but Markham expects at least £10,000 would be required for this. An appeal would need to be made to the government, who Markham believes have a responsibility for the crew's safety. If the government refuses to help, Markham has one or two 'very rich' persons who could help, otherwise a general appeal must be made. If 'Morning' does not meet the 'Discovery' to resupply, the need for further funding will be more urgent, and if neither ship returns 'there will be cause for grave anxiety'.
The joint letter to Scott will be sent out on 28 February. [William] Colbeck will also be provided with instructions in the event that the 'Discovery' does not return. Baron [Ferdinand von] Richthofen has written to Markham about a relief ship for the 'Gauss'. 'If both our ships return, it is possible that an arrangement might be made to lend the "Morning" to the Germans for a relief ship'. |
| Extent | 4p |
| Format | Manuscript |
| AccessStatus | Open |
| RelatedRecord | MS/547/7/13 |
Fellows associated with this archive
| Code | PersonName | Dates |
| NA7951 | Markham; Sir; Clements Robert (1830 - 1916) | 1830 - 1916 |
| NA6638 | Kempe; Sir; Alfred Bray (1849 - 1922) | 1849 - 1922 |