| Description | Copy of notes [for the original, see MS/591/5/10].
Detailed criticism of Shaw's response to Scott's original complain about the content of the prefact to the Meteorological Volume.
Scott begins by refuting Shaw's allegations about the ignorance of the Expedition members regarding the use of instruments. Scott refers to the 'Antarctic Manual' compiled by George Murray in his role as Director of the Scientific Staff. He also points out that the instruments were only arrived at Kew Observatory on 15 July 1901 and had to be moved to the ship for safe storage from 23 July prior to sailing. In Scott's view this was insufficient time for making arrangements to practice with the instruments, and instruments and official instructions should have been provided much earlier. Scott suggests that the meteorological sub-committee, which met in November 1900, could have been asked to select the instruments for use and make them available much sooner. Scott also refers to the retirement of [William] Shackleton from the expedition, who had seen at least some of the instruments at Kew.
Scott apologises for his angry tone in prior correspondence, but states that his indignation is justified when there are published statements 'which throw the onus of blame for lack of preparation on myself and other members of the Expedition'. |