A Negro Explorer at the North Pole · Chapter
Chapter XIII: The Final Supporting Parties Turn Back explained
Henson describes the grueling march northward across the polar ice, the daily challenges of trail-making through rough ice and pressure ridges, and the emotional farewells as supporting parties turn back.
What happens
Henson describes the grueling march northward across the polar ice, the daily challenges of trail-making through rough ice and pressure ridges, and the emotional farewells as supporting parties turn back. He recounts the system of alternating travel and sleep between the pioneer and main parties, the camaraderie among the men, and the moment when Commander Peary tells him he will continue onward, leaving only Captain Bartlett between him and the Pole. The chapter ends with Henson's poignant goodbye to Professor Marvin, who would later drown on the return journey.
Themes in this chapter
Perseverance and Endurance
The daily struggle through rough ice, pressure ridges, and deep snow, with men and dogs pushing to the limit.
Loyalty and Companionship
The strong fraternal bonds among the men, especially Henson's farewell to Marvin and the good-natured joshing during meals.
Exploration and Discovery
The relentless northward march, the use of sun sights to determine latitude, and the strategic decisions to reach the Pole.
Characters to notice
- Matthew Henson
Narrator and trail-breaker; relieved to learn he will continue north; reads his Bible before sleep.
- Captain Bob Bartlett
Co-leads the pioneer party with Henson; works long hours making trail and building igloos.
- Commander Robert E. Peary
Gives orders for the march; instructs Henson to speed up and later to sort dogs and rearrange loads.
- Professor Ross G. Marvin
Commands the fourth supporting party; takes his final sun sight at 86° 38′ north; bids Henson a fraternal goodbye.
- George Borup
Commands the third supporting party; described as a fine and plucky young man; turns back on March 27.
- Egingwah
Serves as Commander Peary's Eskimo courier, delivering a note of command and encouragement to Henson and Bartlett.
Key passages
“My heart stopped palpitating, I breathed easier, and my mind was relieved. It was not my turn yet, I was to continue onward and there only remained one person between me and the Pole—the Captain.”
Henson felt immense relief when Peary told him he would keep going north, with only Captain Bartlett ahead of him.
Highlights Henson's anxiety about being sent back and his joy at continuing.
“My good, kind friend was never again to see us, or talk with us. It is sad to write this. He went back to his death, drowned in the cold, black water of the Big Lead.”
Henson mourns Professor Marvin, who died by drowning after turning back from the march.
Foreshadows Marvin's tragic fate and underscores the dangers of the return journey.