Colbeck, William

REPORTING ON THE SUCCESSFUL RECOVERY OF THE DISCOVERY ("...We found the Discovery all well when we arrived in McMurdo Bay on Jany 5th, they were then held in by 18 miles of field ice, but this slowly succumbed to the effects of the swell & gun cotton, & on Feby 16th she swung to her anchors..."), describing conditions in the Southern Ocean, and also explaining that an embargo prevents him from publishing an account of his relief expedition until 12 months after his return, 3 pages, 8vo, headed stationery of S.Y. Morning of the National Antarctic Expedition, "At Sea", 29 March 1904, slight discolouration at edges

Condition is described in the main body of the catalogue, where appropriate.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

William Colbeck (1871-1930) captained the Morning, which in 1902 was sent to relieve Scott's Discovery expedition. The Morning provided supplies that enabled the Discovery to remain in the Antarctic for an additional year. In 1903 she was joined by the Terra Nova and returned to McMurdo Sound in January 1904 - as described in this letter - to blast the Discovery free from the ice.