(Cheers.) In the toast you have so enthusiastically drank my companions are very properly associated with myself, for I am much indebted to them for their hearty co-operation.

They always endeavoured to do what I desired, and the most friendly feelings existed amongst us throughout the journey.

(Cheers.) I never withheld from them any information as to our whereabouts or our movements; the maps, route, and the observations taken during the expedition were always open for their inspection, so that they could see our exact position from day to day.

I had no secrets from them (hear, hear), and this confidence was reciprocated on their part.

I never had occasion to check or to use an angry word to one of my party.