I think it right to be candid with you.

The life before you will not be child's play, but I assure you that it may be mingled with much that will be pleasant and hearty if you choose to set about it in the right way.

Well, then, to be short about it.

There is no chance whatever of our getting through the winter in this ship comfortably, or even safely, unless the strictest discipline is maintained aboard.

I know, for I've been in similar circumstances before, that when cold and hunger, and, it may be, sickness press upon us--should it please the Almighty to send these on us in great severity--you will feel duty to be irksome, and you'll think it useless, and perhaps be tempted to mutiny.