The Modern Prometheus modern design twist on Mary Shelley's Frankenstein | Page 12

Letter 1

hardship. I accompanied the whale-fishers on several expeditions
to the North Sea; I voluntarily endured cold, famine, thirst, and
want of sleep; I often worked harder than the common sailors
during the day and devoted my nights to the study of mathematics,
the theory of medicine, and those branches of physical science
from which a naval adventurer might derive the greatest practical
advantage. Twice I actually hired myself as an under-mate in a
Greenland whaler, and acquitted myself to admiration. I must
own I felt a little proud when my captain offered me the second
dignity in the vessel and entreated me to remain with the greatest
earnestness, so valuable did he consider my services. And now,
dear Margaret, do I not deserve to accomplish some great purpose?
My life might have been passed in ease and luxury, but I preferred
glory to every enticement that wealth placed in my path. Oh, that
some encouraging voice would answer in the affirmative! My
courage and my resolution is firm; but my hopes fluctuate, and
my spirits are often depressed. I am about to proceed on a long
and difficult voyage, the emergencies of which will demand all
my fortitude: I am required not only to raise the spirits of others,
but sometimes to sustain my own, when theirs are failing.
This is the most favourable period for travelling in Russia. They
fly quickly over the snow in their sledges; the motion is pleasant,
and, in my opinion, far more agreeable than that of an English
stagecoach. The cold is not excessive, if you are wrapped in furs —
a dress which I have already adopted, for there is a great difference
between walking the deck and remaining seated motionless for
hours, when no exercise prevents the blood from actually freezing
in your veins. I have no ambition to lose my life on the post-road
between St. Petersburgh and Archangel. I shall depart for the latter
town in a fortnight or three weeks; and my intention is to hire
a ship there, which can easily be done by paying the insurance
for the owner, and to engage as many sailors as I think necessary
among those who are accustomed to the whale-fishing. I do not
intend to sail until the month of June; and when shall I return?