Journal of the Third Voyage for the Discovery of a North-West Passage

William Edward Parry records the practical work of an Arctic expedition seeking a sea passage between the Atlantic and Pacific. The Hecla and Fury left Deptford in May 1824, accompanied by a transport carrying supplies. Preparations include a warming stove, preserved vegetables and changes to food stores. Navigation depends on close observation: Parry discusses magnetic readings, corrections for the effect of iron on compasses, and measurements of sea temperature at different depths.

The account also follows the transfer of stores at the Whale-fish Islands and the Hecla's grounding on an unnoticed rock before it floated free. Fog, icebergs and packed ice repeatedly slow the ships. Parry compares conditions across seasons and weighs reports from Hull whalers who found a crossing farther south. These details give the narrative its focus on the daily decisions, uncertain information and changing weather that shaped British efforts to find a passage through Arctic waters.