YOUNG GEOLOGIST

Hokitika Guardian, 10 November 1928, Page 6

YOUNG GEOLOGIST

COMPS TO JOIN BYRD EXPEDITION

BUT IS TURNED DOWN

(By Telegraph—Press Association)

WELLINGTON, November 9

Fired by an ambition to prosecute geological research in the frozen fastnesses of the Antarctic-, and burning with a desire to become a member ol Commander Byrd’s expedition, a young man arrived in Wellington trio 'other clay after travelling all the way from Czceho-Slovakia, the young Republic of Central Europe, that celebrated the 40th anniversary of its in dependence at the end of last month. The men of Czechoslovakia are evidently a determined people. The young man is Dr Yadov Vojtocli, a native of Czechoslovakia, and a graduate of the University of Prague, Ho is a geologist, who. when Commander Byrd was selecting the personnel of bis expedition some months ago wrote and asked to be enrolled as a member. There were more than 0000 applicants for places in the expedition. Many of them were of course ineligible, but it was surprising, the mini her ol scientific; men, as well as mariners, who were willing to go in any capacity. One of these was Dr Vojtedi whose application was rejected bv ( ommandcr Byrd, who naturally concluded that that was the end of the matter. Now, two or three days after his arrival at Wellington. Commander Byrd is confronted by the young man in person, who seeks a place in the expedition on any terms, and in any capacity. Dr Voitech insists that lie lias sold most of jus possessions to pay his pasage from Czecholovakia to New Zeeland, and that he will be a “ ruined man ” if lie is not taken as a member of the expedition, ft is all very unfortunate, but Commander Byrd, lias all the men he can possibly do with, and ho is regretfully compelled to tell Dr Yadov Yojtcch that his long journey has been in vain. In any ca.se be bad previously been informed by lettei th t his proffered services could not be accepted.