Tree Creeper in a Treeless Land

Tree Creeper in a treeless land

perfectly preserved in a hut at Cape Adare.

Tiny creeper with dull plumage,

Initial T in the right corner, long beak of a passerine,

1899 dead bird in watercolour.

Tree Creeper in a treeless land

found among Adelie penguin excrement,

dust and mould-covered papers, A Wilson

conserved must be returned to the Borchgrevink

historic site, the first overwinter of the southern cross.

Tree Creeper in a treeless land

what inspiration did you bring to eyes of the heroic age,

thoughts of homeland for discovery pushing

terra nova to the worst winter journey known to man?

Uncle Bill brought art for Falcon Scott!