[SHIRASE, Nobu (1861-1946)]. Nankyoku Tanken Koen-kai kara no Kongansho [in English: Solicitation Mailing from Society of the Support of the Japanese Antarctic Expedition]. Tokyo(?): Society for the Support of the Japanese Antarctic Expedition, 18 November 1911.
A published letter of solicitation that includes the “Aim of the Expedition Letter” (452 x 190 mm) and “List of Sponsors and Request for Donations Letter” (395 x 183 mm); original manuscript envelope. When Shirase and his expedition were unable to make landfall on the Antarctic continent during the first season, the party returned to Australia and remained there while Captain Nomura and Tada returned to Japan to rouse financial support for a second season and attempt. This very rare item was a solicitation to the person addressed. The document generally translates as follows:
“The Aim of the Expedition: No one, including Shackleton and Scott, has yet achieved the South Pole. Shirase has great experience, having explored Chishima (Kuril Islands). To accomplish this worldwide, scientific, and splendid achievement, would you support us?
The Progress Report: Shirase’s party passed Mariana Islands, Caroline Islands, Wellington, Victoria Coast, and Coulman Island, but now they are forced to stay in Sydney because of ice obstacles.
The Rule of the Society: The Society is organized to support Shirase’s party and is composed of 44 supporters, 5 secretaries, and the president, Prime Minister Shigenobu Okuma.
The List of Supporters”. Ross 4.2 (“Very rare”).