Small brass compass with suspension ring and length of black ribbon attached. It is contained in a fitted leather case, lined with red plush and white satin. The case contains the signature of John Franklin on a scrap cut from a letter and two papers giving the history of the compass. 'This was presented to my Father, then Chaplain of the Hudsons Bay Co. by Captn. Franklin on his return from Gt Slave Lake in great distress, as a mark of gratitude for his services in ministering to him and his on that occasion.'

Presented by Commander John Franklin to Hudson Bay Company chaplain, Rev. John West (1778-1845) after Franklin's 1819-22 overland expedition. It was used in survey work during that journey.