It runs in a winding course through a valley, which extends in a direct line westward.

This valley varies from five to ten miles in breadth; it is bounded by step-formed terraces, which rise in most parts, one above the other, to the height of five hundred feet, and have on the opposite sides a remarkable correspondence.
APRIL 19, 1834.
Against so strong a current it was, of course, quite impossible to row or sail: consequently the three boats were fastened together head and stern, two hands left in each, and the rest came on shore to track.

As the general arrangements made by Captain Fitz Roy were very good for facilitating the work of all, and as all had a share in it, I will describe the system.

The party, including every one, was divided into two spells, each of which hauled at the tracking line alternately for an hour and a half.

The officers of each boat lived with, ate the same food, and slept in the same tent with their crew, so that each boat was quite independent of the others.
After sunset the first level spot where any bushes were growing was chosen for our night's lodging.