They were, he imagined, the lot of all who braved the rigors of winter in the northern wilds.
"Well," said Benson, "there's no use in carrying anything that's not strictly needful, and the empty grub-bag may stay behind.

Then here's a pair of worn-out moccasins I was keeping as a stand by.

I should be able to get new ones at the factory." "It's still some distance off," Harding reminded him.
"If we don't make it, the chances are that I won't need the things.
But what about your collection of gum ?" Nothing had been said on this point for some time, but Harding's face wore a curious look as he took up a bag which weighed three or four pounds.
"Some of the stuff might be used for low-grade varnish; but that's not what I'm out for.

I've been trying to believe that a few of the specimens might prove better on analysis; but I guess it's a delusion." With a quick, resolute movement, he threw the bag into the fire, and when the resin flared up with a thick brown smoke the others regarded him with silent sympathy.

This was the end of the project from which he had expected so much; but it was obvious that he could meet failure with fortitude.