192 PREPARING FOR A TRIP. 



gathering in the southwest reminded one forcibly of the coming on 

 of a thunderstorm as we frequently see it at home. Once, also, a 

 light fog arose. I mention it simply because our guide said that 

 it was very rare to see a fog in the month of March. The cool 

 breezes were mostly from points from north to south by east. The 

 cold was not intense, and at no time did I find it necessary to wear 

 an overcoat over the heavy clothes that I had on though it proved a 

 very convenient cushion for the komatik. I think there was but 

 one day when the sun thawed the snow ; but the roads were good 

 all the time. Over hill and on bay, wherever we went the travelling 

 was good, for dogs properly shod, and there was no reason to 

 complain of it. We did not need rackets, and the snow was good 

 and firm, while a beaten path most of the way united with everything 

 else to make my journey a most enjoyable affair. 



In starting upon a journey, in these parts, little or no provision 

 is made for food upon the way, unless the distance to be passed 

 over contains no houses ; for, as I have frequently observed, to 

 refuse hospitality even to an enemy is considered the worst crime 

 of which a man here can be guilty. That important matter settled, 

 the articles to be carried are carefully selected. As it requires no 

 great time to select the articles for such a trip, one is, so to speak, 

 ready at any time for a journey. 



Friday we were awake and about bright and early. The day was 

 fair, and it was not long before a hearty breakfast was awaiting us. 

 After our simple meal we hastily got together our effects and 

 lashed them to the komatik. They presented the appearance of 

 of a rather high cushion, and could be easily taken for a seat 

 prepared for the occasion. Large sacks of rough bagging for carry- 

 ing articles which might be picked up on the way, such as food or 

 meat for the dogs, etc., we added two such bags to our list, and 

 with our overcoats, a pair of rackets in case such should be needed 

 on account of the roads, and my gun, the equipment was as com- 

 plete as it was simple. 



The harnessing of the dogs did not take long. The early hour, 

 and the unusual stir seemed to show them that something out of 



