In the Arctic Regions. 381 
dreaded passing their encampments, lest I should see 
some of our. unfortunate friends dead at each spot. 
Our fire was hardly kindled, when a fine herd of deer 
passed close to us. St. Germain pursued them a short 
distance, but’ with his usual want of success, so that 
we made a meal off the muscles and sinews we had 
dried, though they were so tough that we could scarce- 
ly cut them. My hands were benumbed throughout 
_ the march, and we were all stiff and fatigued. The 
marching of two days weakened us all very much, and 
the-more so on account of our exertion to follow the 
tracks of our Commander’s party ; but we lost them, 
and concluded that they were not before us. Though 
the weather was not cold, I was frozen in the face; 
and was so reduced and affected by these constant ca- 
lamities, as well in mind as in body, that I found much 
difficulty in proceeding even with the advantages I had 
enjoyed. 
November 3.—We set out before day, though, in 
fact, we were all better adapted to remain, from the 
excessive pain which we suffered in our joints, and pro- 
ceeded till one P.M., without halting, when Belanger, 
who was before, stopped, and cried out, “ Footsteps 
of Indians.” It is needless to mention the joy that 
brightened the countenances of each at this unlooked- 
for sight ; we knew relief must be at hand, and con- 
sidered our sufferings at an end. St, Germain inspect- 
