CHAPTER, V, — 
INTO THE UNKNOWN WILDERNESS. 
On Saturday morning, the 8th of July, without guide 
or map, we commenced our journey into the great 
untravelled wilderness. The trail commenced with a 
portage two miles in length, leading through thickets, 
swamps, and over rocky hills, but by this time the men 
were accustomed to their work, and went about it in 
a steadier and more methodical manner. My brother's 
time was chiefly devoted to the general direction of the 
party, and an examination of the geology of the 
country.* My own time was largely taken up in making 
the survey and topographical notes of the route, and in 
collecting the flora of the country; but when our duties 
permitted and occasion required we both took a turn 
at the pack-straps, as we did on this portage. 
In order to make an easier trail than the existing 
circuitous one, which led over sharp angular stones and 
precipitous rocks, we were obliged to cut our way 
through a thicket for a distance of half a mile. Having 
done this, the work of portaging through the forest was 
begun. During the remainder of the day, and indeed 
until ten oclock at night, we continued our labor. 
*For a full description of geological features, etc., see J. B. Tyrrell’s 
Report for 1893-94, Geological Survey. 
