238 
THE RED MOUNTAIN OF ALASKA. 
shoulder as usual. The route was clearly traced from 
the fort on the Yukon to their present camp. There 
were the cataract, the caves of the Bears, the Three 
Buttes, the insect-infested swamp, the eagles on the wing, 
the fair lake with its symbol of the magnificent forest 
beside it ; yes, and the hill country was plainly enough 
defined. Why, then, shudder at the first glance upon 
this faithful chart ? 
Ah, there was one more hieroglyphic, whose fearful 
import none could mistake. At the very spot where 
they were encamped, and where all possibility of either 
retreat or advance was cut off, was reared the hate- 
ful symbol of death, the skull and bone. Could it be, 
then, that this was to be the end of their labors ? The 
map was hastily thrust aside — buried deep, at the bottom 
of the largest pack of goods, where no careless hand could 
reach it and bring it unwittingly to light. 
Out of sight — out of sight — but not one of the party 
forgot. 
