Peaks of the Central Group. 
there were only brief moments when the mist would grow 
slightly thinner, so that they could just make out the 
uncertain outline of the highest peak. 
There were only two ways to reach it. They must either 
descend to the gap and thence attempt to scale the ice wall 
overhung by the formidable cornice, or they must return to 
the plateau, cross it under the col, and ascend by the 
east ridge, a long and indirect way, which woidd have to be 
done in the fog without any sign to guide them. As to the 
question of giving up the ascent for that day and returning 
to camp, a glance at the set determined faces of the guides 
was sufficient to show that such an idea never entered their 
minds. 
By nine o’clock they could not endure waiting any longer, 
CLIMBING ALEXANDRA PEAK. 
and they decided to take the mountain by the shortest route, 
which was also the more dangerous, and one after another 
they started down the slope which led to the col. They 
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