Astoria Chapter 35

In which the weary travellers, having covered many a dreary mile, encounter a famished yet familiar party whose plight confirms the cruel severity of their ordeal, compelling a choice betwixt perilous paths amid treacherous mountains and biting cold. Thus compelled, Mr. Hunt resolves upon a retrograde march to seek aid among wandering Indian bands, whilst his company dwindles with despair and impatience, leaving behind the weakest to face their dire fate alone.