Page:Across the sub-Arctics of Canada (1897).djvu/244

 boughs, and give them their daily meal of seal-blubber or fish. The other members of the party busied themselves in clearing away the snow, cutting down brush and firewood, and building the camp. This latter did not consist of a tent, shanty, or indeed covering of any kind, but simply of a wall of brush built crescent shaped, to a height of three or four feet, and in such a position as to best afford shelter from the cutting wind. The two main elements of a good winter camp-ground are shelter and dry wood, both of which are indispensable.

The snow was cleared away from the inside of the wind-break, and in its stead spruce boughs were strewn to a depth of several inches, and in front of this a big fire kindled—and camp was complete.

These tasks ended, the preparation of supper was commenced. Bacon and biscuits were hauled out, while frying-pans and tea-kettles were brought and placed with their contents upon the fire. Fresh water had been found by cutting through the ice of a creek close by, so nothing was lacking.

Tin plates and cups, knives and forks were provided, but as we took hold of them they froze to our fingers, and before we could use them they had to be heated. After supper preparations were made for the night and for the morrow's tramp. Socks, duffles and moccasins, wet with perspiration from the day's march, were hung up before the fire to dry; robes and blankets were spread about the camp, and upon them our tired party assembled to enjoy a rest and smoke beside the fire before turning in for the night. Though cold, the night was beautifully calm and clear, and when from time to