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scree and also bring across the three extra horses and the packhorse. Either there was no sound of breathing, as all held their breath during a crossing, or there were gasps and sighs as one was completed. But that thought only occurred to her when there was no longer any need for held-in breath. |
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Beyond the scree they found the slope easier, and following along the gentlest path, they soon came to another stream, already well developed, not rising from the mountain they had crossed but from some other to the north and east. In no long time they were able to mount their horses again. However, by now a new concern was filling all minds. It had taken so long to build the bridge and cross the scree that most of the day was past. The sun was dropping and the cold growing more intense. This was plainly no night to be sleeping in the open. In addition, all were very hungry. While they had labored and endured danger, no one had thought of food. But both danger and labor tend to hone the appetite when the effort is over. |
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All were very relieved when Walter suddenly pointed and said, "Look. There is an ax mark on that tree. There must be at least a woodcutter's shelter not too far." |
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