They are then let free and driven towards a small herd of tame animals, which have been brought to the spot on purpose.

From their previous treatment, being too much terrified to leave the herd, they are easily driven, if their strength last out, to the settlement.
The weather continued so very bad that we determine to make a push, and try to reach the vessel before night.

From the quantity of rain which had fallen, the surface of the whole country was swampy.

I suppose my horse fell at least a dozen times, and sometimes the whole six horses were floundering in the mud together.

All the little streams are bordered by soft peat, which makes it very difficult for the horses to leap them without falling.