While climbing the steep mountain side they came across a dead ox left by some party that had gone before them.

They cut out the tongue and some of the best meat and ate it to eke out their own small stock, and carried some pieces with them, but soon threw it all away but enough for a roast for supper.
When it was getting dark they were almost at the summit, but there was no good camping place, and they saw a small fire light at a little distance and went to it, finding a poor lone camper taking care of himself.

They camped here also.

It seemed as if there were many men from the various parties scattered all around the country, each one seeking out the path which seemed to suit best his tender feet or present fancy, steering west as well as mountains and canon would permit, some farther north, some farther south and generally demoralized, each thinking that as a last resort he would be able to save his own life.

It seemed to be a question of will and endurance, strong hearts and keeping the body in motion.