Above them towered vast Alpine summits, where the wild wind blew, sweeping the snow-wreaths into the air.

In front was a deep ravine, at the bottom of which there ran a torrent that foamed and tossed over rocks and boulders.

It was not possible to take a walk to any distance.

Their boots were made for lighter purposes than plunging through snow-drifts; and so they were forced to remain indoors, and pass the time as best they could.
On the following morning they found every thing in readiness for a start.

In front of the inn they saw five sleds of that kind which is universally used in the northern part of America.