The mother looked as unconcerned as if nothing had happened to her; so easy is nature in her operations in the wilderness, when free from the enfeebling refinements of luxury, and the tamperings and appliances of art.
The next morning ushered in the new year (1812).

Mr.Hunt was about to resume his march, when his men requested permission to celebrate the day.

This was particularly urged by the Canadian voyageurs, with whom New-Year's day is a favorite festival; and who never willingly give up a holiday, under any circumstances.

There was no resisting such an application; so the day was passed in repose and revelry; the poor Canadians contrived to sing and dance in defiance of all their hardships; and there was a sumptuous New-Year's banquet of dog's meat and horse flesh.
After two days of welcome rest, the travellers addressed themselves once more to the painful journey.

The Indians of the lodges pointed out a distant gap through which they must pass in traversing the ridge of mountains.