He was alert and fearful, yet determined.

No matter what danger of discovery might threaten, he must build a fire to save Carroll's life.

The raging storm was not over with; there was no apparent cessation of violence in the blasts of the icy wind, and the snow swept about him in blinding sheets.

It would continue all day, all another night, perhaps, and they could never live through without food and warmth.

He realized the risk fully, his gloved hand gripping the butt of his revolver, as he stared up and down the snow-draped bluffs.