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tent frames, which can be made snug in the snow bank.

Our one weak point is dog power. Though we brought 83 here, probably not more than 35 or 40 now live, & many of these are worthless. We have done everything we could to save these dogs, & have had plenty of food for them, but they have killed one another or died of diseases, and almost every dead dog was a good strong one - the little, worthless ones are all alive. If I had 15 of the 40 dogs we have lost I should feel sure of a success - & I believe we shall beat the record as it is.

You have no conception, brother, of the troubles I have had, but I glory in meeting & overcoming difficulties, & shall go into the field in a spirit of conquering or dying - meaning by that to do all it may become a man to do, even if he loses his life as a result.

You may be sure, brother, I shall not be reckless. I have too much to live for, & I want to get home to make my dear wife happy - I never loved her as much as I do now - and I have the courage to fail & live.