"That was a long paddle!" said Nora, rubbing her shoulder as they approached the end of the lake.
"I'll sure be glad to get out of this canoe and stretch my legs," said John. "Is this where we're going to camp?"
"Ile," replied Etseh. "This is Komoola portage. We can make camp after we get to the other side of the portage. Better get your muscles ready!"

John laughed with his grandfather. He had no idea of what lay ahead!
Etsi reached into her food bag and got out the last of her dry meat She said nothing as they each had a piece along with a cup of clear, cold water from the lake.
"I'm getting tired of fish and dry meat," thought John. "I wish I had some chips or a can of pop!" He lay his knife down on a rock so he could wash it after his snack.
"Ehkw'on!" said Etseh. "When you carry your pack, it's important to have it well balanced on your back. Etsi, remember the story of that woman? She was walking over a rocky portage. Her pack was not on properly and she fell to her death over a cliff!" Etsi nodded.
The grandparents helped Nora, John and Peter adjust their packs and got ready to lead the way over the portage. "We'll take packs on this trip and leave the canoes and paddles for the next time across." Etseh started off along the path, carrying his big pack and gun.