noon
Other parties were continually encountered , and all had the same story to tell of there not being a foot of desirable land that was not pre-empted . Some of these people were returning , but most of them pressed on , hopeful of striking some spot that was awaiting them . Encamping under the shelter of a rock , the journey was resumed early the next morning , and , some twenty miles from the Klondike , a turn was made eastward among the mountains , which stretch far beyond the farthest range of vision . They were following a small stream that showed no signs of having been visited , and by noon had reached a point where they seemed as much alone as if in the depths of Africa . `` I guess we may as well try it here , '' said Jeff , and he began to unload his pack , in which he was promptly imitated by his companions . They quickly finished , and sat down for a long rest . It had been a steady climb almost from the first .