The Long Portage

"The Long Portage" by Harold Bindloss is a novel written in the early 20th century. Set against the backdrop of the rough wilderness of British Columbia, it follows the journey of Vernon Lisle and his companions as they navigate the challenges of a treacherous landscape while seeking the truth about a tragic expedition gone wrong. The narrative hints at themes of survival, endurance, and the moral complexities of human relationships, especially in the wake of privation and catastrophe. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Vernon Lisle, who is fishing in an icy river, struggling with hunger and the harsh elements of the wilderness. Accompanied by two companions, including an English sportsman named Nasmyth, they are on a quest that intertwines their fate with an ill-fated expedition led by George and Clarence Gladwyne. As they discuss the grim details of the Gladwyne journey, it becomes evident that Lisle’s motivations are rooted in a personal connection to the legacy of his late comrade, who died while ostensibly attempting to save his cousin. This opening portion sets the tone for a harrowing adventure filled with both physical and moral trials, as Lisle seeks to uncover the truth behind the Gladwynes' tragic fate while battling the elements and the demons of the past.