I said to Scott that the ascent seemed to be going slowly and that I was concerned descending climbers could possibly run out of oxygen before their return to camp IV. ↗
I explained I wanted to descend as quickly as possible to camp IV in order to warm myself and gather a supply of hot drink and oxygen in the event I might need to go back up the mountain to assist descending climbers. ↗
As a child I was the best tree climber in our neighbourhood, I was like a little monkey. I've never been afraid of hurting myself or a little physical discomfort. ↗
Let me get you all some punch,” I said.
“You're leaving us?” said Isabel, sounding panicky.
“I'll be right back,” I promised. “If anyone comes near you, just scream and run. ↗