We pitch the tents in a line, side to side, six feet separating each of them.  Then we set to work on establishing a bear perimeter.  […]

Around the camp we start to set a rectangular boundary of tripwires which, if triggered, fire blank cartridges downwards into the earth, scaring away an inquisitive bear.  We string the wires at a height of about two feet, so that they won’t be snagged by any white foxes coming to scavenge.

It takes two hours to set camp to Matt’s satisfaction.  We sing as we work.  Bill is a professional singer, blessed with a resonant bass voice.  I warble happily.  The sun lowers to the west.  Two bergs move from left to right across the bay.