White Fang

—

Caninos Brancos

Jack London

ESL Easy Read

Reading Comprehension B1 • Original Text • Português Support

AMOSTRA - contém apenas 15% do texto

Copyright

Fonte original - domínio público

Esta edição ESL Easy Read foi adaptada a partir de White Fang, de Jack London, publicado originalmente em 1876.

A obra original encontra-se em domínio público e pode ser utilizada, reproduzida, distribuída e adaptada de acordo com a legislação aplicável.

Autor

Jack London (1876 - 1916)

Estados Unidos

Esta obra foi publicada originalmente em 1876.

Nos Estados Unidos, obras publicadas antes de 1930 encontram-se normalmente em domínio público.

Com base no ano de publicação disponível, esta obra encontra-se em domínio público nos Estados Unidos desde 1º de janeiro de 1972.

Brasil

Autor: Jack London (1876 - 1916)

De acordo com a Lei nº 9.610/1998, os direitos patrimoniais expiram 70 anos após a morte do autor, contados a partir de 1º de janeiro do ano seguinte ao falecimento.

Jack London faleceu em 1916.

Situação no Brasil: DOMÍNIO PÚBLICO.

Portugal

Autor: Jack London (1876 - 1916)

De acordo com o Código do Direito de Autor e dos Direitos Conexos, a proteção patrimonial dura 70 anos após a morte do autor.

Jack London faleceu em 1916.

Situação em Portugal: DOMÍNIO PÚBLICO.

Dados da publicação original

Obra original: White Fang

Autor: Jack London

Primeira publicação: 1876

Primeiro editor: The Macmillan Company

Verifique você mesmo

As fontes abaixo permitem verificar gratuitamente a identificação da obra, a data de publicação e, no caso do Project Gutenberg, o status de domínio público nos Estados Unidos:

→ Project Gutenberg — https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/910

O registro do Project Gutenberg identifica esta obra como domínio público nos Estados Unidos.

→ Internet Archive — https://archive.org/details/whitefang09145gut

Preserva digitalizações e registros bibliográficos de edições impressas da obra original.

Esta adaptação ESL Easy Read

Nenhum direito autoral é reivindicado sobre o texto original em domínio público. A estrutura editorial desta edição, as versões de leitura simplificada, as traduções de apoio, o layout, a capa e o aparato pedagógico são protegidos por direitos autorais.

© 2026 MicMac from Las Vegas LLC. Todos os direitos reservados.

Introdução

Como ler este livro

Cada livro desta coleção é apresentado em um nível de leitura simplificada, de acordo com o CEFR - Quadro Europeu Comum de Referência para Línguas.

A2 - Básico: indicado para leitores que já compreendem frases simples, vocabulário frequente e textos curtos sobre situações do cotidiano.

B1 - Intermediário: indicado para leitores que conseguem compreender as ideias principais de textos claros e acompanhar uma narrativa com vocabulário e estruturas de dificuldade moderada.

B2 - Intermediário avançado: indicado para leitores que já conseguem compreender textos mais complexos, acompanhar descrições detalhadas e reconhecer uma variedade maior de vocabulário e estruturas gramaticais.

Este livro foi adaptado para o nível B1.

Você pode começar a lê-lo mesmo sem dominar completamente o inglês. O texto foi simplificado para facilitar a compreensão, preservando a história, os personagens, o ambiente e os principais acontecimentos da obra original.

O objetivo não é substituir a obra original, mas criar uma passagem gradual entre o inglês que você já conhece e a linguagem literária do texto completo.

Como usar En/Pt

No texto simplificado em inglês, En/Pt abre a página correspondente.

A página En/Pt apresenta três camadas independentes, sempre nesta ordem: a tradução em português do texto simplificado; o trecho correspondente do original em inglês; e a tradução em português do original.

No texto original em inglês, Pt abre diretamente o mesmo parágrafo na versão portuguesa. Nessa versão, En retorna ao mesmo parágrafo no texto original em inglês. Na página En/Pt, Original English retorna de Português Integral ao mesmo parágrafo original.

Como usar o glossário

As palavras e expressões incluídas no glossário são marcadas no texto. Clique ou selecione uma delas para abrir a entrada correspondente.

Cada entrada apresenta:

• a palavra ou expressão original em inglês;

• a sua pronúncia fonética;

• a tradução em português;

• um exemplo de uso em português;

• um exemplo de uso em inglês;

• até seis trechos do livro em que a palavra ou expressão aparece, ou todos os trechos disponíveis quando houver menos de seis ocorrências.

Cada ocorrência apresentada no glossário inclui um link direto para o ponto exato do livro em que a palavra ou expressão foi usada.

Depois de consultar uma ocorrência, o leitor pode retornar diretamente ao ponto do texto de onde abriu o glossário ou navegar para qualquer outra ocorrência da mesma palavra ou expressão dentro do livro.

A função da tradução em português

Procuramos oferecer traduções em português claras, naturais e literariamente agradáveis, tanto para o texto simplificado quanto para o texto original.

Ainda assim, a tradução deve ser entendida apenas como instrumento de apoio. Este livro não foi concebido para ser lido principalmente em português: seu objetivo é ajudar você a ler em inglês e recorrer ao português somente quando necessário.

Sempre que possível, tente primeiro compreender o trecho em inglês. Consulte a tradução para confirmar o sentido, esclarecer uma dificuldade ou comparar estruturas; depois, retorne ao texto em inglês.

Sobre este livro

White Fang follows the life of a wolf-dog from birth in the frozen wilderness through his encounters with various masters. Born to a she-wolf and a wolf, the cub learns the brutal laws of nature and survival. After capture by Indigenous trappers, he is sold and traded among harsh owners, including a man called Beauty Smith who forces him into brutal dog fights. Eventually purchased by Weedon Scott, a kind master, White Fang gradually learns to trust and love. Transported to the Southland, he adapts to civilization and domestic life, ultimately finding peace and companionship with his master's family.

Como usar este livro

En/Pt → abre Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1), Original English Version e Tradução Integral em Português no mesmo bloco.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada e Go to the Original English Version retornam ao ponto exato.

Os links pontilhados do glossário voltam diretamente ao uso real da palavra.

Contato

MicMac from Las Vegas LLC
Contato: admin@esleasyread.com

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The Invisible Man

The Island of Doctor Moreau

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Reading Comprehension B1

Part I

The Trail of the Meat

The She-wolf

The Hunger Cry

Part II

The Battle of the Fangs

Contents

The Trail of the Meat

En/Pt → Dark spruce forest stood on both sides of the frozen waterway. A recent wind had removed the white frost from the trees, and they leaned toward each other in the fading light, black and threatening. There was a deep silence over the land. The land was empty, lifeless, and so cold and lonely that it did not even feel sad. It seemed to hold a terrible kind of laughter, colder than sorrow, like the cold smile of the sphinx. It was the cold wisdom of eternity laughing at life and at all human effort. It was the Wild, the savage, frozen-hearted Northland Wild.

En/Pt → But there was life in the land, and it was fighting on. A line of wolf-like dogs labored down the frozen waterway. Frost covered their rough fur. Their breath froze in the air and turned to crystals on their bodies. They wore leather harnesses, and leather traces pulled a sled behind them. The sled had no runners. It was made of strong birch bark and rested flat on the snow. The front was turned up like a scroll to push through the soft snow ahead. On the sled was a long, narrow box tied tightly down. There were other things too - blankets, an axe, a coffee-pot, and a frying-pan - but the box took up most of the space.

En/Pt → A man walked in front of the dogs on wide snowshoes. Another man walked behind the sled. On the sled, inside the box, lay a third man whose hard work was over. The Wild had defeated him, and he would never move again. The Wild does not like movement. Life is movement, so life offends it. The Wild tries to destroy movement. It freezes the water so it cannot run to the sea. It pulls the sap from the trees until they are frozen to their hearts. And most of all, it attacks man, the most restless of all living things, who keeps fighting against the truth that all movement must finally stop.

En/Pt → At the front and the back, the two living men kept going without fear. Their bodies were wrapped in fur and soft leather. Frost from their frozen breath covered their eyelashes, cheeks, and lips, so their faces could not be seen clearly. They looked like ghostly masks, like undertakers in a strange funeral world. But they were still men, moving through a land of emptiness, silence, and mockery. They were small adventurers on a huge journey, standing against a world as far away and lifeless as space itself.

They went on without speaking, saving their breath for the work of their bodies. Silence surrounded them on every side and pressed on them like a real force. It affected their minds the way deep water affects a diver’s body. It crushed them with the power of endless space and unchangeable law. It pushed them deep into their own thoughts and took away their false pride and excitement, until they saw themselves as small and limited, like tiny specks moving with weak skill and little wisdom among the blind forces of nature.

En/Pt → An hour passed, and then another. The pale light of the short, sunless day was starting to fade when a faint cry rose in the still air. It shot upward quickly, reached a high note, stayed there for a moment, and then slowly died away. It might have sounded like a lost soul crying out, but it also had a hungry and fierce feeling. The man in front turned and looked into the eyes of the man behind. Then, across the narrow box, they nodded to each other.

A second cry broke the silence with a sharp, needle-like sound. Both men found where it came from. It was behind them, somewhere in the snow-covered land they had just crossed. Then a third cry answered it, also behind them and to the left of the second cry.

“They're after us, Bill,” said the man in front.

His voice was rough and strange, and he spoke with effort.

En/Pt → “Meat is scarce,” his companion answered. “I ain't seen a rabbit sign for days.”

After that, they said no more. Still, they listened carefully for the hunting cries that kept rising behind them.

When darkness fell, they led the dogs into a group of spruce trees at the edge of the waterway and set up camp. The coffin, beside the fire, was used as both seat and table. The wolf-dogs stayed on the far side of the fire. They growled and argued with each other, but they did not seem ready to run off into the dark.

"Seems to me, Henry, they're stayin' remarkable close to camp," Bill said.

Henry was squatting by the fire and cooling the coffee pot with a piece of ice. He nodded. He did not speak again until he sat on the coffin and started to eat.

"They know where their hides is safe," he said. "They'd sooner eat grub than be grub. They're pretty wise, them dogs."

En/Pt → Bill shook his head. "Oh, I don't know."

His companion looked at him in surprise. "That's the first time I ever heard you say they weren't wise."

"Henry," the other man said as he carefully chewed the beans he was eating, "did you notice how those dogs acted when I was feeding 'em?"

"They did act more wild than usual," Henry admitted.

"How many dogs have we got, Henry?"

"Six."

"Well, Henry..." Bill stopped for a moment so his words would matter more. "As I was saying, Henry, we have six dogs. I took six fish from the bag. I gave one fish to each dog, and, Henry, I was one fish short."

"You counted wrong."

"We have six dogs," the other man said calmly again. "I took out six fish. One Ear did not get a fish. Later I went back to the bag and got his fish."

"We only have six dogs," Henry said.

En/Pt → "Henry," Bill went on. "I won't say they were all dogs, but seven of them got fish."

Henry stopped eating and looked across the fire to count the dogs.

"There are only six now," he said.

"I saw the other one run off across the snow," Bill said with sure calm. "I saw seven."

Henry looked at him with pity and said, "I'll be very glad when this trip is over."

"What do you mean by that?" Bill asked.

"I mean that this load of ours is upsetting you, and that you are starting to imagine things."

"I thought of that," Bill answered seriously. "So when I saw it run across the snow, I looked at the snow and saw its tracks. Then I counted the dogs, and there were still six of them. The tracks are still there in the snow now. Do you want to look at them? I will show them to you."

En/Pt → Henry did not answer. He kept eating in silence until the meal was finished, then he drank a final cup of coffee. He wiped his mouth with the back of his hand and said:

"Then you think it was--"

A long, sad cry from somewhere in the darkness stopped him. He listened, then he finished his sentence and pointed toward the sound. "--one of them?"

Bill nodded. "I would sooner think that than anything else. You heard the noise the dogs made yourself."

Cry after cry, and cries in answer, broke the silence and turned it into chaos. The cries came from every side. The dogs showed their fear by crowding together close to the fire, so close that the heat scorched their hair. Bill threw on more wood before lighting his pipe.

"I think you are feeling rather sad," Henry said.

"Henry..." He thought for a while, sucking at his pipe. Then he went on. "Henry, I was thinking how much luckier he is than you and me will ever be."

En/Pt → He pointed to the third person with a downward thumb gesture toward the box where they were sitting.

"You and me, Henry, when we die, we'll be lucky if we get enough stones over our bodies to keep the dogs away."

"But we don't have people and money and all the rest, like him," Henry said. "Long trips for funerals are not something you and me can really afford."

"What I don't understand, Henry, is why a man like this, who is a lord or something in his own country and has never had to worry about food or blankets, comes bothering around the far ends of the earth. That's what I can't really see."

"He might have lived to a good old age if he had stayed at home," Henry agreed.

Bill started to speak, but then stopped. Instead, he pointed toward the wall of darkness around them. The blackness showed no shape, only a pair of eyes shining like live coals. Henry nodded toward a second pair, then a third. A ring of shining eyes had formed around their camp. Now and then one pair moved or disappeared, then appeared again a moment later.

En/Pt → The dogs were getting more and more upset, and then they suddenly rushed to the near side of the fire in fear, hiding and crawling around the men's legs. In the rush, one dog was knocked over onto the edge of the fire, and it yelped in pain and fear as the smell of its burned fur filled the air. The noise made the circle of eyes move nervously for a moment and even go back a little, but it soon settled again when the dogs became quiet.

"Henry, it is a real bad thing to be out of ammunition."

Bill had finished his pipe and was helping his friend spread the fur and blanket bed on the spruce branches he had laid on the snow before supper. Henry grunted and began to untie his moccasins.

"How many cartridges did you say you had left?" he asked.

“Three,” came the answer. “And I wish it were three hundred. Then I would show them, damn them!”

En/Pt → He shook his fist angrily at the shining eyes, and carefully propped his moccasins near the fire.

“I wish this cold spell would end,” he went on. “It has been fifty below for two weeks now. And I wish I had never started on this trip, Henry. I do not like it. I do not feel right, somehow. And while I am wishing, I wish the trip was over, and you and I were sitting by the fire in Fort McGurry right now playing cribbage - that is what I wish.”

Henry grunted and crawled into bed. As he began to fall asleep, his comrade’s voice woke him.

“Say, Henry, that other one that came in and got a fish - why did the dogs not attack it? That is what is bothering me.”

“You are worrying too much, Bill,” came the sleepy answer. “You were never like this before. Just be quiet now and go to sleep, and you will be fine in the morning. Your stomach is upset; that is what is bothering you.”

En/Pt → The men slept heavily side by side under one blanket. The fire died down, and the shining eyes moved closer around the camp. The dogs huddled together in fear and sometimes growled when a pair of eyes came near. Once the noise became so loud that Bill woke up. He got out of bed carefully so he would not wake his comrade, and threw more wood on the fire. As the flames rose, the circle of eyes moved back. He looked at the crowded dogs for a moment, then rubbed his eyes and looked again more closely. After that, he crawled back under the blankets.

“Henry,” he said. “Oh, Henry.”

Henry groaned as he moved from sleep to waking and asked, “What is wrong now?”

“Nothing,” came the answer. “Only there are seven of them again. I just counted.”

Henry answered the news with a grunt, and then his grunt turned into a snore as he fell back asleep.

En/Pt → In the morning, Henry woke first and got his companion out of bed. It was still dark, and daylight was three hours away, though it was already six o'clock. Henry made breakfast in the dark, while Bill rolled the blankets and prepared the sled to be tied down.

"Say, Henry," he asked suddenly, "how many dogs did you say we had?"

"Six."

"Wrong," Bill said with triumph.

"Seven again?" Henry asked.

"No, five; one is gone."

"The hell!" Henry shouted in anger, and he left the cooking to come and count the dogs.

"You're right, Bill," he said at last. "Fatty's gone."

"And he went like greased lightnin' once he got started. Couldn't 've seen 'm for smoke."

"No chance at all," Henry said. "They just swallowed him alive. I bet he was crying out as he went down their throats, damn them!"

"He was always a foolish dog," said Bill.

En/Pt → "But no foolish dog should be foolish enough to go off and kill himself like that." He looked over the rest of the team and quickly understood each animal. "I bet none of the others would do it."

"You couldn't drive them away from the fire with a club," Bill agreed. "I always thought there was something wrong with Fatty anyway."

And this was all that was said for a dead dog on the Northland trail. It was less than many other dogs, and less than many men received.

The She-wolf

En/Pt → After breakfast, and with the light camp gear tied to the sled, the men turned away from the warm fire and moved into the dark. At once, the sad hunting cries began. They called through the cold and darkness and answered one another. No one talked. Day came at nine o'clock. At noon the southern sky turned rose-coloured, showing where the earth curved between the sun and the northern world. But the colour quickly faded. The grey daylight lasted until three o'clock. Then that faded too, and the heavy Arctic night covered the lonely, silent land.

As night came, the hunting cries on the right, left, and behind came closer. They were so near that they often frightened the tired dogs, and the dogs had short panics.

After one of these panics, when he and Henry had got the dogs back in the traces, Bill said:

"I wish they'd find game somewhere and leave us alone."

En/Pt → "They are terribly hard to endure," Henry agreed.

They said no more until the camp was ready.

Henry was bending over the pot of beans and adding ice when he heard a blow, a shout from Bill, and a sharp cry of pain from the dogs. He stood up in time to see a dark shape run across the snow and hide in the darkness. Then he saw Bill standing among the dogs, looking partly proud and partly disappointed, with a strong club in one hand and the tail and part of the body of a sun-cured salmon in the other.

"It got half of it," he said. "But I hit it too. Did you hear it squeal?"

"What did it look like?" Henry asked.

"I couldn't see. But it had four legs and a mouth and hair, and it looked like any dog."

"It must be a tame wolf, I guess."

En/Pt → "It's very tame, whatever it is, coming in here at feeding time and taking its share of fish."

That night, after supper, they sat on the long box and smoked their pipes. The ring of shining eyes moved even closer than before.

"I wish they'd bring out a bunch of moose or something, and leave us alone," Bill said.

Henry gave a sound that did not fully show sympathy, and they sat in silence for fifteen minutes. Henry stared at the fire, and Bill watched the circle of eyes glowing in the dark beyond the firelight.

"I wish we were heading into McGurry right now," he began again.

"Stop wishing and complaining," Henry said angrily. "Your stomach is sour. That is what is wrong with you. Take a spoonful of soda, and you will feel much better and be easier to be with."

In the morning, Henry woke up because Bill was swearing loudly. Henry raised himself on one elbow and saw Bill standing among the dogs near the fire. Bill had lifted his arms in anger, and his face was twisted with rage.

En/Pt → "Hello!" Henry called. "What's wrong now?"

"Frog is gone," came the answer.

"No."

"I tell you, yes."

Henry jumped out of the blankets and ran to the dogs. He counted them carefully, and then he joined his partner in cursing the Wild for taking another dog from them.

"Frog was the strongest dog in the group," Bill said at last.

"And he was no foolish dog either," Henry added.

So the second grave note in two days was written down.

They ate a sad breakfast, and the four remaining dogs were tied to the sled. The day was like the days before it. The men worked in silence across the frozen land. Only the cries of their pursuers broke the silence. The pursuers stayed behind them, unseen. When night came in the middle of the afternoon, the cries sounded nearer, because the pursuers always moved in closer. The dogs became excited and scared. They panicked, tangled the harness lines, and made the two men feel even worse.

En/Pt → "There, that'll fix you fool critters," Bill said with satisfaction that night, standing up when he finished his work.

Henry left the cooking to look. His partner had not only tied up the dogs, but had tied them the Indian way, with sticks. He had fastened a leather strap around each dog's neck. To this, and so close to the neck that the dog could not bite it, he had tied a strong stick four or five feet long. The other end of the stick was tied to a stake in the ground with another leather strap. The dog could not chew through the leather at his own end. The stick kept him from reaching the leather at the other end.

Henry nodded in approval.

"It's the only thing that'll ever hold One Ear," he said. "He can chew through leather as clean as a knife and almost as fast. They'll all be here in the morning safe and sound."

En/Pt → "You bet they will," Bill said. "If one of them is missing, I'll go without my coffee."

"They know we ain't loaded to kill," Henry said at bedtime, pointing to the shining ring around them. "If we could put a couple of shots into 'em, they'd respect us more. They come closer every night. Get the firelight out of your eyes and look hard--there! Did you see that one?"

For a while, the two men watched the moving shapes at the edge of the firelight. When they looked closely at the place where a pair of eyes shone in the dark, the animal's shape slowly appeared. Sometimes they could even see the shapes move.

A sound among the dogs caught the men's attention. One Ear was whining quickly and eagerly. He lunged at the end of his stick toward the darkness, then stopped and attacked the stick again with his teeth in a wild effort.

En/Pt → "Look at that, Bill," Henry whispered.

A doglike animal moved quietly into the firelight. It moved carefully, with both fear and courage. It watched the men closely, but its eyes were on the dogs. One Ear stretched as far as he could toward the stranger and whined excitedly.

"That fool One Ear don't seem scairt much," Bill said softly.

"It's a she-wolf," Henry whispered back. "That explains Fatty and Frog. She's used to lure the dog out. Then the rest of the pack comes in and eats him up."

The fire crackled. A log broke apart with a loud, spitting sound. When it did, the strange animal jumped back into the dark.

"Henry, I'm a-thinkin'," Bill said.

"Thinkin' what?"

"I'm a-thinkin' that was the one I lambasted with the club."

"Ain't the slightest doubt in the world," Henry answered.

"An' right here I want to remark," Bill went on, "that that animal's familyarity with campfires is suspicious an' immoral."

En/Pt → "It surely knows more than a self-respecting wolf should know," Henry agreed. "A wolf that can come in with the dogs at feeding time has lived through a lot."

"Old Villan had a dog once that ran away with the wolves," Bill said to himself. "I ought to know. I shot it out of the pack in a moose pasture over on Little Stick. Old Villan cried like a baby. He said he had not seen it for three years. It had been with the wolves all that time."

"I think you are right, Bill. That wolf is a dog, and it has eaten fish many times from a man's hand."

"And if I get a chance at it, that wolf that is a dog will be just meat," Bill said. "We cannot afford to lose any more animals."

"But you only have three cartridges," Henry said.

"I will wait for a sure shot," was the answer.

En/Pt → In the morning Henry got the fire going again and cooked breakfast while his partner snored.

"You were sleeping too comfortably," Henry told him as he woke him for breakfast. "I did not have the heart to wake you."

Bill began to eat sleepily. He saw that his cup was empty and reached for the pot. But the pot was out of reach and next to Henry.

"Say, Henry," he said gently, "have you forgotten something?"

Henry looked around very carefully and shook his head. Bill held up the empty cup.

"You don't get no coffee," Henry said.

"Ain't run out?" Bill asked in fear.

"Nope."

"Ain't thinkin' it'll hurt my digestion?"

"Nope."

Bill's face turned red with anger.

"Then it's jes' warm an' anxious I am to be hearin' you explain yourself," he said.

"Spanker's gone," Henry answered.

Slowly, as if he had accepted bad luck, Bill turned his head and counted the dogs from where he sat.

En/Pt → "How did it happen?" he asked without much feeling.

Henry shrugged. "Don't know. Unless One Ear gnawed him loose. He could not have done it himself, that is sure."

"The darned cuss." Bill spoke in a calm, slow voice, with no sign of the anger he felt inside. "Just because he could not chew himself loose, he chews Spanker loose."

"Well, Spanker's troubles are over now, I guess. By this time he is digested and running over the land inside twenty different wolves," Henry said, as a final comment on the latest lost dog. "Have some coffee, Bill."

But Bill shook his head.

"Go on," Henry urged, lifting the pot.

Bill pushed his cup away. "I will be darned if I do. I said I would not if any dog turned up missing, and I won't."

"It's very good coffee," Henry said, trying to tempt him.

But Bill was stubborn, and he ate a dry breakfast, drinking it down with quiet curses at One Ear for the trick he had played.

En/Pt → "I will tie them up out of each other's reach tonight," Bill said as they started along the trail.

They had gone only a little more than a hundred yards when Henry, who was walking in front, bent down and picked up something his snowshoe had hit. It was dark, so he could not see it, but he knew what it was by touch. He threw it back, and it hit the sled and slid until it stopped on Bill's snowshoes.

"Maybe you'll need that in your work," Henry said.

Bill cried out. It was what was left of Spanker, the stick he had been tied to.

"They ate the hide too," Bill said. "The stick is as clean as a whistle. They have eaten the leather off both ends. They are very hungry, Henry, and they will have us wondering before this trip is over."

Henry laughed back at him. "I have not been followed by wolves before, but I have been through much worse and stayed healthy. It takes more than a few of those annoying animals to finish me off, Bill, my son."

En/Pt → "I don't know, I don't know," Bill said in a dark voice.

"Well, you'll know for sure when we get to McGurry."

"I don't feel very happy about it," Bill said again.

"You're not well, that's the problem," Henry said firmly. "What you need is quinine, and I'm going to give you a strong dose as soon as we reach McGurry."

Bill made a sound to show he did not agree, and then he said nothing. The day was like every other day. Light came at nine o'clock. At twelve o'clock the southern sky became a little warm with the hidden sun. Then the cold grey afternoon began, and three hours later it became night.

Just after the sun made one useless try to come out, Bill slipped the rifle from under the sled ropes and said:

"You keep going, Henry. I'm going to see what I can find."

"You should stay with the sled," his partner said. "You only have three bullets, and we don't know what may happen."

En/Pt → "Who's saying we're in trouble now?" Bill asked proudly.

Henry did not answer and kept walking alone. Still, he often looked back with worry into the grey empty land where his partner had gone. An hour later, Bill came back by using the short cuts the sled had to avoid.

"They're spread out and moving wide," he said. "They are keeping up with us and looking for game at the same time. They know where we are, but they also know they must wait before they can get us. For now, they will eat anything they can find."

"You mean they _think_ they know where we are," Henry said firmly.

But Bill did not answer. "I saw some of them. They're very thin. They have not eaten for weeks, I think, except for Fatty and Frog and Spanker. And there are so many of them that that did not help much. They are terribly thin. Their ribs stick out like washboards, and their stomachs are almost touching their backbones. They are very desperate, I can tell you. They will go mad soon, and then watch out."

En/Pt → A few minutes later, Henry was now behind the sled. He gave a soft warning whistle. Bill turned, looked, and quietly stopped the dogs. Behind them, around the last bend and clearly on the trail they had just made, a furry shape was trotting after them. It kept its nose near the trail and moved in a strange, smooth, easy way. When they stopped, it stopped too. It raised its head and looked at them hard, while its nostrils moved as it caught and studied their smell.

"It's the she-wolf," Bill said.

The dogs had lain down in the snow, and he walked past them to join his partner in the sled. Together they watched the strange animal that had followed them for days and had already destroyed half their dog team.

En/Pt → After a careful look, the animal trotted forward a few steps. It did this many times until it was about a hundred yards away. Then it stopped near some spruce trees, lifted its head, and studied the men with both sight and smell. It looked at them in a sad way, like a dog, but there was no dog-like love in it. Its sadness came from hunger, cold, and a cruel need to survive.

It was large for a wolf, with a thin body that showed it was one of the biggest wolves of its kind.

"It stands pretty close to two feet and a half at the shoulders," Henry said. "And I bet it is not far from five feet long."

"A strange colour for a wolf," Bill said. "I never saw a red wolf before. It looks almost cinnamon to me."

The animal was not really cinnamon-coloured. Its fur was true wolf fur. Most of it was grey, but there was also a faint red shade that came and went. Sometimes it looked grey, and sometimes it seemed to show a soft red colour that was hard to explain.

En/Pt → "It looks exactly like a big husky sled dog," Bill said. "I would not be surprised to see it wag its tail."

"Hello, you husky!" he called. "Come here, you whatever-your-name-is."

"It is not the least bit afraid of you," Henry laughed.

Bill waved his hand at it in a threat and shouted loudly, but the animal showed no fear. The only change they could see was that it became more alert. It still watched them with the cold hope of hunger. To it, they were meat, and if it dared, it would go in and eat them.

"Look here, Henry," Bill said, and his voice became a whisper without him meaning to. "We have three cartridges. But it is an easy shot. We could not miss it. It has already taken three of our dogs, and we ought to stop it. What do you say?"

Henry agreed with a nod. Bill carefully took the gun from under the sled rope. He started to lift it to his shoulder, but he never got the chance. At that moment, the she-wolf jumped sideways off the trail into a group of spruce trees and vanished.

En/Pt → The two men looked at each other. Henry gave a long whistle that showed he understood.

"I should have known it," Bill said out loud as he put the gun back. "Of course a wolf that comes in with the dogs at feeding time would know all about guns. I tell you, Henry, that animal is the cause of all our trouble. We would have six dogs now instead of three if it were not for her. And I tell you this, Henry, I am going to get her. She is too smart to be shot in the open. But I am going to wait for her. I will attack her from hiding, as sure as my name is Bill."

"You had better not go too far when you do it," his partner warned. "If that pack ever comes at you, those three cartridges will be worth no more than three cries in hell. Those animals are very hungry, and once they start, they will surely get you, Bill."

En/Pt → They camped early that night. Three dogs could not pull the sled as fast or as long as six dogs could, and they were clearly getting tired. The men went to bed early. First, Bill made sure the dogs were tied far enough apart so they could not bite each other.

But the wolves were becoming braver, and the men were woken more than once. The wolves came so close that the dogs were wild with fear. The men had to add more wood to the fire from time to time to keep the bold wolves at a safer distance.

"I have heard sailors talk about sharks following a ship," Bill said as he crawled back under the blankets after feeding the fire again. "Well, these wolves are land sharks. They know what they are doing better than we do, and they are not following our trail for fun. They are going to get us. They surely are going to get us, Henry."

En/Pt → "They have almost got you already if you talk like that," Henry answered sharply. "A man is half beaten when he says he is. And you are half eaten by the way you keep talking about it."

"They have got better men than you and me," Bill answered.

"Oh, shut up your croaking. You make me very tired."

Henry turned over angrily on his side, but he was surprised that Bill did not show any anger. This was not like Bill, who was easily upset by sharp words. Henry thought about it for a long time before he fell asleep. As his eyes closed, he thought, "There is no mistake. Bill is very downhearted. I will have to cheer him up tomorrow."

The Hunger Cry

En/Pt → The day began well. They had lost no dogs during the night, and they moved on along the trail into the silence, darkness, and cold with fairly good spirits. Bill seemed to have forgotten his fears from the night before, and he even joked with the dogs when they overturned the sled on a bad part of the trail at midday.

It was a bad mess. The sled was upside down and stuck between a tree trunk and a huge rock, so they had to unharness the dogs to fix it. The two men were bent over the sled and trying to set it right when Henry noticed One Ear moving away.

"Here, you, One Ear!" he cried, straightening up and turning toward the dog.

En/Pt → But One Ear ran across the snow, with his traces dragging behind him. Out in the snow on their back trail, the she-wolf was waiting for him. As he came near, he became careful. He slowed to a watchful, delicate walk and then stopped. He studied her with doubt, but also with desire. She seemed to smile at him, showing her teeth in a friendly way, not a threatening one. She moved toward him a few steps, as if playing, and then stopped. One Ear went closer, still alert and careful, with his tail and ears up and his head high.

He tried to sniff noses with her, but she moved back playfully and shyly. Every step he took forward made her step back. Little by little, she was luring him away from the safety of his human companions. Once he turned his head and looked back at the overturned sled, at the other dogs, and at the two men who were calling to him.

En/Pt → But whatever he was thinking was broken by the she-wolf. She came forward, touched noses with him for a moment, and then went back again as he followed her.

Meanwhile, Bill remembered the rifle. But it was stuck under the overturned sled, and by the time Henry helped him right the load, One Ear and the she-wolf were too close together, and the distance was too great to risk a shot.

Too late, One Ear understood his mistake. Before they knew why, the two men saw him turn and run back toward them. Then they saw a dozen lean grey wolves coming at right angles to the trail and cutting off his escape. At once, the she-wolf stopped acting shy and playful. With a snarl, she jumped on One Ear. He pushed her away with his shoulder, and with his way back blocked and still trying to reach the sled, he changed direction and tried to circle around to it. More wolves appeared every moment and joined the chase. The she-wolf was one leap behind One Ear and keeping pace with him.

En/Pt → "Where are you going?" Henry suddenly asked, putting his hand on his partner's arm.

Bill shook him off. "I won't stand it," he said. "They are not going to get any more of our dogs if I can stop it."

With his gun in hand, he rushed into the brush beside the trail. His plan was clear. He took the sled as the center of the circle that One Ear was making, and he meant to meet that circle ahead of the chase. With his rifle in daylight, he might be able to frighten the wolves and save the dog.

"Bill!" Henry called after him. "Be careful! Don't take any chances!"

Henry sat on the sled and watched. There was nothing else he could do. Bill had already disappeared, but now and then One Ear could be seen moving through the brush and small spruce trees. Henry knew the dog had little hope. One Ear knew the danger, but he was running on the outer circle while the wolves ran on the shorter inner circle. It was useless to think he could run far enough ahead to cross their path and get back to the sled.

En/Pt → The two routes moved quickly toward the same point. Somewhere in the snow, hidden by trees and bushes, Henry knew the wolf pack, One Ear, and Bill were coming together. It happened much faster than he expected. He heard one shot, then another, and knew Bill was out of bullets. Then came loud snarls and yelps. He heard One Ear cry out in pain and fear, and he heard a wolf sound that showed one had been badly hurt. Then it stopped. The snarling ended. The yelping faded away. Silence returned to the lonely land.

He sat on the sled for a long time. There was no need to go and look. He knew what had happened as if he had seen it. Once he jumped up and quickly took the axe from under the lashings. But after that he sat and thought sadly, while the two remaining dogs crouched and shook at his feet.

En/Pt → At last he stood up tiredly, as if all his strength had left him, and he tied the dogs to the sled. He put a rope over his shoulder and pulled with the dogs. He did not go far. When darkness began to fall, he quickly made camp and made sure he had plenty of firewood. He fed the dogs, cooked and ate supper, and lay down near the fire.

But he did not get to enjoy that bed. Before he could sleep, the wolves came too close to be safe. He no longer had to strain his eyes to see them. They were all around him and the fire, in a small circle. He could see them clearly in the firelight, lying down, sitting up, crawling forward on their bellies, or moving quietly back and forth. Some even slept. Here and there he saw one curled up in the snow like a dog, getting the sleep he himself could not have.

En/Pt → He kept the fire burning brightly, because he knew it was the only thing between his body and their hungry teeth. His two dogs stayed close to him, one on each side, leaning against him for safety. They cried and whined, and sometimes snarled fiercely when a wolf came too close. Then the whole circle would grow restless. The wolves would rise and move forward a little, and snarls and eager yelps would sound around him. After that, the circle would lie down again, and one wolf after another would go back to a broken sleep.

But this circle kept moving closer to him. Little by little, one wolf at a time, it narrowed until the animals were almost close enough to jump. Then he grabbed burning sticks from the fire and threw them into the pack. They always jumped back at once, crying angrily and snapping in fear when a well-thrown brand hit and burned a bold wolf.

En/Pt → Morning found the man tired and worn out, with wide eyes from lack of sleep. He cooked breakfast in the dark. At nine o'clock, when daylight came and the wolf pack moved back, he began the task he had planned through the long night. He cut young saplings and used them as cross-bars for a scaffold, tying them high to the trunks of standing trees. Then, using the sled rope as a lifting rope and with help from the dogs, he raised the coffin to the top of the scaffold.

"They got Bill, and they may get me, but they'll sure never get you, young man," he said to the dead body in its tree grave.

Then he started down the trail, and the lighter sled bounced behind the willing dogs. They also knew that safety meant reaching Fort McGurry. The wolves now followed more openly. They trotted calmly behind and on both sides, their red tongues hanging out and their thin ribs showing with every step. They were very thin, just skin over bones and weak muscles. Henry could hardly believe they still stood up and did not fall into the snow.

En/Pt → He did not dare to travel until dark. At midday, the sun warmed the southern sky, and its pale golden edge even showed above the horizon. He took this as a sign. The days were getting longer. The sun was returning. But as soon as the light faded, he stopped and made camp. There were still several hours of grey daylight and dark twilight, and he used them to cut a large amount of firewood.

Night brought fear. The starving wolves were growing bolder, and Henry was becoming weak from lack of sleep. He kept dozing near the fire, with blankets on his shoulders, the axe between his knees, and a dog pressed close on each side. Once he woke and saw a large grey wolf, one of the biggest in the pack, not more than twelve feet away. While Henry watched, the wolf stretched like a lazy dog, yawned in his face, and looked at him as if he were only a meal waiting to be eaten.

En/Pt → The whole pack showed this certainty. He could count about twenty wolves, staring at him hungrily or sleeping calmly in the snow. They reminded him of children waiting around a table for permission to eat. And he was the food they wanted. He wondered how and when they would start.

While he piled wood on the fire, he began to notice his own body in a new way. He watched his muscles move and studied the clever way his fingers worked. In the firelight, he slowly bent his fingers, one by one and then all together, spread them wide, and made quick gripping movements. He looked at his nails and pressed the tips of his fingers, sometimes hard and sometimes softly, to feel the different sensations. He became deeply interested and suddenly loved this delicate flesh that worked so well. Then he looked fearfully at the ring of wolves around him, and the truth struck him like a blow. This wonderful body was only meat to hungry animals. Their teeth could tear it apart, just as he had often eaten moose and rabbit.

En/Pt → He woke from a half-nightmare sleep and saw the red-furred she-wolf in front of him. She was only about six feet away, sitting in the snow and looking at him sadly. The two dogs were whining and growling at his feet, but she ignored them. She kept watching the man, and he looked back at her for a while. She did not seem dangerous. She looked sad, but he knew that her sadness came from great hunger. He was the food she wanted, and his sight made her mouth water. Her mouth opened, saliva dripped out, and she licked her lips in anticipation.

En/Pt → Fear seized him. He quickly reached for a burning stick to throw at her. But before his hand closed around it, she jumped back to safety. He knew then that she was used to being thrown at. As she sprang away, she growled and showed her white fangs, and her sadness disappeared. In its place was a wild hunger that made him shiver. He looked at the hand holding the brand and noticed again how delicate his fingers were, how they adjusted to the rough wood, and how one little finger pulled away from the hot end. At the same moment, he seemed to see those same careful fingers crushed and torn by the white teeth of the she-wolf. Never had he loved his body more than now, when he could lose it so easily.

All night he kept the hungry pack away with burning brands. When he dozed, the dogs' whimpering and snarling woke him. Morning came, but for the first time daylight did not scare the wolves away. He waited for them to leave, but they stayed in a ring around him and his fire. Their bold, owning attitude shook his courage.

En/Pt → He made one desperate try to get back on the trail. But as soon as he left the fire, the boldest wolf jumped at him and missed. He saved himself by jumping back, and the wolf's jaws snapped shut only a few inches from his thigh. The rest of the pack rushed toward him, and he had to throw firebrands to both sides to drive them back.

Even in daylight, he did not dare leave the fire to cut more wood. A huge dead spruce stood twenty feet away. He spent half the day extending his campfire to the tree, always keeping several burning sticks ready to throw at his enemies. Once he reached the tree, he studied the forest so he could cut it in the direction where there was the most firewood.

En/Pt → The night was much like the one before, but now he was becoming too sleepy to stay alert. The wolves' snarling was no longer as effective, and he could not even notice the changes in sound anymore. He woke suddenly. The she-wolf was less than a yard away. Without thinking, he pushed a burning brand into her open mouth. She jumped back, crying in pain, and he enjoyed the smell of burned hair and flesh as she shook her head and growled angrily a little distance away.

Before he fell asleep again, he tied a burning pine-knot to his right hand. He had only been asleep a few minutes when the flame burned his flesh and woke him. For several hours he kept this up. Each time he woke, he drove the wolves back with flying brands, fed the fire, and put the pine-knot back in place. Then he tied it badly one time, and as his eyes closed, it fell from his hand.

En/Pt → He dreamed that he was in Fort McGurry. It was warm and comfortable, and he was playing cribbage with the Factor. In the dream, the fort was surrounded by wolves howling at the gates, and he and the Factor laughed at their useless attempts to get in. Then there was a crash. The door burst open, and he saw wolves pouring into the big living room. They leaped straight at him and the Factor. The howling grew louder, and although the dream changed into something else, the howling stayed with him.

Then he woke and found that the howling was real. There was loud snarling and yelping. The wolves were rushing him from every side. One of them had bitten his arm. By instinct he jumped into the fire, and as he did, he felt teeth slash through the flesh of his leg. Then the fire battle began. His thick mittens protected his hands for a moment, and he threw live coals in every direction until the campfire looked like a volcano.

En/Pt → But it could not last long. His face was blistering from the heat, his eyebrows and eyelashes were burned off, and the heat was too much for his feet. With a flaming brand in each hand, he sprang to the edge of the fire. The wolves had been driven back. All around him, where live coals had landed, the snow was hissing. Now and then a wolf jumped back with a cry, showing that it had stepped on a hot coal.

He threw his brands at the nearest wolves, pushed his smoking mittens into the snow, and stamped about to cool his feet. His two dogs were gone, and he knew they had already been eaten in the long meal that had started days before with Fatty. He would probably be the final course in the days ahead.

"You ain't got me yet!" he shouted, shaking his fist at the hungry beasts. At the sound of his voice, the whole circle stirred, and there was a general snarl. The she-wolf moved close to him over the snow and watched him with hungry longing.

En/Pt → He started a new idea that came to him. He made the fire into a big circle. Inside it, he crouched down, with his sleeping clothes under him to protect him from the melting snow. When he hid inside his shelter of flame, the whole pack came close to the edge of the fire to see him. Until then, they had not been allowed near the fire. Now they sat in a tight circle like dogs, blinking, yawning, and stretching their thin bodies in the strange warmth. Then the she-wolf sat down, pointed her nose at a star, and began to howl. One by one, the wolves joined her, until the whole pack, sitting on its haunches with noses raised to the sky, was howling its hunger cry.

En/Pt → Dawn came, and then daylight. The fire was burning low. The fuel was gone, and he needed more. He tried to step out of his circle of flame, but the wolves rushed toward him. Burning sticks made them jump back, but they did not stay back. He tried in vain to drive them away. When he gave up and stumbled back inside his circle, a wolf jumped at him, missed, and landed with all four feet in the coals. It cried out in fear, growled at the same time, and scrambled back to cool its paws in the snow.

The man sat on his blankets, crouched low. He leaned forward from the hips. His shoulders hung loose, and his head rested on his knees. It looked as if he had given up. Now and then he lifted his head to see the fire burning lower. The circle of flame and coals was breaking into pieces, with open spaces between them. The openings grew larger, and the pieces grew smaller.

En/Pt → "I guess you can come and get me any time," he mumbled. "Anyway, I'm going to sleep."

Once he woke up, and in an opening in the circle, right in front of him, he saw the she-wolf looking at him.

He woke again a little later, though it felt like hours to him. A strange change had happened, so strange that he was shocked awake. Something had changed. He could not understand it at first. Then he saw it. The wolves were gone. Only the trampled snow showed how close they had been to him. Sleep was rising in him again, and his head was sinking onto his knees, when he suddenly woke with a start.

He heard men calling, sleds moving, harnesses creaking, and dogs whining eagerly as they pulled hard. Four sleds came from the riverbed into the camp among the trees. A half dozen men were around the man crouching in the middle of the dying fire. They shook him and poked him until he came to. He looked at them like a drunk man and spoke in strange, sleepy words.

En/Pt → "Red she-wolf... Come in with the dogs at feeding time... First she ate the dog-food... Then she ate the dogs... And after that she ate Bill..."

"Where's Lord Alfred?" one of the men shouted in his ear, shaking him hard.

He slowly shook his head. "No, she didn't eat him... He's roosting in a tree at the last camp."

"Dead?" the man shouted.

"And in a box," Henry answered. He pulled his shoulder away from the man holding him. "Say, leave me alone... I'm just plain worn out... Good night, everybody."

His eyes flickered shut. His chin dropped onto his chest. Even as they lowered him onto the blankets, his snores were already rising in the cold air.

But there was another sound. It was far away and weak, the cry of the hungry wolf pack as it followed a different trail, not the man it had just missed.

The Battle of the Fangs

En/Pt → The she-wolf was the first to hear the voices of men and the whining of the sled-dogs. She was also the first to run away from the trapped man and his circle of dying fire. The pack did not want to give up the kill it had found. It stayed for several minutes, listening carefully, and then it too ran after the trail made by the she-wolf.

A big grey wolf, one of the leaders, ran at the front of the pack. He guided the pack after the she-wolf. He growled at younger wolves when they tried to pass him, and he even snapped at them. When he saw the she-wolf trotting slowly across the snow, he made the pack run faster.

En/Pt → She came up beside him as if that were her proper place, and she kept the pack's pace. He did not growl at her or show his teeth when she moved ahead of him. In fact, he seemed too friendly, and she did not like it. He often ran close to her, and then she would growl and show her teeth. Sometimes she even hit his shoulder with her teeth. He did not get angry. He only jumped aside and ran awkwardly ahead for a few steps, like a shy country boy.

En/Pt → He had only this one problem while running with the pack. She had others. On her other side ran a thin old wolf with grey fur and many battle scars. He always stayed on her right. Maybe this was because he had only one eye, his left eye. He also kept crowding her, turning toward her until his scarred nose touched her body, shoulder, or neck. Like the wolf on her left, she pushed him away with her teeth. But when both wolves came close at once, she was pushed around and had to snap at both of them while still running and watching the ground ahead. At such times, the two wolves showed their teeth and growled at each other. They might have fought, but hunger was more important than love or rivalry.

En/Pt → After each push away, when the old wolf turned sharply from the sharp teeth he wanted, he bumped into a young three-year-old wolf running on his blind right side. This young wolf was fully grown, and even though the pack was weak and starving, he was stronger and more lively than most. Still, he ran with his head level with the old wolf's shoulder. When he tried to run beside the older wolf, which was rare, a growl and a snap sent him back again. Sometimes, though, he slowly dropped behind and moved in between the old leader and the she-wolf. This made the others angry too. When she growled, the old leader turned on the young wolf. Sometimes she turned with him. And sometimes the young leader on the left turned too.

En/Pt → When this happened, the young wolf faced three sets of savage teeth and stopped suddenly. He sat back on his hind legs, held his front legs stiff, and bared his mouth threateningly, with his mane standing up. This confusion at the front of the moving pack always caused confusion behind it too. The wolves in back crashed into the young wolf and showed their anger by nipping his hind legs and sides. He was causing trouble for himself, because hunger and bad temper went together. But he kept trying the same move again and again, because young animals believe strongly, even when it only brings them shame.

En/Pt → If there had been food, there would have been more fighting and mating, and the pack would have broken apart. But the pack was in a desperate state. It was thin from long hunger and moved more slowly than usual. The weak ones, very young and very old, limped at the back. The strongest were in front. Still, all of them looked more like skeletons than full wolves. Even so, except for the limping ones, they moved easily and did not seem to tire. Their thin muscles seemed to have endless strength, one hard movement after another without stopping.

They ran many miles that day. They ran through the night. When the next day came, they were still running. They moved across a frozen, dead world. No life stirred anywhere. Only they moved through the great emptiness. Only they were alive, and they searched for other living things so they could eat them and stay alive.

Original English Text

Part I

The Trail of the Meat

The She-wolf

The Hunger Cry

Part II

The Battle of the Fangs

Contents

The Trail of the Meat

Português → Dark spruce forest frowned on either side the frozen waterway. The trees had been stripped by a recent wind of their white covering of frost, and they seemed to lean towards each other, black and ominous, in the fading light. A vast silence reigned over the land. The land itself was a desolation, lifeless, without movement, so lone and cold that the spirit of it was not even that of sadness. There was a hint in it of laughter, but of a laughter more terrible than any sadness--a laughter that was mirthless as the smile of the sphinx, a laughter cold as the frost and partaking of the grimness of infallibility. It was the masterful and incommunicable wisdom of eternity laughing at the futility of life and the effort of life. It was the Wild, the savage, frozen-hearted Northland Wild.

Português → But there _was_ life, abroad in the land and defiant. Down the frozen waterway toiled a string of wolfish dogs. Their bristly fur was rimed with frost. Their breath froze in the air as it left their mouths, spouting forth in spumes of vapour that settled upon the hair of their bodies and formed into crystals of frost. Leather harness was on the dogs, and leather traces attached them to a sled which dragged along behind. The sled was without runners. It was made of stout birch-bark, and its full surface rested on the snow. The front end of the sled was turned up, like a scroll, in order to force down and under the bore of soft snow that surged like a wave before it. On the sled, securely lashed, was a long and narrow oblong box. There were other things on the sled--blankets, an axe, and a coffee-pot and frying-pan; but prominent, occupying most of the space, was the long and narrow oblong box.

Português → In advance of the dogs, on wide snowshoes, toiled a man. At the rear of the sled toiled a second man. On the sled, in the box, lay a third man whose toil was over,--a man whom the Wild had conquered and beaten down until he would never move nor struggle again. It is not the way of the Wild to like movement. Life is an offence to it, for life is movement; and the Wild aims always to destroy movement. It freezes the water to prevent it running to the sea; it drives the sap out of the trees till they are frozen to their mighty hearts; and most ferociously and terribly of all does the Wild harry and crush into submission man--man who is the most restless of life, ever in revolt against the dictum that all movement must in the end come to the cessation of movement.

Português → But at front and rear, unawed and indomitable, toiled the two men who were not yet dead. Their bodies were covered with fur and soft-tanned leather. Eyelashes and cheeks and lips were so coated with the crystals from their frozen breath that their faces were not discernible. This gave them the seeming of ghostly masques, undertakers in a spectral world at the funeral of some ghost. But under it all they were men, penetrating the land of desolation and mockery and silence, puny adventurers bent on colossal adventure, pitting themselves against the might of a world as remote and alien and pulseless as the abysses of space.

They travelled on without speech, saving their breath for the work of their bodies. On every side was the silence, pressing upon them with a tangible presence. It affected their minds as the many atmospheres of deep water affect the body of the diver. It crushed them with the weight of unending vastness and unalterable decree. It crushed them into the remotest recesses of their own minds, pressing out of them, like juices from the grape, all the false ardours and exaltations and undue self-values of the human soul, until they perceived themselves finite and small, specks and motes, moving with weak cunning and little wisdom amidst the play and inter-play of the great blind elements and forces.

Português → An hour went by, and a second hour. The pale light of the short sunless day was beginning to fade, when a faint far cry arose on the still air. It soared upward with a swift rush, till it reached its topmost note, where it persisted, palpitant and tense, and then slowly died away. It might have been a lost soul wailing, had it not been invested with a certain sad fierceness and hungry eagerness. The front man turned his head until his eyes met the eyes of the man behind. And then, across the narrow oblong box, each nodded to the other.

A second cry arose, piercing the silence with needle-like shrillness. Both men located the sound. It was to the rear, somewhere in the snow expanse they had just traversed. A third and answering cry arose, also to the rear and to the left of the second cry.

"They're after us, Bill," said the man at the front.

His voice sounded hoarse and unreal, and he had spoken with apparent effort.

Português → "Meat is scarce," answered his comrade. "I ain't seen a rabbit sign for days."

Thereafter they spoke no more, though their ears were keen for the hunting-cries that continued to rise behind them.

At the fall of darkness they swung the dogs into a cluster of spruce trees on the edge of the waterway and made a camp. The coffin, at the side of the fire, served for seat and table. The wolf-dogs, clustered on the far side of the fire, snarled and bickered among themselves, but evinced no inclination to stray off into the darkness.

"Seems to me, Henry, they're stayin' remarkable close to camp," Bill commented.

Henry, squatting over the fire and settling the pot of coffee with a piece of ice, nodded. Nor did he speak till he had taken his seat on the coffin and begun to eat.

"They know where their hides is safe," he said. "They'd sooner eat grub than be grub. They're pretty wise, them dogs."

Português → Bill shook his head. "Oh, I don't know."

His comrade looked at him curiously. "First time I ever heard you say anything about their not bein' wise."

"Henry," said the other, munching with deliberation the beans he was eating, "did you happen to notice the way them dogs kicked up when I was a-feedin' 'em?"

"They did cut up more'n usual," Henry acknowledged.

"How many dogs 've we got, Henry?"

"Six."

"Well, Henry . . . " Bill stopped for a moment, in order that his words might gain greater significance. "As I was sayin', Henry, we've got six dogs. I took six fish out of the bag. I gave one fish to each dog, an', Henry, I was one fish short."

"You counted wrong."

"We've got six dogs," the other reiterated dispassionately. "I took out six fish. One Ear didn't get no fish. I came back to the bag afterward an' got 'm his fish."

"We've only got six dogs," Henry said.

Português → "Henry," Bill went on. "I won't say they was all dogs, but there was seven of 'm that got fish."

Henry stopped eating to glance across the fire and count the dogs.

"There's only six now," he said.

"I saw the other one run off across the snow," Bill announced with cool positiveness. "I saw seven."

Henry looked at him commiseratingly, and said, "I'll be almighty glad when this trip's over."

"What d'ye mean by that?" Bill demanded.

"I mean that this load of ourn is gettin' on your nerves, an' that you're beginnin' to see things."

"I thought of that," Bill answered gravely. "An' so, when I saw it run off across the snow, I looked in the snow an' saw its tracks. Then I counted the dogs an' there was still six of 'em. The tracks is there in the snow now. D'ye want to look at 'em? I'll show 'em to you."

Português → Henry did not reply, but munched on in silence, until, the meal finished, he topped it with a final cup of coffee. He wiped his mouth with the back of his hand and said:

"Then you're thinkin' as it was--"

A long wailing cry, fiercely sad, from somewhere in the darkness, had interrupted him. He stopped to listen to it, then he finished his sentence with a wave of his hand toward the sound of the cry, "--one of them?"

Bill nodded. "I'd a blame sight sooner think that than anything else. You noticed yourself the row the dogs made."

Cry after cry, and answering cries, were turning the silence into a bedlam. From every side the cries arose, and the dogs betrayed their fear by huddling together and so close to the fire that their hair was scorched by the heat. Bill threw on more wood, before lighting his pipe.

"I'm thinking you're down in the mouth some," Henry said.

"Henry . . . " He sucked meditatively at his pipe for some time before he went on. "Henry, I was a-thinkin' what a blame sight luckier he is than you an' me'll ever be."

Português → He indicated the third person by a downward thrust of the thumb to the box on which they sat.

"You an' me, Henry, when we die, we'll be lucky if we get enough stones over our carcases to keep the dogs off of us."

"But we ain't got people an' money an' all the rest, like him," Henry rejoined. "Long-distance funerals is somethin' you an' me can't exactly afford."

"What gets me, Henry, is what a chap like this, that's a lord or something in his own country, and that's never had to bother about grub nor blankets; why he comes a-buttin' round the Godforsaken ends of the earth--that's what I can't exactly see."

"He might have lived to a ripe old age if he'd stayed at home," Henry agreed.

Bill opened his mouth to speak, but changed his mind. Instead, he pointed towards the wall of darkness that pressed about them from every side. There was no suggestion of form in the utter blackness; only could be seen a pair of eyes gleaming like live coals. Henry indicated with his head a second pair, and a third. A circle of the gleaming eyes had drawn about their camp. Now and again a pair of eyes moved, or disappeared to appear again a moment later.

Português → The unrest of the dogs had been increasing, and they stampeded, in a surge of sudden fear, to the near side of the fire, cringing and crawling about the legs of the men. In the scramble one of the dogs had been overturned on the edge of the fire, and it had yelped with pain and fright as the smell of its singed coat possessed the air. The commotion caused the circle of eyes to shift restlessly for a moment and even to withdraw a bit, but it settled down again as the dogs became quiet.

"Henry, it's a blame misfortune to be out of ammunition."

Bill had finished his pipe and was helping his companion to spread the bed of fur and blanket upon the spruce boughs which he had laid over the snow before supper. Henry grunted, and began unlacing his moccasins.

"How many cartridges did you say you had left?" he asked.

"Three," came the answer. "An' I wisht 'twas three hundred. Then I'd show 'em what for, damn 'em!"

Português → He shook his fist angrily at the gleaming eyes, and began securely to prop his moccasins before the fire.

"An' I wisht this cold snap'd break," he went on. "It's ben fifty below for two weeks now. An' I wisht I'd never started on this trip, Henry. I don't like the looks of it. I don't feel right, somehow. An' while I'm wishin', I wisht the trip was over an' done with, an' you an' me a-sittin' by the fire in Fort McGurry just about now an' playing cribbage--that's what I wisht."

Henry grunted and crawled into bed. As he dozed off he was aroused by his comrade's voice.

"Say, Henry, that other one that come in an' got a fish--why didn't the dogs pitch into it? That's what's botherin' me."

"You're botherin' too much, Bill," came the sleepy response. "You was never like this before. You jes' shut up now, an' go to sleep, an' you'll be all hunkydory in the mornin'. Your stomach's sour, that's what's botherin' you."

Português → The men slept, breathing heavily, side by side, under the one covering. The fire died down, and the gleaming eyes drew closer the circle they had flung about the camp. The dogs clustered together in fear, now and again snarling menacingly as a pair of eyes drew close. Once their uproar became so loud that Bill woke up. He got out of bed carefully, so as not to disturb the sleep of his comrade, and threw more wood on the fire. As it began to flame up, the circle of eyes drew farther back. He glanced casually at the huddling dogs. He rubbed his eyes and looked at them more sharply. Then he crawled back into the blankets.

"Henry," he said. "Oh, Henry."

Henry groaned as he passed from sleep to waking, and demanded, "What's wrong now?"

"Nothin'," came the answer; "only there's seven of 'em again. I just counted."

Henry acknowledged receipt of the information with a grunt that slid into a snore as he drifted back into sleep.

Português → In the morning it was Henry who awoke first and routed his companion out of bed. Daylight was yet three hours away, though it was already six o'clock; and in the darkness Henry went about preparing breakfast, while Bill rolled the blankets and made the sled ready for lashing.

"Say, Henry," he asked suddenly, "how many dogs did you say we had?"

"Six."

"Wrong," Bill proclaimed triumphantly.

"Seven again?" Henry queried.

"No, five; one's gone."

"The hell!" Henry cried in wrath, leaving the cooking to come and count the dogs.

"You're right, Bill," he concluded. "Fatty's gone."

"An' he went like greased lightnin' once he got started. Couldn't 've seen 'm for smoke."

"No chance at all," Henry concluded. "They jes' swallowed 'm alive. I bet he was yelpin' as he went down their throats, damn 'em!"

"He always was a fool dog," said Bill.

Português → "But no fool dog ought to be fool enough to go off an' commit suicide that way." He looked over the remainder of the team with a speculative eye that summed up instantly the salient traits of each animal. "I bet none of the others would do it."

"Couldn't drive 'em away from the fire with a club," Bill agreed. "I always did think there was somethin' wrong with Fatty anyway."

And this was the epitaph of a dead dog on the Northland trail--less scant than the epitaph of many another dog, of many a man.

The She-wolf

Português → Breakfast eaten and the slim camp-outfit lashed to the sled, the men turned their backs on the cheery fire and launched out into the darkness. At once began to rise the cries that were fiercely sad--cries that called through the darkness and cold to one another and answered back. Conversation ceased. Daylight came at nine o'clock. At midday the sky to the south warmed to rose-colour, and marked where the bulge of the earth intervened between the meridian sun and the northern world. But the rose-colour swiftly faded. The grey light of day that remained lasted until three o'clock, when it, too, faded, and the pall of the Arctic night descended upon the lone and silent land.

As darkness came on, the hunting-cries to right and left and rear drew closer--so close that more than once they sent surges of fear through the toiling dogs, throwing them into short-lived panics.

At the conclusion of one such panic, when he and Henry had got the dogs back in the traces, Bill said:

"I wisht they'd strike game somewheres, an' go away an' leave us alone."

Português → "They do get on the nerves horrible," Henry sympathised.

They spoke no more until camp was made.

Henry was bending over and adding ice to the babbling pot of beans when he was startled by the sound of a blow, an exclamation from Bill, and a sharp snarling cry of pain from among the dogs. He straightened up in time to see a dim form disappearing across the snow into the shelter of the dark. Then he saw Bill, standing amid the dogs, half triumphant, half crestfallen, in one hand a stout club, in the other the tail and part of the body of a sun-cured salmon.

"It got half of it," he announced; "but I got a whack at it jes' the same. D'ye hear it squeal?"

"What'd it look like?" Henry asked.

"Couldn't see. But it had four legs an' a mouth an' hair an' looked like any dog."

"Must be a tame wolf, I reckon."

Português → "It's damned tame, whatever it is, comin' in here at feedin' time an' gettin' its whack of fish."

That night, when supper was finished and they sat on the oblong box and pulled at their pipes, the circle of gleaming eyes drew in even closer than before.

"I wisht they'd spring up a bunch of moose or something, an' go away an' leave us alone," Bill said.

Henry grunted with an intonation that was not all sympathy, and for a quarter of an hour they sat on in silence, Henry staring at the fire, and Bill at the circle of eyes that burned in the darkness just beyond the firelight.

"I wisht we was pullin' into McGurry right now," he began again.

"Shut up your wishin' and your croakin'," Henry burst out angrily. "Your stomach's sour. That's what's ailin' you. Swallow a spoonful of sody, an' you'll sweeten up wonderful an' be more pleasant company."

In the morning Henry was aroused by fervid blasphemy that proceeded from the mouth of Bill. Henry propped himself up on an elbow and looked to see his comrade standing among the dogs beside the replenished fire, his arms raised in objurgation, his face distorted with passion.

Português → "Hello!" Henry called. "What's up now?"

"Frog's gone," came the answer.

"No."

"I tell you yes."

Henry leaped out of the blankets and to the dogs. He counted them with care, and then joined his partner in cursing the power of the Wild that had robbed them of another dog.

"Frog was the strongest dog of the bunch," Bill pronounced finally.

"An' he was no fool dog neither," Henry added.

And so was recorded the second epitaph in two days.

A gloomy breakfast was eaten, and the four remaining dogs were harnessed to the sled. The day was a repetition of the days that had gone before. The men toiled without speech across the face of the frozen world. The silence was unbroken save by the cries of their pursuers, that, unseen, hung upon their rear. With the coming of night in the mid-afternoon, the cries sounded closer as the pursuers drew in according to their custom; and the dogs grew excited and frightened, and were guilty of panics that tangled the traces and further depressed the two men.

Português → "There, that'll fix you fool critters," Bill said with satisfaction that night, standing erect at completion of his task.

Henry left the cooking to come and see. Not only had his partner tied the dogs up, but he had tied them, after the Indian fashion, with sticks. About the neck of each dog he had fastened a leather thong. To this, and so close to the neck that the dog could not get his teeth to it, he had tied a stout stick four or five feet in length. The other end of the stick, in turn, was made fast to a stake in the ground by means of a leather thong. The dog was unable to gnaw through the leather at his own end of the stick. The stick prevented him from getting at the leather that fastened the other end.

Henry nodded his head approvingly.

"It's the only contraption that'll ever hold One Ear," he said. "He can gnaw through leather as clean as a knife an' jes' about half as quick. They all'll be here in the mornin' hunkydory."

Português → "You jes' bet they will," Bill affirmed. "If one of em' turns up missin', I'll go without my coffee."

"They jes' know we ain't loaded to kill," Henry remarked at bed-time, indicating the gleaming circle that hemmed them in. "If we could put a couple of shots into 'em, they'd be more respectful. They come closer every night. Get the firelight out of your eyes an' look hard--there! Did you see that one?"

For some time the two men amused themselves with watching the movement of vague forms on the edge of the firelight. By looking closely and steadily at where a pair of eyes burned in the darkness, the form of the animal would slowly take shape. They could even see these forms move at times.

A sound among the dogs attracted the men's attention. One Ear was uttering quick, eager whines, lunging at the length of his stick toward the darkness, and desisting now and again in order to make frantic attacks on the stick with his teeth.

Português → "Look at that, Bill," Henry whispered.

Full into the firelight, with a stealthy, sidelong movement, glided a doglike animal. It moved with commingled mistrust and daring, cautiously observing the men, its attention fixed on the dogs. One Ear strained the full length of the stick toward the intruder and whined with eagerness.

"That fool One Ear don't seem scairt much," Bill said in a low tone.

"It's a she-wolf," Henry whispered back, "an' that accounts for Fatty an' Frog. She's the decoy for the pack. She draws out the dog an' then all the rest pitches in an' eats 'm up."

The fire crackled. A log fell apart with a loud spluttering noise. At the sound of it the strange animal leaped back into the darkness.

"Henry, I'm a-thinkin'," Bill announced.

"Thinkin' what?"

"I'm a-thinkin' that was the one I lambasted with the club."

"Ain't the slightest doubt in the world," was Henry's response.

"An' right here I want to remark," Bill went on, "that that animal's familyarity with campfires is suspicious an' immoral."

Português → "It knows for certain more'n a self-respectin' wolf ought to know," Henry agreed. "A wolf that knows enough to come in with the dogs at feedin' time has had experiences."

"Ol' Villan had a dog once that run away with the wolves," Bill cogitates aloud. "I ought to know. I shot it out of the pack in a moose pasture over 'on Little Stick. An' Ol' Villan cried like a baby. Hadn't seen it for three years, he said. Ben with the wolves all that time."

"I reckon you've called the turn, Bill. That wolf's a dog, an' it's eaten fish many's the time from the hand of man."

"An if I get a chance at it, that wolf that's a dog'll be jes' meat," Bill declared. "We can't afford to lose no more animals."

"But you've only got three cartridges," Henry objected.

"I'll wait for a dead sure shot," was the reply.

Português → In the morning Henry renewed the fire and cooked breakfast to the accompaniment of his partner's snoring.

"You was sleepin' jes' too comfortable for anything," Henry told him, as he routed him out for breakfast. "I hadn't the heart to rouse you."

Bill began to eat sleepily. He noticed that his cup was empty and started to reach for the pot. But the pot was beyond arm's length and beside Henry.

"Say, Henry," he chided gently, "ain't you forgot somethin'?"

Henry looked about with great carefulness and shook his head. Bill held up the empty cup.

"You don't get no coffee," Henry announced.

"Ain't run out?" Bill asked anxiously.

"Nope."

"Ain't thinkin' it'll hurt my digestion?"

"Nope."

A flush of angry blood pervaded Bill's face.

"Then it's jes' warm an' anxious I am to be hearin' you explain yourself," he said.

"Spanker's gone," Henry answered.

Without haste, with the air of one resigned to misfortune Bill turned his head, and from where he sat counted the dogs.

Português → "How'd it happen?" he asked apathetically.

Henry shrugged his shoulders. "Don't know. Unless One Ear gnawed 'm loose. He couldn't a-done it himself, that's sure."

"The darned cuss." Bill spoke gravely and slowly, with no hint of the anger that was raging within. "Jes' because he couldn't chew himself loose, he chews Spanker loose."

"Well, Spanker's troubles is over anyway; I guess he's digested by this time an' cavortin' over the landscape in the bellies of twenty different wolves," was Henry's epitaph on this, the latest lost dog. "Have some coffee, Bill."

But Bill shook his head.

"Go on," Henry pleaded, elevating the pot.

Bill shoved his cup aside. "I'll be ding-dong-danged if I do. I said I wouldn't if ary dog turned up missin', an' I won't."

"It's darn good coffee," Henry said enticingly.

But Bill was stubborn, and he ate a dry breakfast washed down with mumbled curses at One Ear for the trick he had played.

Português → "I'll tie 'em up out of reach of each other to-night," Bill said, as they took the trail.

They had travelled little more than a hundred yards, when Henry, who was in front, bent down and picked up something with which his snowshoe had collided. It was dark, and he could not see it, but he recognised it by the touch. He flung it back, so that it struck the sled and bounced along until it fetched up on Bill's snowshoes.

"Mebbe you'll need that in your business," Henry said.

Bill uttered an exclamation. It was all that was left of Spanker--the stick with which he had been tied.

"They ate 'm hide an' all," Bill announced. "The stick's as clean as a whistle. They've ate the leather offen both ends. They're damn hungry, Henry, an' they'll have you an' me guessin' before this trip's over."

Henry laughed defiantly. "I ain't been trailed this way by wolves before, but I've gone through a whole lot worse an' kept my health. Takes more'n a handful of them pesky critters to do for yours truly, Bill, my son."

Português → "I don't know, I don't know," Bill muttered ominously.

"Well, you'll know all right when we pull into McGurry."

"I ain't feelin' special enthusiastic," Bill persisted.

"You're off colour, that's what's the matter with you," Henry dogmatised. "What you need is quinine, an' I'm goin' to dose you up stiff as soon as we make McGurry."

Bill grunted his disagreement with the diagnosis, and lapsed into silence. The day was like all the days. Light came at nine o'clock. At twelve o'clock the southern horizon was warmed by the unseen sun; and then began the cold grey of afternoon that would merge, three hours later, into night.

It was just after the sun's futile effort to appear, that Bill slipped the rifle from under the sled-lashings and said:

"You keep right on, Henry, I'm goin' to see what I can see."

"You'd better stick by the sled," his partner protested. "You've only got three cartridges, an' there's no tellin' what might happen."

Português → "Who's croaking now?" Bill demanded triumphantly.

Henry made no reply, and plodded on alone, though often he cast anxious glances back into the grey solitude where his partner had disappeared. An hour later, taking advantage of the cut-offs around which the sled had to go, Bill arrived.

"They're scattered an' rangin' along wide," he said: "keeping up with us an' lookin' for game at the same time. You see, they're sure of us, only they know they've got to wait to get us. In the meantime they're willin' to pick up anything eatable that comes handy."

"You mean they _think_ they're sure of us," Henry objected pointedly.

But Bill ignored him. "I seen some of them. They're pretty thin. They ain't had a bite in weeks I reckon, outside of Fatty an' Frog an' Spanker; an' there's so many of 'em that that didn't go far. They're remarkable thin. Their ribs is like wash-boards, an' their stomachs is right up against their backbones. They're pretty desperate, I can tell you. They'll be goin' mad, yet, an' then watch out."

Português → A few minutes later, Henry, who was now travelling behind the sled, emitted a low, warning whistle. Bill turned and looked, then quietly stopped the dogs. To the rear, from around the last bend and plainly into view, on the very trail they had just covered, trotted a furry, slinking form. Its nose was to the trail, and it trotted with a peculiar, sliding, effortless gait. When they halted, it halted, throwing up its head and regarding them steadily with nostrils that twitched as it caught and studied the scent of them.

"It's the she-wolf," Bill answered.

The dogs had lain down in the snow, and he walked past them to join his partner in the sled. Together they watched the strange animal that had pursued them for days and that had already accomplished the destruction of half their dog-team.

Português → After a searching scrutiny, the animal trotted forward a few steps. This it repeated several times, till it was a short hundred yards away. It paused, head up, close by a clump of spruce trees, and with sight and scent studied the outfit of the watching men. It looked at them in a strangely wistful way, after the manner of a dog; but in its wistfulness there was none of the dog affection. It was a wistfulness bred of hunger, as cruel as its own fangs, as merciless as the frost itself.

It was large for a wolf, its gaunt frame advertising the lines of an animal that was among the largest of its kind.

"Stands pretty close to two feet an' a half at the shoulders," Henry commented. "An' I'll bet it ain't far from five feet long."

"Kind of strange colour for a wolf," was Bill's criticism. "I never seen a red wolf before. Looks almost cinnamon to me."

The animal was certainly not cinnamon-coloured. Its coat was the true wolf-coat. The dominant colour was grey, and yet there was to it a faint reddish hue--a hue that was baffling, that appeared and disappeared, that was more like an illusion of the vision, now grey, distinctly grey, and again giving hints and glints of a vague redness of colour not classifiable in terms of ordinary experience.

Português → "Looks for all the world like a big husky sled-dog," Bill said. "I wouldn't be s'prised to see it wag its tail."

"Hello, you husky!" he called. "Come here, you whatever-your-name-is."

"Ain't a bit scairt of you," Henry laughed.

Bill waved his hand at it threateningly and shouted loudly; but the animal betrayed no fear. The only change in it that they could notice was an accession of alertness. It still regarded them with the merciless wistfulness of hunger. They were meat, and it was hungry; and it would like to go in and eat them if it dared.

"Look here, Henry," Bill said, unconsciously lowering his voice to a whisper because of what he imitated. "We've got three cartridges. But it's a dead shot. Couldn't miss it. It's got away with three of our dogs, an' we oughter put a stop to it. What d'ye say?"

Henry nodded his consent. Bill cautiously slipped the gun from under the sled-lashing. The gun was on the way to his shoulder, but it never got there. For in that instant the she-wolf leaped sidewise from the trail into the clump of spruce trees and disappeared.

Português → The two men looked at each other. Henry whistled long and comprehendingly.

"I might have knowed it," Bill chided himself aloud as he replaced the gun. "Of course a wolf that knows enough to come in with the dogs at feedin' time, 'd know all about shooting-irons. I tell you right now, Henry, that critter's the cause of all our trouble. We'd have six dogs at the present time, 'stead of three, if it wasn't for her. An' I tell you right now, Henry, I'm goin' to get her. She's too smart to be shot in the open. But I'm goin' to lay for her. I'll bushwhack her as sure as my name is Bill."

"You needn't stray off too far in doin' it," his partner admonished. "If that pack ever starts to jump you, them three cartridges'd be wuth no more'n three whoops in hell. Them animals is damn hungry, an' once they start in, they'll sure get you, Bill."

Português → They camped early that night. Three dogs could not drag the sled so fast nor for so long hours as could six, and they were showing unmistakable signs of playing out. And the men went early to bed, Bill first seeing to it that the dogs were tied out of gnawing-reach of one another.

But the wolves were growing bolder, and the men were aroused more than once from their sleep. So near did the wolves approach, that the dogs became frantic with terror, and it was necessary to replenish the fire from time to time in order to keep the adventurous marauders at safer distance.

"I've hearn sailors talk of sharks followin' a ship," Bill remarked, as he crawled back into the blankets after one such replenishing of the fire. "Well, them wolves is land sharks. They know their business better'n we do, an' they ain't a-holdin' our trail this way for their health. They're goin' to get us. They're sure goin' to get us, Henry."

Português → "They've half got you a'ready, a-talkin' like that," Henry retorted sharply. "A man's half licked when he says he is. An' you're half eaten from the way you're goin' on about it."

"They've got away with better men than you an' me," Bill answered.

"Oh, shet up your croakin'. You make me all-fired tired."

Henry rolled over angrily on his side, but was surprised that Bill made no similar display of temper. This was not Bill's way, for he was easily angered by sharp words. Henry thought long over it before he went to sleep, and as his eyelids fluttered down and he dozed off, the thought in his mind was: "There's no mistakin' it, Bill's almighty blue. I'll have to cheer him up to-morrow."

The Hunger Cry

Português → The day began auspiciously. They had lost no dogs during the night, and they swung out upon the trail and into the silence, the darkness, and the cold with spirits that were fairly light. Bill seemed to have forgotten his forebodings of the previous night, and even waxed facetious with the dogs when, at midday, they overturned the sled on a bad piece of trail.

It was an awkward mix-up. The sled was upside down and jammed between a tree-trunk and a huge rock, and they were forced to unharness the dogs in order to straighten out the tangle. The two men were bent over the sled and trying to right it, when Henry observed One Ear sidling away.

"Here, you, One Ear!" he cried, straightening up and turning around on the dog.

Português → But One Ear broke into a run across the snow, his traces trailing behind him. And there, out in the snow of their back track, was the she-wolf waiting for him. As he neared her, he became suddenly cautious. He slowed down to an alert and mincing walk and then stopped. He regarded her carefully and dubiously, yet desirefully. She seemed to smile at him, showing her teeth in an ingratiating rather than a menacing way. She moved toward him a few steps, playfully, and then halted. One Ear drew near to her, still alert and cautious, his tail and ears in the air, his head held high.

He tried to sniff noses with her, but she retreated playfully and coyly. Every advance on his part was accompanied by a corresponding retreat on her part. Step by step she was luring him away from the security of his human companionship. Once, as though a warning had in vague ways flitted through his intelligence, he turned his head and looked back at the overturned sled, at his team-mates, and at the two men who were calling to him.

Português → But whatever idea was forming in his mind, was dissipated by the she-wolf, who advanced upon him, sniffed noses with him for a fleeting instant, and then resumed her coy retreat before his renewed advances.

In the meantime, Bill had bethought himself of the rifle. But it was jammed beneath the overturned sled, and by the time Henry had helped him to right the load, One Ear and the she-wolf were too close together and the distance too great to risk a shot.

Too late One Ear learned his mistake. Before they saw the cause, the two men saw him turn and start to run back toward them. Then, approaching at right angles to the trail and cutting off his retreat they saw a dozen wolves, lean and grey, bounding across the snow. On the instant, the she- wolf's coyness and playfulness disappeared. With a snarl she sprang upon One Ear. He thrust her off with his shoulder, and, his retreat cut off and still intent on regaining the sled, he altered his course in an attempt to circle around to it. More wolves were appearing every moment and joining in the chase. The she-wolf was one leap behind One Ear and holding her own.

Português → "Where are you goin'?" Henry suddenly demanded, laying his hand on his partner's arm.

Bill shook it off. "I won't stand it," he said. "They ain't a-goin' to get any more of our dogs if I can help it."

Gun in hand, he plunged into the underbrush that lined the side of the trail. His intention was apparent enough. Taking the sled as the centre of the circle that One Ear was making, Bill planned to tap that circle at a point in advance of the pursuit. With his rifle, in the broad daylight, it might be possible for him to awe the wolves and save the dog.

"Say, Bill!" Henry called after him. "Be careful! Don't take no chances!"

Henry sat down on the sled and watched. There was nothing else for him to do. Bill had already gone from sight; but now and again, appearing and disappearing amongst the underbrush and the scattered clumps of spruce, could be seen One Ear. Henry judged his case to be hopeless. The dog was thoroughly alive to its danger, but it was running on the outer circle while the wolf-pack was running on the inner and shorter circle. It was vain to think of One Ear so outdistancing his pursuers as to be able to cut across their circle in advance of them and to regain the sled.

Português → The different lines were rapidly approaching a point. Somewhere out there in the snow, screened from his sight by trees and thickets, Henry knew that the wolf-pack, One Ear, and Bill were coming together. All too quickly, far more quickly than he had expected, it happened. He heard a shot, then two shots, in rapid succession, and he knew that Bill's ammunition was gone. Then he heard a great outcry of snarls and yelps. He recognised One Ear's yell of pain and terror, and he heard a wolf-cry that bespoke a stricken animal. And that was all. The snarls ceased. The yelping died away. Silence settled down again over the lonely land.

He sat for a long while upon the sled. There was no need for him to go and see what had happened. He knew it as though it had taken place before his eyes. Once, he roused with a start and hastily got the axe out from underneath the lashings. But for some time longer he sat and brooded, the two remaining dogs crouching and trembling at his feet.

Português → At last he arose in a weary manner, as though all the resilience had gone out of his body, and proceeded to fasten the dogs to the sled. He passed a rope over his shoulder, a man-trace, and pulled with the dogs. He did not go far. At the first hint of darkness he hastened to make a camp, and he saw to it that he had a generous supply of firewood. He fed the dogs, cooked and ate his supper, and made his bed close to the fire.

But he was not destined to enjoy that bed. Before his eyes closed the wolves had drawn too near for safety. It no longer required an effort of the vision to see them. They were all about him and the fire, in a narrow circle, and he could see them plainly in the firelight lying down, sitting up, crawling forward on their bellies, or slinking back and forth. They even slept. Here and there he could see one curled up in the snow like a dog, taking the sleep that was now denied himself.

Português → He kept the fire brightly blazing, for he knew that it alone intervened between the flesh of his body and their hungry fangs. His two dogs stayed close by him, one on either side, leaning against him for protection, crying and whimpering, and at times snarling desperately when a wolf approached a little closer than usual. At such moments, when his dogs snarled, the whole circle would be agitated, the wolves coming to their feet and pressing tentatively forward, a chorus of snarls and eager yelps rising about him. Then the circle would lie down again, and here and there a wolf would resume its broken nap.

But this circle had a continuous tendency to draw in upon him. Bit by bit, an inch at a time, with here a wolf bellying forward, and there a wolf bellying forward, the circle would narrow until the brutes were almost within springing distance. Then he would seize brands from the fire and hurl them into the pack. A hasty drawing back always resulted, accompanied by angry yelps and frightened snarls when a well-aimed brand struck and scorched a too daring animal.

Português → Morning found the man haggard and worn, wide-eyed from want of sleep. He cooked breakfast in the darkness, and at nine o'clock, when, with the coming of daylight, the wolf-pack drew back, he set about the task he had planned through the long hours of the night. Chopping down young saplings, he made them cross-bars of a scaffold by lashing them high up to the trunks of standing trees. Using the sled-lashing for a heaving rope, and with the aid of the dogs, he hoisted the coffin to the top of the scaffold.

"They got Bill, an' they may get me, but they'll sure never get you, young man," he said, addressing the dead body in its tree-sepulchre.

Then he took the trail, the lightened sled bounding along behind the willing dogs; for they, too, knew that safety lay open in the gaining of Fort McGurry. The wolves were now more open in their pursuit, trotting sedately behind and ranging along on either side, their red tongues lolling out, their lean sides showing the undulating ribs with every movement. They were very lean, mere skin-bags stretched over bony frames, with strings for muscles--so lean that Henry found it in his mind to marvel that they still kept their feet and did not collapse forthright in the snow.

Português → He did not dare travel until dark. At midday, not only did the sun warm the southern horizon, but it even thrust its upper rim, pale and golden, above the sky-line. He received it as a sign. The days were growing longer. The sun was returning. But scarcely had the cheer of its light departed, than he went into camp. There were still several hours of grey daylight and sombre twilight, and he utilised them in chopping an enormous supply of fire-wood.

With night came horror. Not only were the starving wolves growing bolder, but lack of sleep was telling upon Henry. He dozed despite himself, crouching by the fire, the blankets about his shoulders, the axe between his knees, and on either side a dog pressing close against him. He awoke once and saw in front of him, not a dozen feet away, a big grey wolf, one of the largest of the pack. And even as he looked, the brute deliberately stretched himself after the manner of a lazy dog, yawning full in his face and looking upon him with a possessive eye, as if, in truth, he were merely a delayed meal that was soon to be eaten.

Português → This certitude was shown by the whole pack. Fully a score he could count, staring hungrily at him or calmly sleeping in the snow. They reminded him of children gathered about a spread table and awaiting permission to begin to eat. And he was the food they were to eat! He wondered how and when the meal would begin.

As he piled wood on the fire he discovered an appreciation of his own body which he had never felt before. He watched his moving muscles and was interested in the cunning mechanism of his fingers. By the light of the fire he crooked his fingers slowly and repeatedly now one at a time, now all together, spreading them wide or making quick gripping movements. He studied the nail-formation, and prodded the finger-tips, now sharply, and again softly, gauging the while the nerve-sensations produced. It fascinated him, and he grew suddenly fond of this subtle flesh of his that worked so beautifully and smoothly and delicately. Then he would cast a glance of fear at the wolf-circle drawn expectantly about him, and like a blow the realisation would strike him that this wonderful body of his, this living flesh, was no more than so much meat, a quest of ravenous animals, to be torn and slashed by their hungry fangs, to be sustenance to them as the moose and the rabbit had often been sustenance to him.

Português → He came out of a doze that was half nightmare, to see the red-hued she- wolf before him. She was not more than half a dozen feet away sitting in the snow and wistfully regarding him. The two dogs were whimpering and snarling at his feet, but she took no notice of them. She was looking at the man, and for some time he returned her look. There was nothing threatening about her. She looked at him merely with a great wistfulness, but he knew it to be the wistfulness of an equally great hunger. He was the food, and the sight of him excited in her the gustatory sensations. Her mouth opened, the saliva drooled forth, and she licked her chops with the pleasure of anticipation.

Português → A spasm of fear went through him. He reached hastily for a brand to throw at her. But even as he reached, and before his fingers had closed on the missile, she sprang back into safety; and he knew that she was used to having things thrown at her. She had snarled as she sprang away, baring her white fangs to their roots, all her wistfulness vanishing, being replaced by a carnivorous malignity that made him shudder. He glanced at the hand that held the brand, noticing the cunning delicacy of the fingers that gripped it, how they adjusted themselves to all the inequalities of the surface, curling over and under and about the rough wood, and one little finger, too close to the burning portion of the brand, sensitively and automatically writhing back from the hurtful heat to a cooler gripping-place; and in the same instant he seemed to see a vision of those same sensitive and delicate fingers being crushed and torn by the white teeth of the she-wolf. Never had he been so fond of this body of his as now when his tenure of it was so precarious.

All night, with burning brands, he fought off the hungry pack. When he dozed despite himself, the whimpering and snarling of the dogs aroused him. Morning came, but for the first time the light of day failed to scatter the wolves. The man waited in vain for them to go. They remained in a circle about him and his fire, displaying an arrogance of possession that shook his courage born of the morning light.

Português → He made one desperate attempt to pull out on the trail. But the moment he left the protection of the fire, the boldest wolf leaped for him, but leaped short. He saved himself by springing back, the jaws snapping together a scant six inches from his thigh. The rest of the pack was now up and surging upon him, and a throwing of firebrands right and left was necessary to drive them back to a respectful distance.

Even in the daylight he did not dare leave the fire to chop fresh wood. Twenty feet away towered a huge dead spruce. He spent half the day extending his campfire to the tree, at any moment a half dozen burning faggots ready at hand to fling at his enemies. Once at the tree, he studied the surrounding forest in order to fell the tree in the direction of the most firewood.

Português → The night was a repetition of the night before, save that the need for sleep was becoming overpowering. The snarling of his dogs was losing its efficacy. Besides, they were snarling all the time, and his benumbed and drowsy senses no longer took note of changing pitch and intensity. He awoke with a start. The she-wolf was less than a yard from him. Mechanically, at short range, without letting go of it, he thrust a brand full into her open and snarling mouth. She sprang away, yelling with pain, and while he took delight in the smell of burning flesh and hair, he watched her shaking her head and growling wrathfully a score of feet away.

But this time, before he dozed again, he tied a burning pine-knot to his right hand. His eyes were closed but few minutes when the burn of the flame on his flesh awakened him. For several hours he adhered to this programme. Every time he was thus awakened he drove back the wolves with flying brands, replenished the fire, and rearranged the pine-knot on his hand. All worked well, but there came a time when he fastened the pine- knot insecurely. As his eyes closed it fell away from his hand.

Português → He dreamed. It seemed to him that he was in Fort McGurry. It was warm and comfortable, and he was playing cribbage with the Factor. Also, it seemed to him that the fort was besieged by wolves. They were howling at the very gates, and sometimes he and the Factor paused from the game to listen and laugh at the futile efforts of the wolves to get in. And then, so strange was the dream, there was a crash. The door was burst open. He could see the wolves flooding into the big living-room of the fort. They were leaping straight for him and the Factor. With the bursting open of the door, the noise of their howling had increased tremendously. This howling now bothered him. His dream was merging into something else--he knew not what; but through it all, following him, persisted the howling.

And then he awoke to find the howling real. There was a great snarling and yelping. The wolves were rushing him. They were all about him and upon him. The teeth of one had closed upon his arm. Instinctively he leaped into the fire, and as he leaped, he felt the sharp slash of teeth that tore through the flesh of his leg. Then began a fire fight. His stout mittens temporarily protected his hands, and he scooped live coals into the air in all directions, until the campfire took on the semblance of a volcano.

Português → But it could not last long. His face was blistering in the heat, his eyebrows and lashes were singed off, and the heat was becoming unbearable to his feet. With a flaming brand in each hand, he sprang to the edge of the fire. The wolves had been driven back. On every side, wherever the live coals had fallen, the snow was sizzling, and every little while a retiring wolf, with wild leap and snort and snarl, announced that one such live coal had been stepped upon.

Flinging his brands at the nearest of his enemies, the man thrust his smouldering mittens into the snow and stamped about to cool his feet. His two dogs were missing, and he well knew that they had served as a course in the protracted meal which had begun days before with Fatty, the last course of which would likely be himself in the days to follow.

"You ain't got me yet!" he cried, savagely shaking his fist at the hungry beasts; and at the sound of his voice the whole circle was agitated, there was a general snarl, and the she-wolf slid up close to him across the snow and watched him with hungry wistfulness.

Português → He set to work to carry out a new idea that had come to him. He extended the fire into a large circle. Inside this circle he crouched, his sleeping outfit under him as a protection against the melting snow. When he had thus disappeared within his shelter of flame, the whole pack came curiously to the rim of the fire to see what had become of him. Hitherto they had been denied access to the fire, and they now settled down in a close-drawn circle, like so many dogs, blinking and yawning and stretching their lean bodies in the unaccustomed warmth. Then the she- wolf sat down, pointed her nose at a star, and began to howl. One by one the wolves joined her, till the whole pack, on haunches, with noses pointed skyward, was howling its hunger cry.

Português → Dawn came, and daylight. The fire was burning low. The fuel had run out, and there was need to get more. The man attempted to step out of his circle of flame, but the wolves surged to meet him. Burning brands made them spring aside, but they no longer sprang back. In vain he strove to drive them back. As he gave up and stumbled inside his circle, a wolf leaped for him, missed, and landed with all four feet in the coals. It cried out with terror, at the same time snarling, and scrambled back to cool its paws in the snow.

The man sat down on his blankets in a crouching position. His body leaned forward from the hips. His shoulders, relaxed and drooping, and his head on his knees advertised that he had given up the struggle. Now and again he raised his head to note the dying down of the fire. The circle of flame and coals was breaking into segments with openings in between. These openings grew in size, the segments diminished.

Português → "I guess you can come an' get me any time," he mumbled. "Anyway, I'm goin' to sleep."

Once he awakened, and in an opening in the circle, directly in front of him, he saw the she-wolf gazing at him.

Again he awakened, a little later, though it seemed hours to him. A mysterious change had taken place--so mysterious a change that he was shocked wider awake. Something had happened. He could not understand at first. Then he discovered it. The wolves were gone. Remained only the trampled snow to show how closely they had pressed him. Sleep was welling up and gripping him again, his head was sinking down upon his knees, when he roused with a sudden start.

There were cries of men, and churn of sleds, the creaking of harnesses, and the eager whimpering of straining dogs. Four sleds pulled in from the river bed to the camp among the trees. Half a dozen men were about the man who crouched in the centre of the dying fire. They were shaking and prodding him into consciousness. He looked at them like a drunken man and maundered in strange, sleepy speech.

Português → "Red she-wolf. . . . Come in with the dogs at feedin' time. . . . First she ate the dog-food. . . . Then she ate the dogs. . . . An' after that she ate Bill. . . . "

"Where's Lord Alfred?" one of the men bellowed in his ear, shaking him roughly.

He shook his head slowly. "No, she didn't eat him. . . . He's roostin' in a tree at the last camp."

"Dead?" the man shouted.

"An' in a box," Henry answered. He jerked his shoulder petulantly away from the grip of his questioner. "Say, you lemme alone. . . . I'm jes' plump tuckered out. . . . Goo' night, everybody."

His eyes fluttered and went shut. His chin fell forward on his chest. And even as they eased him down upon the blankets his snores were rising on the frosty air.

But there was another sound. Far and faint it was, in the remote distance, the cry of the hungry wolf-pack as it took the trail of other meat than the man it had just missed.

The Battle of the Fangs

Português → It was the she-wolf who had first caught the sound of men's voices and the whining of the sled-dogs; and it was the she-wolf who was first to spring away from the cornered man in his circle of dying flame. The pack had been loath to forego the kill it had hunted down, and it lingered for several minutes, making sure of the sounds, and then it, too, sprang away on the trail made by the she-wolf.

Running at the forefront of the pack was a large grey wolf--one of its several leaders. It was he who directed the pack's course on the heels of the she-wolf. It was he who snarled warningly at the younger members of the pack or slashed at them with his fangs when they ambitiously tried to pass him. And it was he who increased the pace when he sighted the she-wolf, now trotting slowly across the snow.

Português → She dropped in alongside by him, as though it were her appointed position, and took the pace of the pack. He did not snarl at her, nor show his teeth, when any leap of hers chanced to put her in advance of him. On the contrary, he seemed kindly disposed toward her--too kindly to suit her, for he was prone to run near to her, and when he ran too near it was she who snarled and showed her teeth. Nor was she above slashing his shoulder sharply on occasion. At such times he betrayed no anger. He merely sprang to the side and ran stiffly ahead for several awkward leaps, in carriage and conduct resembling an abashed country swain.

Português → This was his one trouble in the running of the pack; but she had other troubles. On her other side ran a gaunt old wolf, grizzled and marked with the scars of many battles. He ran always on her right side. The fact that he had but one eye, and that the left eye, might account for this. He, also, was addicted to crowding her, to veering toward her till his scarred muzzle touched her body, or shoulder, or neck. As with the running mate on the left, she repelled these attentions with her teeth; but when both bestowed their attentions at the same time she was roughly jostled, being compelled, with quick snaps to either side, to drive both lovers away and at the same time to maintain her forward leap with the pack and see the way of her feet before her. At such times her running mates flashed their teeth and growled threateningly across at each other. They might have fought, but even wooing and its rivalry waited upon the more pressing hunger-need of the pack.

Português → After each repulse, when the old wolf sheered abruptly away from the sharp-toothed object of his desire, he shouldered against a young three- year-old that ran on his blind right side. This young wolf had attained his full size; and, considering the weak and famished condition of the pack, he possessed more than the average vigour and spirit. Nevertheless, he ran with his head even with the shoulder of his one-eyed elder. When he ventured to run abreast of the older wolf (which was seldom), a snarl and a snap sent him back even with the shoulder again. Sometimes, however, he dropped cautiously and slowly behind and edged in between the old leader and the she-wolf. This was doubly resented, even triply resented. When she snarled her displeasure, the old leader would whirl on the three-year-old. Sometimes she whirled with him. And sometimes the young leader on the left whirled, too.

Português → At such times, confronted by three sets of savage teeth, the young wolf stopped precipitately, throwing himself back on his haunches, with fore- legs stiff, mouth menacing, and mane bristling. This confusion in the front of the moving pack always caused confusion in the rear. The wolves behind collided with the young wolf and expressed their displeasure by administering sharp nips on his hind-legs and flanks. He was laying up trouble for himself, for lack of food and short tempers went together; but with the boundless faith of youth he persisted in repeating the manoeuvre every little while, though it never succeeded in gaining anything for him but discomfiture.

Português → Had there been food, love-making and fighting would have gone on apace, and the pack-formation would have been broken up. But the situation of the pack was desperate. It was lean with long-standing hunger. It ran below its ordinary speed. At the rear limped the weak members, the very young and the very old. At the front were the strongest. Yet all were more like skeletons than full-bodied wolves. Nevertheless, with the exception of the ones that limped, the movements of the animals were effortless and tireless. Their stringy muscles seemed founts of inexhaustible energy. Behind every steel-like contraction of a muscle, lay another steel-like contraction, and another, and another, apparently without end.

They ran many miles that day. They ran through the night. And the next day found them still running. They were running over the surface of a world frozen and dead. No life stirred. They alone moved through the vast inertness. They alone were alive, and they sought for other things that were alive in order that they might devour them and continue to live.

Versão em Português B1

Parte I

A Trilha da Carne

A Loba

O Grito da Fome

Parte II

A Batalha das Presas

Contents

A Trilha da Carne

English → Uma floresta escura de abetos se erguia dos dois lados do curso d’água congelado. Um vento recente removera a geada branca das árvores, e elas se inclinavam umas para as outras à luz que desaparecia, negras e ameaçadoras. Um silêncio profundo cobria a terra. A região era vazia, sem vida, tão fria e solitária que nem sequer parecia triste. Parecia conter uma espécie terrível de riso, mais frio que a tristeza, como o sorriso gelado da esfinge. Era a fria sabedoria da eternidade rindo da vida e de todo esforço humano. Era o Ermo, o selvagem Ermo do Norte de coração congelado.

English → Mas havia vida naquela terra, e ela continuava lutando. Uma fila de cães semelhantes a lobos avançava com esforço pelo curso d’água congelado. A geada cobria seu pelo áspero. A respiração congelava no ar e se transformava em cristais sobre seus corpos. Usavam arreios de couro, e tiras também de couro puxavam um trenó atrás deles. O trenó não tinha lâminas. Era feito de resistente casca de bétula e repousava diretamente sobre a neve. A parte dianteira se curvava para cima como um rolo a fim de abrir caminho pela neve fofa. Sobre o trenó havia uma caixa comprida e estreita, firmemente amarrada. Havia também outras coisas - cobertores, um machado, uma cafeteira e uma frigideira - , mas a caixa ocupava a maior parte do espaço.

English → Um homem caminhava à frente dos cães usando largas raquetes de neve. Outro seguia atrás do trenó. Sobre o trenó, dentro da caixa, jazia um terceiro homem cujo trabalho árduo terminara. O Ermo o vencera, e ele jamais voltaria a se mover. O Ermo não gosta do movimento. A vida é movimento e, por isso, ofende-o. O Ermo tenta destruir o movimento. Congela a água para que ela não possa correr até o mar. Retira a seiva das árvores até que fiquem congeladas em seu próprio âmago. E, acima de tudo, ataca o homem, o mais inquieto dos seres vivos, que continua lutando contra a verdade de que todo movimento precisa finalmente cessar.

English → À frente e atrás, os dois homens vivos continuavam avançando sem medo. Seus corpos estavam envoltos em peles e couro macio. A geada de sua respiração congelada cobria-lhes os cílios, as faces e os lábios, de modo que seus rostos não podiam ser vistos com clareza. Pareciam máscaras fantasmagóricas, agentes funerários num estranho mundo de morte. Mas continuavam sendo homens, movendo-se por uma terra de vazio, silêncio e zombaria. Eram pequenos aventureiros numa jornada imensa, enfrentando um mundo tão distante e sem vida quanto o próprio espaço.

Avançavam sem falar, poupando a respiração para o esforço de seus corpos. O silêncio os cercava por todos os lados e os pressionava como uma força real. Afetava suas mentes como a água profunda afeta o corpo de um mergulhador. Esmagava-os com o poder do espaço infinito e de uma lei imutável. Empurrava-os para o fundo dos próprios pensamentos e eliminava seu falso orgulho e entusiasmo, até que se vissem pequenos e limitados, como minúsculos pontos movendo-se com pouca habilidade e escassa sabedoria entre as forças cegas da natureza.

English → Passou-se uma hora, e depois outra. A luz pálida do breve dia sem sol começava a desaparecer quando um grito fraco se ergueu no ar imóvel. Subiu rapidamente, alcançou uma nota aguda, permaneceu ali por um instante e então se extinguiu devagar. Poderia parecer o lamento de uma alma perdida, mas também possuía algo faminto e feroz. O homem da frente se virou e olhou nos olhos do que vinha atrás. Então, por cima da caixa estreita, fizeram um aceno de cabeça um para o outro.

Um segundo grito rompeu o silêncio com um som agudo como uma agulha. Os dois homens localizaram sua origem. Vinha de trás, de algum ponto da região coberta de neve que acabavam de atravessar. Então um terceiro grito respondeu, também atrás deles e à esquerda do segundo.

“Estão atrás de nós, Bill”, disse o homem da frente.

Sua voz era áspera e estranha, e ele falava com esforço.

English → “A carne está escassa”, respondeu o companheiro. “Não vejo sinal de coelho há dias.”

Depois disso, nada mais disseram. Ainda assim, escutavam atentamente os gritos de caça que continuavam se erguendo atrás deles.

Quando a escuridão caiu, conduziram os cães para um grupo de abetos à margem do curso d’água e montaram acampamento. O caixão, ao lado da fogueira, servia ao mesmo tempo de assento e mesa. Os cães-lobos permaneceram do outro lado do fogo. Rosnavam e brigavam entre si, mas não pareciam dispostos a fugir para a escuridão.

“Parece-me, Henry, que eles estão ficando perto demais do acampamento”, disse Bill.

Henry estava agachado junto ao fogo e esfriava a cafeteira com um pedaço de gelo. Fez um aceno de cabeça. Não voltou a falar até se sentar sobre o caixão e começar a comer.

“Eles sabem onde suas peles estão seguras”, disse. “Preferem comer a comida a virar comida. Esses cães são bem espertos.”

English → Bill balançou a cabeça. “Ah, não sei.”

O companheiro olhou para ele com surpresa. “É a primeira vez que ouço você dizer que eles não são espertos.”

“Henry”, disse o outro enquanto mastigava cuidadosamente os feijões que comia, “você reparou como aqueles cães se comportaram quando fui alimentá-los?”

“Eles realmente agiram de maneira mais selvagem que o normal”, admitiu Henry.

“Quantos cães nós temos, Henry?”

“Seis.”

“Bem, Henry...” Bill parou por um instante para dar mais peso às palavras. “Como eu dizia, Henry, temos seis cães. Tirei seis peixes da sacola. Dei um peixe a cada cão e, Henry, faltou um peixe.”

“Você contou errado.”

“Temos seis cães”, repetiu o outro com calma. “Tirei seis peixes. Uma-Orelha não recebeu nenhum. Depois voltei à sacola e peguei o peixe dele.”

“Só temos seis cães”, disse Henry.

English → “Henry”, prosseguiu Bill. “Não vou dizer que todos eram cães, mas sete deles receberam peixes.”

Henry parou de comer e olhou para o outro lado da fogueira a fim de contar os cães.

“Agora só há seis”, disse.

“Vi o outro correr pela neve”, disse Bill com firme tranquilidade. “Vi sete.”

Henry olhou para ele com pena e disse: “Ficarei muito contente quando esta viagem terminar.”

“O que quer dizer com isso?”, perguntou Bill.

“Quero dizer que esta carga está mexendo com você e que está começando a imaginar coisas.”

“Pensei nisso”, respondeu Bill com seriedade. “Por isso, quando o vi correr pela neve, examinei o chão e encontrei suas pegadas. Então contei os cães, e continuavam sendo seis. As marcas ainda estão lá fora na neve. Quer vê-las? Eu as mostrarei.”

English → Henry não respondeu. Continuou comendo em silêncio até terminar a refeição e então bebeu uma última xícara de café. Limpou a boca com as costas da mão e disse:

“Então você acha que era...”

Um grito longo e triste vindo de algum ponto da escuridão o interrompeu. Ele escutou, depois terminou a frase e apontou para a origem do som. “...um deles?”

Bill fez que sim. “Acreditaria nisso antes de acreditar em qualquer outra coisa. Você mesmo ouviu o barulho que os cães fizeram.”

Grito após grito, e gritos em resposta, romperam o silêncio e o transformaram em caos. Vinham de todos os lados. Os cães demonstravam medo amontoando-se perto da fogueira, tão perto que o calor chamuscava seus pelos. Bill pôs mais lenha no fogo antes de acender o cachimbo.

“Acho que você está um tanto melancólico”, disse Henry.

“Henry...” Ele refletiu por algum tempo, sugando o cachimbo. Então continuou: “Henry, eu estava pensando em como ele tem muito mais sorte do que você e eu jamais teremos.”

English → Indicou a terceira pessoa com o polegar voltado para baixo, apontando para a caixa sobre a qual estavam sentados.

“Você e eu, Henry, quando morrermos, teremos sorte se jogarem pedras suficientes sobre nossos corpos para manter os cães afastados.”

“Mas nós não temos parentes, dinheiro e todo o resto, como ele”, disse Henry. “Longas viagens para funerais não são algo que você e eu possamos pagar.”

“O que não entendo, Henry, é por que um homem como este, que é um lorde ou coisa parecida em seu país e nunca precisou se preocupar com comida ou cobertores, vem se meter nos confins da Terra. Isso é que eu realmente não consigo compreender.”

“Poderia ter vivido até uma idade avançada se tivesse ficado em casa”, concordou Henry.

Bill começou a falar, mas parou. Em vez disso, apontou para a muralha de escuridão ao redor deles. Na negrura não se distinguia forma alguma, apenas um par de olhos brilhando como brasas vivas. Henry indicou um segundo par, depois um terceiro. Um círculo de olhos luminosos se formara ao redor do acampamento. De vez em quando, um par se movia ou desaparecia, tornando a surgir instantes depois.

English → Os cães ficavam cada vez mais inquietos e então, subitamente, correram apavorados para o lado mais próximo do fogo, escondendo-se e rastejando ao redor das pernas dos homens. Na confusão, um cão foi derrubado junto à borda da fogueira e gania de dor e medo enquanto o cheiro de seu pelo queimado enchia o ar. O barulho fez o círculo de olhos se mover com inquietação por um momento e até recuar um pouco, mas logo se acomodou novamente quando os cães se acalmaram.

“Henry, é realmente muito ruim estarmos quase sem munição.”

Bill terminara o cachimbo e ajudava o amigo a estender as peles e os cobertores sobre os ramos de abeto que colocara na neve antes da ceia. Henry resmungou e começou a desamarrar os mocassins.

“Quantos cartuchos você disse que ainda tinha?”, perguntou.

“Três”, veio a resposta. “E eu queria que fossem trezentos. Então eu lhes mostraria, malditos!”

English → Sacudiu o punho com raiva na direção dos olhos brilhantes e apoiou cuidadosamente os mocassins perto do fogo.

“Queria que este período de frio acabasse”, prosseguiu. “Há duas semanas estamos a cinquenta graus abaixo de zero. E queria nunca ter começado esta viagem, Henry. Não gosto dela. Por algum motivo, não me sinto bem. E, já que estou fazendo pedidos, queria que a viagem tivesse terminado e que você e eu estivéssemos agora sentados junto ao fogo no Forte McGurry, jogando cribbage. É isso que eu queria.”

Henry resmungou e se enfiou na cama. Quando começava a adormecer, a voz do companheiro o despertou.

“Diga, Henry, aquele outro que entrou e pegou um peixe... por que os cães não o atacaram? É isso que está me incomodando.”

“Você está se preocupando demais, Bill”, veio a resposta sonolenta. “Nunca foi assim antes. Agora fique quieto e durma, e pela manhã estará bem. Seu estômago está ruim; é isso que o incomoda.”

English → Os homens dormiram profundamente, lado a lado, sob o mesmo cobertor. O fogo diminuiu, e os olhos brilhantes se aproximaram ao redor do acampamento. Os cães se amontoavam com medo e às vezes rosnavam quando um par de olhos chegava perto. Certa vez, o barulho ficou tão alto que Bill acordou. Saiu da cama com cuidado para não despertar o companheiro e jogou mais lenha na fogueira. Quando as chamas cresceram, o círculo de olhos recuou. Ele contemplou por um instante os cães amontoados, esfregou os olhos e tornou a olhar com maior atenção. Depois voltou para baixo dos cobertores.

“Henry”, disse. “Ei, Henry.”

Henry gemeu ao passar do sono para a vigília e perguntou: “Qual é o problema agora?”

“Nenhum”, veio a resposta. “Só que agora são sete de novo. Acabei de contar.”

Henry recebeu a notícia com um resmungo, que se transformou em ronco quando voltou a dormir.

English → Pela manhã, Henry acordou primeiro e tirou o companheiro da cama. Ainda estava escuro, e faltavam três horas para o amanhecer, embora já fossem seis. Henry preparou o café da manhã na escuridão, enquanto Bill enrolava os cobertores e preparava o trenó para que tudo fosse amarrado.

“Diga, Henry”, perguntou de repente, “quantos cães você disse que tínhamos?”

“Seis.”

“Errado”, disse Bill triunfante.

“Sete de novo?”, perguntou Henry.

“Não, cinco. Um desapareceu.”

“Diabos!”, gritou Henry furioso, abandonando a comida para ir contar os cães.

“Você tem razão, Bill”, disse por fim. “Gorducho desapareceu.”

“E, quando começou a correr, foi como um raio. Sumiu tão depressa que nem se viu a fumaça.”

“Não teve chance alguma”, disse Henry. “Eles simplesmente o engoliram vivo. Aposto que ele gritava enquanto descia pela garganta deles, malditos!”

“Ele sempre foi um cão tolo”, disse Bill.

English → “Mas nenhum cão tolo deveria ser tolo o bastante para fugir e se matar desse jeito.” Examinou o restante da matilha e rapidamente avaliou cada animal. “Aposto que nenhum dos outros faria isso.”

“Nem com um porrete você conseguiria afastá-los do fogo”, concordou Bill. “De qualquer forma, sempre achei que havia algo errado com Gorducho.”

E isso foi tudo o que se disse por um cão morto na trilha do Norte. Foi menos do que muitos outros cães recebiam, e menos do que muitos homens.

A Loba

English → Depois do café da manhã, com o equipamento leve do acampamento amarrado ao trenó, os homens se afastaram do fogo acolhedor e entraram na escuridão. Imediatamente começaram os tristes gritos de caça. Chamavam uns pelos outros através do frio e das trevas e respondiam entre si. Ninguém falava. O dia chegou às nove horas. Ao meio-dia, o céu ao sul adquiriu uma cor rosada, mostrando onde a Terra se curvava entre o sol e o mundo do Norte. Mas a cor desapareceu depressa. A luz cinzenta do dia durou até as três horas. Então ela também se apagou, e a pesada noite ártica cobriu a terra solitária e silenciosa.

À medida que a noite caía, os gritos de caça à direita, à esquerda e atrás se aproximavam. Estavam tão perto que muitas vezes assustavam os cães cansados, provocando breves momentos de pânico.

Depois de um desses momentos, quando ele e Henry haviam recolocado os cães nos arreios, Bill disse:

“Queria que eles encontrassem caça em algum lugar e nos deixassem em paz.”

English → “São terrivelmente difíceis de suportar”, concordou Henry.

Nada mais disseram até que o acampamento estivesse pronto.

Henry estava inclinado sobre a panela de feijão, acrescentando gelo, quando ouviu uma pancada, um grito de Bill e um agudo ganido de dor dos cães. Levantou-se a tempo de ver uma forma escura correr pela neve e se esconder nas trevas. Então viu Bill parado entre os cães, parecendo ao mesmo tempo orgulhoso e decepcionado, com um porrete pesado numa das mãos e a cauda e parte do corpo de um salmão seco ao sol na outra.

“Levou metade”, disse. “Mas eu também o acertei. Ouviu como guinchou?”

“Como era sua aparência?”, perguntou Henry.

“Não consegui ver. Mas tinha quatro pernas, boca e pelos e parecia qualquer outro cão.”

“Deve ser um lobo domesticado, imagino.”

English → “Seja o que for, é muito domesticado para entrar aqui na hora da comida e pegar sua parte do peixe.”

Naquela noite, depois da ceia, sentaram-se sobre a longa caixa e fumaram seus cachimbos. O círculo de olhos brilhantes se aproximou ainda mais que antes.

“Queria que eles encontrassem um bando de alces ou coisa parecida e nos deixassem em paz”, disse Bill.

Henry emitiu um som que não demonstrava exatamente solidariedade, e ficaram sentados em silêncio por quinze minutos. Henry contemplava a fogueira, e Bill observava o círculo de olhos luminosos na escuridão além da luz do fogo.

“Queria que estivéssemos a caminho de McGurry agora mesmo”, recomeçou ele.

“Pare de fazer pedidos e reclamar”, disse Henry, irritado. “Seu estômago está ácido. Esse é seu problema. Tome uma colher de bicarbonato, e se sentirá muito melhor e será uma companhia mais agradável.”

Pela manhã, Henry acordou porque Bill praguejava em voz alta. Ergueu-se sobre um cotovelo e viu Bill parado entre os cães perto do fogo. Ele levantara os braços com raiva, e seu rosto estava contorcido de fúria.

English → “Ei!”, chamou Henry. “Qual é o problema agora?”

“Sapo desapareceu”, veio a resposta.

“Não.”

“Estou lhe dizendo que sim.”

Henry saltou para fora dos cobertores e correu até os cães. Contou-os cuidadosamente e então se juntou ao companheiro para amaldiçoar o Ermo por lhes tomar outro cão.

“Sapo era o cão mais forte do grupo”, disse Bill por fim.

“E também não era um cão tolo”, acrescentou Henry.

Assim foi registrada a segunda nota fúnebre em dois dias.

Tomaram um café da manhã triste, e os quatro cães restantes foram atrelados ao trenó. O dia foi igual aos anteriores. Os homens avançaram em silêncio pela terra congelada. Apenas os gritos dos perseguidores rompiam o silêncio. Eles permaneciam atrás, invisíveis. Quando a noite chegou no meio da tarde, os gritos pareceram mais próximos, pois os perseguidores sempre diminuíam a distância. Os cães ficaram agitados e assustados. Entraram em pânico, embaraçaram as correias dos arreios e fizeram os dois homens se sentirem ainda pior.

English → “Pronto, isto vai dar um jeito em vocês, bichos idiotas”, disse Bill com satisfação naquela noite, levantando-se ao terminar o trabalho.

Henry abandonou a comida para olhar. Seu companheiro não apenas amarrara os cães, mas os prendera à maneira indígena, usando varas. Apertara uma tira de couro ao redor do pescoço de cada cão. Nela, e tão perto do pescoço que o animal não pudesse mordê-la, amarrara uma vara resistente de um metro e vinte ou um metro e meio. A outra extremidade da vara fora presa a uma estaca no chão com outra tira de couro. O cão não conseguia mastigar o couro em sua própria ponta. A vara o impedia de alcançar o couro na outra extremidade.

Henry fez um aceno de aprovação.

“É a única coisa capaz de segurar Uma-Orelha”, disse. “Ele corta couro com os dentes tão bem quanto uma faca e quase com a mesma rapidez. Pela manhã, todos estarão aqui, sãos e salvos.”

English → “Pode apostar que sim”, disse Bill. “Se um deles desaparecer, ficarei sem meu café.”

“Eles sabem que não temos munição para matar”, disse Henry na hora de dormir, apontando para o círculo brilhante ao redor deles. “Se pudéssemos acertar dois deles, nos respeitariam mais. Tire a luz do fogo dos olhos e olhe com atenção... ali! Viu aquele?”

Durante algum tempo, os dois homens observaram as formas em movimento na borda da luz da fogueira. Quando olhavam atentamente para o ponto em que um par de olhos brilhava no escuro, a forma do animal surgia aos poucos. Às vezes, conseguiam até ver as figuras se moverem.

Um som entre os cães chamou a atenção dos homens. Uma-Orelha gania depressa, cheio de ansiedade. Lançava-se até o limite da vara em direção à escuridão, depois parava e voltava a atacar a madeira com os dentes num esforço enlouquecido.

English → “Olhe para isso, Bill”, sussurrou Henry.

Um animal semelhante a um cão entrou silenciosamente na luz da fogueira. Movia-se com cautela, demonstrando medo e coragem ao mesmo tempo. Observava atentamente os homens, mas mantinha os olhos nos cães. Uma-Orelha se esticou o máximo que pôde na direção da estranha e ganiu de excitação.

“Aquele idiota do Uma-Orelha não parece muito assustado”, disse Bill em voz baixa.

“É uma loba”, sussurrou Henry em resposta. “Isso explica Gorducho e Sapo. Ela é usada para atrair o cão para longe. Então o restante da matilha chega e o devora.”

O fogo estalou. Um tronco se partiu com um ruído alto, lançando faíscas. Nesse instante, o estranho animal saltou de volta para a escuridão.

“Henry, estou pensando”, disse Bill.

“Pensando em quê?”

“Estou pensando que essa foi a criatura que acertei com o porrete.”

“Não existe a menor dúvida no mundo”, respondeu Henry.

“E quero observar aqui”, prosseguiu Bill, “que a familiaridade desse animal com fogueiras é suspeita e imoral.”

English → “Sem dúvida, ela sabe mais do que um lobo respeitável deveria saber”, concordou Henry. “Uma loba que consegue entrar entre os cães na hora da comida já viveu muita coisa.”

“O velho Villan teve certa vez um cão que fugiu com os lobos”, disse Bill para si mesmo. “Eu deveria saber. Atirei nele quando estava com a matilha numa pastagem de alces perto de Little Stick. O velho Villan chorou como uma criança. Disse que não o via havia três anos. O cão passara todo aquele tempo com os lobos.”

“Acho que você tem razão, Bill. Essa loba é um cão e já comeu muitas vezes peixe da mão de um homem.”

“E, se eu tiver uma oportunidade, essa loba que é cão vai virar apenas carne”, disse Bill. “Não podemos perder mais animais.”

“Mas você só tem três cartuchos”, disse Henry.

“Esperarei por um tiro certeiro”, veio a resposta.

English → Pela manhã, Henry tornou a acender a fogueira e preparou o café enquanto o companheiro roncava.

“Você dormia tão confortavelmente”, disse Henry ao acordá-lo para o café da manhã, “que não tive coragem de despertá-lo.”

Bill começou a comer, ainda sonolento. Percebeu que sua caneca estava vazia e estendeu a mão para a cafeteira. Mas ela estava fora de alcance, ao lado de Henry.

“Diga, Henry”, falou com suavidade, “você não se esqueceu de alguma coisa?”

Henry olhou cuidadosamente ao redor e balançou a cabeça. Bill ergueu a caneca vazia.

“Você não vai tomar café”, disse Henry.

“Não acabou, acabou?”, perguntou Bill, apreensivo.

“Não.”

“Não está pensando que vai prejudicar minha digestão?”

“Não.”

O rosto de Bill ficou vermelho de raiva.

“Então estou ardendo de ansiedade para ouvir sua explicação”, disse.

“Spanker desapareceu”, respondeu Henry.

Devagar, como se tivesse aceitado a má sorte, Bill virou a cabeça e contou os cães de onde estava sentado.

English → “Como aconteceu?”, perguntou sem demonstrar muita emoção.

Henry deu de ombros. “Não sei. A menos que Uma-Orelha tenha roído a amarra dele. Com certeza não conseguiria fazer isso sozinho.”

“Maldito miserável.” Bill falou com voz calma e lenta, sem mostrar a raiva que sentia por dentro. “Só porque não conseguiu roer a própria amarra, roeu a de Spanker.”

“Bem, acho que os problemas de Spanker acabaram. A esta altura, ele já foi digerido e está correndo por estas terras dentro de vinte lobos diferentes”, disse Henry, como comentário final sobre o cão recém-perdido. “Tome um pouco de café, Bill.”

Mas Bill balançou a cabeça.

“Vamos”, insistiu Henry, erguendo a cafeteira.

Bill afastou a caneca. “Que eu seja amaldiçoado se tomar. Disse que não beberia se algum cão desaparecesse, e não vou beber.”

“O café está muito bom”, disse Henry, tentando tentá-lo.

Mas Bill era teimoso e tomou um café da manhã seco, engolindo a comida com pragas murmuradas contra Uma-Orelha pelo truque que fizera.

English → “Esta noite vou amarrá-los longe do alcance uns dos outros”, disse Bill quando começaram a percorrer a trilha.

Haviam avançado pouco mais de cem metros quando Henry, que caminhava à frente, se inclinou e pegou algo em que sua raquete de neve batera. Estava escuro, por isso não podia vê-lo, mas reconheceu-o pelo toque. Jogou-o para trás, e o objeto atingiu o trenó e deslizou até parar sobre as raquetes de Bill.

“Talvez precise disso em seu trabalho”, disse Henry.

Bill soltou um grito. Era o que restava de Spanker: a vara à qual fora amarrado.

“Comeram até o couro”, disse Bill. “A vara está limpa como um assobio. Comeram o couro das duas pontas. Estão famintos, Henry, e ainda vão nos deixar espantados antes que esta viagem termine.”

Henry riu para ele. “Nunca fui seguido por lobos antes, mas já passei por coisas muito piores e continuei saudável. É preciso mais do que alguns desses bichos importunos para acabar comigo, meu caro Bill.”

English → “Não sei, não sei”, disse Bill com voz sombria.

“Bem, saberá com certeza quando chegarmos a McGurry.”

“Não me sinto muito animado com isso”, repetiu Bill.

“Você não está bem, esse é o problema”, disse Henry com firmeza. “O que precisa é de quinino, e vou lhe dar uma dose forte assim que chegarmos a McGurry.”

Bill emitiu um som para mostrar que não concordava e então nada mais disse. O dia foi igual a todos os outros. A luz chegou às nove horas. Ao meio-dia, o céu ao sul se aqueceu um pouco com o sol oculto. Depois começou a fria tarde cinzenta, que três horas mais tarde se transformou em noite.

Logo depois de o sol fazer uma tentativa inútil de aparecer, Bill tirou o rifle de sob as cordas do trenó e disse:

“Continue andando, Henry. Vou ver o que encontro.”

“Devia ficar com o trenó”, disse o companheiro. “Só tem três balas, e não sabemos o que pode acontecer.”

English → “Quem está dizendo que temos problemas?”, perguntou Bill com orgulho.

Henry não respondeu e continuou sozinho. Ainda assim, muitas vezes olhava preocupado para a extensão cinzenta e vazia onde o companheiro desaparecera. Uma hora depois, Bill voltou usando os atalhos que o trenó precisava evitar.

“Eles estão espalhados e avançam por uma área ampla”, disse. “Continuam nos acompanhando e, ao mesmo tempo, procuram caça. Sabem onde estamos, mas também que precisam esperar para nos pegar. Por enquanto, comerão o que encontrarem.”

“Quer dizer que eles _pensam_ saber onde estamos”, disse Henry com firmeza.

Mas Bill não respondeu. “Vi alguns. Estão muito magros. Acho que não comem há semanas, exceto Gorducho, Sapo e Spanker. E são tantos que isso quase não ajudou. Estão terrivelmente magros. As costelas sobressaem como tábuas de lavar, e a barriga quase encosta na espinha. Estão desesperados, posso garantir. Logo enlouquecerão, e então tome cuidado.”

English → Alguns minutos depois, Henry seguia atrás do trenó. Deu um assobio baixo de alerta. Bill se virou, olhou e deteve os cães em silêncio. Atrás deles, depois da última curva e exatamente sobre a trilha recém-aberta, uma figura peluda trotava em sua direção. Mantinha o focinho perto das marcas e avançava de modo estranho, suave e fácil. Quando pararam, ela também parou. Ergueu a cabeça e os encarou, movendo as narinas enquanto captava e estudava seu cheiro.

“É a loba”, disse Bill.

Os cães haviam se deitado na neve, e ele passou por eles para se juntar ao companheiro no trenó. Juntos observaram o estranho animal que os seguia havia dias e já destruíra metade da equipe de cães.

English → Depois de examiná-los cuidadosamente, o animal trotou alguns passos para a frente. Repetiu isso várias vezes até ficar a uns cem metros. Então parou perto de alguns abetos, ergueu a cabeça e estudou os homens com a visão e o olfato. Olhava-os de maneira triste, como um cão, mas não havia amor canino naquele olhar. Sua tristeza vinha da fome, do frio e de uma necessidade cruel de sobreviver.

Era grande para uma loba, com um corpo magro que mostrava ser uma das maiores de sua espécie.

“Tem quase setenta e cinco centímetros até os ombros”, disse Henry. “E aposto que mede perto de um metro e meio de comprimento.”

“Uma cor estranha para um lobo”, disse Bill. “Nunca vi um lobo vermelho. Para mim, parece quase cor de canela.”

O animal não era realmente cor de canela. Sua pelagem era a autêntica pelagem de lobo. Quase toda cinzenta, mas com um leve tom vermelho que surgia e desaparecia. Às vezes parecia cinzenta; outras, exibia uma suave cor avermelhada difícil de explicar.

English → “Parece exatamente um grande cão de trenó husky”, disse Bill. “Não me surpreenderia vê-la abanar a cauda.”

“Olá, husky!”, chamou. “Venha cá, seja lá qual for seu nome.”

“Ela não tem o menor medo de você”, riu Henry.

Bill agitou a mão numa ameaça e gritou, mas o animal não demonstrou medo. Apenas ficou mais alerta. Continuou observando-os com a fria esperança da fome. Para ela, eram carne e, se ousasse, avançaria e os comeria.

“Veja, Henry”, disse Bill, baixando involuntariamente a voz para um sussurro. “Temos três cartuchos. Mas é um tiro fácil. Não poderíamos errar. Ela já levou três cães, e precisamos detê-la. O que acha?”

Henry concordou com a cabeça. Bill tirou cuidadosamente o rifle de sob a corda do trenó. Começou a erguê-lo até o ombro, mas não teve oportunidade. Naquele instante, a loba saltou para o lado, saiu da trilha, entrou entre os abetos e desapareceu.

English → Os dois homens se entreolharam. Henry soltou um longo assobio de compreensão.

“Eu devia ter adivinhado”, disse Bill em voz alta, guardando o rifle. “É claro que uma loba que entra entre os cães na hora da comida entende de armas. Aquele animal é a causa de todos os nossos problemas. Teríamos seis cães, e não três, se não fosse por ela. E vou pegá-la, Henry. É esperta demais para levar um tiro em campo aberto. Mas vou esperá-la e atacá-la escondido, tão certo quanto meu nome é Bill.”

“É melhor não ir longe demais”, advertiu o companheiro. “Se aquela matilha avançar sobre você, esses três cartuchos não valerão mais que três gritos no inferno. Os animais estão famintos e, quando começarem, sem dúvida o pegarão, Bill.”

English → Acamparam cedo naquela noite. Três cães não conseguiam puxar o trenó tão depressa nem por tanto tempo quanto seis e estavam claramente cansados. Os homens se deitaram cedo. Primeiro, Bill garantiu que os cães ficassem amarrados longe o bastante para não morderem uns aos outros.

Mas os lobos ficavam mais ousados, e os homens foram despertados mais de uma vez. Chegavam tão perto que os cães enlouqueciam de medo. De tempos em tempos, os homens precisavam acrescentar lenha à fogueira para manter os lobos atrevidos a uma distância mais segura.

“Já ouvi marinheiros falarem de tubarões seguindo um navio”, disse Bill ao voltar para os cobertores depois de alimentar o fogo. “Pois estes lobos são tubarões da terra. Sabem o que fazem melhor que nós e não seguem nossa trilha por diversão. Vão nos pegar. Com certeza vão nos pegar, Henry.”

English → “Já quase pegaram você, se fala desse jeito”, respondeu Henry com rispidez. “Um homem está meio derrotado quando admite isso. E, pelo modo como fala, você já está meio devorado.”

“Eles já pegaram homens melhores que você e eu”, respondeu Bill.

“Ah, pare de agourar. Você me deixa muito cansado.”

Henry virou-se irritado de lado, mas se surpreendeu porque Bill não demonstrou raiva. Isso não era comum nele, que se alterava facilmente com palavras duras. Henry pensou nisso por muito tempo antes de adormecer. Quando seus olhos se fecharam, pensou: “Não há dúvida. Bill está muito desanimado. Terei de animá-lo amanhã.”

O Grito da Fome

English → O dia começou bem. Não haviam perdido cães durante a noite e seguiram pela trilha, entrando no silêncio, na escuridão e no frio com ânimo razoável. Bill parecia ter esquecido seus temores e até brincou com os cães quando eles viraram o trenó num trecho ruim ao meio-dia.

Foi uma grande confusão. O trenó estava de cabeça para baixo, preso entre um tronco e uma rocha enorme, por isso tiveram de soltar os cães para consertá-lo. Os dois homens se inclinavam sobre o trenó, tentando endireitá-lo, quando Henry viu Uma-Orelha se afastar.

“Aqui, Uma-Orelha!”, gritou, endireitando-se e voltando-se para o cão.

English → Mas Uma-Orelha correu pela neve, arrastando as correias. Lá fora, na trilha atrás deles, a loba o esperava. Ao se aproximar, ele ficou cauteloso. Reduziu o passo e avançou atento e delicado, depois parou. Estudou-a com dúvida, mas também com desejo. Ela parecia sorrir, mostrando os dentes de modo amistoso, não ameaçador. Avançou alguns passos como se brincasse e parou. Uma-Orelha se aproximou, ainda alerta, com cauda e orelhas erguidas e a cabeça alta.

Tentou encostar o focinho no dela, mas a loba recuou de forma brincalhona e tímida. Cada passo dele para a frente fazia com que ela recuasse. Pouco a pouco, atraía-o para longe da segurança dos companheiros humanos. Certa vez, ele virou a cabeça e olhou para o trenó tombado, os outros cães e os dois homens que o chamavam.

English → Mas qualquer pensamento foi interrompido pela loba. Ela avançou, tocou por um instante o focinho no dele e tornou a recuar enquanto ele a seguia.

Enquanto isso, Bill se lembrou do rifle. Mas ele estava preso sob o trenó virado e, quando Henry o ajudou a endireitar a carga, Uma-Orelha e a loba estavam próximos demais, e a distância era grande demais para arriscar um tiro.

Tarde demais, Uma-Orelha compreendeu o erro. Antes de saberem o motivo, os homens o viram virar e correr de volta. Então viram uma dúzia de lobos cinzentos e magros avançando em ângulo reto com a trilha e cortando sua fuga. Imediatamente, a loba deixou de agir com timidez e brincadeira. Com um rosnado, saltou sobre Uma-Orelha. Ele a afastou com o ombro e, com o caminho de volta bloqueado, ainda tentando alcançar o trenó, mudou de direção e tentou contorná-los. Mais lobos apareciam a cada momento e se juntavam à perseguição. A loba corria um salto atrás de Uma-Orelha, acompanhando seu ritmo.

English → "Aonde você vai?", perguntou Henry de repente, pondo a mão no braço do companheiro.

Bill afastou a mão dele. "Não vou aceitar isso", disse. "Eles não vão pegar mais nenhum dos nossos cães, se eu puder impedir."

Com a espingarda na mão, ele se lançou para dentro do mato ao lado da trilha. Seu plano era claro. Tomou o trenó como centro do círculo que Uma Orelha estava fazendo e pretendia alcançar esse círculo à frente da perseguição. Com o rifle e à luz do dia, talvez conseguisse assustar os lobos e salvar o cão.

"Bill!", gritou Henry atrás dele. "Tenha cuidado! Não se arrisque!"

Henry sentou-se no trenó e ficou observando. Não havia mais nada que pudesse fazer. Bill já havia desaparecido, mas de vez em quando era possível ver Uma Orelha avançando entre os arbustos e os pequenos abetos. Henry sabia que o cão tinha pouca esperança. Uma Orelha conhecia o perigo, mas corria pelo círculo externo, enquanto os lobos corriam pelo círculo interno, mais curto. Era inútil imaginar que ele pudesse avançar o bastante para cruzar o caminho deles e voltar ao trenó.

English → As duas rotas avançavam rapidamente para o mesmo ponto. Em algum lugar na neve, ocultos pelas árvores e pelos arbustos, Henry sabia que a alcateia, Uma Orelha e Bill estavam convergindo. Tudo aconteceu muito mais depressa do que ele esperava. Ouviu um tiro, depois outro, e soube que Bill estava sem balas. Em seguida vieram rosnados altos e ganidos. Ouviu Uma Orelha gritar de dor e medo e ouviu o som de um lobo que indicava que um deles fora gravemente ferido. Então tudo parou. Os rosnados cessaram. Os ganidos se apagaram. O silêncio voltou à terra solitária.

Ele ficou sentado no trenó por muito tempo. Não havia necessidade de ir procurar. Sabia o que havia acontecido como se tivesse visto tudo. Em certo momento, levantou-se de um salto e tirou depressa o machado debaixo das amarras. Mas depois tornou a se sentar e ficou pensando com tristeza, enquanto os dois cães restantes se encolhiam e tremiam a seus pés.

English → Por fim, levantou-se cansado, como se toda a sua força o tivesse abandonado, e atrelou os cães ao trenó. Passou uma corda pelo ombro e puxou junto com eles. Não foi longe. Quando a escuridão começou a cair, montou acampamento depressa e tratou de juntar bastante lenha. Alimentou os cães, preparou e comeu o jantar e deitou-se perto do fogo.

Mas não conseguiu desfrutar daquela cama. Antes que pudesse dormir, os lobos chegaram perto demais para que estivesse seguro. Já não precisava forçar os olhos para vê-los. Estavam ao redor dele e do fogo, formando um pequeno círculo. À luz das chamas, ele os via claramente, deitados, sentados, rastejando de barriga no chão ou andando silenciosamente de um lado para outro. Alguns até dormiam. Aqui e ali, via um deles enroscado na neve como um cão, conseguindo o sono que ele próprio não podia ter.

English → Manteve o fogo ardendo intensamente, pois sabia que era a única coisa entre seu corpo e os dentes famintos deles. Seus dois cães ficaram junto dele, um de cada lado, encostando-se nele em busca de proteção. Choravam e gemiam e, às vezes, rosnavam com ferocidade quando um lobo chegava perto demais. Então todo o círculo ficava inquieto. Os lobos se levantavam e avançavam um pouco, e rosnados e ganidos ansiosos soavam ao redor dele. Depois disso, o círculo tornava a se deitar, e um lobo após outro voltava a um sono interrompido.

Mas o círculo continuava se aproximando. Pouco a pouco, um lobo de cada vez, ele se estreitou até os animais ficarem quase perto o bastante para saltar. Então Henry arrancou gravetos em chamas do fogo e os atirou na alcateia. Eles sempre recuavam de imediato, ganindo com raiva e mordendo o ar de medo quando um tição bem lançado atingia e queimava algum lobo atrevido.

English → A manhã encontrou o homem cansado e exausto, com os olhos arregalados pela falta de sono. Ele preparou o café da manhã no escuro. Às nove horas, quando o dia clareou e a alcateia recuou, começou a tarefa que havia planejado durante a longa noite. Cortou árvores jovens e usou-as como travessas para uma plataforma, amarrando-as no alto dos troncos das árvores em pé. Depois, usando a corda do trenó para içar e contando com a ajuda dos cães, ergueu o caixão até o alto da plataforma.

"Eles pegaram Bill e talvez me peguem, mas com certeza nunca vão pegar você, meu jovem", disse ele ao cadáver em seu túmulo na árvore.

Então seguiu pela trilha, e o trenó mais leve saltava atrás dos cães dispostos. Eles também sabiam que a segurança significava chegar ao Forte McGurry. Agora os lobos os seguiam mais abertamente. Trotavam com calma atrás deles e dos dois lados, com as línguas vermelhas pendentes e as costelas magras aparecendo a cada passo. Estavam terrivelmente magros, apenas pele sobre ossos e músculos fracos. Henry mal conseguia acreditar que ainda se mantivessem em pé e não caíssem na neve.

English → Ele não ousava viajar até escurecer. Ao meio-dia, o sol aqueceu o céu ao sul, e até sua pálida borda dourada apareceu acima do horizonte. Ele tomou aquilo como um sinal. Os dias estavam ficando mais longos. O sol estava voltando. Mas assim que a luz diminuiu, parou e montou acampamento. Ainda restavam várias horas de claridade cinzenta e crepúsculo escuro, e ele as usou para cortar uma grande quantidade de lenha.

A noite trouxe medo. Os lobos famintos estavam ficando mais ousados, e Henry se enfraquecia pela falta de sono. Continuava cochilando perto do fogo, com cobertores sobre os ombros, o machado entre os joelhos e um cão encostado de cada lado. Certa vez, acordou e viu um grande lobo cinzento, um dos maiores da alcateia, a não mais de quatro metros de distância. Enquanto Henry observava, o lobo se espreguiçou como um cão preguiçoso, bocejou diante dele e o encarou como se fosse apenas uma refeição esperando para ser devorada.

English → Toda a alcateia demonstrava essa certeza. Ele conseguia contar cerca de vinte lobos, olhando-o com fome ou dormindo tranquilamente na neve. Faziam-no lembrar de crianças esperando ao redor de uma mesa pela permissão para comer. E ele era a comida que queriam. Perguntava-se como e quando começariam.

Enquanto empilhava lenha no fogo, começou a perceber o próprio corpo de uma maneira nova. Observou os músculos se moverem e estudou a forma engenhosa como seus dedos trabalhavam. À luz das chamas, dobrou lentamente os dedos, um a um e depois todos juntos, abriu-os bem e fez rápidos movimentos de agarrar. Examinou as unhas e apertou as pontas dos dedos, ora com força, ora de leve, para sentir as diferentes sensações. Ficou profundamente interessado e de repente amou aquela carne delicada que funcionava tão bem. Então olhou com medo para o círculo de lobos ao redor, e a verdade o atingiu como um golpe. Aquele corpo maravilhoso era apenas carne para animais famintos. Os dentes deles poderiam despedaçá-lo, assim como ele muitas vezes havia comido alce e coelho.

English → Ele despertou de um sono de meio pesadelo e viu a loba de pelo vermelho diante dele. Estava a apenas dois metros de distância, sentada na neve e olhando-o com tristeza. Os dois cães choramingavam e rosnavam a seus pés, mas ela os ignorava. Continuou observando o homem, e ele a encarou por algum tempo. Ela não parecia perigosa. Parecia triste, mas ele sabia que sua tristeza vinha de uma fome imensa. Ele era o alimento que ela queria, e vê-lo fazia sua boca salivar. Sua boca se abriu, a saliva escorreu, e ela lambeu os beiços em antecipação.

English → O medo tomou conta dele. Estendeu rapidamente a mão para apanhar um graveto em chamas e atirá-lo nela. Mas, antes que seus dedos se fechassem, ela saltou para trás, em segurança. Ele então soube que ela estava acostumada a receber coisas atiradas contra si. Ao recuar, ela rosnou e mostrou as presas brancas, e sua tristeza desapareceu. No lugar surgiu uma fome selvagem que o fez estremecer. Ele olhou para a mão que segurava o tição e percebeu outra vez como seus dedos eram delicados, como se ajustavam à madeira áspera e como o mindinho se afastava da ponta quente. No mesmo instante, pareceu ver aqueles mesmos dedos cuidadosos esmagados e dilacerados pelos dentes brancos da loba. Nunca amara tanto seu corpo como agora, quando podia perdê-lo com tanta facilidade.

Durante toda a noite, manteve a alcateia faminta afastada com tições. Quando cochilava, os choramingos e rosnados dos cães o despertavam. A manhã chegou, mas, pela primeira vez, a luz do dia não assustou os lobos. Ele esperou que fossem embora, mas eles permaneceram formando um círculo ao redor dele e do fogo. A atitude ousada e dominadora deles abalou sua coragem.

English → Ele fez uma tentativa desesperada de voltar à trilha. Mas, assim que deixou o fogo, o lobo mais atrevido saltou contra ele e errou. Henry se salvou pulando para trás, e as mandíbulas do lobo se fecharam a poucos centímetros de sua coxa. O resto da alcateia correu em sua direção, e ele precisou lançar tições para os dois lados a fim de fazê-los recuar.

Mesmo à luz do dia, ele não ousava se afastar do fogo para cortar mais lenha. Um enorme abeto morto se erguia a seis metros dali. Ele passou metade do dia estendendo a fogueira até a árvore, sempre mantendo vários gravetos em chamas prontos para atirar nos inimigos. Quando chegou à árvore, estudou a floresta para poder derrubá-la na direção em que havia mais lenha.

English → A noite foi muito parecida com a anterior, mas agora ele estava ficando sonolento demais para permanecer alerta. Os rosnados dos lobos já não eram tão eficazes, e ele nem sequer percebia mais as mudanças no som. Acordou de repente. A loba estava a menos de um metro. Sem pensar, ele enfiou um tição aceso na boca aberta dela. Ela saltou para trás, ganindo de dor, e ele apreciou o cheiro de pelo e carne queimados enquanto ela sacudia a cabeça e rosnava furiosa a pouca distância.

Antes de tornar a adormecer, ele amarrou um nó de pinho em chamas à mão direita. Dormira apenas alguns minutos quando a chama queimou sua carne e o despertou. Durante várias horas, continuou assim. Cada vez que acordava, afastava os lobos com tições voando, alimentava o fogo e tornava a colocar o nó de pinho no lugar. Então, certa vez, amarrou-o mal e, quando seus olhos se fecharam, ele caiu de sua mão.

English → Sonhou que estava no Forte McGurry. Fazia calor e era confortável, e ele jogava cribbage com o Feitor. No sonho, o forte estava cercado por lobos que uivavam diante dos portões, e ele e o Feitor riam das tentativas inúteis deles de entrar. Então houve um estrondo. A porta se abriu de repente, e ele viu lobos invadindo a grande sala. Saltaram diretamente contra ele e o Feitor. Os uivos aumentaram e, embora o sonho se transformasse em outra coisa, continuaram a acompanhá-lo.

Então acordou e descobriu que os uivos eram reais. Havia rosnados e ganidos altos. Os lobos avançavam contra ele de todos os lados. Um deles havia mordido seu braço. Por instinto, ele saltou para dentro do fogo e, ao fazê-lo, sentiu dentes rasgarem a carne de sua perna. Então começou a batalha de fogo. Suas luvas grossas protegeram suas mãos por um momento, e ele lançou brasas vivas em todas as direções, até a fogueira parecer um vulcão.

English → Mas aquilo não podia durar muito. Seu rosto criava bolhas por causa do calor, suas sobrancelhas e seus cílios haviam sido queimados, e seus pés já não suportavam a temperatura. Com um tição em chamas em cada mão, saltou para a borda do fogo. Os lobos haviam recuado. Ao redor dele, onde as brasas vivas tinham caído, a neve chiava. De vez em quando, um lobo saltava para trás com um ganido, mostrando que havia pisado numa brasa quente.

Ele atirou os tições nos lobos mais próximos, enfiou as luvas fumegantes na neve e bateu os pés para esfriá-los. Seus dois cães haviam desaparecido, e ele sabia que já tinham sido devorados no longo banquete que começara dias antes com Gordo. Provavelmente ele seria o prato final nos dias seguintes.

"Vocês ainda não me pegaram!", gritou, sacudindo o punho para os animais famintos. Ao som de sua voz, todo o círculo se agitou, e ouviu-se um rosnado geral. A loba se aproximou sobre a neve e o observou com desejo faminto.

English → Ele pôs em prática uma nova ideia que lhe ocorreu. Transformou o fogo num grande círculo. Dentro dele, agachou-se, com as roupas de dormir por baixo para protegê-lo da neve que derretia. Quando se escondeu dentro de seu abrigo de chamas, toda a alcateia se aproximou da borda do fogo para observá-lo. Até então, não lhes fora permitido chegar perto das chamas. Agora se sentavam num círculo apertado, como cães, piscando, bocejando e esticando os corpos magros no calor estranho. Então a loba sentou-se, apontou o focinho para uma estrela e começou a uivar. Um a um, os lobos juntaram-se a ela, até que toda a alcateia, sentada sobre as patas traseiras e com os focinhos erguidos para o céu, uivava seu grito de fome.

English → Veio a aurora e depois a luz do dia. O fogo estava se apagando. O combustível acabara, e ele precisava de mais. Tentou sair do círculo de chamas, mas os lobos correram em sua direção. Os tições fizeram-nos recuar, mas eles não permaneceram afastados. Tentou em vão expulsá-los. Quando desistiu e cambaleou de volta para dentro do círculo, um lobo saltou contra ele, errou e caiu com as quatro patas sobre as brasas. Ganiu de medo, rosnando ao mesmo tempo, e correu de volta para esfriar as patas na neve.

O homem sentou-se sobre os cobertores, bem encolhido. Inclinou o corpo para a frente a partir dos quadris. Seus ombros pendiam frouxos, e a cabeça repousava sobre os joelhos. Parecia ter desistido. De vez em quando, erguia a cabeça para ver o fogo cada vez mais fraco. O círculo de chamas e brasas estava se partindo em trechos, com espaços abertos entre eles. As aberturas aumentavam, e os trechos diminuíam.

English → "Acho que vocês podem vir me pegar a qualquer hora", murmurou. "De qualquer modo, vou dormir."

Certa vez, acordou e, numa abertura do círculo bem diante dele, viu a loba observando-o.

Acordou novamente pouco depois, embora lhe parecessem horas. Uma estranha mudança havia ocorrido, tão estranha que ele despertou alarmado. Alguma coisa mudara. A princípio, não conseguiu entender. Então percebeu. Os lobos tinham desaparecido. Apenas a neve pisoteada mostrava o quanto haviam estado perto dele. O sono tornava a dominá-lo, e sua cabeça afundava sobre os joelhos, quando de repente ele acordou com um sobressalto.

Ouviu homens chamando, trenós em movimento, arreios rangendo e cães choramingando ansiosos enquanto puxavam com força. Quatro trenós saíram do leito do rio e entraram no acampamento entre as árvores. Meia dúzia de homens cercou o homem encolhido no meio do fogo moribundo. Sacudiram-no e cutucaram-no até ele voltar a si. Henry olhou para eles como um bêbado e falou palavras estranhas e sonolentas.

English → "Loba vermelha... Entrava com os cães na hora da comida... Primeiro comeu a comida dos cães... Depois comeu os cães... E depois comeu Bill..."

"Onde está Lorde Alfred?", gritou um dos homens em seu ouvido, sacudindo-o com força.

Ele balançou lentamente a cabeça. "Não, ela não o comeu... Ele está empoleirado numa árvore no último acampamento."

"Morto?", gritou o homem.

"E dentro de uma caixa", respondeu Henry. Afastou o ombro do homem que o segurava. "Ei, deixem-me em paz... Estou simplesmente exausto... Boa noite a todos."

Seus olhos se fecharam. O queixo caiu sobre o peito. Mesmo enquanto o deitavam sobre os cobertores, seus roncos já subiam no ar frio.

Mas havia outro som. Vinha de longe e era fraco: o grito da alcateia faminta ao seguir outra trilha, e não o homem que acabara de perder.

A Batalha das Presas

English → A loba foi a primeira a ouvir as vozes dos homens e os gemidos dos cães de trenó. Também foi a primeira a fugir do homem encurralado e de seu círculo de fogo moribundo. A alcateia não queria desistir da presa que havia encontrado. Permaneceu por vários minutos, escutando com atenção, e então também correu atrás da trilha deixada pela loba.

Um grande lobo cinzento, um dos líderes, corria à frente da alcateia. Ele guiava o grupo atrás da loba. Rosnava para os lobos mais jovens quando tentavam ultrapassá-lo e até os atacava com os dentes. Quando viu a loba trotando devagar pela neve, fez a alcateia correr mais depressa.

English → Ela chegou ao lado dele como se aquele fosse seu devido lugar e acompanhou o ritmo da alcateia. Ele não rosnou nem mostrou os dentes quando ela avançou à sua frente. Na verdade, parecia amigável demais, e ela não gostava disso. Muitas vezes ele corria bem junto dela, e então ela rosnava e mostrava os dentes. Às vezes, chegava a morder o ombro dele. Ele não se irritava. Apenas saltava para o lado e corria desajeitado à frente por alguns passos, como um tímido rapaz do campo.

English → Esse era o único problema dele ao correr com a alcateia. Ela tinha outros. Do outro lado corria um lobo velho e magro, de pelo cinzento e cheio de cicatrizes de batalha. Mantinha-se sempre à direita dela. Talvez fosse porque tinha apenas um olho, o esquerdo. Ele também insistia em se aproximar, virando-se para ela até seu focinho marcado tocar o corpo, o ombro ou o pescoço da loba. Assim como fazia com o lobo à esquerda, ela o afastava com os dentes. Mas, quando os dois se aproximavam ao mesmo tempo, ela era empurrada de um lado para outro e precisava atacar ambos com os dentes enquanto continuava correndo e observando o terreno à frente. Nessas ocasiões, os dois lobos mostravam os dentes e rosnavam um para o outro. Talvez tivessem lutado, mas a fome era mais importante que o amor ou a rivalidade.

English → Depois de cada rejeição, quando o velho lobo se afastava bruscamente dos dentes afiados que desejava, esbarrava num jovem lobo de três anos que corria do seu lado direito cego. O jovem estava plenamente crescido e, embora a alcateia estivesse fraca e faminta, era mais forte e ativo que a maioria. Mesmo assim, corria com a cabeça na altura do ombro do lobo velho. Quando tentava correr ao lado dele, o que acontecia raramente, um rosnado e uma mordida no ar faziam-no recuar outra vez. Às vezes, porém, ele diminuía aos poucos a velocidade e se metia entre o velho líder e a loba. Isso também enfurecia os outros. Quando ela rosnava, o velho líder se voltava contra o jovem. Às vezes ela se voltava com ele. E às vezes o jovem líder à esquerda também se voltava.

English → Quando isso acontecia, o jovem lobo se via diante de três fileiras de dentes selvagens e parava de repente. Sentava-se sobre as patas traseiras, mantinha as dianteiras rígidas e arreganhava a boca de modo ameaçador, com a juba eriçada. Essa confusão na frente da alcateia em movimento sempre provocava confusão atrás também. Os lobos de trás se chocavam contra o jovem e demonstravam sua raiva mordiscando-lhe as patas traseiras e os flancos. Ele criava problemas para si mesmo, pois a fome e o mau humor andavam juntos. Mas continuava tentando a mesma manobra repetidas vezes, porque os animais jovens acreditam firmemente, mesmo quando isso só lhes traz humilhação.

English → Se houvesse comida, teriam ocorrido mais lutas e acasalamentos, e a alcateia teria se dispersado. Mas o grupo estava em situação desesperadora. Estava magro pela longa fome e avançava mais devagar que de costume. Os fracos, muito jovens e muito velhos, mancavam na retaguarda. Os mais fortes iam à frente. Ainda assim, todos pareciam mais esqueletos do que lobos de verdade. Mesmo assim, com exceção dos que mancavam, moviam-se com facilidade e não pareciam se cansar. Seus músculos magros pareciam ter força infinita, produzindo um movimento firme após o outro, sem parar.

Percorreram muitos quilômetros naquele dia. Correram durante a noite. Quando chegou o dia seguinte, ainda estavam correndo. Avançavam por um mundo congelado e morto. Nenhuma vida se agitava em parte alguma. Somente eles se moviam pela grande imensidão. Somente eles estavam vivos, e procuravam outros seres vivos para poder comê-los e continuar vivendo.

The Trail of the Meat

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Uma floresta escura de abetos se erguia dos dois lados do curso d’água congelado. Um vento recente removera a geada branca das árvores, e elas se inclinavam umas para as outras à luz que desaparecia, negras e ameaçadoras. Um silêncio profundo cobria a terra. A região era vazia, sem vida, tão fria e solitária que nem sequer parecia triste. Parecia conter uma espécie terrível de riso, mais frio que a tristeza, como o sorriso gelado da esfinge. Era a fria sabedoria da eternidade rindo da vida e de todo esforço humano. Era o Ermo, o selvagem Ermo do Norte de coração congelado.

Original English Version

Dark spruce forest frowned on either side the frozen waterway. The trees had been stripped by a recent wind of their white covering of frost, and they seemed to lean towards each other, black and ominous, in the fading light. A vast silence reigned over the land. The land itself was a desolation, lifeless, without movement, so lone and cold that the spirit of it was not even that of sadness. There was a hint in it of laughter, but of a laughter more terrible than any sadness--a laughter that was mirthless as the smile of the sphinx, a laughter cold as the frost and partaking of the grimness of infallibility. It was the masterful and incommunicable wisdom of eternity laughing at the futility of life and the effort of life. It was the Wild, the savage, frozen-hearted Northland Wild.

Tradução Integral em Português

A escura floresta de abetos franzia o cenho de ambos os lados do curso d'água congelado. Um vento recente despira as árvores de sua branca cobertura de geada, e elas pareciam inclinar-se umas para as outras, negras e agourentas, à luz que se apagava. Um vasto silêncio reinava sobre a terra. A própria terra era uma desolação, sem vida, sem movimento, tão solitária e fria que o seu espírito não era sequer o da tristeza. Havia nela um traço de riso, mas de um riso mais terrível que qualquer tristeza -- um riso tão sem alegria quanto o sorriso da esfinge, um riso frio como a geada e partícipe da severidade da infalibilidade. Era a soberana e incomunicável sabedoria da eternidade rindo da futilidade da vida e do esforço da vida. Era o Ermo, o selvagem, o Ermo Setentrional de coração gelado.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Mas havia vida naquela terra, e ela continuava lutando. Uma fila de cães semelhantes a lobos avançava com esforço pelo curso d’água congelado. A geada cobria seu pelo áspero. A respiração congelava no ar e se transformava em cristais sobre seus corpos. Usavam arreios de couro, e tiras também de couro puxavam um trenó atrás deles. O trenó não tinha lâminas. Era feito de resistente casca de bétula e repousava diretamente sobre a neve. A parte dianteira se curvava para cima como um rolo a fim de abrir caminho pela neve fofa. Sobre o trenó havia uma caixa comprida e estreita, firmemente amarrada. Havia também outras coisas - cobertores, um machado, uma cafeteira e uma frigideira - , mas a caixa ocupava a maior parte do espaço.

Original English Version

But there _was_ life, abroad in the land and defiant. Down the frozen waterway toiled a string of wolfish dogs. Their bristly fur was rimed with frost. Their breath froze in the air as it left their mouths, spouting forth in spumes of vapour that settled upon the hair of their bodies and formed into crystals of frost. Leather harness was on the dogs, and leather traces attached them to a sled which dragged along behind. The sled was without runners. It was made of stout birch-bark, and its full surface rested on the snow. The front end of the sled was turned up, like a scroll, in order to force down and under the bore of soft snow that surged like a wave before it. On the sled, securely lashed, was a long and narrow oblong box. There were other things on the sled--blankets, an axe, and a coffee-pot and frying-pan; but prominent, occupying most of the space, was the long and narrow oblong box.

Tradução Integral em Português

Mas _havia_ vida, presente na terra e desafiadora. Curso d'água congelado abaixo, penava uma fileira de cães lupinos. Seu pelo eriçado estava recoberto de geada. O bafo congelava no ar ao deixar suas bocas, jorrando em plumas de vapor que se depositavam sobre o pelo de seus corpos e se transformavam em cristais de geada. Arreios de couro cobriam os cães, e tirantes de couro os prendiam a um trenó que se arrastava atrás. O trenó não tinha patins. Era feito de casca resistente de bétula, e toda a sua superfície repousava sobre a neve. A ponta dianteira do trenó erguia-se, como um pergaminho, a fim de comprimir para baixo e por baixo a onda de neve fofa que se avolumava como uma vaga à sua frente. Sobre o trenó, firmemente amarrada, havia uma caixa oblonga, longa e estreita. Havia outras coisas no trenó -- cobertores, um machado, uma cafeteira e uma frigideira; mas em destaque, ocupando a maior parte do espaço, estava a caixa oblonga, longa e estreita.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Um homem caminhava à frente dos cães usando largas raquetes de neve. Outro seguia atrás do trenó. Sobre o trenó, dentro da caixa, jazia um terceiro homem cujo trabalho árduo terminara. O Ermo o vencera, e ele jamais voltaria a se mover. O Ermo não gosta do movimento. A vida é movimento e, por isso, ofende-o. O Ermo tenta destruir o movimento. Congela a água para que ela não possa correr até o mar. Retira a seiva das árvores até que fiquem congeladas em seu próprio âmago. E, acima de tudo, ataca o homem, o mais inquieto dos seres vivos, que continua lutando contra a verdade de que todo movimento precisa finalmente cessar.

Original English Version

In advance of the dogs, on wide snowshoes, toiled a man. At the rear of the sled toiled a second man. On the sled, in the box, lay a third man whose toil was over,--a man whom the Wild had conquered and beaten down until he would never move nor struggle again. It is not the way of the Wild to like movement. Life is an offence to it, for life is movement; and the Wild aims always to destroy movement. It freezes the water to prevent it running to the sea; it drives the sap out of the trees till they are frozen to their mighty hearts; and most ferociously and terribly of all does the Wild harry and crush into submission man--man who is the most restless of life, ever in revolt against the dictum that all movement must in the end come to the cessation of movement.

Tradução Integral em Português

À frente dos cães, sobre largas raquetes de neve, penava um homem. Na traseira do trenó, penava um segundo homem. Sobre o trenó, dentro da caixa, jazia um terceiro homem, cuja labuta terminara -- um homem que o Ermo vencera e subjugara até que ele nunca mais se movesse nem lutasse. Não é do feitio do Ermo apreciar o movimento. A vida é uma afronta para ele, pois a vida é movimento; e o Ermo visa sempre a destruir o movimento. Congela a água para impedi-la de correr ao mar; expulsa a seiva das árvores até que fiquem congeladas até seus poderosos corações; e, mais feroz e terrivelmente do que tudo, o Ermo persegue e esmaga até a submissão o homem -- o homem, que é a mais inquieta das formas de vida, sempre em revolta contra o dito de que todo movimento deve, no fim, chegar à cessação do movimento.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

À frente e atrás, os dois homens vivos continuavam avançando sem medo. Seus corpos estavam envoltos em peles e couro macio. A geada de sua respiração congelada cobria-lhes os cílios, as faces e os lábios, de modo que seus rostos não podiam ser vistos com clareza. Pareciam máscaras fantasmagóricas, agentes funerários num estranho mundo de morte. Mas continuavam sendo homens, movendo-se por uma terra de vazio, silêncio e zombaria. Eram pequenos aventureiros numa jornada imensa, enfrentando um mundo tão distante e sem vida quanto o próprio espaço.

Avançavam sem falar, poupando a respiração para o esforço de seus corpos. O silêncio os cercava por todos os lados e os pressionava como uma força real. Afetava suas mentes como a água profunda afeta o corpo de um mergulhador. Esmagava-os com o poder do espaço infinito e de uma lei imutável. Empurrava-os para o fundo dos próprios pensamentos e eliminava seu falso orgulho e entusiasmo, até que se vissem pequenos e limitados, como minúsculos pontos movendo-se com pouca habilidade e escassa sabedoria entre as forças cegas da natureza.

Original English Version

But at front and rear, unawed and indomitable, toiled the two men who were not yet dead. Their bodies were covered with fur and soft-tanned leather. Eyelashes and cheeks and lips were so coated with the crystals from their frozen breath that their faces were not discernible. This gave them the seeming of ghostly masques, undertakers in a spectral world at the funeral of some ghost. But under it all they were men, penetrating the land of desolation and mockery and silence, puny adventurers bent on colossal adventure, pitting themselves against the might of a world as remote and alien and pulseless as the abysses of space.

They travelled on without speech, saving their breath for the work of their bodies. On every side was the silence, pressing upon them with a tangible presence. It affected their minds as the many atmospheres of deep water affect the body of the diver. It crushed them with the weight of unending vastness and unalterable decree. It crushed them into the remotest recesses of their own minds, pressing out of them, like juices from the grape, all the false ardours and exaltations and undue self-values of the human soul, until they perceived themselves finite and small, specks and motes, moving with weak cunning and little wisdom amidst the play and inter-play of the great blind elements and forces.

Tradução Integral em Português

Mas, à frente e na retaguarda, impávidos e indômitos, penavam os dois homens que ainda não estavam mortos. Seus corpos estavam cobertos de peles e de couro macio e curtido. Cílios, faces e lábios estavam de tal modo revestidos pelos cristais de seu bafo congelado que seus rostos eram indistinguíveis. Isso lhes dava a aparência de máscaras fantasmagóricas, agentes funerários num mundo espectral, no funeral de algum fantasma. Mas, por baixo de tudo isso, eram homens, penetrando a terra da desolação, do escárnio e do silêncio, ínfimos aventureiros lançados a uma aventura colossal, medindo-se com a força de um mundo tão remoto, alheio e sem pulso quanto os abismos do espaço.

Viajavam sem falar, poupando o fôlego para o trabalho de seus corpos. Por todos os lados havia o silêncio, comprimindo-os com uma presença tangível. Afetava-lhes a mente como as muitas atmosferas das águas profundas afetam o corpo do mergulhador. Esmagava-os com o peso de uma vastidão sem fim e de um decreto inalterável. Esmagava-os até os mais remotos recessos de suas próprias mentes, espremendo para fora deles, como se espreme o suco da uva, todos os falsos ardores, as exaltações e os indevidos apreços de si da alma humana, até que se percebessem finitos e pequenos, grãos e ciscos, movendo-se com débil astúcia e pouca sabedoria em meio ao jogo e ao entrejogo dos grandes elementos e forças cegas.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Passou-se uma hora, e depois outra. A luz pálida do breve dia sem sol começava a desaparecer quando um grito fraco se ergueu no ar imóvel. Subiu rapidamente, alcançou uma nota aguda, permaneceu ali por um instante e então se extinguiu devagar. Poderia parecer o lamento de uma alma perdida, mas também possuía algo faminto e feroz. O homem da frente se virou e olhou nos olhos do que vinha atrás. Então, por cima da caixa estreita, fizeram um aceno de cabeça um para o outro.

Um segundo grito rompeu o silêncio com um som agudo como uma agulha. Os dois homens localizaram sua origem. Vinha de trás, de algum ponto da região coberta de neve que acabavam de atravessar. Então um terceiro grito respondeu, também atrás deles e à esquerda do segundo.

“Estão atrás de nós, Bill”, disse o homem da frente.

Sua voz era áspera e estranha, e ele falava com esforço.

Original English Version

An hour went by, and a second hour. The pale light of the short sunless day was beginning to fade, when a faint far cry arose on the still air. It soared upward with a swift rush, till it reached its topmost note, where it persisted, palpitant and tense, and then slowly died away. It might have been a lost soul wailing, had it not been invested with a certain sad fierceness and hungry eagerness. The front man turned his head until his eyes met the eyes of the man behind. And then, across the narrow oblong box, each nodded to the other.

A second cry arose, piercing the silence with needle-like shrillness. Both men located the sound. It was to the rear, somewhere in the snow expanse they had just traversed. A third and answering cry arose, also to the rear and to the left of the second cry.

"They're after us, Bill," said the man at the front.

His voice sounded hoarse and unreal, and he had spoken with apparent effort.

Tradução Integral em Português

Passou-se uma hora, e uma segunda hora. A luz pálida do curto dia sem sol começava a esmaecer quando um débil grito distante ergueu-se no ar imóvel. Elevou-se num ímpeto veloz, até atingir sua nota mais alta, onde persistiu, palpitante e tenso, e então, lentamente, morreu. Poderia ter sido o lamento de uma alma perdida, não fosse revestido de certa ferocidade triste e de uma ávida ânsia esfomeada. O homem da frente voltou a cabeça até seus olhos encontrarem os olhos do homem de trás. E então, por sobre a estreita caixa oblonga, cada um assentiu para o outro.

Ergueu-se um segundo grito, perfurando o silêncio com uma agudeza de agulha. Ambos os homens localizaram o som. Vinha de trás, de algum ponto da extensão de neve que acabavam de atravessar. Um terceiro grito, em resposta, ergueu-se, também atrás e à esquerda do segundo.

“Estão atrás da gente, Bill”, disse o homem da frente.

Sua voz soou rouca e irreal, e ele falara com aparente esforço.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

“A carne está escassa”, respondeu o companheiro. “Não vejo sinal de coelho há dias.”

Depois disso, nada mais disseram. Ainda assim, escutavam atentamente os gritos de caça que continuavam se erguendo atrás deles.

Quando a escuridão caiu, conduziram os cães para um grupo de abetos à margem do curso d’água e montaram acampamento. O caixão, ao lado da fogueira, servia ao mesmo tempo de assento e mesa. Os cães-lobos permaneceram do outro lado do fogo. Rosnavam e brigavam entre si, mas não pareciam dispostos a fugir para a escuridão.

“Parece-me, Henry, que eles estão ficando perto demais do acampamento”, disse Bill.

Henry estava agachado junto ao fogo e esfriava a cafeteira com um pedaço de gelo. Fez um aceno de cabeça. Não voltou a falar até se sentar sobre o caixão e começar a comer.

“Eles sabem onde suas peles estão seguras”, disse. “Preferem comer a comida a virar comida. Esses cães são bem espertos.”

Original English Version

"Meat is scarce," answered his comrade. "I ain't seen a rabbit sign for days."

Thereafter they spoke no more, though their ears were keen for the hunting-cries that continued to rise behind them.

At the fall of darkness they swung the dogs into a cluster of spruce trees on the edge of the waterway and made a camp. The coffin, at the side of the fire, served for seat and table. The wolf-dogs, clustered on the far side of the fire, snarled and bickered among themselves, but evinced no inclination to stray off into the darkness.

"Seems to me, Henry, they're stayin' remarkable close to camp," Bill commented.

Henry, squatting over the fire and settling the pot of coffee with a piece of ice, nodded. Nor did he speak till he had taken his seat on the coffin and begun to eat.

"They know where their hides is safe," he said. "They'd sooner eat grub than be grub. They're pretty wise, them dogs."

Tradução Integral em Português

“Carne está escassa”, respondeu o companheiro. “Faz dias que não vejo sinal de coelho.”

Depois disso não falaram mais, embora tivessem o ouvido atento aos gritos de caça que continuavam a se erguer atrás deles.

Ao cair da escuridão, guiaram os cães para dentro de um bosquete de abetos à beira do curso d'água e montaram acampamento. O caixão, ao lado do fogo, serviu de assento e de mesa. Os cães-lobos, amontoados do lado oposto do fogo, rosnavam e brigavam entre si, mas não demonstravam a menor inclinação a se embrenhar na escuridão.

“Pelo que me parece, Henry, eles estão ficando notavelmente pertinho do acampamento”, comentou Bill.

Henry, agachado sobre o fogo e assentando a panela de café com um pedaço de gelo, assentiu. E não falou até ter tomado seu lugar no caixão e começado a comer.

“Eles sabem onde o couro deles está a salvo”, disse ele. “Preferem comer rango a virar rango. São bem espertos, esses cães.”

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Bill balançou a cabeça. “Ah, não sei.”

O companheiro olhou para ele com surpresa. “É a primeira vez que ouço você dizer que eles não são espertos.”

“Henry”, disse o outro enquanto mastigava cuidadosamente os feijões que comia, “você reparou como aqueles cães se comportaram quando fui alimentá-los?”

“Eles realmente agiram de maneira mais selvagem que o normal”, admitiu Henry.

“Quantos cães nós temos, Henry?”

“Seis.”

“Bem, Henry...” Bill parou por um instante para dar mais peso às palavras. “Como eu dizia, Henry, temos seis cães. Tirei seis peixes da sacola. Dei um peixe a cada cão e, Henry, faltou um peixe.”

“Você contou errado.”

“Temos seis cães”, repetiu o outro com calma. “Tirei seis peixes. Uma-Orelha não recebeu nenhum. Depois voltei à sacola e peguei o peixe dele.”

“Só temos seis cães”, disse Henry.

Original English Version

Bill shook his head. "Oh, I don't know."

His comrade looked at him curiously. "First time I ever heard you say anything about their not bein' wise."

"Henry," said the other, munching with deliberation the beans he was eating, "did you happen to notice the way them dogs kicked up when I was a-feedin' 'em?"

"They did cut up more'n usual," Henry acknowledged.

"How many dogs 've we got, Henry?"

"Six."

"Well, Henry . . . " Bill stopped for a moment, in order that his words might gain greater significance. "As I was sayin', Henry, we've got six dogs. I took six fish out of the bag. I gave one fish to each dog, an', Henry, I was one fish short."

"You counted wrong."

"We've got six dogs," the other reiterated dispassionately. "I took out six fish. One Ear didn't get no fish. I came back to the bag afterward an' got 'm his fish."

"We've only got six dogs," Henry said.

Tradução Integral em Português

Bill sacudiu a cabeça. “Ah, sei não.”

O companheiro olhou para ele com curiosidade. “Primeira vez que te ouço dizer alguma coisa sobre eles não serem espertos.”

“Henry”, disse o outro, mastigando com deliberação os feijões que comia, “você por acaso reparou no jeito como esses cães se agitaram quando eu estava dando comida a eles?”

“Eles até que fizeram mais fuzuê que o normal”, admitiu Henry.

“Quantos cães a gente tem, Henry?”

“Seis.”

“Pois é, Henry...” Bill fez uma pausa, para que suas palavras ganhassem maior peso. “Como eu ia dizendo, Henry, a gente tem seis cães. Tirei seis peixes do saco. Dei um peixe pra cada cão, e, Henry, ficou faltando um peixe.”

“Você contou errado.”

“A gente tem seis cães”, reiterou o outro, impassível. “Tirei seis peixes. Uma-Orelha não ganhou peixe. Voltei depois no saco e peguei o peixe dele.”

“A gente só tem seis cães”, disse Henry.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

“Henry”, prosseguiu Bill. “Não vou dizer que todos eram cães, mas sete deles receberam peixes.”

Henry parou de comer e olhou para o outro lado da fogueira a fim de contar os cães.

“Agora só há seis”, disse.

“Vi o outro correr pela neve”, disse Bill com firme tranquilidade. “Vi sete.”

Henry olhou para ele com pena e disse: “Ficarei muito contente quando esta viagem terminar.”

“O que quer dizer com isso?”, perguntou Bill.

“Quero dizer que esta carga está mexendo com você e que está começando a imaginar coisas.”

“Pensei nisso”, respondeu Bill com seriedade. “Por isso, quando o vi correr pela neve, examinei o chão e encontrei suas pegadas. Então contei os cães, e continuavam sendo seis. As marcas ainda estão lá fora na neve. Quer vê-las? Eu as mostrarei.”

Original English Version

"Henry," Bill went on. "I won't say they was all dogs, but there was seven of 'm that got fish."

Henry stopped eating to glance across the fire and count the dogs.

"There's only six now," he said.

"I saw the other one run off across the snow," Bill announced with cool positiveness. "I saw seven."

Henry looked at him commiseratingly, and said, "I'll be almighty glad when this trip's over."

"What d'ye mean by that?" Bill demanded.

"I mean that this load of ourn is gettin' on your nerves, an' that you're beginnin' to see things."

"I thought of that," Bill answered gravely. "An' so, when I saw it run off across the snow, I looked in the snow an' saw its tracks. Then I counted the dogs an' there was still six of 'em. The tracks is there in the snow now. D'ye want to look at 'em? I'll show 'em to you."

Tradução Integral em Português

“Henry”, prosseguiu Bill, “não vou dizer que eram todos cães, mas eram sete que ganharam peixe.”

Henry parou de comer para lançar um olhar por sobre o fogo e contar os cães.

“Só tem seis agora”, disse ele.

“Vi o outro sair correndo pela neve”, anunciou Bill com fria segurança. “Vi sete.”

Henry olhou para ele com comiseração e disse: “Vou ficar imensamente feliz quando esta viagem acabar.”

“Que é que você quer dizer com isso?” exigiu Bill.

“Quero dizer que essa nossa carga está te deixando com os nervos à flor da pele, e que você está começando a ver coisas.”

“Pensei nisso”, respondeu Bill com gravidade. “E por isso, quando o vi sair correndo pela neve, olhei na neve e vi as pegadas dele. Aí contei os cães e ainda tinha seis. As pegadas estão lá na neve agora. Quer dar uma olhada? Eu te mostro.”

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Henry não respondeu. Continuou comendo em silêncio até terminar a refeição e então bebeu uma última xícara de café. Limpou a boca com as costas da mão e disse:

“Então você acha que era...”

Um grito longo e triste vindo de algum ponto da escuridão o interrompeu. Ele escutou, depois terminou a frase e apontou para a origem do som. “...um deles?”

Bill fez que sim. “Acreditaria nisso antes de acreditar em qualquer outra coisa. Você mesmo ouviu o barulho que os cães fizeram.”

Grito após grito, e gritos em resposta, romperam o silêncio e o transformaram em caos. Vinham de todos os lados. Os cães demonstravam medo amontoando-se perto da fogueira, tão perto que o calor chamuscava seus pelos. Bill pôs mais lenha no fogo antes de acender o cachimbo.

“Acho que você está um tanto melancólico”, disse Henry.

“Henry...” Ele refletiu por algum tempo, sugando o cachimbo. Então continuou: “Henry, eu estava pensando em como ele tem muito mais sorte do que você e eu jamais teremos.”

Original English Version

Henry did not reply, but munched on in silence, until, the meal finished, he topped it with a final cup of coffee. He wiped his mouth with the back of his hand and said:

"Then you're thinkin' as it was--"

A long wailing cry, fiercely sad, from somewhere in the darkness, had interrupted him. He stopped to listen to it, then he finished his sentence with a wave of his hand toward the sound of the cry, "--one of them?"

Bill nodded. "I'd a blame sight sooner think that than anything else. You noticed yourself the row the dogs made."

Cry after cry, and answering cries, were turning the silence into a bedlam. From every side the cries arose, and the dogs betrayed their fear by huddling together and so close to the fire that their hair was scorched by the heat. Bill threw on more wood, before lighting his pipe.

"I'm thinking you're down in the mouth some," Henry said.

"Henry . . . " He sucked meditatively at his pipe for some time before he went on. "Henry, I was a-thinkin' what a blame sight luckier he is than you an' me'll ever be."

Tradução Integral em Português

Henry não respondeu, mas continuou mastigando em silêncio, até que, terminada a refeição, a rematou com uma última xícara de café. Limpou a boca com as costas da mão e disse:

“Então você está achando que era --”

Um longo grito lamentoso, ferozmente triste, vindo de algum ponto na escuridão, o interrompera. Parou para escutá-lo, e então concluiu a frase com um aceno da mão em direção ao som do grito: “-- um deles?”

Bill assentiu. “Antes isso do que qualquer outra coisa, com certeza. Você mesmo reparou no fuzuê que os cães fizeram.”

Grito após grito, e gritos em resposta, transformavam o silêncio num pandemônio. De todos os lados erguiam-se os gritos, e os cães traíam seu medo amontoando-se juntos, e tão perto do fogo que o pelo se lhes chamuscava com o calor. Bill jogou mais lenha antes de acender o cachimbo.

“Acho que você está meio pra baixo”, disse Henry.

“Henry...” Ele tragou o cachimbo, meditativo, por algum tempo, antes de prosseguir. “Henry, eu estava aqui pensando em como ele é muito mais sortudo do que você e eu jamais seremos.”

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Indicou a terceira pessoa com o polegar voltado para baixo, apontando para a caixa sobre a qual estavam sentados.

“Você e eu, Henry, quando morrermos, teremos sorte se jogarem pedras suficientes sobre nossos corpos para manter os cães afastados.”

“Mas nós não temos parentes, dinheiro e todo o resto, como ele”, disse Henry. “Longas viagens para funerais não são algo que você e eu possamos pagar.”

“O que não entendo, Henry, é por que um homem como este, que é um lorde ou coisa parecida em seu país e nunca precisou se preocupar com comida ou cobertores, vem se meter nos confins da Terra. Isso é que eu realmente não consigo compreender.”

“Poderia ter vivido até uma idade avançada se tivesse ficado em casa”, concordou Henry.

Bill começou a falar, mas parou. Em vez disso, apontou para a muralha de escuridão ao redor deles. Na negrura não se distinguia forma alguma, apenas um par de olhos brilhando como brasas vivas. Henry indicou um segundo par, depois um terceiro. Um círculo de olhos luminosos se formara ao redor do acampamento. De vez em quando, um par se movia ou desaparecia, tornando a surgir instantes depois.

Original English Version

He indicated the third person by a downward thrust of the thumb to the box on which they sat.

"You an' me, Henry, when we die, we'll be lucky if we get enough stones over our carcases to keep the dogs off of us."

"But we ain't got people an' money an' all the rest, like him," Henry rejoined. "Long-distance funerals is somethin' you an' me can't exactly afford."

"What gets me, Henry, is what a chap like this, that's a lord or something in his own country, and that's never had to bother about grub nor blankets; why he comes a-buttin' round the Godforsaken ends of the earth--that's what I can't exactly see."

"He might have lived to a ripe old age if he'd stayed at home," Henry agreed.

Bill opened his mouth to speak, but changed his mind. Instead, he pointed towards the wall of darkness that pressed about them from every side. There was no suggestion of form in the utter blackness; only could be seen a pair of eyes gleaming like live coals. Henry indicated with his head a second pair, and a third. A circle of the gleaming eyes had drawn about their camp. Now and again a pair of eyes moved, or disappeared to appear again a moment later.

Tradução Integral em Português

Indicou a terceira pessoa com um gesto do polegar para baixo, apontando a caixa sobre a qual estavam sentados.

“Você e eu, Henry, quando a gente morrer, teremos sorte se juntarem pedras que bastem sobre as nossas carcaças pra manter os cães longe.”

“Mas a gente não tem gente, dinheiro e o resto todo, que nem ele”, retorquiu Henry. “Funerais de longa distância é coisa que você e eu não podemos exatamente bancar.”

“O que me pega, Henry, é por que um sujeito como este, que é um lorde ou coisa que o valha na terra dele, e que nunca precisou se preocupar com rango nem cobertor; por que ele vem se meter pelos cantos esquecidos por Deus da Terra -- é isso que eu não consigo entender direito.”

“Ele bem que podia ter vivido até uma velhice madura se tivesse ficado em casa”, concordou Henry.

Bill abriu a boca para falar, mas mudou de ideia. Em vez disso, apontou para a muralha de escuridão que se comprimia ao redor deles por todos os lados. Não havia sugestão de forma alguma na negrura total; só se podia ver um par de olhos reluzindo como brasas vivas. Henry indicou com a cabeça um segundo par, e um terceiro. Um círculo de olhos reluzentes se fechara em torno do acampamento. De vez em quando um par de olhos se movia, ou desaparecia para reaparecer um instante depois.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Os cães ficavam cada vez mais inquietos e então, subitamente, correram apavorados para o lado mais próximo do fogo, escondendo-se e rastejando ao redor das pernas dos homens. Na confusão, um cão foi derrubado junto à borda da fogueira e gania de dor e medo enquanto o cheiro de seu pelo queimado enchia o ar. O barulho fez o círculo de olhos se mover com inquietação por um momento e até recuar um pouco, mas logo se acomodou novamente quando os cães se acalmaram.

“Henry, é realmente muito ruim estarmos quase sem munição.”

Bill terminara o cachimbo e ajudava o amigo a estender as peles e os cobertores sobre os ramos de abeto que colocara na neve antes da ceia. Henry resmungou e começou a desamarrar os mocassins.

“Quantos cartuchos você disse que ainda tinha?”, perguntou.

“Três”, veio a resposta. “E eu queria que fossem trezentos. Então eu lhes mostraria, malditos!”

Original English Version

The unrest of the dogs had been increasing, and they stampeded, in a surge of sudden fear, to the near side of the fire, cringing and crawling about the legs of the men. In the scramble one of the dogs had been overturned on the edge of the fire, and it had yelped with pain and fright as the smell of its singed coat possessed the air. The commotion caused the circle of eyes to shift restlessly for a moment and even to withdraw a bit, but it settled down again as the dogs became quiet.

"Henry, it's a blame misfortune to be out of ammunition."

Bill had finished his pipe and was helping his companion to spread the bed of fur and blanket upon the spruce boughs which he had laid over the snow before supper. Henry grunted, and began unlacing his moccasins.

"How many cartridges did you say you had left?" he asked.

"Three," came the answer. "An' I wisht 'twas three hundred. Then I'd show 'em what for, damn 'em!"

Tradução Integral em Português

A inquietação dos cães vinha crescendo, e eles debandaram, num ímpeto de medo súbito, para o lado do fogo mais próximo, encolhendo-se e rastejando por entre as pernas dos homens. No atropelo, um dos cães fora derrubado na beira do fogo, e ganira de dor e susto enquanto o cheiro do pelo chamuscado tomava o ar. A comoção fez o círculo de olhos deslocar-se, inquieto, por um instante, e até recuar um pouco, mas tornou a se assentar quando os cães ficaram quietos.

“Henry, é uma maldita desgraça estar sem munição.”

Bill terminara o cachimbo e ajudava o companheiro a estender a cama de peles e cobertor sobre os galhos de abeto que ele deitara sobre a neve antes da ceia. Henry grunhiu e começou a desamarrar os mocassins.

“Quantos cartuchos você disse que ainda tinha?” perguntou ele.

“Três”, veio a resposta. “E quem me dera fossem trezentos. Aí eu ia mostrar pra eles, malditos!”

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Sacudiu o punho com raiva na direção dos olhos brilhantes e apoiou cuidadosamente os mocassins perto do fogo.

“Queria que este período de frio acabasse”, prosseguiu. “Há duas semanas estamos a cinquenta graus abaixo de zero. E queria nunca ter começado esta viagem, Henry. Não gosto dela. Por algum motivo, não me sinto bem. E, já que estou fazendo pedidos, queria que a viagem tivesse terminado e que você e eu estivéssemos agora sentados junto ao fogo no Forte McGurry, jogando cribbage. É isso que eu queria.”

Henry resmungou e se enfiou na cama. Quando começava a adormecer, a voz do companheiro o despertou.

“Diga, Henry, aquele outro que entrou e pegou um peixe... por que os cães não o atacaram? É isso que está me incomodando.”

“Você está se preocupando demais, Bill”, veio a resposta sonolenta. “Nunca foi assim antes. Agora fique quieto e durma, e pela manhã estará bem. Seu estômago está ruim; é isso que o incomoda.”

Original English Version

He shook his fist angrily at the gleaming eyes, and began securely to prop his moccasins before the fire.

"An' I wisht this cold snap'd break," he went on. "It's ben fifty below for two weeks now. An' I wisht I'd never started on this trip, Henry. I don't like the looks of it. I don't feel right, somehow. An' while I'm wishin', I wisht the trip was over an' done with, an' you an' me a-sittin' by the fire in Fort McGurry just about now an' playing cribbage--that's what I wisht."

Henry grunted and crawled into bed. As he dozed off he was aroused by his comrade's voice.

"Say, Henry, that other one that come in an' got a fish--why didn't the dogs pitch into it? That's what's botherin' me."

"You're botherin' too much, Bill," came the sleepy response. "You was never like this before. You jes' shut up now, an' go to sleep, an' you'll be all hunkydory in the mornin'. Your stomach's sour, that's what's botherin' you."

Tradução Integral em Português

Sacudiu o punho, com raiva, na direção dos olhos reluzentes, e começou a escorar bem firme os mocassins diante do fogo.

“E quem me dera essa onda de frio passasse”, prosseguiu. “Já faz duas semanas que está quarenta e cinco graus abaixo de zero. E quem me dera eu nunca tivesse embarcado nesta viagem, Henry. Não gosto do aspecto dela. Não me sinto bem, sei lá. E, já que estou desejando, quem me dera a viagem estivesse acabada e resolvida, e você e eu estivéssemos sentados junto ao fogo em Forte McGurry mais ou menos agora, jogando cribbage -- é isso que eu queria.”

Henry grunhiu e enfiou-se na cama. Ao cochilar, foi despertado pela voz do companheiro.

“Escuta, Henry, aquele outro que apareceu e pegou um peixe -- por que os cães não avançaram nele? É isso que está me incomodando.”

“Você se incomoda demais, Bill”, veio a resposta sonolenta. “Você nunca foi assim antes. Cala essa boca agora, dorme, e de manhã você vai estar numa boa. É o estômago embrulhado, é isso que está te incomodando.”

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Os homens dormiram profundamente, lado a lado, sob o mesmo cobertor. O fogo diminuiu, e os olhos brilhantes se aproximaram ao redor do acampamento. Os cães se amontoavam com medo e às vezes rosnavam quando um par de olhos chegava perto. Certa vez, o barulho ficou tão alto que Bill acordou. Saiu da cama com cuidado para não despertar o companheiro e jogou mais lenha na fogueira. Quando as chamas cresceram, o círculo de olhos recuou. Ele contemplou por um instante os cães amontoados, esfregou os olhos e tornou a olhar com maior atenção. Depois voltou para baixo dos cobertores.

“Henry”, disse. “Ei, Henry.”

Henry gemeu ao passar do sono para a vigília e perguntou: “Qual é o problema agora?”

“Nenhum”, veio a resposta. “Só que agora são sete de novo. Acabei de contar.”

Henry recebeu a notícia com um resmungo, que se transformou em ronco quando voltou a dormir.

Original English Version

The men slept, breathing heavily, side by side, under the one covering. The fire died down, and the gleaming eyes drew closer the circle they had flung about the camp. The dogs clustered together in fear, now and again snarling menacingly as a pair of eyes drew close. Once their uproar became so loud that Bill woke up. He got out of bed carefully, so as not to disturb the sleep of his comrade, and threw more wood on the fire. As it began to flame up, the circle of eyes drew farther back. He glanced casually at the huddling dogs. He rubbed his eyes and looked at them more sharply. Then he crawled back into the blankets.

"Henry," he said. "Oh, Henry."

Henry groaned as he passed from sleep to waking, and demanded, "What's wrong now?"

"Nothin'," came the answer; "only there's seven of 'em again. I just counted."

Henry acknowledged receipt of the information with a grunt that slid into a snore as he drifted back into sleep.

Tradução Integral em Português

Os homens dormiram, respirando pesadamente, lado a lado, sob a única coberta. O fogo baixou, e os olhos reluzentes fecharam mais o círculo que haviam lançado em torno do acampamento. Os cães se amontoavam de medo, rosnando de vez em quando, ameaçadores, quando um par de olhos se aproximava. Certa vez o alarido deles ficou tão alto que Bill acordou. Saiu da cama com cuidado, para não perturbar o sono do companheiro, e jogou mais lenha no fogo. Quando este começou a labaredar, o círculo de olhos recuou. Ele lançou um olhar casual aos cães amontoados. Esfregou os olhos e os fitou com mais atenção. Depois enfiou-se de volta nos cobertores.

“Henry”, disse ele. “Ó, Henry.”

Henry gemeu ao passar do sono à vigília e indagou: “Que houve agora?”

“Nada”, veio a resposta; “é só que são sete de novo. Acabei de contar.”

Henry acusou o recebimento da informação com um grunhido que escorregou num ronco enquanto ele resvalava de volta ao sono.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Pela manhã, Henry acordou primeiro e tirou o companheiro da cama. Ainda estava escuro, e faltavam três horas para o amanhecer, embora já fossem seis. Henry preparou o café da manhã na escuridão, enquanto Bill enrolava os cobertores e preparava o trenó para que tudo fosse amarrado.

“Diga, Henry”, perguntou de repente, “quantos cães você disse que tínhamos?”

“Seis.”

“Errado”, disse Bill triunfante.

“Sete de novo?”, perguntou Henry.

“Não, cinco. Um desapareceu.”

“Diabos!”, gritou Henry furioso, abandonando a comida para ir contar os cães.

“Você tem razão, Bill”, disse por fim. “Gorducho desapareceu.”

“E, quando começou a correr, foi como um raio. Sumiu tão depressa que nem se viu a fumaça.”

“Não teve chance alguma”, disse Henry. “Eles simplesmente o engoliram vivo. Aposto que ele gritava enquanto descia pela garganta deles, malditos!”

“Ele sempre foi um cão tolo”, disse Bill.

Original English Version

In the morning it was Henry who awoke first and routed his companion out of bed. Daylight was yet three hours away, though it was already six o'clock; and in the darkness Henry went about preparing breakfast, while Bill rolled the blankets and made the sled ready for lashing.

"Say, Henry," he asked suddenly, "how many dogs did you say we had?"

"Six."

"Wrong," Bill proclaimed triumphantly.

"Seven again?" Henry queried.

"No, five; one's gone."

"The hell!" Henry cried in wrath, leaving the cooking to come and count the dogs.

"You're right, Bill," he concluded. "Fatty's gone."

"An' he went like greased lightnin' once he got started. Couldn't 've seen 'm for smoke."

"No chance at all," Henry concluded. "They jes' swallowed 'm alive. I bet he was yelpin' as he went down their throats, damn 'em!"

"He always was a fool dog," said Bill.

Tradução Integral em Português

De manhã, foi Henry quem acordou primeiro e tirou o companheiro da cama. Ainda faltavam três horas para o dia clarear, embora já fossem seis horas; e na escuridão Henry tratou de preparar o café da manhã, enquanto Bill enrolava os cobertores e deixava o trenó pronto para ser amarrado.

“Escuta, Henry”, perguntou ele de repente, “quantos cães você disse que a gente tinha?”

“Seis.”

“Errado”, proclamou Bill em triunfo.

“Sete de novo?” indagou Henry.

“Não, cinco; um foi.”

“Que diabo!” bradou Henry com raiva, largando a comida para vir contar os cães.

“Você tem razão, Bill”, concluiu. “O Gorducho foi.”

“E ele foi feito relâmpago untado, uma vez que arrancou. Nem a fumaça a gente ia ver.”

“Chance nenhuma”, concluiu Henry. “Engoliram ele vivo. Aposto que ele ainda estava ganindo enquanto descia pela goela deles, malditos!”

“Sempre foi um cão bobalhão”, disse Bill.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

“Mas nenhum cão tolo deveria ser tolo o bastante para fugir e se matar desse jeito.” Examinou o restante da matilha e rapidamente avaliou cada animal. “Aposto que nenhum dos outros faria isso.”

“Nem com um porrete você conseguiria afastá-los do fogo”, concordou Bill. “De qualquer forma, sempre achei que havia algo errado com Gorducho.”

E isso foi tudo o que se disse por um cão morto na trilha do Norte. Foi menos do que muitos outros cães recebiam, e menos do que muitos homens.

Original English Version

"But no fool dog ought to be fool enough to go off an' commit suicide that way." He looked over the remainder of the team with a speculative eye that summed up instantly the salient traits of each animal. "I bet none of the others would do it."

"Couldn't drive 'em away from the fire with a club," Bill agreed. "I always did think there was somethin' wrong with Fatty anyway."

And this was the epitaph of a dead dog on the Northland trail--less scant than the epitaph of many another dog, of many a man.

Tradução Integral em Português

“Mas nenhum cão bobalhão devia ser bobo o bastante pra sair e cometer suicídio desse jeito.” Passou os olhos pelo resto da matilha com um olhar avaliador que resumiu num instante os traços salientes de cada animal. “Aposto que nenhum dos outros faria isso.”

“Nem com um porrete a gente conseguia afastar eles do fogo”, concordou Bill. “Sempre achei mesmo que tinha alguma coisa errada com o Gorducho.”

E este foi o epitáfio de um cão morto na trilha do Norte -- menos parco que o epitáfio de tantos outros cães, de tantos outros homens.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

The She-wolf

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Depois do café da manhã, com o equipamento leve do acampamento amarrado ao trenó, os homens se afastaram do fogo acolhedor e entraram na escuridão. Imediatamente começaram os tristes gritos de caça. Chamavam uns pelos outros através do frio e das trevas e respondiam entre si. Ninguém falava. O dia chegou às nove horas. Ao meio-dia, o céu ao sul adquiriu uma cor rosada, mostrando onde a Terra se curvava entre o sol e o mundo do Norte. Mas a cor desapareceu depressa. A luz cinzenta do dia durou até as três horas. Então ela também se apagou, e a pesada noite ártica cobriu a terra solitária e silenciosa.

À medida que a noite caía, os gritos de caça à direita, à esquerda e atrás se aproximavam. Estavam tão perto que muitas vezes assustavam os cães cansados, provocando breves momentos de pânico.

Depois de um desses momentos, quando ele e Henry haviam recolocado os cães nos arreios, Bill disse:

“Queria que eles encontrassem caça em algum lugar e nos deixassem em paz.”

Original English Version

Breakfast eaten and the slim camp-outfit lashed to the sled, the men turned their backs on the cheery fire and launched out into the darkness. At once began to rise the cries that were fiercely sad--cries that called through the darkness and cold to one another and answered back. Conversation ceased. Daylight came at nine o'clock. At midday the sky to the south warmed to rose-colour, and marked where the bulge of the earth intervened between the meridian sun and the northern world. But the rose-colour swiftly faded. The grey light of day that remained lasted until three o'clock, when it, too, faded, and the pall of the Arctic night descended upon the lone and silent land.

As darkness came on, the hunting-cries to right and left and rear drew closer--so close that more than once they sent surges of fear through the toiling dogs, throwing them into short-lived panics.

At the conclusion of one such panic, when he and Henry had got the dogs back in the traces, Bill said:

"I wisht they'd strike game somewheres, an' go away an' leave us alone."

Tradução Integral em Português

Terminado o café da manhã e amarrado ao trenó o parco equipamento de acampamento, os homens deram as costas ao fogo acolhedor e lançaram-se na escuridão. De imediato começaram a se erguer os gritos ferozmente tristes -- gritos que se chamavam uns aos outros através da escuridão e do frio e se respondiam. A conversa cessou. A luz do dia chegou às nove horas. Ao meio-dia, o céu ao sul aqueceu-se num tom rosado, marcando o ponto em que a curvatura da terra se interpunha entre o sol meridiano e o mundo setentrional. Mas o tom rosado depressa se apagou. A luz cinzenta do dia que restou durou até as três horas, quando também ela se apagou, e o manto da noite ártica desceu sobre a terra solitária e silenciosa.

À medida que a escuridão avançava, os gritos de caça à direita, à esquerda e na retaguarda foram se aproximando -- tão perto que mais de uma vez lançaram ondas de medo pelos cães que penavam, atirando-os em pânicos de breve duração.

Ao fim de um desses pânicos, quando ele e Henry haviam recolocado os cães nos tirantes, Bill disse:

“Quem me dera eles topassem caça em algum lugar, e fossem embora e nos deixassem em paz.”

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

“São terrivelmente difíceis de suportar”, concordou Henry.

Nada mais disseram até que o acampamento estivesse pronto.

Henry estava inclinado sobre a panela de feijão, acrescentando gelo, quando ouviu uma pancada, um grito de Bill e um agudo ganido de dor dos cães. Levantou-se a tempo de ver uma forma escura correr pela neve e se esconder nas trevas. Então viu Bill parado entre os cães, parecendo ao mesmo tempo orgulhoso e decepcionado, com um porrete pesado numa das mãos e a cauda e parte do corpo de um salmão seco ao sol na outra.

“Levou metade”, disse. “Mas eu também o acertei. Ouviu como guinchou?”

“Como era sua aparência?”, perguntou Henry.

“Não consegui ver. Mas tinha quatro pernas, boca e pelos e parecia qualquer outro cão.”

“Deve ser um lobo domesticado, imagino.”

Original English Version

"They do get on the nerves horrible," Henry sympathised.

They spoke no more until camp was made.

Henry was bending over and adding ice to the babbling pot of beans when he was startled by the sound of a blow, an exclamation from Bill, and a sharp snarling cry of pain from among the dogs. He straightened up in time to see a dim form disappearing across the snow into the shelter of the dark. Then he saw Bill, standing amid the dogs, half triumphant, half crestfallen, in one hand a stout club, in the other the tail and part of the body of a sun-cured salmon.

"It got half of it," he announced; "but I got a whack at it jes' the same. D'ye hear it squeal?"

"What'd it look like?" Henry asked.

"Couldn't see. But it had four legs an' a mouth an' hair an' looked like any dog."

"Must be a tame wolf, I reckon."

Tradução Integral em Português

“Eles dão nos nervos, é horrível”, condoeu-se Henry.

Não falaram mais até o acampamento estar montado.

Henry estava debruçado, acrescentando gelo à panela borbulhante de feijão, quando foi sobressaltado pelo som de uma pancada, uma exclamação de Bill e um agudo grito de dor, rosnado, dentre os cães. Endireitou-se a tempo de ver uma forma indistinta desaparecer pela neve, para o abrigo do escuro. Então viu Bill, de pé no meio dos cães, meio triunfante, meio cabisbaixo, numa das mãos um porrete robusto, na outra a cauda e parte do corpo de um salmão curado ao sol.

“Levou metade”, anunciou ele; “mas assim mesmo consegui dar uma paulada nele. Ouviu ele ganir?”

“Com que se parecia?” perguntou Henry.

“Não deu pra ver. Mas tinha quatro patas, uma boca e pelo, e parecia um cão qualquer.”

“Deve ser um lobo manso, imagino.”

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

“Seja o que for, é muito domesticado para entrar aqui na hora da comida e pegar sua parte do peixe.”

Naquela noite, depois da ceia, sentaram-se sobre a longa caixa e fumaram seus cachimbos. O círculo de olhos brilhantes se aproximou ainda mais que antes.

“Queria que eles encontrassem um bando de alces ou coisa parecida e nos deixassem em paz”, disse Bill.

Henry emitiu um som que não demonstrava exatamente solidariedade, e ficaram sentados em silêncio por quinze minutos. Henry contemplava a fogueira, e Bill observava o círculo de olhos luminosos na escuridão além da luz do fogo.

“Queria que estivéssemos a caminho de McGurry agora mesmo”, recomeçou ele.

“Pare de fazer pedidos e reclamar”, disse Henry, irritado. “Seu estômago está ácido. Esse é seu problema. Tome uma colher de bicarbonato, e se sentirá muito melhor e será uma companhia mais agradável.”

Pela manhã, Henry acordou porque Bill praguejava em voz alta. Ergueu-se sobre um cotovelo e viu Bill parado entre os cães perto do fogo. Ele levantara os braços com raiva, e seu rosto estava contorcido de fúria.

Original English Version

"It's damned tame, whatever it is, comin' in here at feedin' time an' gettin' its whack of fish."

That night, when supper was finished and they sat on the oblong box and pulled at their pipes, the circle of gleaming eyes drew in even closer than before.

"I wisht they'd spring up a bunch of moose or something, an' go away an' leave us alone," Bill said.

Henry grunted with an intonation that was not all sympathy, and for a quarter of an hour they sat on in silence, Henry staring at the fire, and Bill at the circle of eyes that burned in the darkness just beyond the firelight.

"I wisht we was pullin' into McGurry right now," he began again.

"Shut up your wishin' and your croakin'," Henry burst out angrily. "Your stomach's sour. That's what's ailin' you. Swallow a spoonful of sody, an' you'll sweeten up wonderful an' be more pleasant company."

In the morning Henry was aroused by fervid blasphemy that proceeded from the mouth of Bill. Henry propped himself up on an elbow and looked to see his comrade standing among the dogs beside the replenished fire, his arms raised in objurgation, his face distorted with passion.

Tradução Integral em Português

“Manso pra danar, seja lá o que for, aparecendo aqui na hora da comida e abocanhando a sua parte de peixe.”

Naquela noite, terminada a ceia, sentados na caixa oblonga e tragando os cachimbos, o círculo de olhos reluzentes fechou-se ainda mais do que antes.

“Quem me dera eles levantassem um bando de alces ou coisa parecida, e fossem embora e nos deixassem em paz”, disse Bill.

Henry grunhiu com uma entonação que não era só compaixão, e por um quarto de hora ficaram sentados em silêncio, Henry fitando o fogo, e Bill o círculo de olhos que ardia na escuridão logo além da luz das chamas.

“Quem me dera a gente estivesse chegando em McGurry agora mesmo”, recomeçou ele.

“Cala essa boca com teus desejos e teus lamentos”, explodiu Henry com raiva. “É o estômago embrulhado. É isso que te aflige. Engole uma colher de bicarbonato, que você melhora que é uma beleza e vira companhia mais agradável.”

De manhã, Henry foi despertado por uma blasfêmia fervorosa que saía da boca de Bill. Escorou-se num cotovelo e viu o companheiro de pé no meio dos cães, junto ao fogo reabastecido, os braços erguidos em imprecação, o rosto distorcido de fúria.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

“Ei!”, chamou Henry. “Qual é o problema agora?”

“Sapo desapareceu”, veio a resposta.

“Não.”

“Estou lhe dizendo que sim.”

Henry saltou para fora dos cobertores e correu até os cães. Contou-os cuidadosamente e então se juntou ao companheiro para amaldiçoar o Ermo por lhes tomar outro cão.

“Sapo era o cão mais forte do grupo”, disse Bill por fim.

“E também não era um cão tolo”, acrescentou Henry.

Assim foi registrada a segunda nota fúnebre em dois dias.

Tomaram um café da manhã triste, e os quatro cães restantes foram atrelados ao trenó. O dia foi igual aos anteriores. Os homens avançaram em silêncio pela terra congelada. Apenas os gritos dos perseguidores rompiam o silêncio. Eles permaneciam atrás, invisíveis. Quando a noite chegou no meio da tarde, os gritos pareceram mais próximos, pois os perseguidores sempre diminuíam a distância. Os cães ficaram agitados e assustados. Entraram em pânico, embaraçaram as correias dos arreios e fizeram os dois homens se sentirem ainda pior.

Original English Version

"Hello!" Henry called. "What's up now?"

"Frog's gone," came the answer.

"No."

"I tell you yes."

Henry leaped out of the blankets and to the dogs. He counted them with care, and then joined his partner in cursing the power of the Wild that had robbed them of another dog.

"Frog was the strongest dog of the bunch," Bill pronounced finally.

"An' he was no fool dog neither," Henry added.

And so was recorded the second epitaph in two days.

A gloomy breakfast was eaten, and the four remaining dogs were harnessed to the sled. The day was a repetition of the days that had gone before. The men toiled without speech across the face of the frozen world. The silence was unbroken save by the cries of their pursuers, that, unseen, hung upon their rear. With the coming of night in the mid-afternoon, the cries sounded closer as the pursuers drew in according to their custom; and the dogs grew excited and frightened, and were guilty of panics that tangled the traces and further depressed the two men.

Tradução Integral em Português

“Ei!” chamou Henry. “Que houve agora?”

“Rã foi”, veio a resposta.

“Não.”

“Te digo que sim.”

Henry pulou de sob os cobertores e correu aos cães. Contou-os com cuidado, e então juntou-se ao parceiro em maldizer o poder do Ermo, que os roubara de mais um cão.

“Rã era o cão mais forte do lote”, sentenciou Bill por fim.

“E não era um cão bobalhão também”, acrescentou Henry.

E assim se registrou o segundo epitáfio em dois dias.

Comeram um café da manhã lúgubre, e os quatro cães restantes foram atrelados ao trenó. O dia foi uma repetição dos dias anteriores. Os homens penaram sem falar pela face do mundo congelado. O silêncio permaneceu intacto, salvo pelos gritos de seus perseguidores que, invisíveis, pairavam em sua retaguarda. Com a chegada da noite em meio à tarde, os gritos soaram mais perto à medida que os perseguidores se aproximavam, conforme seu costume; e os cães ficavam excitados e amedrontados, e cometiam pânicos que embaraçavam os tirantes e ainda mais abatiam os dois homens.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

“Pronto, isto vai dar um jeito em vocês, bichos idiotas”, disse Bill com satisfação naquela noite, levantando-se ao terminar o trabalho.

Henry abandonou a comida para olhar. Seu companheiro não apenas amarrara os cães, mas os prendera à maneira indígena, usando varas. Apertara uma tira de couro ao redor do pescoço de cada cão. Nela, e tão perto do pescoço que o animal não pudesse mordê-la, amarrara uma vara resistente de um metro e vinte ou um metro e meio. A outra extremidade da vara fora presa a uma estaca no chão com outra tira de couro. O cão não conseguia mastigar o couro em sua própria ponta. A vara o impedia de alcançar o couro na outra extremidade.

Henry fez um aceno de aprovação.

“É a única coisa capaz de segurar Uma-Orelha”, disse. “Ele corta couro com os dentes tão bem quanto uma faca e quase com a mesma rapidez. Pela manhã, todos estarão aqui, sãos e salvos.”

Original English Version

"There, that'll fix you fool critters," Bill said with satisfaction that night, standing erect at completion of his task.

Henry left the cooking to come and see. Not only had his partner tied the dogs up, but he had tied them, after the Indian fashion, with sticks. About the neck of each dog he had fastened a leather thong. To this, and so close to the neck that the dog could not get his teeth to it, he had tied a stout stick four or five feet in length. The other end of the stick, in turn, was made fast to a stake in the ground by means of a leather thong. The dog was unable to gnaw through the leather at his own end of the stick. The stick prevented him from getting at the leather that fastened the other end.

Henry nodded his head approvingly.

"It's the only contraption that'll ever hold One Ear," he said. "He can gnaw through leather as clean as a knife an' jes' about half as quick. They all'll be here in the mornin' hunkydory."

Tradução Integral em Português

“Pronto, isso vai segurar vocês, bichos bobos”, disse Bill com satisfação naquela noite, de pé ao concluir sua tarefa.

Henry largou a comida para vir ver. O parceiro não apenas amarrara os cães, mas os amarrara à moda dos índios, com paus. Em torno do pescoço de cada cão, prendera uma tira de couro. A esta, e tão junto ao pescoço que o cão não conseguia alcançá-la com os dentes, atara um pau resistente de cerca de um metro e meio de comprimento. A outra ponta do pau, por sua vez, era presa a uma estaca fincada no chão por meio de outra tira de couro. O cão não conseguia roer o couro na ponta do pau junto a ele. E o pau o impedia de chegar ao couro que prendia a outra ponta.

Henry assentiu, aprovador.

“É o único aparato que algum dia vai segurar Uma-Orelha”, disse ele. “Ele rói couro tão limpo quanto uma faca, e mais ou menos com a metade da rapidez. De manhã vão estar todos aqui, numa boa.”

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

“Pode apostar que sim”, disse Bill. “Se um deles desaparecer, ficarei sem meu café.”

“Eles sabem que não temos munição para matar”, disse Henry na hora de dormir, apontando para o círculo brilhante ao redor deles. “Se pudéssemos acertar dois deles, nos respeitariam mais. Tire a luz do fogo dos olhos e olhe com atenção... ali! Viu aquele?”

Durante algum tempo, os dois homens observaram as formas em movimento na borda da luz da fogueira. Quando olhavam atentamente para o ponto em que um par de olhos brilhava no escuro, a forma do animal surgia aos poucos. Às vezes, conseguiam até ver as figuras se moverem.

Um som entre os cães chamou a atenção dos homens. Uma-Orelha gania depressa, cheio de ansiedade. Lançava-se até o limite da vara em direção à escuridão, depois parava e voltava a atacar a madeira com os dentes num esforço enlouquecido.

Original English Version

"You jes' bet they will," Bill affirmed. "If one of em' turns up missin', I'll go without my coffee."

"They jes' know we ain't loaded to kill," Henry remarked at bed-time, indicating the gleaming circle that hemmed them in. "If we could put a couple of shots into 'em, they'd be more respectful. They come closer every night. Get the firelight out of your eyes an' look hard--there! Did you see that one?"

For some time the two men amused themselves with watching the movement of vague forms on the edge of the firelight. By looking closely and steadily at where a pair of eyes burned in the darkness, the form of the animal would slowly take shape. They could even see these forms move at times.

A sound among the dogs attracted the men's attention. One Ear was uttering quick, eager whines, lunging at the length of his stick toward the darkness, and desisting now and again in order to make frantic attacks on the stick with his teeth.

Tradução Integral em Português

“Pode apostar que vão”, afirmou Bill. “Se um deles aparecer faltando, fico sem meu café.”

“Eles simplesmente sabem que a gente não está armado pra matar”, observou Henry na hora de dormir, indicando o círculo reluzente que os cercava. “Se a gente conseguisse meter um par de tiros neles, seriam mais respeitosos. Chegam mais perto a cada noite. Tira a luz do fogo dos olhos e olha bem -- pronto! Viu aquele ali?”

Por algum tempo os dois homens se distraíram observando o movimento de formas vagas na borda da luz do fogo. Olhando de perto e com fixidez para onde um par de olhos ardia na escuridão, a forma do animal ia lentamente tomando contorno. Chegavam até a ver essas formas se moverem, às vezes.

Um som entre os cães atraiu a atenção dos homens. Uma-Orelha soltava ganidos rápidos e ávidos, atirando-se em todo o comprimento de seu pau em direção à escuridão, e desistindo de quando em quando para desferir ataques frenéticos ao pau com os dentes.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

“Olhe para isso, Bill”, sussurrou Henry.

Um animal semelhante a um cão entrou silenciosamente na luz da fogueira. Movia-se com cautela, demonstrando medo e coragem ao mesmo tempo. Observava atentamente os homens, mas mantinha os olhos nos cães. Uma-Orelha se esticou o máximo que pôde na direção da estranha e ganiu de excitação.

“Aquele idiota do Uma-Orelha não parece muito assustado”, disse Bill em voz baixa.

“É uma loba”, sussurrou Henry em resposta. “Isso explica Gorducho e Sapo. Ela é usada para atrair o cão para longe. Então o restante da matilha chega e o devora.”

O fogo estalou. Um tronco se partiu com um ruído alto, lançando faíscas. Nesse instante, o estranho animal saltou de volta para a escuridão.

“Henry, estou pensando”, disse Bill.

“Pensando em quê?”

“Estou pensando que essa foi a criatura que acertei com o porrete.”

“Não existe a menor dúvida no mundo”, respondeu Henry.

“E quero observar aqui”, prosseguiu Bill, “que a familiaridade desse animal com fogueiras é suspeita e imoral.”

Original English Version

"Look at that, Bill," Henry whispered.

Full into the firelight, with a stealthy, sidelong movement, glided a doglike animal. It moved with commingled mistrust and daring, cautiously observing the men, its attention fixed on the dogs. One Ear strained the full length of the stick toward the intruder and whined with eagerness.

"That fool One Ear don't seem scairt much," Bill said in a low tone.

"It's a she-wolf," Henry whispered back, "an' that accounts for Fatty an' Frog. She's the decoy for the pack. She draws out the dog an' then all the rest pitches in an' eats 'm up."

The fire crackled. A log fell apart with a loud spluttering noise. At the sound of it the strange animal leaped back into the darkness.

"Henry, I'm a-thinkin'," Bill announced.

"Thinkin' what?"

"I'm a-thinkin' that was the one I lambasted with the club."

"Ain't the slightest doubt in the world," was Henry's response.

"An' right here I want to remark," Bill went on, "that that animal's familyarity with campfires is suspicious an' immoral."

Tradução Integral em Português

“Olha aquilo, Bill”, sussurrou Henry.

Em pleno clarão do fogo, com um movimento furtivo e de esguelha, deslizou um animal parecido com um cão. Movia-se com desconfiança e ousadia mescladas, observando os homens com cautela, a atenção fixa nos cães. Uma-Orelha esticou todo o comprimento do pau em direção ao intruso e ganiu de ânsia.

“Aquele bobo do Uma-Orelha não parece muito assustado”, disse Bill em voz baixa.

“É uma loba”, sussurrou Henry de volta, “e isso explica o Gorducho e a Rã. Ela é a isca da matilha. Atrai o cão pra fora, e aí todo o resto avança e devora ele.”

O fogo crepitou. Uma tora se partiu com um forte estalido. Ao som disso, o estranho animal saltou de volta para a escuridão.

“Henry, estou aqui pensando”, anunciou Bill.

“Pensando o quê?”

“Estou pensando que aquela era a que eu surrei com o porrete.”

“Não há a menor dúvida no mundo”, foi a resposta de Henry.

“E aqui mesmo eu quero observar”, prosseguiu Bill, “que a intimidade daquele animal com fogueiras é suspeita e imoral.”

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

“Sem dúvida, ela sabe mais do que um lobo respeitável deveria saber”, concordou Henry. “Uma loba que consegue entrar entre os cães na hora da comida já viveu muita coisa.”

“O velho Villan teve certa vez um cão que fugiu com os lobos”, disse Bill para si mesmo. “Eu deveria saber. Atirei nele quando estava com a matilha numa pastagem de alces perto de Little Stick. O velho Villan chorou como uma criança. Disse que não o via havia três anos. O cão passara todo aquele tempo com os lobos.”

“Acho que você tem razão, Bill. Essa loba é um cão e já comeu muitas vezes peixe da mão de um homem.”

“E, se eu tiver uma oportunidade, essa loba que é cão vai virar apenas carne”, disse Bill. “Não podemos perder mais animais.”

“Mas você só tem três cartuchos”, disse Henry.

“Esperarei por um tiro certeiro”, veio a resposta.

Original English Version

"It knows for certain more'n a self-respectin' wolf ought to know," Henry agreed. "A wolf that knows enough to come in with the dogs at feedin' time has had experiences."

"Ol' Villan had a dog once that run away with the wolves," Bill cogitates aloud. "I ought to know. I shot it out of the pack in a moose pasture over 'on Little Stick. An' Ol' Villan cried like a baby. Hadn't seen it for three years, he said. Ben with the wolves all that time."

"I reckon you've called the turn, Bill. That wolf's a dog, an' it's eaten fish many's the time from the hand of man."

"An if I get a chance at it, that wolf that's a dog'll be jes' meat," Bill declared. "We can't afford to lose no more animals."

"But you've only got three cartridges," Henry objected.

"I'll wait for a dead sure shot," was the reply.

Tradução Integral em Português

“Com certeza ele sabe mais do que um lobo que se preze deveria saber”, concordou Henry. “Um lobo que sabe o bastante pra entrar junto com os cães na hora da comida já teve suas experiências.”

“O velho Villan teve um cão uma vez que fugiu com os lobos”, cogita Bill em voz alta. “Eu bem que sei. Abati ele da matilha num pasto de alces lá pros lados de Little Stick. E o velho Villan chorou feito criança. Fazia três anos que não via ele, disse. Tinha ficado com os lobos esse tempo todo.”

“Acho que você acertou em cheio, Bill. Aquela loba é um cão, e comeu peixe da mão de homem muitas e muitas vezes.”

“E, se eu tiver uma chance com ela, aquela loba que é cão vai virar simplesmente carne”, declarou Bill. “A gente não pode se dar ao luxo de perder mais animais.”

“Mas você só tem três cartuchos”, objetou Henry.

“Vou esperar por um tiro certeiro, na mosca”, foi a resposta.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Pela manhã, Henry tornou a acender a fogueira e preparou o café enquanto o companheiro roncava.

“Você dormia tão confortavelmente”, disse Henry ao acordá-lo para o café da manhã, “que não tive coragem de despertá-lo.”

Bill começou a comer, ainda sonolento. Percebeu que sua caneca estava vazia e estendeu a mão para a cafeteira. Mas ela estava fora de alcance, ao lado de Henry.

“Diga, Henry”, falou com suavidade, “você não se esqueceu de alguma coisa?”

Henry olhou cuidadosamente ao redor e balançou a cabeça. Bill ergueu a caneca vazia.

“Você não vai tomar café”, disse Henry.

“Não acabou, acabou?”, perguntou Bill, apreensivo.

“Não.”

“Não está pensando que vai prejudicar minha digestão?”

“Não.”

O rosto de Bill ficou vermelho de raiva.

“Então estou ardendo de ansiedade para ouvir sua explicação”, disse.

“Spanker desapareceu”, respondeu Henry.

Devagar, como se tivesse aceitado a má sorte, Bill virou a cabeça e contou os cães de onde estava sentado.

Original English Version

In the morning Henry renewed the fire and cooked breakfast to the accompaniment of his partner's snoring.

"You was sleepin' jes' too comfortable for anything," Henry told him, as he routed him out for breakfast. "I hadn't the heart to rouse you."

Bill began to eat sleepily. He noticed that his cup was empty and started to reach for the pot. But the pot was beyond arm's length and beside Henry.

"Say, Henry," he chided gently, "ain't you forgot somethin'?"

Henry looked about with great carefulness and shook his head. Bill held up the empty cup.

"You don't get no coffee," Henry announced.

"Ain't run out?" Bill asked anxiously.

"Nope."

"Ain't thinkin' it'll hurt my digestion?"

"Nope."

A flush of angry blood pervaded Bill's face.

"Then it's jes' warm an' anxious I am to be hearin' you explain yourself," he said.

"Spanker's gone," Henry answered.

Without haste, with the air of one resigned to misfortune Bill turned his head, and from where he sat counted the dogs.

Tradução Integral em Português

De manhã, Henry reavivou o fogo e preparou o café da manhã ao acompanhamento dos roncos do parceiro.

“Você estava dormindo gostoso demais”, disse-lhe Henry, ao tirá-lo da cama para o café. “Não tive coragem de te acordar.”

Bill começou a comer, sonolento. Notou que sua xícara estava vazia e estendeu a mão para a panela. Mas a panela estava fora do alcance do braço, ao lado de Henry.

“Escuta, Henry”, censurou ele com brandura, “você não esqueceu de alguma coisa?”

Henry olhou em volta com grande cuidado e sacudiu a cabeça. Bill ergueu a xícara vazia.

“Você não ganha café”, anunciou Henry.

“Não acabou, né?” perguntou Bill, ansioso.

“Não.”

“Não está achando que vai fazer mal à minha digestão?”

“Não.”

Um rubor de sangue raivoso tomou o rosto de Bill.

“Então estou é bem quentinho e ansioso pra te ouvir explicar essa”, disse ele.

“Spanker foi”, respondeu Henry.

Sem pressa, com o ar de quem se resigna à desgraça, Bill virou a cabeça e, de onde estava sentado, contou os cães.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

“Como aconteceu?”, perguntou sem demonstrar muita emoção.

Henry deu de ombros. “Não sei. A menos que Uma-Orelha tenha roído a amarra dele. Com certeza não conseguiria fazer isso sozinho.”

“Maldito miserável.” Bill falou com voz calma e lenta, sem mostrar a raiva que sentia por dentro. “Só porque não conseguiu roer a própria amarra, roeu a de Spanker.”

“Bem, acho que os problemas de Spanker acabaram. A esta altura, ele já foi digerido e está correndo por estas terras dentro de vinte lobos diferentes”, disse Henry, como comentário final sobre o cão recém-perdido. “Tome um pouco de café, Bill.”

Mas Bill balançou a cabeça.

“Vamos”, insistiu Henry, erguendo a cafeteira.

Bill afastou a caneca. “Que eu seja amaldiçoado se tomar. Disse que não beberia se algum cão desaparecesse, e não vou beber.”

“O café está muito bom”, disse Henry, tentando tentá-lo.

Mas Bill era teimoso e tomou um café da manhã seco, engolindo a comida com pragas murmuradas contra Uma-Orelha pelo truque que fizera.

Original English Version

"How'd it happen?" he asked apathetically.

Henry shrugged his shoulders. "Don't know. Unless One Ear gnawed 'm loose. He couldn't a-done it himself, that's sure."

"The darned cuss." Bill spoke gravely and slowly, with no hint of the anger that was raging within. "Jes' because he couldn't chew himself loose, he chews Spanker loose."

"Well, Spanker's troubles is over anyway; I guess he's digested by this time an' cavortin' over the landscape in the bellies of twenty different wolves," was Henry's epitaph on this, the latest lost dog. "Have some coffee, Bill."

But Bill shook his head.

"Go on," Henry pleaded, elevating the pot.

Bill shoved his cup aside. "I'll be ding-dong-danged if I do. I said I wouldn't if ary dog turned up missin', an' I won't."

"It's darn good coffee," Henry said enticingly.

But Bill was stubborn, and he ate a dry breakfast washed down with mumbled curses at One Ear for the trick he had played.

Tradução Integral em Português

“Como foi que aconteceu?” perguntou, apático.

Henry deu de ombros. “Sei lá. A não ser que Uma-Orelha tenha roído o couro dele e o soltado. Sozinho ele não podia ter feito isso, disso eu tenho certeza.”

“O maldito capeta.” Bill falou grave e devagar, sem traço da raiva que fervia por dentro. “Só porque não conseguiu se roer e soltar, foi roer e soltar o Spanker.”

“Bem, os problemas do Spanker acabaram de qualquer jeito; imagino que a esta altura ele já está digerido e cavalgando pela paisagem nas barrigas de vinte lobos diferentes”, foi o epitáfio de Henry para este, o mais recente cão perdido. “Toma um café, Bill.”

Mas Bill sacudiu a cabeça.

“Vai”, insistiu Henry, erguendo a panela.

Bill empurrou a xícara para o lado. “Que eu seja amaldiçoado de vez se eu beber. Disse que não beberia se algum cão aparecesse faltando, e não vou beber.”

“É um café danado de bom”, disse Henry, tentador.

Mas Bill foi teimoso, e comeu um café da manhã seco, regado a maldições resmungadas contra Uma-Orelha pela peça que pregara.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

“Esta noite vou amarrá-los longe do alcance uns dos outros”, disse Bill quando começaram a percorrer a trilha.

Haviam avançado pouco mais de cem metros quando Henry, que caminhava à frente, se inclinou e pegou algo em que sua raquete de neve batera. Estava escuro, por isso não podia vê-lo, mas reconheceu-o pelo toque. Jogou-o para trás, e o objeto atingiu o trenó e deslizou até parar sobre as raquetes de Bill.

“Talvez precise disso em seu trabalho”, disse Henry.

Bill soltou um grito. Era o que restava de Spanker: a vara à qual fora amarrado.

“Comeram até o couro”, disse Bill. “A vara está limpa como um assobio. Comeram o couro das duas pontas. Estão famintos, Henry, e ainda vão nos deixar espantados antes que esta viagem termine.”

Henry riu para ele. “Nunca fui seguido por lobos antes, mas já passei por coisas muito piores e continuei saudável. É preciso mais do que alguns desses bichos importunos para acabar comigo, meu caro Bill.”

Original English Version

"I'll tie 'em up out of reach of each other to-night," Bill said, as they took the trail.

They had travelled little more than a hundred yards, when Henry, who was in front, bent down and picked up something with which his snowshoe had collided. It was dark, and he could not see it, but he recognised it by the touch. He flung it back, so that it struck the sled and bounced along until it fetched up on Bill's snowshoes.

"Mebbe you'll need that in your business," Henry said.

Bill uttered an exclamation. It was all that was left of Spanker--the stick with which he had been tied.

"They ate 'm hide an' all," Bill announced. "The stick's as clean as a whistle. They've ate the leather offen both ends. They're damn hungry, Henry, an' they'll have you an' me guessin' before this trip's over."

Henry laughed defiantly. "I ain't been trailed this way by wolves before, but I've gone through a whole lot worse an' kept my health. Takes more'n a handful of them pesky critters to do for yours truly, Bill, my son."

Tradução Integral em Português

“Vou amarrar eles fora do alcance um do outro hoje à noite”, disse Bill, ao tomarem a trilha.

Tinham viajado pouco mais de cem metros quando Henry, que ia à frente, abaixou-se e apanhou algo com que sua raquete de neve colidira. Estava escuro, e ele não conseguia ver, mas reconheceu pelo tato. Atirou o objeto para trás, de modo que bateu no trenó e ricocheteou até parar contra as raquetes de Bill.

“Talvez você precise disso no seu ofício”, disse Henry.

Bill soltou uma exclamação. Era tudo o que restara de Spanker -- o pau com que fora amarrado.

“Comeram ele, couro e tudo”, anunciou Bill. “O pau está limpinho que nem apito. Roeram o couro das duas pontas. Estão com uma fome danada, Henry, e vão nos dar o que pensar antes desta viagem acabar.”

Henry riu, desafiador. “Nunca fui perseguido assim por lobos antes, mas já passei por coisa muito pior e mantive a saúde. Precisa mais que um punhado desses bichos infernais pra dar cabo de mim, Bill, meu velho.”

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

“Não sei, não sei”, disse Bill com voz sombria.

“Bem, saberá com certeza quando chegarmos a McGurry.”

“Não me sinto muito animado com isso”, repetiu Bill.

“Você não está bem, esse é o problema”, disse Henry com firmeza. “O que precisa é de quinino, e vou lhe dar uma dose forte assim que chegarmos a McGurry.”

Bill emitiu um som para mostrar que não concordava e então nada mais disse. O dia foi igual a todos os outros. A luz chegou às nove horas. Ao meio-dia, o céu ao sul se aqueceu um pouco com o sol oculto. Depois começou a fria tarde cinzenta, que três horas mais tarde se transformou em noite.

Logo depois de o sol fazer uma tentativa inútil de aparecer, Bill tirou o rifle de sob as cordas do trenó e disse:

“Continue andando, Henry. Vou ver o que encontro.”

“Devia ficar com o trenó”, disse o companheiro. “Só tem três balas, e não sabemos o que pode acontecer.”

Original English Version

"I don't know, I don't know," Bill muttered ominously.

"Well, you'll know all right when we pull into McGurry."

"I ain't feelin' special enthusiastic," Bill persisted.

"You're off colour, that's what's the matter with you," Henry dogmatised. "What you need is quinine, an' I'm goin' to dose you up stiff as soon as we make McGurry."

Bill grunted his disagreement with the diagnosis, and lapsed into silence. The day was like all the days. Light came at nine o'clock. At twelve o'clock the southern horizon was warmed by the unseen sun; and then began the cold grey of afternoon that would merge, three hours later, into night.

It was just after the sun's futile effort to appear, that Bill slipped the rifle from under the sled-lashings and said:

"You keep right on, Henry, I'm goin' to see what I can see."

"You'd better stick by the sled," his partner protested. "You've only got three cartridges, an' there's no tellin' what might happen."

Tradução Integral em Português

“Sei não, sei não”, murmurou Bill, agourento.

“Pois vai saber muito bem quando a gente chegar em McGurry.”

“Não estou me sentindo lá muito entusiasmado”, insistiu Bill.

“Você está indisposto, é isso que há de errado com você”, dogmatizou Henry. “O que você precisa é de quinino, e vou te dar uma dose braba assim que a gente chegar em McGurry.”

Bill grunhiu sua discordância do diagnóstico e mergulhou no silêncio. O dia foi como todos os dias. A luz veio às nove horas. Ao meio-dia, o horizonte sul aqueceu-se com o sol invisível; e então começou o cinza frio da tarde que se fundiria, três horas depois, com a noite.

Foi logo após o esforço fútil do sol para aparecer que Bill soltou o rifle de sob as amarras do trenó e disse:

“Você segue em frente, Henry, eu vou ver o que consigo ver.”

“Melhor você ficar junto do trenó”, protestou o parceiro. “Você só tem três cartuchos, e não dá pra saber o que pode acontecer.”

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

“Quem está dizendo que temos problemas?”, perguntou Bill com orgulho.

Henry não respondeu e continuou sozinho. Ainda assim, muitas vezes olhava preocupado para a extensão cinzenta e vazia onde o companheiro desaparecera. Uma hora depois, Bill voltou usando os atalhos que o trenó precisava evitar.

“Eles estão espalhados e avançam por uma área ampla”, disse. “Continuam nos acompanhando e, ao mesmo tempo, procuram caça. Sabem onde estamos, mas também que precisam esperar para nos pegar. Por enquanto, comerão o que encontrarem.”

“Quer dizer que eles _pensam_ saber onde estamos”, disse Henry com firmeza.

Mas Bill não respondeu. “Vi alguns. Estão muito magros. Acho que não comem há semanas, exceto Gorducho, Sapo e Spanker. E são tantos que isso quase não ajudou. Estão terrivelmente magros. As costelas sobressaem como tábuas de lavar, e a barriga quase encosta na espinha. Estão desesperados, posso garantir. Logo enlouquecerão, e então tome cuidado.”

Original English Version

"Who's croaking now?" Bill demanded triumphantly.

Henry made no reply, and plodded on alone, though often he cast anxious glances back into the grey solitude where his partner had disappeared. An hour later, taking advantage of the cut-offs around which the sled had to go, Bill arrived.

"They're scattered an' rangin' along wide," he said: "keeping up with us an' lookin' for game at the same time. You see, they're sure of us, only they know they've got to wait to get us. In the meantime they're willin' to pick up anything eatable that comes handy."

"You mean they _think_ they're sure of us," Henry objected pointedly.

But Bill ignored him. "I seen some of them. They're pretty thin. They ain't had a bite in weeks I reckon, outside of Fatty an' Frog an' Spanker; an' there's so many of 'em that that didn't go far. They're remarkable thin. Their ribs is like wash-boards, an' their stomachs is right up against their backbones. They're pretty desperate, I can tell you. They'll be goin' mad, yet, an' then watch out."

Tradução Integral em Português

“Quem está lamuriando agora?” indagou Bill, em triunfo.

Henry não respondeu, e seguiu penosamente sozinho, embora muitas vezes lançasse olhares ansiosos para trás, à solidão cinzenta onde o parceiro desaparecera. Uma hora depois, aproveitando os atalhos pelos quais o trenó tinha de contornar, Bill chegou.

“Estão espalhados e vasculhando bem largo”, disse ele: “acompanhando a gente e procurando caça ao mesmo tempo. Sabe, eles têm certeza da gente, só que sabem que precisam esperar pra nos pegar. Enquanto isso, estão dispostos a abocanhar qualquer coisa comível que apareça.”

“Você quer dizer que eles _acham_ que têm certeza da gente”, objetou Henry, incisivo.

Mas Bill o ignorou. “Vi alguns deles. Estão bem magros. Imagino que não deram uma dentada em nada faz semanas, fora o Gorducho, a Rã e o Spanker; e são tantos que aquilo não durou muito. Estão notavelmente magros. As costelas parecem tábuas de lavar roupa, e as barrigas estão coladas na espinha. Estão bem desesperados, posso te garantir. Ainda vão enlouquecer, e aí é ficar de olho.”

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Alguns minutos depois, Henry seguia atrás do trenó. Deu um assobio baixo de alerta. Bill se virou, olhou e deteve os cães em silêncio. Atrás deles, depois da última curva e exatamente sobre a trilha recém-aberta, uma figura peluda trotava em sua direção. Mantinha o focinho perto das marcas e avançava de modo estranho, suave e fácil. Quando pararam, ela também parou. Ergueu a cabeça e os encarou, movendo as narinas enquanto captava e estudava seu cheiro.

“É a loba”, disse Bill.

Os cães haviam se deitado na neve, e ele passou por eles para se juntar ao companheiro no trenó. Juntos observaram o estranho animal que os seguia havia dias e já destruíra metade da equipe de cães.

Original English Version

A few minutes later, Henry, who was now travelling behind the sled, emitted a low, warning whistle. Bill turned and looked, then quietly stopped the dogs. To the rear, from around the last bend and plainly into view, on the very trail they had just covered, trotted a furry, slinking form. Its nose was to the trail, and it trotted with a peculiar, sliding, effortless gait. When they halted, it halted, throwing up its head and regarding them steadily with nostrils that twitched as it caught and studied the scent of them.

"It's the she-wolf," Bill answered.

The dogs had lain down in the snow, and he walked past them to join his partner in the sled. Together they watched the strange animal that had pursued them for days and that had already accomplished the destruction of half their dog-team.

Tradução Integral em Português

Poucos minutos depois, Henry, que agora viajava atrás do trenó, soltou um assobio baixo, de aviso. Bill virou-se e olhou, depois parou os cães em silêncio. À retaguarda, contornando a última curva e plenamente à vista, na exata trilha que acabavam de percorrer, trotava uma forma peluda e furtiva. O focinho voltado para a trilha, ela trotava com um andar peculiar, deslizante, sem esforço. Quando eles pararam, ela parou, erguendo a cabeça e observando-os com fixidez, as narinas se contraindo enquanto captava e estudava o cheiro deles.

“É a loba”, respondeu Bill.

Os cães tinham se deitado na neve, e ele passou por eles para juntar-se ao parceiro junto ao trenó. Juntos, observaram o estranho animal que os perseguira por dias e que já consumara a destruição de metade de sua matilha.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Depois de examiná-los cuidadosamente, o animal trotou alguns passos para a frente. Repetiu isso várias vezes até ficar a uns cem metros. Então parou perto de alguns abetos, ergueu a cabeça e estudou os homens com a visão e o olfato. Olhava-os de maneira triste, como um cão, mas não havia amor canino naquele olhar. Sua tristeza vinha da fome, do frio e de uma necessidade cruel de sobreviver.

Era grande para uma loba, com um corpo magro que mostrava ser uma das maiores de sua espécie.

“Tem quase setenta e cinco centímetros até os ombros”, disse Henry. “E aposto que mede perto de um metro e meio de comprimento.”

“Uma cor estranha para um lobo”, disse Bill. “Nunca vi um lobo vermelho. Para mim, parece quase cor de canela.”

O animal não era realmente cor de canela. Sua pelagem era a autêntica pelagem de lobo. Quase toda cinzenta, mas com um leve tom vermelho que surgia e desaparecia. Às vezes parecia cinzenta; outras, exibia uma suave cor avermelhada difícil de explicar.

Original English Version

After a searching scrutiny, the animal trotted forward a few steps. This it repeated several times, till it was a short hundred yards away. It paused, head up, close by a clump of spruce trees, and with sight and scent studied the outfit of the watching men. It looked at them in a strangely wistful way, after the manner of a dog; but in its wistfulness there was none of the dog affection. It was a wistfulness bred of hunger, as cruel as its own fangs, as merciless as the frost itself.

It was large for a wolf, its gaunt frame advertising the lines of an animal that was among the largest of its kind.

"Stands pretty close to two feet an' a half at the shoulders," Henry commented. "An' I'll bet it ain't far from five feet long."

"Kind of strange colour for a wolf," was Bill's criticism. "I never seen a red wolf before. Looks almost cinnamon to me."

The animal was certainly not cinnamon-coloured. Its coat was the true wolf-coat. The dominant colour was grey, and yet there was to it a faint reddish hue--a hue that was baffling, that appeared and disappeared, that was more like an illusion of the vision, now grey, distinctly grey, and again giving hints and glints of a vague redness of colour not classifiable in terms of ordinary experience.

Tradução Integral em Português

Depois de um escrutínio penetrante, o animal trotou alguns passos à frente. Repetiu isso várias vezes, até estar a uns escassos cem metros. Deteve-se, cabeça erguida, junto a um bosquete de abetos e, com a vista e o faro, estudou o equipamento dos homens que observavam. Olhava para eles de um jeito estranhamente saudoso, à maneira de um cão; mas em sua saudade não havia nada do afeto canino. Era uma saudade gerada pela fome, tão cruel quanto suas próprias presas, tão impiedosa quanto a própria geada.

Era grande para um lobo, sua estrutura descarnada denunciando as linhas de um animal que estava entre os maiores de sua espécie.

“Chega a quase setenta e cinco centímetros na altura dos ombros”, comentou Henry. “E aposto que não está longe de um metro e meio de comprimento.”

“Cor meio estranha pra um lobo”, foi a crítica de Bill. “Nunca vi um lobo vermelho antes. Pra mim parece quase cor de canela.”

O animal certamente não era cor de canela. Sua pelagem era a verdadeira pelagem de lobo. A cor dominante era o cinza, e no entanto havia nela um leve tom avermelhado -- um tom desconcertante, que aparecia e desaparecia, que era mais como uma ilusão da vista, ora cinza, distintamente cinza, ora deixando entrever lampejos de um vago rubor de cor não classificável nos termos da experiência comum.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

“Parece exatamente um grande cão de trenó husky”, disse Bill. “Não me surpreenderia vê-la abanar a cauda.”

“Olá, husky!”, chamou. “Venha cá, seja lá qual for seu nome.”

“Ela não tem o menor medo de você”, riu Henry.

Bill agitou a mão numa ameaça e gritou, mas o animal não demonstrou medo. Apenas ficou mais alerta. Continuou observando-os com a fria esperança da fome. Para ela, eram carne e, se ousasse, avançaria e os comeria.

“Veja, Henry”, disse Bill, baixando involuntariamente a voz para um sussurro. “Temos três cartuchos. Mas é um tiro fácil. Não poderíamos errar. Ela já levou três cães, e precisamos detê-la. O que acha?”

Henry concordou com a cabeça. Bill tirou cuidadosamente o rifle de sob a corda do trenó. Começou a erguê-lo até o ombro, mas não teve oportunidade. Naquele instante, a loba saltou para o lado, saiu da trilha, entrou entre os abetos e desapareceu.

Original English Version

"Looks for all the world like a big husky sled-dog," Bill said. "I wouldn't be s'prised to see it wag its tail."

"Hello, you husky!" he called. "Come here, you whatever-your-name-is."

"Ain't a bit scairt of you," Henry laughed.

Bill waved his hand at it threateningly and shouted loudly; but the animal betrayed no fear. The only change in it that they could notice was an accession of alertness. It still regarded them with the merciless wistfulness of hunger. They were meat, and it was hungry; and it would like to go in and eat them if it dared.

"Look here, Henry," Bill said, unconsciously lowering his voice to a whisper because of what he imitated. "We've got three cartridges. But it's a dead shot. Couldn't miss it. It's got away with three of our dogs, an' we oughter put a stop to it. What d'ye say?"

Henry nodded his consent. Bill cautiously slipped the gun from under the sled-lashing. The gun was on the way to his shoulder, but it never got there. For in that instant the she-wolf leaped sidewise from the trail into the clump of spruce trees and disappeared.

Tradução Integral em Português

“É igualzinho a um grande husky de trenó”, disse Bill. “Não me espantaria de ver ele abanar o rabo.”

“Ei, husky!” chamou ele. “Vem cá, seja lá qual for o teu nome.”

“Não tem o menor medo de você”, riu Henry.

Bill acenou-lhe com a mão de modo ameaçador e gritou bem alto; mas o animal não traiu medo algum. A única mudança que puderam notar nele foi um acréscimo de vigilância. Continuava a fitá-los com a saudade impiedosa da fome. Eles eram carne, e ele estava faminto; e teria gostado de avançar e comê-los, se ousasse.

“Olha aqui, Henry”, disse Bill, baixando inconscientemente a voz para um sussurro por causa do que imitava. “A gente tem três cartuchos. Mas é um tiro na certa. Impossível errar. Ela deu cabo de três dos nossos cães, e a gente devia dar um fim nisso. Que é que você diz?”

Henry assentiu com o seu consentimento. Bill soltou a arma de sob a amarra do trenó, com cautela. A arma ia a caminho do ombro, mas nunca chegou lá. Pois, naquele instante, a loba saltou de lado, da trilha para o bosquete de abetos, e desapareceu.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Os dois homens se entreolharam. Henry soltou um longo assobio de compreensão.

“Eu devia ter adivinhado”, disse Bill em voz alta, guardando o rifle. “É claro que uma loba que entra entre os cães na hora da comida entende de armas. Aquele animal é a causa de todos os nossos problemas. Teríamos seis cães, e não três, se não fosse por ela. E vou pegá-la, Henry. É esperta demais para levar um tiro em campo aberto. Mas vou esperá-la e atacá-la escondido, tão certo quanto meu nome é Bill.”

“É melhor não ir longe demais”, advertiu o companheiro. “Se aquela matilha avançar sobre você, esses três cartuchos não valerão mais que três gritos no inferno. Os animais estão famintos e, quando começarem, sem dúvida o pegarão, Bill.”

Original English Version

The two men looked at each other. Henry whistled long and comprehendingly.

"I might have knowed it," Bill chided himself aloud as he replaced the gun. "Of course a wolf that knows enough to come in with the dogs at feedin' time, 'd know all about shooting-irons. I tell you right now, Henry, that critter's the cause of all our trouble. We'd have six dogs at the present time, 'stead of three, if it wasn't for her. An' I tell you right now, Henry, I'm goin' to get her. She's too smart to be shot in the open. But I'm goin' to lay for her. I'll bushwhack her as sure as my name is Bill."

"You needn't stray off too far in doin' it," his partner admonished. "If that pack ever starts to jump you, them three cartridges'd be wuth no more'n three whoops in hell. Them animals is damn hungry, an' once they start in, they'll sure get you, Bill."

Tradução Integral em Português

Os dois homens se entreolharam. Henry assobiou, longo e compreensivo.

“Eu devia ter imaginado”, censurou-se Bill em voz alta, ao guardar a arma. “É claro que um lobo que sabe o bastante pra entrar junto com os cães na hora da comida ia saber tudo sobre armas de fogo. Te digo agora mesmo, Henry, aquele bicho é a causa de todo o nosso problema. A esta altura a gente teria seis cães, em vez de três, se não fosse por ela. E te digo agora mesmo, Henry, eu vou pegar ela. É esperta demais pra ser abatida a céu aberto. Mas vou ficar de tocaia. Vou emboscar ela, tão certo quanto o meu nome é Bill.”

“Você não precisa se afastar demais pra fazer isso”, admoestou o parceiro. “Se aquela matilha resolver avançar em você, aqueles três cartuchos não valeriam mais do que três gritos no inferno. Aqueles bichos estão com uma fome danada, e, uma vez que comecem, vão te pegar na certa, Bill.”

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Acamparam cedo naquela noite. Três cães não conseguiam puxar o trenó tão depressa nem por tanto tempo quanto seis e estavam claramente cansados. Os homens se deitaram cedo. Primeiro, Bill garantiu que os cães ficassem amarrados longe o bastante para não morderem uns aos outros.

Mas os lobos ficavam mais ousados, e os homens foram despertados mais de uma vez. Chegavam tão perto que os cães enlouqueciam de medo. De tempos em tempos, os homens precisavam acrescentar lenha à fogueira para manter os lobos atrevidos a uma distância mais segura.

“Já ouvi marinheiros falarem de tubarões seguindo um navio”, disse Bill ao voltar para os cobertores depois de alimentar o fogo. “Pois estes lobos são tubarões da terra. Sabem o que fazem melhor que nós e não seguem nossa trilha por diversão. Vão nos pegar. Com certeza vão nos pegar, Henry.”

Original English Version

They camped early that night. Three dogs could not drag the sled so fast nor for so long hours as could six, and they were showing unmistakable signs of playing out. And the men went early to bed, Bill first seeing to it that the dogs were tied out of gnawing-reach of one another.

But the wolves were growing bolder, and the men were aroused more than once from their sleep. So near did the wolves approach, that the dogs became frantic with terror, and it was necessary to replenish the fire from time to time in order to keep the adventurous marauders at safer distance.

"I've hearn sailors talk of sharks followin' a ship," Bill remarked, as he crawled back into the blankets after one such replenishing of the fire. "Well, them wolves is land sharks. They know their business better'n we do, an' they ain't a-holdin' our trail this way for their health. They're goin' to get us. They're sure goin' to get us, Henry."

Tradução Integral em Português

Acamparam cedo naquela noite. Três cães não conseguiam arrastar o trenó tão depressa nem por tantas horas quanto seis, e davam sinais inconfundíveis de estar exaustos. E os homens foram cedo para a cama, Bill primeiro cuidando de que os cães ficassem amarrados fora do alcance de roer uns dos outros.

Mas os lobos ficavam mais ousados, e os homens foram despertados mais de uma vez do sono. Tão perto chegavam os lobos que os cães ficavam frenéticos de terror, e era preciso reabastecer o fogo de tempos em tempos, a fim de manter os aventureiros salteadores a uma distância mais segura.

“Já ouvi marinheiros falarem de tubarões seguindo um navio”, observou Bill, ao enfiar-se de volta nos cobertores depois de um desses reabastecimentos do fogo. “Pois esses lobos são tubarões de terra. Conhecem o ofício deles melhor do que a gente, e não estão grudados na nossa trilha desse jeito à toa. Vão nos pegar. Vão nos pegar na certa, Henry.”

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

“Já quase pegaram você, se fala desse jeito”, respondeu Henry com rispidez. “Um homem está meio derrotado quando admite isso. E, pelo modo como fala, você já está meio devorado.”

“Eles já pegaram homens melhores que você e eu”, respondeu Bill.

“Ah, pare de agourar. Você me deixa muito cansado.”

Henry virou-se irritado de lado, mas se surpreendeu porque Bill não demonstrou raiva. Isso não era comum nele, que se alterava facilmente com palavras duras. Henry pensou nisso por muito tempo antes de adormecer. Quando seus olhos se fecharam, pensou: “Não há dúvida. Bill está muito desanimado. Terei de animá-lo amanhã.”

Original English Version

"They've half got you a'ready, a-talkin' like that," Henry retorted sharply. "A man's half licked when he says he is. An' you're half eaten from the way you're goin' on about it."

"They've got away with better men than you an' me," Bill answered.

"Oh, shet up your croakin'. You make me all-fired tired."

Henry rolled over angrily on his side, but was surprised that Bill made no similar display of temper. This was not Bill's way, for he was easily angered by sharp words. Henry thought long over it before he went to sleep, and as his eyelids fluttered down and he dozed off, the thought in his mind was: "There's no mistakin' it, Bill's almighty blue. I'll have to cheer him up to-morrow."

Tradução Integral em Português

“Eles já pegaram você pela metade, falando desse jeito”, retrucou Henry, incisivo. “Um homem está meio vencido quando diz que está. E você está meio comido, do jeito que fica remoendo isso.”

“Já deram cabo de homens melhores do que você e eu”, respondeu Bill.

“Ah, cala essa boca com teus lamentos. Você me deixa cansado pra danar.”

Henry rolou de lado com raiva, mas surpreendeu-se de que Bill não fizesse igual demonstração de mau humor. Não era do feitio de Bill, pois ele se irritava facilmente com palavras ásperas. Henry ficou muito tempo pensando naquilo antes de dormir e, ao baterem-lhe as pálpebras e cochilar, o pensamento em sua mente era: “Não tem como negar, o Bill está deprimidíssimo. Vou ter de animar ele amanhã.”

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

The Hunger Cry

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

O dia começou bem. Não haviam perdido cães durante a noite e seguiram pela trilha, entrando no silêncio, na escuridão e no frio com ânimo razoável. Bill parecia ter esquecido seus temores e até brincou com os cães quando eles viraram o trenó num trecho ruim ao meio-dia.

Foi uma grande confusão. O trenó estava de cabeça para baixo, preso entre um tronco e uma rocha enorme, por isso tiveram de soltar os cães para consertá-lo. Os dois homens se inclinavam sobre o trenó, tentando endireitá-lo, quando Henry viu Uma-Orelha se afastar.

“Aqui, Uma-Orelha!”, gritou, endireitando-se e voltando-se para o cão.

Original English Version

The day began auspiciously. They had lost no dogs during the night, and they swung out upon the trail and into the silence, the darkness, and the cold with spirits that were fairly light. Bill seemed to have forgotten his forebodings of the previous night, and even waxed facetious with the dogs when, at midday, they overturned the sled on a bad piece of trail.

It was an awkward mix-up. The sled was upside down and jammed between a tree-trunk and a huge rock, and they were forced to unharness the dogs in order to straighten out the tangle. The two men were bent over the sled and trying to right it, when Henry observed One Ear sidling away.

"Here, you, One Ear!" he cried, straightening up and turning around on the dog.

Tradução Integral em Português

O dia começou sob bons auspícios. Não haviam perdido cão algum durante a noite, e lançaram-se à trilha e adentraram o silêncio, a escuridão e o frio com o ânimo razoavelmente leve. Bill parecia ter esquecido seus maus presságios da noite anterior, e chegou até a fazer piadas com os cães quando, ao meio-dia, viraram o trenó num trecho ruim da trilha.

Foi uma confusão desajeitada. O trenó ficara de cabeça para baixo, entalado entre um tronco de árvore e uma rocha enorme, e foram obrigados a desatrelar os cães a fim de desfazer o emaranhado. Os dois homens estavam curvados sobre o trenó, tentando endireitá-lo, quando Henry notou Uma-Orelha se esgueirando para longe.

“Ei, você, Uma-Orelha!” gritou ele, endireitando-se e virando-se para o cão.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Mas Uma-Orelha correu pela neve, arrastando as correias. Lá fora, na trilha atrás deles, a loba o esperava. Ao se aproximar, ele ficou cauteloso. Reduziu o passo e avançou atento e delicado, depois parou. Estudou-a com dúvida, mas também com desejo. Ela parecia sorrir, mostrando os dentes de modo amistoso, não ameaçador. Avançou alguns passos como se brincasse e parou. Uma-Orelha se aproximou, ainda alerta, com cauda e orelhas erguidas e a cabeça alta.

Tentou encostar o focinho no dela, mas a loba recuou de forma brincalhona e tímida. Cada passo dele para a frente fazia com que ela recuasse. Pouco a pouco, atraía-o para longe da segurança dos companheiros humanos. Certa vez, ele virou a cabeça e olhou para o trenó tombado, os outros cães e os dois homens que o chamavam.

Original English Version

But One Ear broke into a run across the snow, his traces trailing behind him. And there, out in the snow of their back track, was the she-wolf waiting for him. As he neared her, he became suddenly cautious. He slowed down to an alert and mincing walk and then stopped. He regarded her carefully and dubiously, yet desirefully. She seemed to smile at him, showing her teeth in an ingratiating rather than a menacing way. She moved toward him a few steps, playfully, and then halted. One Ear drew near to her, still alert and cautious, his tail and ears in the air, his head held high.

He tried to sniff noses with her, but she retreated playfully and coyly. Every advance on his part was accompanied by a corresponding retreat on her part. Step by step she was luring him away from the security of his human companionship. Once, as though a warning had in vague ways flitted through his intelligence, he turned his head and looked back at the overturned sled, at his team-mates, and at the two men who were calling to him.

Tradução Integral em Português

Mas Uma-Orelha disparou numa corrida pela neve, os tirantes arrastando atrás dele. E ali, na neve da trilha por onde tinham vindo, estava a loba à espera dele. Ao aproximar-se dela, ele ficou subitamente cauteloso. Reduziu a marcha a um andar alerta e miúdo e então parou. Fitou-a com cuidado e desconfiança, mas com desejo. Ela pareceu sorrir para ele, mostrando os dentes de um modo mais insinuante do que ameaçador. Moveu-se alguns passos em direção a ele, brincalhona, e então parou. Uma-Orelha aproximou-se dela, ainda alerta e cauteloso, a cauda e as orelhas no ar, a cabeça bem erguida.

Ele tentou farejar focinho com focinho, mas ela recuou, brincalhona e esquiva. Cada avanço da parte dele era acompanhado por um recuo correspondente da parte dela. Passo a passo, ela o atraía para longe da segurança de sua companhia humana. Uma vez, como se um aviso houvesse de modo vago perpassado sua inteligência, ele voltou a cabeça e olhou para trás, para o trenó virado, para seus companheiros de matilha e para os dois homens que o chamavam.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Mas qualquer pensamento foi interrompido pela loba. Ela avançou, tocou por um instante o focinho no dele e tornou a recuar enquanto ele a seguia.

Enquanto isso, Bill se lembrou do rifle. Mas ele estava preso sob o trenó virado e, quando Henry o ajudou a endireitar a carga, Uma-Orelha e a loba estavam próximos demais, e a distância era grande demais para arriscar um tiro.

Tarde demais, Uma-Orelha compreendeu o erro. Antes de saberem o motivo, os homens o viram virar e correr de volta. Então viram uma dúzia de lobos cinzentos e magros avançando em ângulo reto com a trilha e cortando sua fuga. Imediatamente, a loba deixou de agir com timidez e brincadeira. Com um rosnado, saltou sobre Uma-Orelha. Ele a afastou com o ombro e, com o caminho de volta bloqueado, ainda tentando alcançar o trenó, mudou de direção e tentou contorná-los. Mais lobos apareciam a cada momento e se juntavam à perseguição. A loba corria um salto atrás de Uma-Orelha, acompanhando seu ritmo.

Original English Version

But whatever idea was forming in his mind, was dissipated by the she-wolf, who advanced upon him, sniffed noses with him for a fleeting instant, and then resumed her coy retreat before his renewed advances.

In the meantime, Bill had bethought himself of the rifle. But it was jammed beneath the overturned sled, and by the time Henry had helped him to right the load, One Ear and the she-wolf were too close together and the distance too great to risk a shot.

Too late One Ear learned his mistake. Before they saw the cause, the two men saw him turn and start to run back toward them. Then, approaching at right angles to the trail and cutting off his retreat they saw a dozen wolves, lean and grey, bounding across the snow. On the instant, the she- wolf's coyness and playfulness disappeared. With a snarl she sprang upon One Ear. He thrust her off with his shoulder, and, his retreat cut off and still intent on regaining the sled, he altered his course in an attempt to circle around to it. More wolves were appearing every moment and joining in the chase. The she-wolf was one leap behind One Ear and holding her own.

Tradução Integral em Português

Mas qualquer que fosse a ideia que se formava em sua mente, foi dissipada pela loba, que avançou sobre ele, farejou focinho com focinho por um instante fugaz, e então retomou seu recuo esquivo diante dos avanços renovados dele.

Enquanto isso, Bill lembrara-se do rifle. Mas ele estava entalado sob o trenó virado e, quando Henry acabara de ajudá-lo a endireitar a carga, Uma-Orelha e a loba estavam próximos demais um do outro, e a distância grande demais para arriscar um tiro.

Tarde demais Uma-Orelha percebeu seu erro. Antes de verem a causa, os dois homens o viram virar-se e começar a correr de volta em direção a eles. Então, aproximando-se em ângulo reto com a trilha e cortando-lhe a retirada, viram uma dúzia de lobos, magros e cinzentos, saltando pela neve. No mesmo instante, o recato e a brincadeira da loba desapareceram. Com um rosnado, ela saltou sobre Uma-Orelha. Ele a repeliu com o ombro e, cortada a retirada e ainda decidido a alcançar o trenó, alterou o curso numa tentativa de contorná-lo em círculo. Mais lobos surgiam a cada momento e se juntavam à perseguição. A loba estava um salto atrás de Uma-Orelha, mantendo a distância.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

"Aonde você vai?", perguntou Henry de repente, pondo a mão no braço do companheiro.

Bill afastou a mão dele. "Não vou aceitar isso", disse. "Eles não vão pegar mais nenhum dos nossos cães, se eu puder impedir."

Com a espingarda na mão, ele se lançou para dentro do mato ao lado da trilha. Seu plano era claro. Tomou o trenó como centro do círculo que Uma Orelha estava fazendo e pretendia alcançar esse círculo à frente da perseguição. Com o rifle e à luz do dia, talvez conseguisse assustar os lobos e salvar o cão.

"Bill!", gritou Henry atrás dele. "Tenha cuidado! Não se arrisque!"

Henry sentou-se no trenó e ficou observando. Não havia mais nada que pudesse fazer. Bill já havia desaparecido, mas de vez em quando era possível ver Uma Orelha avançando entre os arbustos e os pequenos abetos. Henry sabia que o cão tinha pouca esperança. Uma Orelha conhecia o perigo, mas corria pelo círculo externo, enquanto os lobos corriam pelo círculo interno, mais curto. Era inútil imaginar que ele pudesse avançar o bastante para cruzar o caminho deles e voltar ao trenó.

Original English Version

"Where are you goin'?" Henry suddenly demanded, laying his hand on his partner's arm.

Bill shook it off. "I won't stand it," he said. "They ain't a-goin' to get any more of our dogs if I can help it."

Gun in hand, he plunged into the underbrush that lined the side of the trail. His intention was apparent enough. Taking the sled as the centre of the circle that One Ear was making, Bill planned to tap that circle at a point in advance of the pursuit. With his rifle, in the broad daylight, it might be possible for him to awe the wolves and save the dog.

"Say, Bill!" Henry called after him. "Be careful! Don't take no chances!"

Henry sat down on the sled and watched. There was nothing else for him to do. Bill had already gone from sight; but now and again, appearing and disappearing amongst the underbrush and the scattered clumps of spruce, could be seen One Ear. Henry judged his case to be hopeless. The dog was thoroughly alive to its danger, but it was running on the outer circle while the wolf-pack was running on the inner and shorter circle. It was vain to think of One Ear so outdistancing his pursuers as to be able to cut across their circle in advance of them and to regain the sled.

Tradução Integral em Português

“Aonde você vai?” exigiu Henry de repente, pousando a mão no braço do parceiro.

Bill sacudiu-a para longe. “Não vou aturar isso”, disse ele. “Eles não vão pegar mais nenhum dos nossos cães, se eu puder evitar.”

Arma na mão, embrenhou-se no matagal que ladeava a trilha. Sua intenção era bastante clara. Tomando o trenó como o centro do círculo que Uma-Orelha descrevia, Bill planejava interceptar esse círculo num ponto à frente da perseguição. Com o rifle, em plena luz do dia, talvez lhe fosse possível intimidar os lobos e salvar o cão.

“Ei, Bill!” gritou Henry atrás dele. “Toma cuidado! Não arrisca nada!”

Henry sentou-se no trenó e observou. Não havia mais nada que pudesse fazer. Bill já sumira de vista; mas de quando em quando, aparecendo e desaparecendo entre o matagal e os tufos esparsos de abetos, dava para ver Uma-Orelha. Henry julgou o caso dele desesperado. O cão estava plenamente consciente do perigo, mas corria pelo círculo externo, enquanto a matilha de lobos corria pelo círculo interno e mais curto. Era vão pensar que Uma-Orelha pudesse distanciar-se tanto de seus perseguidores a ponto de conseguir cortar o círculo deles pela frente e alcançar o trenó.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

As duas rotas avançavam rapidamente para o mesmo ponto. Em algum lugar na neve, ocultos pelas árvores e pelos arbustos, Henry sabia que a alcateia, Uma Orelha e Bill estavam convergindo. Tudo aconteceu muito mais depressa do que ele esperava. Ouviu um tiro, depois outro, e soube que Bill estava sem balas. Em seguida vieram rosnados altos e ganidos. Ouviu Uma Orelha gritar de dor e medo e ouviu o som de um lobo que indicava que um deles fora gravemente ferido. Então tudo parou. Os rosnados cessaram. Os ganidos se apagaram. O silêncio voltou à terra solitária.

Ele ficou sentado no trenó por muito tempo. Não havia necessidade de ir procurar. Sabia o que havia acontecido como se tivesse visto tudo. Em certo momento, levantou-se de um salto e tirou depressa o machado debaixo das amarras. Mas depois tornou a se sentar e ficou pensando com tristeza, enquanto os dois cães restantes se encolhiam e tremiam a seus pés.

Original English Version

The different lines were rapidly approaching a point. Somewhere out there in the snow, screened from his sight by trees and thickets, Henry knew that the wolf-pack, One Ear, and Bill were coming together. All too quickly, far more quickly than he had expected, it happened. He heard a shot, then two shots, in rapid succession, and he knew that Bill's ammunition was gone. Then he heard a great outcry of snarls and yelps. He recognised One Ear's yell of pain and terror, and he heard a wolf-cry that bespoke a stricken animal. And that was all. The snarls ceased. The yelping died away. Silence settled down again over the lonely land.

He sat for a long while upon the sled. There was no need for him to go and see what had happened. He knew it as though it had taken place before his eyes. Once, he roused with a start and hastily got the axe out from underneath the lashings. But for some time longer he sat and brooded, the two remaining dogs crouching and trembling at his feet.

Tradução Integral em Português

As diferentes linhas aproximavam-se rapidamente de um ponto único. Em algum lugar lá fora, na neve, oculto de sua vista por árvores e moitas, Henry sabia que a matilha, Uma-Orelha e Bill estavam se encontrando. Depressa demais, muito mais depressa do que ele esperava, aconteceu. Ouviu um tiro, depois dois tiros, em rápida sucessão, e soube que a munição de Bill acabara. Então ouviu um grande clamor de rosnados e ganidos. Reconheceu o grito de dor e terror de Uma-Orelha, e ouviu um uivo de lobo que denunciava um animal atingido. E foi tudo. Os rosnados cessaram. Os ganidos morreram. O silêncio tornou a se assentar sobre a terra solitária.

Ficou muito tempo sentado no trenó. Não havia necessidade de ir ver o que acontecera. Ele o sabia como se tivesse se passado diante de seus olhos. Uma vez, sobressaltou-se e apressou-se a tirar o machado de sob as amarras. Mas, por mais algum tempo, ficou sentado a matutar, os dois cães restantes agachados e trêmulos a seus pés.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Por fim, levantou-se cansado, como se toda a sua força o tivesse abandonado, e atrelou os cães ao trenó. Passou uma corda pelo ombro e puxou junto com eles. Não foi longe. Quando a escuridão começou a cair, montou acampamento depressa e tratou de juntar bastante lenha. Alimentou os cães, preparou e comeu o jantar e deitou-se perto do fogo.

Mas não conseguiu desfrutar daquela cama. Antes que pudesse dormir, os lobos chegaram perto demais para que estivesse seguro. Já não precisava forçar os olhos para vê-los. Estavam ao redor dele e do fogo, formando um pequeno círculo. À luz das chamas, ele os via claramente, deitados, sentados, rastejando de barriga no chão ou andando silenciosamente de um lado para outro. Alguns até dormiam. Aqui e ali, via um deles enroscado na neve como um cão, conseguindo o sono que ele próprio não podia ter.

Original English Version

At last he arose in a weary manner, as though all the resilience had gone out of his body, and proceeded to fasten the dogs to the sled. He passed a rope over his shoulder, a man-trace, and pulled with the dogs. He did not go far. At the first hint of darkness he hastened to make a camp, and he saw to it that he had a generous supply of firewood. He fed the dogs, cooked and ate his supper, and made his bed close to the fire.

But he was not destined to enjoy that bed. Before his eyes closed the wolves had drawn too near for safety. It no longer required an effort of the vision to see them. They were all about him and the fire, in a narrow circle, and he could see them plainly in the firelight lying down, sitting up, crawling forward on their bellies, or slinking back and forth. They even slept. Here and there he could see one curled up in the snow like a dog, taking the sleep that was now denied himself.

Tradução Integral em Português

Por fim ergueu-se de modo cansado, como se toda a resistência tivesse abandonado o seu corpo, e tratou de atrelar os cães ao trenó. Passou uma corda pelo ombro, um tirante de homem, e puxou junto com os cães. Não foi longe. Ao primeiro indício de escuridão, apressou-se a montar acampamento, e cuidou de ter um farto suprimento de lenha. Alimentou os cães, cozinhou e comeu sua ceia, e fez a cama bem perto do fogo.

Mas não estava destinado a desfrutar daquela cama. Antes que fechasse os olhos, os lobos já se haviam aproximado demais para haver segurança. Já não requeria esforço da vista enxergá-los. Estavam todos em torno dele e do fogo, num círculo estreito, e ele podia vê-los com clareza à luz das chamas, deitados, sentados, rastejando para a frente sobre a barriga, ou esgueirando-se de um lado para outro. Chegavam até a dormir. Aqui e ali podia ver um enroscado na neve como um cão, aproveitando o sono que agora lhe era negado.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Manteve o fogo ardendo intensamente, pois sabia que era a única coisa entre seu corpo e os dentes famintos deles. Seus dois cães ficaram junto dele, um de cada lado, encostando-se nele em busca de proteção. Choravam e gemiam e, às vezes, rosnavam com ferocidade quando um lobo chegava perto demais. Então todo o círculo ficava inquieto. Os lobos se levantavam e avançavam um pouco, e rosnados e ganidos ansiosos soavam ao redor dele. Depois disso, o círculo tornava a se deitar, e um lobo após outro voltava a um sono interrompido.

Mas o círculo continuava se aproximando. Pouco a pouco, um lobo de cada vez, ele se estreitou até os animais ficarem quase perto o bastante para saltar. Então Henry arrancou gravetos em chamas do fogo e os atirou na alcateia. Eles sempre recuavam de imediato, ganindo com raiva e mordendo o ar de medo quando um tição bem lançado atingia e queimava algum lobo atrevido.

Original English Version

He kept the fire brightly blazing, for he knew that it alone intervened between the flesh of his body and their hungry fangs. His two dogs stayed close by him, one on either side, leaning against him for protection, crying and whimpering, and at times snarling desperately when a wolf approached a little closer than usual. At such moments, when his dogs snarled, the whole circle would be agitated, the wolves coming to their feet and pressing tentatively forward, a chorus of snarls and eager yelps rising about him. Then the circle would lie down again, and here and there a wolf would resume its broken nap.

But this circle had a continuous tendency to draw in upon him. Bit by bit, an inch at a time, with here a wolf bellying forward, and there a wolf bellying forward, the circle would narrow until the brutes were almost within springing distance. Then he would seize brands from the fire and hurl them into the pack. A hasty drawing back always resulted, accompanied by angry yelps and frightened snarls when a well-aimed brand struck and scorched a too daring animal.

Tradução Integral em Português

Manteve o fogo em intensa labareda, pois sabia que só ele se interpunha entre a carne de seu corpo e as presas famintas deles. Seus dois cães ficavam bem junto dele, um de cada lado, encostando-se nele por proteção, chorando e choramingando, e às vezes rosnando desesperadamente quando um lobo se aproximava um pouco mais que o habitual. Nesses momentos, quando seus cães rosnavam, todo o círculo se agitava, os lobos pondo-se de pé e pressionando à frente de modo tentativo, um coro de rosnados e ganidos ávidos erguendo-se ao redor dele. Então o círculo tornava a se deitar, e aqui e ali um lobo retomava seu cochilo interrompido.

Mas esse círculo tinha uma tendência contínua de se fechar sobre ele. Aos poucos, um palmo de cada vez, com um lobo rastejando de barriga à frente aqui, e outro lobo rastejando de barriga à frente ali, o círculo ia se estreitando até que as feras estavam quase à distância de um salto. Então ele agarrava tições do fogo e os arremessava contra a matilha. Um recuo apressado sempre se seguia, acompanhado de ganidos raivosos e rosnados assustados quando um tição bem mirado atingia e chamuscava um animal ousado demais.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

A manhã encontrou o homem cansado e exausto, com os olhos arregalados pela falta de sono. Ele preparou o café da manhã no escuro. Às nove horas, quando o dia clareou e a alcateia recuou, começou a tarefa que havia planejado durante a longa noite. Cortou árvores jovens e usou-as como travessas para uma plataforma, amarrando-as no alto dos troncos das árvores em pé. Depois, usando a corda do trenó para içar e contando com a ajuda dos cães, ergueu o caixão até o alto da plataforma.

"Eles pegaram Bill e talvez me peguem, mas com certeza nunca vão pegar você, meu jovem", disse ele ao cadáver em seu túmulo na árvore.

Então seguiu pela trilha, e o trenó mais leve saltava atrás dos cães dispostos. Eles também sabiam que a segurança significava chegar ao Forte McGurry. Agora os lobos os seguiam mais abertamente. Trotavam com calma atrás deles e dos dois lados, com as línguas vermelhas pendentes e as costelas magras aparecendo a cada passo. Estavam terrivelmente magros, apenas pele sobre ossos e músculos fracos. Henry mal conseguia acreditar que ainda se mantivessem em pé e não caíssem na neve.

Original English Version

Morning found the man haggard and worn, wide-eyed from want of sleep. He cooked breakfast in the darkness, and at nine o'clock, when, with the coming of daylight, the wolf-pack drew back, he set about the task he had planned through the long hours of the night. Chopping down young saplings, he made them cross-bars of a scaffold by lashing them high up to the trunks of standing trees. Using the sled-lashing for a heaving rope, and with the aid of the dogs, he hoisted the coffin to the top of the scaffold.

"They got Bill, an' they may get me, but they'll sure never get you, young man," he said, addressing the dead body in its tree-sepulchre.

Then he took the trail, the lightened sled bounding along behind the willing dogs; for they, too, knew that safety lay open in the gaining of Fort McGurry. The wolves were now more open in their pursuit, trotting sedately behind and ranging along on either side, their red tongues lolling out, their lean sides showing the undulating ribs with every movement. They were very lean, mere skin-bags stretched over bony frames, with strings for muscles--so lean that Henry found it in his mind to marvel that they still kept their feet and did not collapse forthright in the snow.

Tradução Integral em Português

A manhã encontrou o homem abatido e exausto, os olhos arregalados pela falta de sono. Cozinhou o café da manhã na escuridão e, às nove horas, quando, com a chegada da luz do dia, a matilha recuou, pôs-se à tarefa que planejara ao longo das longas horas da noite. Derrubando árvores novas, fez delas as travessas de um cadafalso, amarrando-as bem no alto aos troncos de árvores de pé. Usando a amarra do trenó como corda de içar, e com a ajuda dos cães, guindou o caixão até o topo do cadafalso.

“Eles pegaram o Bill, e podem me pegar, mas nunca vão pegar você, moço”, disse ele, dirigindo-se ao corpo morto em seu sepulcro de árvore.

Então tomou a trilha, o trenó aliviado saltando atrás dos cães dispostos; pois eles também sabiam que a salvação se abria na chegada a Forte McGurry. Os lobos agora eram mais francos em sua perseguição, trotando comedidamente atrás e vasculhando dos dois lados, as línguas vermelhas pendentes, os flancos magros mostrando as costelas ondulantes a cada movimento. Estavam muito magros, meros sacos de pele esticados sobre estruturas ósseas, com cordões por músculos -- tão magros que Henry se pôs a maravilhar-se, em pensamento, de que ainda se mantivessem de pé e não desabassem de imediato na neve.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Ele não ousava viajar até escurecer. Ao meio-dia, o sol aqueceu o céu ao sul, e até sua pálida borda dourada apareceu acima do horizonte. Ele tomou aquilo como um sinal. Os dias estavam ficando mais longos. O sol estava voltando. Mas assim que a luz diminuiu, parou e montou acampamento. Ainda restavam várias horas de claridade cinzenta e crepúsculo escuro, e ele as usou para cortar uma grande quantidade de lenha.

A noite trouxe medo. Os lobos famintos estavam ficando mais ousados, e Henry se enfraquecia pela falta de sono. Continuava cochilando perto do fogo, com cobertores sobre os ombros, o machado entre os joelhos e um cão encostado de cada lado. Certa vez, acordou e viu um grande lobo cinzento, um dos maiores da alcateia, a não mais de quatro metros de distância. Enquanto Henry observava, o lobo se espreguiçou como um cão preguiçoso, bocejou diante dele e o encarou como se fosse apenas uma refeição esperando para ser devorada.

Original English Version

He did not dare travel until dark. At midday, not only did the sun warm the southern horizon, but it even thrust its upper rim, pale and golden, above the sky-line. He received it as a sign. The days were growing longer. The sun was returning. But scarcely had the cheer of its light departed, than he went into camp. There were still several hours of grey daylight and sombre twilight, and he utilised them in chopping an enormous supply of fire-wood.

With night came horror. Not only were the starving wolves growing bolder, but lack of sleep was telling upon Henry. He dozed despite himself, crouching by the fire, the blankets about his shoulders, the axe between his knees, and on either side a dog pressing close against him. He awoke once and saw in front of him, not a dozen feet away, a big grey wolf, one of the largest of the pack. And even as he looked, the brute deliberately stretched himself after the manner of a lazy dog, yawning full in his face and looking upon him with a possessive eye, as if, in truth, he were merely a delayed meal that was soon to be eaten.

Tradução Integral em Português

Ele não ousava viajar até escurecer. Ao meio-dia, o sol não só aqueceu o horizonte sul, como chegou a projetar sua borda superior, pálida e dourada, acima da linha do céu. Ele a recebeu como um sinal. Os dias estavam ficando mais longos. O sol estava voltando. Mas mal a alegria de sua luz partira, e ele já entrou em acampamento. Ainda havia várias horas de luz cinzenta e de crepúsculo sombrio, e ele as aproveitou cortando um enorme suprimento de lenha.

Com a noite veio o horror. Não só os lobos famintos ficavam mais ousados, como a falta de sono se abatia sobre Henry. Cochilava a contragosto, agachado junto ao fogo, os cobertores sobre os ombros, o machado entre os joelhos, e de cada lado um cão apertando-se contra ele. Acordou uma vez e viu diante de si, a menos de três metros de distância, um grande lobo cinzento, um dos maiores da matilha. E, no exato instante em que olhava, a fera deliberadamente se espreguiçou à maneira de um cão preguiçoso, bocejando em plena cara dele e olhando-o com um olhar de posse, como se, na verdade, ele fosse apenas uma refeição adiada, prestes a ser comida.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Toda a alcateia demonstrava essa certeza. Ele conseguia contar cerca de vinte lobos, olhando-o com fome ou dormindo tranquilamente na neve. Faziam-no lembrar de crianças esperando ao redor de uma mesa pela permissão para comer. E ele era a comida que queriam. Perguntava-se como e quando começariam.

Enquanto empilhava lenha no fogo, começou a perceber o próprio corpo de uma maneira nova. Observou os músculos se moverem e estudou a forma engenhosa como seus dedos trabalhavam. À luz das chamas, dobrou lentamente os dedos, um a um e depois todos juntos, abriu-os bem e fez rápidos movimentos de agarrar. Examinou as unhas e apertou as pontas dos dedos, ora com força, ora de leve, para sentir as diferentes sensações. Ficou profundamente interessado e de repente amou aquela carne delicada que funcionava tão bem. Então olhou com medo para o círculo de lobos ao redor, e a verdade o atingiu como um golpe. Aquele corpo maravilhoso era apenas carne para animais famintos. Os dentes deles poderiam despedaçá-lo, assim como ele muitas vezes havia comido alce e coelho.

Original English Version

This certitude was shown by the whole pack. Fully a score he could count, staring hungrily at him or calmly sleeping in the snow. They reminded him of children gathered about a spread table and awaiting permission to begin to eat. And he was the food they were to eat! He wondered how and when the meal would begin.

As he piled wood on the fire he discovered an appreciation of his own body which he had never felt before. He watched his moving muscles and was interested in the cunning mechanism of his fingers. By the light of the fire he crooked his fingers slowly and repeatedly now one at a time, now all together, spreading them wide or making quick gripping movements. He studied the nail-formation, and prodded the finger-tips, now sharply, and again softly, gauging the while the nerve-sensations produced. It fascinated him, and he grew suddenly fond of this subtle flesh of his that worked so beautifully and smoothly and delicately. Then he would cast a glance of fear at the wolf-circle drawn expectantly about him, and like a blow the realisation would strike him that this wonderful body of his, this living flesh, was no more than so much meat, a quest of ravenous animals, to be torn and slashed by their hungry fangs, to be sustenance to them as the moose and the rabbit had often been sustenance to him.

Tradução Integral em Português

Essa certeza era demonstrada por toda a matilha. Uns bons vinte ele conseguia contar, fitando-o com fome ou dormindo tranquilamente na neve. Lembravam-lhe crianças reunidas em torno de uma mesa posta, à espera de permissão para começar a comer. E ele era o alimento que iam comer! Perguntava-se como e quando a refeição começaria.

Ao empilhar lenha no fogo, descobriu por seu próprio corpo uma apreciação que nunca sentira antes. Observava os músculos em movimento e interessava-se pelo engenhoso mecanismo de seus dedos. À luz do fogo, dobrava os dedos lenta e repetidamente, ora um de cada vez, ora todos juntos, abrindo-os bem ou fazendo rápidos movimentos de aperto. Estudava a formação das unhas e cutucava as pontas dos dedos, ora com força, ora de leve, aferindo a cada vez as sensações nervosas produzidas. Aquilo o fascinava, e ele subitamente afeiçoou-se a essa sutil carne sua, que funcionava de modo tão belo, suave e delicado. Depois lançava um olhar de medo ao círculo de lobos traçado, expectante, ao seu redor, e como um golpe o atingia a percepção de que aquele seu corpo maravilhoso, aquela carne viva, não passava de outro tanto de carne, presa de animais vorazes, a ser rasgada e talhada pelas presas famintas deles, a ser-lhes sustento como o alce e o coelho tantas vezes tinham sido sustento para ele.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Ele despertou de um sono de meio pesadelo e viu a loba de pelo vermelho diante dele. Estava a apenas dois metros de distância, sentada na neve e olhando-o com tristeza. Os dois cães choramingavam e rosnavam a seus pés, mas ela os ignorava. Continuou observando o homem, e ele a encarou por algum tempo. Ela não parecia perigosa. Parecia triste, mas ele sabia que sua tristeza vinha de uma fome imensa. Ele era o alimento que ela queria, e vê-lo fazia sua boca salivar. Sua boca se abriu, a saliva escorreu, e ela lambeu os beiços em antecipação.

Original English Version

He came out of a doze that was half nightmare, to see the red-hued she- wolf before him. She was not more than half a dozen feet away sitting in the snow and wistfully regarding him. The two dogs were whimpering and snarling at his feet, but she took no notice of them. She was looking at the man, and for some time he returned her look. There was nothing threatening about her. She looked at him merely with a great wistfulness, but he knew it to be the wistfulness of an equally great hunger. He was the food, and the sight of him excited in her the gustatory sensations. Her mouth opened, the saliva drooled forth, and she licked her chops with the pleasure of anticipation.

Tradução Integral em Português

Saiu de um cochilo que era meio pesadelo para ver diante de si a loba de tom avermelhado. Estava a não mais de dois metros de distância, sentada na neve e observando-o saudosamente. Os dois cães choramingavam e rosnavam a seus pés, mas ela não lhes dava atenção. Olhava para o homem, e por algum tempo ele lhe retribuiu o olhar. Não havia nada de ameaçador nela. Olhava para ele apenas com uma grande saudade, mas ele sabia que era a saudade de uma fome igualmente grande. Ele era o alimento, e a visão dele despertava nela as sensações do paladar. Sua boca se abriu, a saliva escorreu, e ela lambeu os beiços com o prazer da antecipação.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

O medo tomou conta dele. Estendeu rapidamente a mão para apanhar um graveto em chamas e atirá-lo nela. Mas, antes que seus dedos se fechassem, ela saltou para trás, em segurança. Ele então soube que ela estava acostumada a receber coisas atiradas contra si. Ao recuar, ela rosnou e mostrou as presas brancas, e sua tristeza desapareceu. No lugar surgiu uma fome selvagem que o fez estremecer. Ele olhou para a mão que segurava o tição e percebeu outra vez como seus dedos eram delicados, como se ajustavam à madeira áspera e como o mindinho se afastava da ponta quente. No mesmo instante, pareceu ver aqueles mesmos dedos cuidadosos esmagados e dilacerados pelos dentes brancos da loba. Nunca amara tanto seu corpo como agora, quando podia perdê-lo com tanta facilidade.

Durante toda a noite, manteve a alcateia faminta afastada com tições. Quando cochilava, os choramingos e rosnados dos cães o despertavam. A manhã chegou, mas, pela primeira vez, a luz do dia não assustou os lobos. Ele esperou que fossem embora, mas eles permaneceram formando um círculo ao redor dele e do fogo. A atitude ousada e dominadora deles abalou sua coragem.

Original English Version

A spasm of fear went through him. He reached hastily for a brand to throw at her. But even as he reached, and before his fingers had closed on the missile, she sprang back into safety; and he knew that she was used to having things thrown at her. She had snarled as she sprang away, baring her white fangs to their roots, all her wistfulness vanishing, being replaced by a carnivorous malignity that made him shudder. He glanced at the hand that held the brand, noticing the cunning delicacy of the fingers that gripped it, how they adjusted themselves to all the inequalities of the surface, curling over and under and about the rough wood, and one little finger, too close to the burning portion of the brand, sensitively and automatically writhing back from the hurtful heat to a cooler gripping-place; and in the same instant he seemed to see a vision of those same sensitive and delicate fingers being crushed and torn by the white teeth of the she-wolf. Never had he been so fond of this body of his as now when his tenure of it was so precarious.

All night, with burning brands, he fought off the hungry pack. When he dozed despite himself, the whimpering and snarling of the dogs aroused him. Morning came, but for the first time the light of day failed to scatter the wolves. The man waited in vain for them to go. They remained in a circle about him and his fire, displaying an arrogance of possession that shook his courage born of the morning light.

Tradução Integral em Português

Um espasmo de medo o percorreu. Estendeu apressadamente a mão para um tição, para atirá-lo nela. Mas, mesmo enquanto se estendia, e antes que seus dedos se fechassem sobre o projétil, ela saltou de volta para um lugar seguro; e ele soube que ela estava acostumada a ter coisas atiradas contra si. Rosnara ao saltar para longe, desnudando as presas brancas até a raiz, toda a sua saudade desaparecendo, substituída por uma malignidade carnívora que o fez estremecer. Lançou um olhar à mão que segurava o tição, notando a engenhosa delicadeza dos dedos que o agarravam, como se ajustavam a todas as irregularidades da superfície, curvando-se por cima, por baixo e em torno da madeira áspera, e como um dedo mínimo, perto demais da parte em brasa do tição, se retraía sensível e automaticamente do calor doloroso para um ponto de apoio mais frio; e no mesmo instante pareceu-lhe ver uma visão daqueles mesmos dedos sensíveis e delicados sendo esmagados e rasgados pelos dentes brancos da loba. Nunca fora tão afeiçoado a esse seu corpo quanto agora, em que sua posse sobre ele era tão precária.

A noite inteira, com tições em brasa, ele repeliu a matilha faminta. Quando cochilava a contragosto, o choramingar e o rosnar dos cães o despertavam. A manhã chegou, mas pela primeira vez a luz do dia não conseguiu dispersar os lobos. O homem esperou em vão que fossem embora. Permaneceram num círculo em torno dele e de seu fogo, exibindo uma arrogância de posse que abalou a coragem nascida da luz da manhã.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Ele fez uma tentativa desesperada de voltar à trilha. Mas, assim que deixou o fogo, o lobo mais atrevido saltou contra ele e errou. Henry se salvou pulando para trás, e as mandíbulas do lobo se fecharam a poucos centímetros de sua coxa. O resto da alcateia correu em sua direção, e ele precisou lançar tições para os dois lados a fim de fazê-los recuar.

Mesmo à luz do dia, ele não ousava se afastar do fogo para cortar mais lenha. Um enorme abeto morto se erguia a seis metros dali. Ele passou metade do dia estendendo a fogueira até a árvore, sempre mantendo vários gravetos em chamas prontos para atirar nos inimigos. Quando chegou à árvore, estudou a floresta para poder derrubá-la na direção em que havia mais lenha.

Original English Version

He made one desperate attempt to pull out on the trail. But the moment he left the protection of the fire, the boldest wolf leaped for him, but leaped short. He saved himself by springing back, the jaws snapping together a scant six inches from his thigh. The rest of the pack was now up and surging upon him, and a throwing of firebrands right and left was necessary to drive them back to a respectful distance.

Even in the daylight he did not dare leave the fire to chop fresh wood. Twenty feet away towered a huge dead spruce. He spent half the day extending his campfire to the tree, at any moment a half dozen burning faggots ready at hand to fling at his enemies. Once at the tree, he studied the surrounding forest in order to fell the tree in the direction of the most firewood.

Tradução Integral em Português

Ele fez uma tentativa desesperada de partir pela trilha. Mas no momento em que deixou a proteção do fogo, o lobo mais ousado saltou sobre ele, mas caiu curto. Salvou-se pulando para trás, as mandíbulas fechando-se com um estalo a uns escassos quinze centímetros de sua coxa. O resto da matilha agora estava de pé e avançando sobre ele, e foi preciso um arremesso de tições à direita e à esquerda para fazê-los recuar a uma distância respeitosa.

Mesmo à luz do dia, ele não ousava deixar o fogo para cortar lenha nova. A uns seis metros, erguia-se um enorme abeto morto. Passou metade do dia estendendo sua fogueira até a árvore, a cada momento com uma meia dúzia de gravetos em brasa prontos à mão para arremessar nos inimigos. Uma vez junto à árvore, estudou a floresta ao redor a fim de derrubá-la na direção da maior quantidade de lenha.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

A noite foi muito parecida com a anterior, mas agora ele estava ficando sonolento demais para permanecer alerta. Os rosnados dos lobos já não eram tão eficazes, e ele nem sequer percebia mais as mudanças no som. Acordou de repente. A loba estava a menos de um metro. Sem pensar, ele enfiou um tição aceso na boca aberta dela. Ela saltou para trás, ganindo de dor, e ele apreciou o cheiro de pelo e carne queimados enquanto ela sacudia a cabeça e rosnava furiosa a pouca distância.

Antes de tornar a adormecer, ele amarrou um nó de pinho em chamas à mão direita. Dormira apenas alguns minutos quando a chama queimou sua carne e o despertou. Durante várias horas, continuou assim. Cada vez que acordava, afastava os lobos com tições voando, alimentava o fogo e tornava a colocar o nó de pinho no lugar. Então, certa vez, amarrou-o mal e, quando seus olhos se fecharam, ele caiu de sua mão.

Original English Version

The night was a repetition of the night before, save that the need for sleep was becoming overpowering. The snarling of his dogs was losing its efficacy. Besides, they were snarling all the time, and his benumbed and drowsy senses no longer took note of changing pitch and intensity. He awoke with a start. The she-wolf was less than a yard from him. Mechanically, at short range, without letting go of it, he thrust a brand full into her open and snarling mouth. She sprang away, yelling with pain, and while he took delight in the smell of burning flesh and hair, he watched her shaking her head and growling wrathfully a score of feet away.

But this time, before he dozed again, he tied a burning pine-knot to his right hand. His eyes were closed but few minutes when the burn of the flame on his flesh awakened him. For several hours he adhered to this programme. Every time he was thus awakened he drove back the wolves with flying brands, replenished the fire, and rearranged the pine-knot on his hand. All worked well, but there came a time when he fastened the pine- knot insecurely. As his eyes closed it fell away from his hand.

Tradução Integral em Português

A noite foi uma repetição da anterior, salvo que a necessidade de sono se tornava avassaladora. O rosnar de seus cães ia perdendo a eficácia. Além disso, rosnavam o tempo todo, e seus sentidos entorpecidos e sonolentos já não notavam a mudança de tom e de intensidade. Acordou sobressaltado. A loba estava a menos de um metro dele. Mecanicamente, a curta distância, sem soltá-lo, enfiou um tição bem dentro da boca aberta e rosnante dela. Ela saltou para longe, uivando de dor, e, enquanto ele se deliciava com o cheiro de carne e pelo queimados, viu-a sacudir a cabeça e rosnar de raiva a uns seis metros de distância.

Mas desta vez, antes de cochilar de novo, amarrou um nó de pinho em brasa à mão direita. Seus olhos estavam fechados havia poucos minutos quando a queimadura da chama em sua carne o despertou. Por várias horas ateve-se a esse programa. Toda vez que era assim despertado, repelia os lobos com tições voadores, reabastecia o fogo e reajustava o nó de pinho na mão. Tudo funcionava bem, mas chegou um momento em que prendeu o nó de pinho de modo inseguro. Ao fecharem-se seus olhos, ele soltou-se de sua mão.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Sonhou que estava no Forte McGurry. Fazia calor e era confortável, e ele jogava cribbage com o Feitor. No sonho, o forte estava cercado por lobos que uivavam diante dos portões, e ele e o Feitor riam das tentativas inúteis deles de entrar. Então houve um estrondo. A porta se abriu de repente, e ele viu lobos invadindo a grande sala. Saltaram diretamente contra ele e o Feitor. Os uivos aumentaram e, embora o sonho se transformasse em outra coisa, continuaram a acompanhá-lo.

Então acordou e descobriu que os uivos eram reais. Havia rosnados e ganidos altos. Os lobos avançavam contra ele de todos os lados. Um deles havia mordido seu braço. Por instinto, ele saltou para dentro do fogo e, ao fazê-lo, sentiu dentes rasgarem a carne de sua perna. Então começou a batalha de fogo. Suas luvas grossas protegeram suas mãos por um momento, e ele lançou brasas vivas em todas as direções, até a fogueira parecer um vulcão.

Original English Version

He dreamed. It seemed to him that he was in Fort McGurry. It was warm and comfortable, and he was playing cribbage with the Factor. Also, it seemed to him that the fort was besieged by wolves. They were howling at the very gates, and sometimes he and the Factor paused from the game to listen and laugh at the futile efforts of the wolves to get in. And then, so strange was the dream, there was a crash. The door was burst open. He could see the wolves flooding into the big living-room of the fort. They were leaping straight for him and the Factor. With the bursting open of the door, the noise of their howling had increased tremendously. This howling now bothered him. His dream was merging into something else--he knew not what; but through it all, following him, persisted the howling.

And then he awoke to find the howling real. There was a great snarling and yelping. The wolves were rushing him. They were all about him and upon him. The teeth of one had closed upon his arm. Instinctively he leaped into the fire, and as he leaped, he felt the sharp slash of teeth that tore through the flesh of his leg. Then began a fire fight. His stout mittens temporarily protected his hands, and he scooped live coals into the air in all directions, until the campfire took on the semblance of a volcano.

Tradução Integral em Português

Ele sonhou. Pareceu-lhe que estava em Forte McGurry. Era quente e confortável, e ele jogava cribbage com o Feitor. E, também, pareceu-lhe que o forte estava sitiado por lobos. Uivavam às próprias portas, e às vezes ele e o Feitor interrompiam o jogo para escutar e rir dos esforços fúteis dos lobos para entrar. E então, tão estranho era o sonho, houve um estrondo. A porta foi arrombada. Ele podia ver os lobos inundando a grande sala de estar do forte. Saltavam direto para ele e para o Feitor. Com o arrombamento da porta, o ruído dos uivos aumentara tremendamente. Esse uivo agora o incomodava. Seu sonho fundia-se em outra coisa -- ele não sabia o quê; mas através de tudo, seguindo-o, persistia o uivo.

E então ele acordou e descobriu que o uivo era real. Havia um grande rosnar e ganir. Os lobos avançavam sobre ele. Estavam todos ao seu redor e sobre ele. Os dentes de um se haviam fechado sobre seu braço. Instintivamente, ele saltou para dentro do fogo e, ao saltar, sentiu o corte afiado de dentes que lhe rasgaram a carne da perna. Então começou uma luta de fogo. Suas grossas luvas protegeram temporariamente as mãos, e ele lançou brasas vivas ao ar em todas as direções, até que a fogueira tomou o aspecto de um vulcão.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Mas aquilo não podia durar muito. Seu rosto criava bolhas por causa do calor, suas sobrancelhas e seus cílios haviam sido queimados, e seus pés já não suportavam a temperatura. Com um tição em chamas em cada mão, saltou para a borda do fogo. Os lobos haviam recuado. Ao redor dele, onde as brasas vivas tinham caído, a neve chiava. De vez em quando, um lobo saltava para trás com um ganido, mostrando que havia pisado numa brasa quente.

Ele atirou os tições nos lobos mais próximos, enfiou as luvas fumegantes na neve e bateu os pés para esfriá-los. Seus dois cães haviam desaparecido, e ele sabia que já tinham sido devorados no longo banquete que começara dias antes com Gordo. Provavelmente ele seria o prato final nos dias seguintes.

"Vocês ainda não me pegaram!", gritou, sacudindo o punho para os animais famintos. Ao som de sua voz, todo o círculo se agitou, e ouviu-se um rosnado geral. A loba se aproximou sobre a neve e o observou com desejo faminto.

Original English Version

But it could not last long. His face was blistering in the heat, his eyebrows and lashes were singed off, and the heat was becoming unbearable to his feet. With a flaming brand in each hand, he sprang to the edge of the fire. The wolves had been driven back. On every side, wherever the live coals had fallen, the snow was sizzling, and every little while a retiring wolf, with wild leap and snort and snarl, announced that one such live coal had been stepped upon.

Flinging his brands at the nearest of his enemies, the man thrust his smouldering mittens into the snow and stamped about to cool his feet. His two dogs were missing, and he well knew that they had served as a course in the protracted meal which had begun days before with Fatty, the last course of which would likely be himself in the days to follow.

"You ain't got me yet!" he cried, savagely shaking his fist at the hungry beasts; and at the sound of his voice the whole circle was agitated, there was a general snarl, and the she-wolf slid up close to him across the snow and watched him with hungry wistfulness.

Tradução Integral em Português

Mas não podia durar muito. Seu rosto empolava-se no calor, as sobrancelhas e os cílios estavam chamuscados, e o calor tornava-se insuportável para seus pés. Com um tição flamejante em cada mão, saltou para a beira do fogo. Os lobos tinham sido repelidos. Por todos os lados, onde quer que as brasas vivas tivessem caído, a neve chiava, e a cada instante um lobo em retirada, com salto selvagem, resfolego e rosnado, anunciava que uma dessas brasas fora pisada.

Arremessando os tições no mais próximo de seus inimigos, o homem enfiou as luvas fumegantes na neve e bateu os pés no chão para esfriá-los. Seus dois cães sumiram, e ele bem sabia que tinham servido de um prato na prolongada refeição que começara dias antes com o Gorducho, cujo último prato provavelmente seria ele próprio nos dias por vir.

“Vocês ainda não me pegaram!” bradou ele, sacudindo o punho com selvageria para as feras famintas; e ao som de sua voz todo o círculo se agitou, houve um rosnado geral, e a loba deslizou para perto dele pela neve e observou-o com saudade faminta.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Ele pôs em prática uma nova ideia que lhe ocorreu. Transformou o fogo num grande círculo. Dentro dele, agachou-se, com as roupas de dormir por baixo para protegê-lo da neve que derretia. Quando se escondeu dentro de seu abrigo de chamas, toda a alcateia se aproximou da borda do fogo para observá-lo. Até então, não lhes fora permitido chegar perto das chamas. Agora se sentavam num círculo apertado, como cães, piscando, bocejando e esticando os corpos magros no calor estranho. Então a loba sentou-se, apontou o focinho para uma estrela e começou a uivar. Um a um, os lobos juntaram-se a ela, até que toda a alcateia, sentada sobre as patas traseiras e com os focinhos erguidos para o céu, uivava seu grito de fome.

Original English Version

He set to work to carry out a new idea that had come to him. He extended the fire into a large circle. Inside this circle he crouched, his sleeping outfit under him as a protection against the melting snow. When he had thus disappeared within his shelter of flame, the whole pack came curiously to the rim of the fire to see what had become of him. Hitherto they had been denied access to the fire, and they now settled down in a close-drawn circle, like so many dogs, blinking and yawning and stretching their lean bodies in the unaccustomed warmth. Then the she- wolf sat down, pointed her nose at a star, and began to howl. One by one the wolves joined her, till the whole pack, on haunches, with noses pointed skyward, was howling its hunger cry.

Tradução Integral em Português

Pôs-se a executar uma nova ideia que lhe ocorrera. Estendeu o fogo num grande círculo. Dentro desse círculo agachou-se, seu equipamento de dormir por baixo, como proteção contra a neve que derretia. Quando assim desapareceu dentro de seu abrigo de chamas, toda a matilha veio curiosamente à borda do fogo para ver o que fora feito dele. Até então lhes fora negado o acesso ao fogo, e agora eles se assentavam num círculo bem fechado, como outros tantos cães, piscando, bocejando e espreguiçando os corpos magros no calor a que não estavam acostumados. Então a loba sentou-se, apontou o focinho para uma estrela e começou a uivar. Um a um, os lobos se juntaram a ela, até que toda a matilha, sobre os quartos traseiros, com os focinhos apontados para o céu, uivava seu grito de fome.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Veio a aurora e depois a luz do dia. O fogo estava se apagando. O combustível acabara, e ele precisava de mais. Tentou sair do círculo de chamas, mas os lobos correram em sua direção. Os tições fizeram-nos recuar, mas eles não permaneceram afastados. Tentou em vão expulsá-los. Quando desistiu e cambaleou de volta para dentro do círculo, um lobo saltou contra ele, errou e caiu com as quatro patas sobre as brasas. Ganiu de medo, rosnando ao mesmo tempo, e correu de volta para esfriar as patas na neve.

O homem sentou-se sobre os cobertores, bem encolhido. Inclinou o corpo para a frente a partir dos quadris. Seus ombros pendiam frouxos, e a cabeça repousava sobre os joelhos. Parecia ter desistido. De vez em quando, erguia a cabeça para ver o fogo cada vez mais fraco. O círculo de chamas e brasas estava se partindo em trechos, com espaços abertos entre eles. As aberturas aumentavam, e os trechos diminuíam.

Original English Version

Dawn came, and daylight. The fire was burning low. The fuel had run out, and there was need to get more. The man attempted to step out of his circle of flame, but the wolves surged to meet him. Burning brands made them spring aside, but they no longer sprang back. In vain he strove to drive them back. As he gave up and stumbled inside his circle, a wolf leaped for him, missed, and landed with all four feet in the coals. It cried out with terror, at the same time snarling, and scrambled back to cool its paws in the snow.

The man sat down on his blankets in a crouching position. His body leaned forward from the hips. His shoulders, relaxed and drooping, and his head on his knees advertised that he had given up the struggle. Now and again he raised his head to note the dying down of the fire. The circle of flame and coals was breaking into segments with openings in between. These openings grew in size, the segments diminished.

Tradução Integral em Português

A aurora chegou, e a luz do dia. O fogo ardia baixo. O combustível acabara, e era preciso conseguir mais. O homem tentou dar um passo para fora de seu círculo de chamas, mas os lobos avançaram para recebê-lo. Tições em brasa os faziam saltar para o lado, mas eles já não saltavam de volta. Em vão ele se esforçou para repeli-los. Quando desistiu e cambaleou para dentro de seu círculo, um lobo saltou sobre ele, errou e aterrissou com as quatro patas nas brasas. Gritou de terror, ao mesmo tempo rosnando, e escapuliu para trás para esfriar as patas na neve.

O homem sentou-se sobre os cobertores numa posição encolhida. Seu corpo inclinava-se para a frente a partir dos quadris. Os ombros, relaxados e caídos, e a cabeça sobre os joelhos anunciavam que ele desistira da luta. De quando em quando erguia a cabeça para notar o fogo se apagando. O círculo de chamas e brasas se partia em segmentos com aberturas entre eles. Essas aberturas cresciam em tamanho, os segmentos diminuíam.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

"Acho que vocês podem vir me pegar a qualquer hora", murmurou. "De qualquer modo, vou dormir."

Certa vez, acordou e, numa abertura do círculo bem diante dele, viu a loba observando-o.

Acordou novamente pouco depois, embora lhe parecessem horas. Uma estranha mudança havia ocorrido, tão estranha que ele despertou alarmado. Alguma coisa mudara. A princípio, não conseguiu entender. Então percebeu. Os lobos tinham desaparecido. Apenas a neve pisoteada mostrava o quanto haviam estado perto dele. O sono tornava a dominá-lo, e sua cabeça afundava sobre os joelhos, quando de repente ele acordou com um sobressalto.

Ouviu homens chamando, trenós em movimento, arreios rangendo e cães choramingando ansiosos enquanto puxavam com força. Quatro trenós saíram do leito do rio e entraram no acampamento entre as árvores. Meia dúzia de homens cercou o homem encolhido no meio do fogo moribundo. Sacudiram-no e cutucaram-no até ele voltar a si. Henry olhou para eles como um bêbado e falou palavras estranhas e sonolentas.

Original English Version

"I guess you can come an' get me any time," he mumbled. "Anyway, I'm goin' to sleep."

Once he awakened, and in an opening in the circle, directly in front of him, he saw the she-wolf gazing at him.

Again he awakened, a little later, though it seemed hours to him. A mysterious change had taken place--so mysterious a change that he was shocked wider awake. Something had happened. He could not understand at first. Then he discovered it. The wolves were gone. Remained only the trampled snow to show how closely they had pressed him. Sleep was welling up and gripping him again, his head was sinking down upon his knees, when he roused with a sudden start.

There were cries of men, and churn of sleds, the creaking of harnesses, and the eager whimpering of straining dogs. Four sleds pulled in from the river bed to the camp among the trees. Half a dozen men were about the man who crouched in the centre of the dying fire. They were shaking and prodding him into consciousness. He looked at them like a drunken man and maundered in strange, sleepy speech.

Tradução Integral em Português

“Acho que vocês podem vir me pegar a qualquer hora”, murmurou ele. “De qualquer jeito, eu vou dormir.”

Uma vez ele acordou e, numa abertura do círculo, bem à sua frente, viu a loba fitando-o.

Acordou de novo, um pouco depois, embora lhe parecessem horas. Uma mudança misteriosa ocorrera -- mudança tão misteriosa que ele despertou de sobressalto. Algo acontecera. A princípio não conseguiu entender. Então descobriu. Os lobos tinham ido embora. Restava apenas a neve pisoteada para mostrar quão de perto o haviam acossado. O sono tornava a brotar e a apoderar-se dele, sua cabeça afundava sobre os joelhos, quando ele despertou num súbito sobressalto.

Havia gritos de homens, e o rangido de trenós, o ranger de arreios e o ávido choramingar de cães que puxavam com esforço. Quatro trenós entraram do leito do rio para o acampamento entre as árvores. Meia dúzia de homens rodeava o homem que se agachava no centro do fogo agonizante. Sacudiam-no e cutucavam-no de volta à consciência. Ele olhou para eles como um bêbado e balbuciou numa fala estranha e sonolenta.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

"Loba vermelha... Entrava com os cães na hora da comida... Primeiro comeu a comida dos cães... Depois comeu os cães... E depois comeu Bill..."

"Onde está Lorde Alfred?", gritou um dos homens em seu ouvido, sacudindo-o com força.

Ele balançou lentamente a cabeça. "Não, ela não o comeu... Ele está empoleirado numa árvore no último acampamento."

"Morto?", gritou o homem.

"E dentro de uma caixa", respondeu Henry. Afastou o ombro do homem que o segurava. "Ei, deixem-me em paz... Estou simplesmente exausto... Boa noite a todos."

Seus olhos se fecharam. O queixo caiu sobre o peito. Mesmo enquanto o deitavam sobre os cobertores, seus roncos já subiam no ar frio.

Mas havia outro som. Vinha de longe e era fraco: o grito da alcateia faminta ao seguir outra trilha, e não o homem que acabara de perder.

Original English Version

"Red she-wolf. . . . Come in with the dogs at feedin' time. . . . First she ate the dog-food. . . . Then she ate the dogs. . . . An' after that she ate Bill. . . . "

"Where's Lord Alfred?" one of the men bellowed in his ear, shaking him roughly.

He shook his head slowly. "No, she didn't eat him. . . . He's roostin' in a tree at the last camp."

"Dead?" the man shouted.

"An' in a box," Henry answered. He jerked his shoulder petulantly away from the grip of his questioner. "Say, you lemme alone. . . . I'm jes' plump tuckered out. . . . Goo' night, everybody."

His eyes fluttered and went shut. His chin fell forward on his chest. And even as they eased him down upon the blankets his snores were rising on the frosty air.

But there was another sound. Far and faint it was, in the remote distance, the cry of the hungry wolf-pack as it took the trail of other meat than the man it had just missed.

Tradução Integral em Português

“Loba vermelha... Entrava com os cães na hora da comida... Primeiro comeu a comida dos cães... Depois comeu os cães... E depois disso comeu o Bill...”

“Cadê Lorde Alfred?” bramiu um dos homens em seu ouvido, sacudindo-o com rudeza.

Ele sacudiu a cabeça devagar. “Não, ela não comeu ele... Ele está empoleirado numa árvore no último acampamento.”

“Morto?” gritou o homem.

“E numa caixa”, respondeu Henry. Arrancou o ombro, petulante, do aperto de quem o interrogava. “Olha, me deixa em paz... Estou é totalmente esgotado... Boa noite a todos.”

Seus olhos tremularam e se fecharam. O queixo caiu-lhe para a frente sobre o peito. E, no exato momento em que o acomodavam sobre os cobertores, seus roncos já se erguiam no ar gelado.

Mas havia outro som. Distante e débil, na remota distância, o grito da matilha faminta ao tomar a trilha de outra carne que não o homem que acabara de escapar-lhe.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

The Battle of the Fangs

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

A loba foi a primeira a ouvir as vozes dos homens e os gemidos dos cães de trenó. Também foi a primeira a fugir do homem encurralado e de seu círculo de fogo moribundo. A alcateia não queria desistir da presa que havia encontrado. Permaneceu por vários minutos, escutando com atenção, e então também correu atrás da trilha deixada pela loba.

Um grande lobo cinzento, um dos líderes, corria à frente da alcateia. Ele guiava o grupo atrás da loba. Rosnava para os lobos mais jovens quando tentavam ultrapassá-lo e até os atacava com os dentes. Quando viu a loba trotando devagar pela neve, fez a alcateia correr mais depressa.

Original English Version

It was the she-wolf who had first caught the sound of men's voices and the whining of the sled-dogs; and it was the she-wolf who was first to spring away from the cornered man in his circle of dying flame. The pack had been loath to forego the kill it had hunted down, and it lingered for several minutes, making sure of the sounds, and then it, too, sprang away on the trail made by the she-wolf.

Running at the forefront of the pack was a large grey wolf--one of its several leaders. It was he who directed the pack's course on the heels of the she-wolf. It was he who snarled warningly at the younger members of the pack or slashed at them with his fangs when they ambitiously tried to pass him. And it was he who increased the pace when he sighted the she-wolf, now trotting slowly across the snow.

Tradução Integral em Português

Foi a loba quem primeiro captou o som das vozes dos homens e o choramingar dos cães de trenó; e foi a loba a primeira a saltar para longe do homem encurralado em seu círculo de chama agonizante. A matilha relutara em abrir mão da presa que caçara até derrubar, e demorou-se por vários minutos, certificando-se dos sons, e então também ela disparou pela trilha aberta pela loba.

Correndo à frente da matilha ia um grande lobo cinzento -- um de seus vários líderes. Era ele quem dirigia o curso da matilha no encalço da loba. Era ele quem rosnava em advertência aos membros mais jovens da matilha, ou os golpeava com as presas quando, ambiciosos, tentavam ultrapassá-lo. E era ele quem acelerava o ritmo quando avistava a loba, que agora trotava devagar pela neve.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Ela chegou ao lado dele como se aquele fosse seu devido lugar e acompanhou o ritmo da alcateia. Ele não rosnou nem mostrou os dentes quando ela avançou à sua frente. Na verdade, parecia amigável demais, e ela não gostava disso. Muitas vezes ele corria bem junto dela, e então ela rosnava e mostrava os dentes. Às vezes, chegava a morder o ombro dele. Ele não se irritava. Apenas saltava para o lado e corria desajeitado à frente por alguns passos, como um tímido rapaz do campo.

Original English Version

She dropped in alongside by him, as though it were her appointed position, and took the pace of the pack. He did not snarl at her, nor show his teeth, when any leap of hers chanced to put her in advance of him. On the contrary, he seemed kindly disposed toward her--too kindly to suit her, for he was prone to run near to her, and when he ran too near it was she who snarled and showed her teeth. Nor was she above slashing his shoulder sharply on occasion. At such times he betrayed no anger. He merely sprang to the side and ran stiffly ahead for several awkward leaps, in carriage and conduct resembling an abashed country swain.

Tradução Integral em Português

Ela pôs-se a correr ao lado dele, como se fosse a posição que lhe cabia, e adotou o ritmo da matilha. Ele não rosnava para ela, nem mostrava os dentes, quando algum salto seu por acaso a colocava à frente dele. Pelo contrário, parecia bem-disposto em relação a ela -- bem-disposto demais para o gosto dela, pois tendia a correr perto dela, e, quando corria perto demais, era ela quem rosnava e mostrava os dentes. Tampouco estava ela acima de golpear-lhe o ombro com aspereza, de vez em quando. Nesses momentos, ele não demonstrava raiva alguma. Apenas saltava para o lado e corria rígido à frente por alguns saltos desajeitados, no porte e no comportamento parecendo um acanhado pretendente do campo.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Esse era o único problema dele ao correr com a alcateia. Ela tinha outros. Do outro lado corria um lobo velho e magro, de pelo cinzento e cheio de cicatrizes de batalha. Mantinha-se sempre à direita dela. Talvez fosse porque tinha apenas um olho, o esquerdo. Ele também insistia em se aproximar, virando-se para ela até seu focinho marcado tocar o corpo, o ombro ou o pescoço da loba. Assim como fazia com o lobo à esquerda, ela o afastava com os dentes. Mas, quando os dois se aproximavam ao mesmo tempo, ela era empurrada de um lado para outro e precisava atacar ambos com os dentes enquanto continuava correndo e observando o terreno à frente. Nessas ocasiões, os dois lobos mostravam os dentes e rosnavam um para o outro. Talvez tivessem lutado, mas a fome era mais importante que o amor ou a rivalidade.

Original English Version

This was his one trouble in the running of the pack; but she had other troubles. On her other side ran a gaunt old wolf, grizzled and marked with the scars of many battles. He ran always on her right side. The fact that he had but one eye, and that the left eye, might account for this. He, also, was addicted to crowding her, to veering toward her till his scarred muzzle touched her body, or shoulder, or neck. As with the running mate on the left, she repelled these attentions with her teeth; but when both bestowed their attentions at the same time she was roughly jostled, being compelled, with quick snaps to either side, to drive both lovers away and at the same time to maintain her forward leap with the pack and see the way of her feet before her. At such times her running mates flashed their teeth and growled threateningly across at each other. They might have fought, but even wooing and its rivalry waited upon the more pressing hunger-need of the pack.

Tradução Integral em Português

Esse era seu único problema na corrida da matilha; mas ela tinha outros problemas. Do outro lado dela corria um velho lobo descarnado, grisalho e marcado pelas cicatrizes de muitas batalhas. Corria sempre à direita dela. O fato de ter apenas um olho, e ser o esquerdo, talvez explicasse isso. Ele também era dado a apertar-se contra ela, a desviar em sua direção até que o focinho cheio de cicatrizes lhe tocasse o corpo, o ombro ou o pescoço. Assim como fazia com o companheiro de corrida à esquerda, ela repelia essas atenções com os dentes; mas quando ambos lhe dispensavam suas atenções ao mesmo tempo, ela era rudemente sacolejada, obrigada, com rápidas dentadas para um lado e outro, a afastar os dois pretendentes e ao mesmo tempo manter seu salto para a frente com a matilha e enxergar o caminho de suas patas diante de si. Nesses momentos, seus companheiros de corrida arreganhavam os dentes e rosnavam ameaçadoramente um para o outro. Poderiam ter brigado, mas até o cortejo e sua rivalidade cediam à mais premente necessidade de fome da matilha.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Depois de cada rejeição, quando o velho lobo se afastava bruscamente dos dentes afiados que desejava, esbarrava num jovem lobo de três anos que corria do seu lado direito cego. O jovem estava plenamente crescido e, embora a alcateia estivesse fraca e faminta, era mais forte e ativo que a maioria. Mesmo assim, corria com a cabeça na altura do ombro do lobo velho. Quando tentava correr ao lado dele, o que acontecia raramente, um rosnado e uma mordida no ar faziam-no recuar outra vez. Às vezes, porém, ele diminuía aos poucos a velocidade e se metia entre o velho líder e a loba. Isso também enfurecia os outros. Quando ela rosnava, o velho líder se voltava contra o jovem. Às vezes ela se voltava com ele. E às vezes o jovem líder à esquerda também se voltava.

Original English Version

After each repulse, when the old wolf sheered abruptly away from the sharp-toothed object of his desire, he shouldered against a young three- year-old that ran on his blind right side. This young wolf had attained his full size; and, considering the weak and famished condition of the pack, he possessed more than the average vigour and spirit. Nevertheless, he ran with his head even with the shoulder of his one-eyed elder. When he ventured to run abreast of the older wolf (which was seldom), a snarl and a snap sent him back even with the shoulder again. Sometimes, however, he dropped cautiously and slowly behind and edged in between the old leader and the she-wolf. This was doubly resented, even triply resented. When she snarled her displeasure, the old leader would whirl on the three-year-old. Sometimes she whirled with him. And sometimes the young leader on the left whirled, too.

Tradução Integral em Português

Depois de cada repulsa, quando o velho lobo se afastava de repente do objeto de dentes afiados de seu desejo, ele esbarrava contra um jovem de três anos que corria ao seu cego lado direito. Esse jovem lobo atingira seu tamanho pleno; e, considerando a condição fraca e faminta da matilha, possuía mais que o vigor e o ânimo médios. Ainda assim, corria com a cabeça no nível do ombro de seu mais velho de um olho só. Quando se aventurava a correr emparelhado com o lobo mais velho (o que era raro), um rosnado e uma dentada o mandavam de volta ao nível do ombro. Às vezes, porém, ele ficava para trás, cauteloso e lento, e se insinuava por entre o velho líder e a loba. Isso era duplamente malvisto, até triplamente malvisto. Quando ela rosnava seu desagrado, o velho líder se voltava de rompante para o de três anos. Às vezes ela se voltava junto com ele. E às vezes o jovem líder à esquerda também se voltava.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Quando isso acontecia, o jovem lobo se via diante de três fileiras de dentes selvagens e parava de repente. Sentava-se sobre as patas traseiras, mantinha as dianteiras rígidas e arreganhava a boca de modo ameaçador, com a juba eriçada. Essa confusão na frente da alcateia em movimento sempre provocava confusão atrás também. Os lobos de trás se chocavam contra o jovem e demonstravam sua raiva mordiscando-lhe as patas traseiras e os flancos. Ele criava problemas para si mesmo, pois a fome e o mau humor andavam juntos. Mas continuava tentando a mesma manobra repetidas vezes, porque os animais jovens acreditam firmemente, mesmo quando isso só lhes traz humilhação.

Original English Version

At such times, confronted by three sets of savage teeth, the young wolf stopped precipitately, throwing himself back on his haunches, with fore- legs stiff, mouth menacing, and mane bristling. This confusion in the front of the moving pack always caused confusion in the rear. The wolves behind collided with the young wolf and expressed their displeasure by administering sharp nips on his hind-legs and flanks. He was laying up trouble for himself, for lack of food and short tempers went together; but with the boundless faith of youth he persisted in repeating the manoeuvre every little while, though it never succeeded in gaining anything for him but discomfiture.

Tradução Integral em Português

Nesses momentos, confrontado por três conjuntos de dentes selvagens, o jovem lobo estancava de rompante, atirando-se para trás sobre os quartos traseiros, as patas dianteiras rígidas, a boca ameaçadora e a juba eriçada. Essa confusão na frente da matilha em movimento sempre causava confusão na retaguarda. Os lobos de trás colidiam com o jovem lobo e manifestavam seu desagrado aplicando-lhe mordidelas afiadas nas patas traseiras e nos flancos. Ele estava atraindo encrenca para si, pois a falta de comida e os pavios curtos andavam juntos; mas, com a fé sem limites da juventude, insistia em repetir a manobra de tempos em tempos, embora ela nunca conseguisse render-lhe outra coisa senão desconcerto.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Se houvesse comida, teriam ocorrido mais lutas e acasalamentos, e a alcateia teria se dispersado. Mas o grupo estava em situação desesperadora. Estava magro pela longa fome e avançava mais devagar que de costume. Os fracos, muito jovens e muito velhos, mancavam na retaguarda. Os mais fortes iam à frente. Ainda assim, todos pareciam mais esqueletos do que lobos de verdade. Mesmo assim, com exceção dos que mancavam, moviam-se com facilidade e não pareciam se cansar. Seus músculos magros pareciam ter força infinita, produzindo um movimento firme após o outro, sem parar.

Percorreram muitos quilômetros naquele dia. Correram durante a noite. Quando chegou o dia seguinte, ainda estavam correndo. Avançavam por um mundo congelado e morto. Nenhuma vida se agitava em parte alguma. Somente eles se moviam pela grande imensidão. Somente eles estavam vivos, e procuravam outros seres vivos para poder comê-los e continuar vivendo.

Original English Version

Had there been food, love-making and fighting would have gone on apace, and the pack-formation would have been broken up. But the situation of the pack was desperate. It was lean with long-standing hunger. It ran below its ordinary speed. At the rear limped the weak members, the very young and the very old. At the front were the strongest. Yet all were more like skeletons than full-bodied wolves. Nevertheless, with the exception of the ones that limped, the movements of the animals were effortless and tireless. Their stringy muscles seemed founts of inexhaustible energy. Behind every steel-like contraction of a muscle, lay another steel-like contraction, and another, and another, apparently without end.

They ran many miles that day. They ran through the night. And the next day found them still running. They were running over the surface of a world frozen and dead. No life stirred. They alone moved through the vast inertness. They alone were alive, and they sought for other things that were alive in order that they might devour them and continue to live.

Tradução Integral em Português

Houvesse comida, e o cortejo e as brigas teriam prosseguido a todo vapor, e a formação da matilha teria se desfeito. Mas a situação da matilha era desesperadora. Estava magra por causa de uma fome de longa data. Corria abaixo de sua velocidade normal. Na retaguarda mancavam os membros fracos, os muito jovens e os muito velhos. À frente estavam os mais fortes. Ainda assim, todos mais pareciam esqueletos do que lobos de corpo cheio. Não obstante, com exceção dos que mancavam, os movimentos dos animais eram sem esforço e incansáveis. Seus músculos fibrosos pareciam fontes de energia inesgotável. Por trás de cada contração de aço de um músculo, jazia outra contração de aço, e outra, e outra, aparentemente sem fim.

Correram muitos quilômetros naquele dia. Correram pela noite adentro. E o dia seguinte encontrou-os ainda correndo. Corriam sobre a superfície de um mundo congelado e morto. Nenhuma vida se agitava. Só eles se moviam pela vasta inércia. Só eles estavam vivos, e buscavam outras coisas que estivessem vivas a fim de devorá-las e continuar a viver.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Glossary: New Words (1/2)

Priority words from the simplified reading and post-nominal letters found in this book. Post-nominals are abbreviations placed after a person's name to identify honours, professional memberships, academic titles or qualifications. Each entry shows up to six real uses; Back to B1 opens the exact simplified sentence, while Back to Original opens the exact paragraph in Original English.

adventurers /ədˈventʃərərz/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: aventureiros

Simple English: People who look for exciting or risky experiences.

Example: The port was full of sailors and adventurers.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. They were small adventurers on a huge journey, standing against a world as far away and lifeless as space itself. Go to

Original English Version

1. But under it all they were men, penetrating the land of desolation and mockery and silence, puny adventurers bent on colossal adventure, pitting themselves against the might of a world as remote and alien and pulseless as the abysses of space. Go to

amount (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: quantidade; montante; valor

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. There were still several hours of grey daylight and dark twilight, and he used them to cut a large amount of firewood. Go to

angle /ˈæŋɡəl/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: ângulo

Simple English: Space between two lines or surfaces joined together.

Example: The angle between the two walls is about 90 degrees.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Then they saw a dozen lean grey wolves coming at right angles to the trail and cutting off his escape. Go to

angrily /ˈæŋɡrɪli/ (14 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: com raiva; furiosamente

Simple English: In a way that shows anger.

Example: He shouted angrily at the door.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He shook his fist angrily at the shining eyes, and carefully propped his moccasins near the fire. Go to

2. "Stop wishing and complaining," Henry said angrily. Go to

3. Henry turned over angrily on his side, but he was surprised that Bill did not show any anger. Go to

4. They always jumped back at once, crying angrily and snapping in fear when a well-thrown brand hit and burned a bold wolf. Go to

5. She jumped back, crying in pain, and he enjoyed the smell of burned hair and flesh as she shook her head and growled angrily a little distance away. Go to

Original English Version

1. He shook his fist angrily at the gleaming eyes, and began securely to prop his moccasins before the fire. Go to

2. "Shut up your wishin' and your croakin'," Henry burst out angrily. Go to

3. Henry rolled over angrily on his side, but was surprised that Bill made no similar display of temper. Go to

animal's /ˈænɪməlz/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: do animal

Simple English: Belonging to an animal.

Example: The vet checked the animal's leg carefully.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. When they looked closely at the place where a pair of eyes shone in the dark, the animal's shape slowly appeared. Go to

2. "An' right here I want to remark," Bill went on, "that that animal's familyarity with campfires is suspicious an' immoral." Go to

Original English Version

1. "An' right here I want to remark," Bill went on, "that that animal's familyarity with campfires is suspicious an' immoral." Go to

Anxious /ˈæŋkʃəs/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: ansioso; ancioso; impaciente

Simple English: Feeling worried about something that might happen.

Example: I am anxious about my exam results coming next week.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. "Then it's jes' warm an' anxious I am to be hearin' you explain yourself," he said. Go to

anxiously /ˈæŋkʃəsli/ (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: ansiosamente; preocupadamente

Simple English: In a worried and nervous way.

Example: She waited anxiously for the news.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. "Ain't run out?" Bill asked anxiously. Go to

Approval /əˈpruːvəl/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: aprovação; homologação; autorização

Simple English: A positive feeling toward someone or something favorable.

Example: He smiled when he received his teacher's approval for the project.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Henry nodded in approval. Go to

arms /ɑːrmz/ (10 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: braços; armas; armamento

Simple English: Weapons mainly used by military forces in battles.

Example: The soldiers carried various arms to prepare for the conflict ahead.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Bill had lifted his arms in anger, and his face was twisted with rage. Go to

Attempt /əˈtɛmpt/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: tentativa; tente; tentar

Simple English: To make an effort to achieve something difficult or challenging.

Example: She decided to attempt the difficult puzzle despite its complexity.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. In the dream, the fort was surrounded by wolves howling at the gates, and he and the Factor laughed at their useless attempts to get in. Go to

attitude /ˈætɪtjuːd/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: atitude; postura

Simple English: A person's usual way of thinking or feeling.

Example: His positive attitude helped him overcome many challenges.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Their bold, owning attitude shook his courage. Go to

awkwardly /ˈɔːkwərdli/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: desajeitadamente; sem jeito

Simple English: In a clumsy or uncomfortable way.

Example: He stood awkwardly in the doorway, unsure whether to sit.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He only jumped aside and ran awkwardly ahead for a few steps, like a shy country boy. Go to

backbones /ˈbækˌboʊnz/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: colunas vertebrais; espinhas dorsais

Simple English: The bones or supporting structures running along the back.

Example: The fish's backbones were laid on the table.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Their ribs stick out like washboards, and their stomachs are almost touching their backbones. Go to

Original English Version

1. Their ribs is like wash-boards, an' their stomachs is right up against their backbones. Go to

bared /bɛrd/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: expôs; deixou à mostra; arreganhou

Simple English: Uncovered or exposed something.

Example: The wolf bared its fangs.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He sat back on his hind legs, held his front legs stiff, and bared his mouth threateningly, with his mane standing up. Go to

bellies /ˈbɛliz/ (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: barrigas; ventres

Simple English: The front parts of the body below the chest.

Example: The dogs lay with their bellies in the shade.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He could see them clearly in the firelight, lying down, sitting up, crawling forward on their bellies, or moving quietly back and forth. Go to

Original English Version

1. "Well, Spanker's troubles is over anyway; I guess he's digested by this time an' cavortin' over the landscape in the bellies of twenty different wolves," was Henry's epitaph on this, the latest lost dog. Go to

2. They were all about him and the fire, in a narrow circle, and he could see them plainly in the firelight lying down, sitting up, crawling forward on their bellies, or slinking back and forth. Go to

beyond /bɪˈɒnd/ (8 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: além

Simple English: At or to the side that is further; exceeding a point.

Example: Her talents go beyond just singing; she can also dance beautifully.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Henry stared at the fire, and Bill watched the circle of eyes glowing in the dark beyond the firelight. Go to

bill's /bɪlz/ (8 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: de Bill

Simple English: Belonging to Bill.

Example: Cap'n Bill's wooden leg sank into the soft sand.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Bill's face turned red with anger. Go to

2. He threw it back, and it hit the sled and slid until it stopped on Bill's snowshoes. Go to

Original English Version

1. A flush of angry blood pervaded Bill's face. Go to

2. He flung it back, so that it struck the sled and bounced along until it fetched up on Bill's snowshoes. Go to

3. "Kind of strange colour for a wolf," was Bill's criticism. Go to

4. This was not Bill's way, for he was easily angered by sharp words. Go to

5. Henry thought long over it before he went to sleep, and as his eyelids fluttered down and he dozed off, the thought in his mind was: "There's no mistakin' it, Bill's almighty blue. Go to

6. He heard a shot, then two shots, in rapid succession, and he knew that Bill's ammunition was gone. Go to

bitten /ˈbɪtən/ (17 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: mordido; picado

Simple English: Cut or hurt with the teeth.

Example: The rope had been bitten in two.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. One of them had bitten his arm. Go to

blackness /ˈblæknəs/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: negrume; escuridão

Simple English: Complete darkness, or the quality of being black.

Example: The blackness of the night hid the path.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. The blackness showed no shape, only a pair of eyes shining like live coals. Go to

Original English Version

1. There was no suggestion of form in the utter blackness; only could be seen a pair of eyes gleaming like live coals. Go to

Blind /blaɪnd/ (5 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: cego; cega; cegos

Simple English: Window covering that can be rolled up or down.

Example: I pulled down the blind to block the sunlight in the room.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. It pushed them deep into their own thoughts and took away their false pride and excitement, until they saw themselves as small and limited, like tiny specks moving with weak skill and little wisdom among the blind forces of nature. Go to

2. After each push away, when the old wolf turned sharply from the sharp teeth he wanted, he bumped into a young three-year-old wolf running on his blind right side. Go to

blinking /ˈblɪŋkɪŋ/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: que piscam; semicerrados

Simple English: Opening and closing the eyes quickly.

Example: The baby lay blinking at the bright lamp.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Now they sat in a tight circle like dogs, blinking, yawning, and stretching their thin bodies in the strange warmth. Go to

Original English Version

1. Hitherto they had been denied access to the fire, and they now settled down in a close-drawn circle, like so many dogs, blinking and yawning and stretching their lean bodies in the unaccustomed warmth. Go to

blistering /ˈblɪstərɪŋ/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: formando bolhas; queimando

Simple English: Developing blisters or being painfully burned by heat.

Example: His face was blistering in the fierce heat.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. His face was blistering from the heat, his eyebrows and eyelashes were burned off, and the heat was too much for his feet. Go to

Original English Version

1. His face was blistering in the heat, his eyebrows and lashes were singed off, and the heat was becoming unbearable to his feet. Go to

bolder /ˈboʊldər/ (5 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: mais ousado; mais atrevido

Simple English: More ready to take risks.

Example: The second climber was bolder than the first.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. The starving wolves were growing bolder, and Henry was becoming weak from lack of sleep. Go to

Original English Version

1. But the wolves were growing bolder, and the men were aroused more than once from their sleep. Go to

2. Not only were the starving wolves growing bolder, but lack of sleep was telling upon Henry. Go to

boldest /ˈboʊldəst/ (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: o mais audaz

Simple English: The most brave and confident of all.

Example: He was the boldest rider in the county.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. But as soon as he left the fire, the boldest wolf jumped at him and missed. Go to

Original English Version

1. But the moment he left the protection of the fire, the boldest wolf leaped for him, but leaped short. Go to

bounced /baʊnst/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: quicou; ricocheteou

Simple English: Moved up or away again after hitting a surface.

Example: The ball bounced twice and went over the fence.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Then he started down the trail, and the lighter sled bounced behind the willing dogs. Go to

Original English Version

1. He flung it back, so that it struck the sled and bounced along until it fetched up on Bill's snowshoes. Go to

bounding /ˈbaʊndɪŋ/ (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: saltando; pulando; correndo aos saltos

Simple English: Moving forward in long jumps.

Example: The deer went bounding across the meadow.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. Then, approaching at right angles to the trail and cutting off his retreat they saw a dozen wolves, lean and grey, bounding across the snow. Go to

2. Then he took the trail, the lightened sled bounding along behind the willing dogs; for they, too, knew that safety lay open in the gaining of Fort McGurry. Go to

braver /ˈbreɪvər/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: mais corajoso; mais valente

Simple English: More brave than someone or something else.

Example: The Lion wished he were braver.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. But the wolves were becoming braver, and the men were woken more than once. Go to

brightly /ˈbraɪtli/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: intensamente; com brilho

Simple English: In a way that gives a lot of light.

Example: The sun shone brightly all morning.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He kept the fire burning brightly, because he knew it was the only thing between his body and their hungry teeth. Go to

Original English Version

1. He kept the fire brightly blazing, for he knew that it alone intervened between the flesh of his body and their hungry fangs. Go to

bristling /ˈbrɪsəlɪŋ/ (38 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: eriçado; repleto de; irritado

Simple English: With hairs standing up; also full of something, or showing anger.

Example: The old fort was bristling with cannon.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. At such times, confronted by three sets of savage teeth, the young wolf stopped precipitately, throwing himself back on his haunches, with fore- legs stiff, mouth menacing, and mane bristling. Go to

bullet /ˈbʊlɪt/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: bala; marcador; tiro

Simple English: Small cylindrical metal projectile fired from a gun.

Example: The bullet missed the target and hit the wall instead.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. "You only have three bullets, and we don't know what may happen." Go to

2. He heard one shot, then another, and knew Bill was out of bullets. Go to

bumped /bʌmpt/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: bateu; esbarrou

Simple English: Hit something by accident while moving.

Example: He bumped his head on the low door.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. After each push away, when the old wolf turned sharply from the sharp teeth he wanted, he bumped into a young three-year-old wolf running on his blind right side. Go to

Bunch /bʌntʃ/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: bando; monte; grupo

Simple English: A group of items connected or gathered together.

Example: She picked a bunch of bananas from the store.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. "I wish they'd bring out a bunch of moose or something, and leave us alone," Bill said. Go to

camped /kæmpt/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: acamparam

Simple English: Stayed for a time in tents or in the open.

Example: We camped beside the river for two nights.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. They camped early that night. Go to

Original English Version

1. They camped early that night. Go to

campfire /ˈkæmpfaɪər/ (5 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: fogueira de acampamento

Simple English: An outdoor fire made at a camp for warmth, cooking, or light.

Example: They cooked their evening meal over a campfire.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He spent half the day extending his campfire to the tree, always keeping several burning sticks ready to throw at his enemies. Go to

2. His thick mittens protected his hands for a moment, and he threw live coals in every direction until the campfire looked like a volcano. Go to

Original English Version

1. He spent half the day extending his campfire to the tree, at any moment a half dozen burning faggots ready at hand to fling at his enemies. Go to

2. His stout mittens temporarily protected his hands, and he scooped live coals into the air in all directions, until the campfire took on the semblance of a volcano. Go to

campfires /ˈkæmpfaɪərz/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: fogueiras de acampamento

Simple English: Outdoor fires made at camps.

Example: Small campfires dotted the darkness with light.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. "An' right here I want to remark," Bill went on, "that that animal's familyarity with campfires is suspicious an' immoral." Go to

Original English Version

1. "An' right here I want to remark," Bill went on, "that that animal's familyarity with campfires is suspicious an' immoral." Go to

cartridges /ˈkɑːrtrɪdʒɪz/ (10 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: cartuchos

Simple English: Small metal cases that hold a bullet and its powder.

Example: He counted six cartridges in the box.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. "How many cartridges did you say you had left?" he asked. Go to

2. "But you only have three cartridges," Henry said. Go to

3. "We have three cartridges. Go to

4. "If that pack ever comes at you, those three cartridges will be worth no more than three cries in hell. Go to

Original English Version

1. "How many cartridges did you say you had left?" he asked. Go to

2. "But you've only got three cartridges," Henry objected. Go to

3. "You've only got three cartridges, an' there's no tellin' what might happen." Go to

4. "We've got three cartridges. Go to

chewed /tʃuːd/ (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: mascavam

Simple English: Broke food into small pieces with the teeth.

Example: The cow chewed the long grass slowly.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. "Henry," the other man said as he carefully chewed the beans he was eating, "did you notice how those dogs acted when I was feeding 'em?" Go to

chews /tʃuːz/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: mastiga; porções de tabaco de mascar

Simple English: bites repeatedly with the teeth, or portions of chewing tobacco

Example: The dog chews through the rope that holds Spanker.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. "Just because he could not chew himself loose, he chews Spanker loose." Go to

Original English Version

1. "Jes' because he couldn't chew himself loose, he chews Spanker loose." Go to

chopping /ˈtʃɑːpɪŋ/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: cortando; rachando (lenha)

Simple English: Cutting something into pieces with an axe or a knife.

Example: He spent the whole day chopping wood.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. Chopping down young saplings, he made them cross-bars of a scaffold by lashing them high up to the trunks of standing trees. Go to

2. There were still several hours of grey daylight and sombre twilight, and he utilised them in chopping an enormous supply of fire-wood. Go to

chops /tʃɑːps/ (7 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: costeletas; corta em pedaços

Simple English: Cuts something with an axe or a heavy knife.

Example: He chops wood every morning before breakfast.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. Her mouth opened, the saliva drooled forth, and she licked her chops with the pleasure of anticipation. Go to

clumps /klʌmps/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: tufos; aglomerados

Simple English: Compact groups or lumps of things growing or gathered together.

Example: Large clumps of water fern surrounded the spring.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. Bill had already gone from sight; but now and again, appearing and disappearing amongst the underbrush and the scattered clumps of spruce, could be seen One Ear. Go to

coals /koʊlz/ (10 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: brasas; carvões

Simple English: Pieces of burning black rock that give heat.

Example: The last coals were still warm.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. The blackness showed no shape, only a pair of eyes shining like live coals. Go to

2. His thick mittens protected his hands for a moment, and he threw live coals in every direction until the campfire looked like a volcano. Go to

3. All around him, where live coals had landed, the snow was hissing. Go to

4. When he gave up and stumbled back inside his circle, a wolf jumped at him, missed, and landed with all four feet in the coals. Go to

5. The circle of flame and coals was breaking into pieces, with open spaces between them. Go to

Original English Version

1. There was no suggestion of form in the utter blackness; only could be seen a pair of eyes gleaming like live coals. Go to

2. His stout mittens temporarily protected his hands, and he scooped live coals into the air in all directions, until the campfire took on the semblance of a volcano. Go to

3. On every side, wherever the live coals had fallen, the snow was sizzling, and every little while a retiring wolf, with wild leap and snort and snarl, announced that one such live coal had been stepped upon. Go to

4. As he gave up and stumbled inside his circle, a wolf leaped for him, missed, and landed with all four feet in the coals. Go to

5. The circle of flame and coals was breaking into segments with openings in between. Go to

companionship /kəmˈpænjənʃɪp/ (11 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: companhia; companheirismo

Simple English: The friendly relationship and comfort of spending time with another person or animal.

Example: Their shared adventures created a lifelong sense of companionship.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. Step by step she was luring him away from the security of his human companionship. Go to

comrade's /ˈkɑːmrædz/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: do companheiro; do camarada

Simple English: The possessive form of “comrade,” showing that something belongs to a close companion or fellow member of a group.

Example: His comrade’s voice woke him from sleep.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. As he began to fall asleep, his comrade’s voice woke him. Go to

Original English Version

1. As he dozed off he was aroused by his comrade's voice. Go to

courage (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: coragem; bravura; força

Simple English: the ability to face danger or difficulty

Example: It took courage to tell the truth.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. It moved carefully, with both fear and courage. Go to

2. Their bold, owning attitude shook his courage. Go to

crackled /ˈkrækəld/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: crepitou; estalou

Simple English: Made a series of small sharp sounds, like a fire or dry paper.

Example: The fire crackled softly while the rain beat on the window.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. The fire crackled. Go to

Original English Version

1. The fire crackled. Go to

crash /kræʃ/ (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: acidente; bater; queda

Simple English: Accident in which a vehicle collides with something.

Example: The crash caused a major traffic jam on the highway this morning.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Then there was a crash. Go to

2. The wolves in back crashed into the young wolf and showed their anger by nipping his hind legs and sides. Go to

crawled /krɔːld/ (36 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: engatinhou; rastejou

Simple English: Moved slowly on the hands and knees, or close to the ground.

Example: She crawled across the floor to her bed.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Henry grunted and crawled into bed. Go to

2. After that, he crawled back under the blankets. Go to

3. "I have heard sailors talk about sharks following a ship," Bill said as he crawled back under the blankets after feeding the fire again. Go to

Original English Version

1. Henry grunted and crawled into bed. Go to

2. Then he crawled back into the blankets. Go to

3. "I've hearn sailors talk of sharks followin' a ship," Bill remarked, as he crawled back into the blankets after one such replenishing of the fire. Go to

creaking /ˈkriːkɪŋ/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: rangente; que chia

Simple English: Making a long high noise when it moves.

Example: We climbed the creaking wooden stairs.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He heard men calling, sleds moving, harnesses creaking, and dogs whining eagerly as they pulled hard. Go to

Original English Version

1. There were cries of men, and churn of sleds, the creaking of harnesses, and the eager whimpering of straining dogs. Go to

cribbage /ˈkrɪbɪdʒ/ (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: cribbage

Simple English: a card game in which players score points on a pegged board

Example: After tea, she taught Oliver to play cribbage.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. And while I am wishing, I wish the trip was over, and you and I were sitting by the fire in Fort McGurry right now playing cribbage - that is what I wish.” Go to

2. It was warm and comfortable, and he was playing cribbage with the Factor. Go to

Original English Version

1. An' while I'm wishin', I wisht the trip was over an' done with, an' you an' me a-sittin' by the fire in Fort McGurry just about now an' playing cribbage--that's what I wisht." Go to

2. It was warm and comfortable, and he was playing cribbage with the Factor. Go to

critters /ˈkrɪtərz/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: bichos

Simple English: animals or people, in informal or dialectal speech

Example: Bill called the troublesome animals fool critters.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. "There, that'll fix you fool critters," Bill said with satisfaction that night, standing up when he finished his work. Go to

Original English Version

1. "There, that'll fix you fool critters," Bill said with satisfaction that night, standing erect at completion of his task. Go to

2. Takes more'n a handful of them pesky critters to do for yours truly, Bill, my son." Go to

croaking /ˈkroʊkɪŋ/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: coaxar; grasnar; resmungar

Simple English: The act of making a low rough sound or speaking in a gloomy, complaining way.

Example: The garden filled with birds singing and frogs croaking.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. "Oh, shut up your croaking. Go to

Original English Version

1. "Who's croaking now?" Bill demanded triumphantly. Go to

crouched /kraʊtʃt/ (45 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: agachou-se; encolheu-se

Simple English: Bent the legs and lowered the body close to the ground.

Example: The big animal crouched down before jumping.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. But after that he sat and thought sadly, while the two remaining dogs crouched and shook at his feet. Go to

2. Inside it, he crouched down, with his sleeping clothes under him to protect him from the melting snow. Go to

3. The man sat on his blankets, crouched low. Go to

Original English Version

1. Inside this circle he crouched, his sleeping outfit under him as a protection against the melting snow. Go to

2. Half a dozen men were about the man who crouched in the centre of the dying fire. Go to

crouching /ˈkraʊtʃɪŋ/ (18 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: agachado; encolhido

Simple English: Bending the legs so that the body is low.

Example: A man sat crouching by the fire.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. A half dozen men were around the man crouching in the middle of the dying fire. Go to

Original English Version

1. But for some time longer he sat and brooded, the two remaining dogs crouching and trembling at his feet. Go to

2. He dozed despite himself, crouching by the fire, the blankets about his shoulders, the axe between his knees, and on either side a dog pressing close against him. Go to

3. The man sat down on his blankets in a crouching position. Go to

crowding /ˈkraʊdɪŋ/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: apinhar-se; ficar apertado

Simple English: Filling a place with too many people or things.

Example: The road carries the traffic without crowding.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. The dogs showed their fear by crowding together close to the fire, so close that the heat scorched their hair. Go to

2. He also kept crowding her, turning toward her until his scarred nose touched her body, shoulder, or neck. Go to

Original English Version

1. He, also, was addicted to crowding her, to veering toward her till his scarred muzzle touched her body, or shoulder, or neck. Go to

cunning /ˈkʌnɪŋ/ (15 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: astuto; astúcia

Simple English: Skilled at achieving aims through cleverness or deception, or such clever skill itself.

Example: The cunning thief invented a convincing excuse.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. It crushed them into the remotest recesses of their own minds, pressing out of them, like juices from the grape, all the false ardours and exaltations and undue self-values of the human soul, until they perceived themselves finite and small, specks and motes, moving with weak cunning and little wisdom amidst the play and inter-play of the great blind elements and forces. Go to

2. He watched his moving muscles and was interested in the cunning mechanism of his fingers. Go to

3. He glanced at the hand that held the brand, noticing the cunning delicacy of the fingers that gripped it, how they adjusted themselves to all the inequalities of the surface, curling over and under and about the rough wood, and one little finger, too close to the burning portion of the brand, sensitively and automatically writhing back from the hurtful heat to a cooler gripping-place; and in the same instant he seemed to see a vision of those same sensitive and delicate fingers being crushed and torn by the white teeth of the she-wolf. Go to

cure /kjʊər/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: cura; curar; curam

Simple English: A treatment that makes an illness go away.

Example: Scientists are looking for a cure.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Then he saw Bill standing among the dogs, looking partly proud and partly disappointed, with a strong club in one hand and the tail and part of the body of a sun-cured salmon in the other. Go to

curled /kɜːrld/ (7 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: enroscou-se; encolheu-se

Simple English: Lay down with the body rolled into a round shape.

Example: The dog curled up on the rug beside her.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Here and there he saw one curled up in the snow like a dog, getting the sleep he himself could not have. Go to

Original English Version

1. Here and there he could see one curled up in the snow like a dog, taking the sleep that was now denied himself. Go to

curses /ˈkɜːrsɪz/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: maldições; pragas

Simple English: Words said to bring bad luck to someone.

Example: The old woman shouted curses at the thief.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. But Bill was stubborn, and he ate a dry breakfast, drinking it down with quiet curses at One Ear for the trick he had played. Go to

Original English Version

1. But Bill was stubborn, and he ate a dry breakfast washed down with mumbled curses at One Ear for the trick he had played. Go to

cursing /ˈkɜːrsɪŋ/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: praguejando; xingando

Simple English: Saying angry rude words about someone.

Example: He came in cursing the heavy rain.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He counted them carefully, and then he joined his partner in cursing the Wild for taking another dog from them. Go to

Original English Version

1. He counted them with care, and then joined his partner in cursing the power of the Wild that had robbed them of another dog. Go to

curved /kɜːrvd/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: curvo; curva

Simple English: Having a shape that is rounded rather than straight.

Example: The curved path led us through the beautiful forest.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. At noon the southern sky turned rose-coloured, showing where the earth curved between the sun and the northern world. Go to

cuss /kʌs/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: sujeito; xingar

Simple English: An annoying person or creature, or to swear at someone or something.

Example: “The darned cuss,” Bill muttered.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. "The darned cuss." Bill spoke in a calm, slow voice, with no sign of the anger he felt inside. Go to

Original English Version

1. "The darned cuss." Bill spoke gravely and slowly, with no hint of the anger that was raging within. Go to

darned /dɑːrnd/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: maldito (eufemismo)

Simple English: A mild word used instead of a swear word.

Example: The darned door would not open.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. "The darned cuss." Bill spoke in a calm, slow voice, with no sign of the anger he felt inside. Go to

2. "I will be darned if I do. Go to

Original English Version

1. "The darned cuss." Bill spoke gravely and slowly, with no hint of the anger that was raging within. Go to

deeply /ˈdiːpli/ (9 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: profundamente

Simple English: Expressing strong intensity of emotion or concern.

Example: She was deeply moved by the stories of the survivors.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He became deeply interested and suddenly loved this delicate flesh that worked so well. Go to

defeat /dɪˈfiːt/ (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: derrota; derrotar; vencer

Simple English: To win against someone in a war, game, or contest.

Example: Our team managed to defeat the rivals in the championship match last week.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. The Wild had defeated him, and he would never move again. Go to

defiant /dɪˈfaɪənt/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: desafiador; insubmisso

Simple English: Openly refusing to obey.

Example: She gave a defiant answer and stayed where she was.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. But there _was_ life, abroad in the land and defiant. Go to

Desire /dɪˈzaɪər/ (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: desejo; deseja; vontade

Simple English: To feel a sexual or strong romantic attraction.

Example: He felt a strong desire to be with her all the time.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He studied her with doubt, but also with desire. Go to

desperate /ˈdɛspərət/ (7 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: desesperado

Simple English: Being in a dangerous situation and acting without care.

Example: In a desperate attempt, he jumped into the water to save her.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. They are very desperate, I can tell you. Go to

2. He made one desperate try to get back on the trail. Go to

3. But the pack was in a desperate state. Go to

digested /daɪˈdʒestɪd/ (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: digerido; assimilado

Simple English: broken down as food or fully understood and absorbed as information

Example: After he had digested the instructions, he issued his orders.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. By this time he is digested and running over the land inside twenty different wolves," Henry said, as a final comment on the latest lost dog. Go to

Original English Version

1. "Well, Spanker's troubles is over anyway; I guess he's digested by this time an' cavortin' over the landscape in the bellies of twenty different wolves," was Henry's epitaph on this, the latest lost dog. Go to

digestion /daɪˈdʒestʃən/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: digestão

Simple English: The way the body breaks down food.

Example: A walk after dinner helps digestion.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. "Ain't thinkin' it'll hurt my digestion?" Go to

Original English Version

1. "Ain't thinkin' it'll hurt my digestion?" Go to

diver's /ˈdaɪvərz/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: do mergulhador

Simple English: The possessive form of diver, meaning belonging to an underwater swimmer.

Example: The diver's helmet protected his head from pressure.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. It affected their minds the way deep water affects a diver’s body. Go to

doglike /ˈdɒɡlaɪk/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: semelhante a um cão

Simple English: Resembling a dog in form, manner, or behavior.

Example: The creature gave a doglike growl in the darkness.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. A doglike animal moved quietly into the firelight. Go to

Original English Version

1. Full into the firelight, with a stealthy, sidelong movement, glided a doglike animal. Go to

downhearted /ˌdaʊnˈhɑːrtɪd/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: desanimado

Simple English: Sad and without courage.

Example: Do not be downhearted, said the king kindly.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Bill is very downhearted. Go to

dozed /doʊzd/ (11 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: cochilou; dormitou

Simple English: Slept lightly for a short time.

Example: He dozed in the chair after dinner.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. When he dozed, the dogs' whimpering and snarling woke him. Go to

Original English Version

1. As he dozed off he was aroused by his comrade's voice. Go to

2. Henry thought long over it before he went to sleep, and as his eyelids fluttered down and he dozed off, the thought in his mind was: "There's no mistakin' it, Bill's almighty blue. Go to

3. He dozed despite himself, crouching by the fire, the blankets about his shoulders, the axe between his knees, and on either side a dog pressing close against him. Go to

4. When he dozed despite himself, the whimpering and snarling of the dogs aroused him. Go to

5. But this time, before he dozed again, he tied a burning pine-knot to his right hand. Go to

Dozen /ˈdʌzən/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: dúzia; dezenas; doze

Simple English: A group of twelve items or units together.

Example: I bought a dozen eggs for the cake I am baking.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Then they saw a dozen lean grey wolves coming at right angles to the trail and cutting off his escape. Go to

2. A half dozen men were around the man crouching in the middle of the dying fire. Go to

dozing /ˈdoʊzɪŋ/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: cochilando; dormitando

Simple English: Sleeping lightly for a short time.

Example: He kept dozing over his book.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He kept dozing near the fire, with blankets on his shoulders, the axe between his knees, and a dog pressed close on each side. Go to

drag /dræɡ/ (12 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: arrastar; arrasto; desloque

Simple English: To move digital items on a screen by holding the mouse button.

Example: You can drag the icon to the desktop for easier access.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. But One Ear ran across the snow, with his traces dragging behind him. Go to

drifted /ˈdrɪftɪd/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: foi à deriva; afastou-se aos poucos

Simple English: Moved slowly along without control or plan.

Example: The small boat drifted out to sea.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. Henry acknowledged receipt of the information with a grunt that slid into a snore as he drifted back into sleep. Go to

dripped /drɪpt/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: pingou; escorreu

Simple English: Fell in small drops.

Example: Rain dripped from the edge of the roof.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Her mouth opened, saliva dripped out, and she licked her lips in anticipation. Go to

eagerly /ˈiːɡərli/ (10 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: avidamente; com entusiasmo

Simple English: In a way that shows strong interest or excitement.

Example: She looked eagerly at the strange new sights.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. One Ear was whining quickly and eagerly. Go to

2. He heard men calling, sleds moving, harnesses creaking, and dogs whining eagerly as they pulled hard. Go to

effective /ɪˈfɛktɪv/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: eficaz; efetiva; efectiva

Simple English: Producing the intended or desired result successfully and reliably.

Example: This approach is very effective in increasing student engagement.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. The wolves' snarling was no longer as effective, and he could not even notice the changes in sound anymore. Go to

emptiness /ˈɛmptinəs/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: vazio

Simple English: The state of having nothing inside or around.

Example: He looked out at the emptiness of the desert.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. But they were still men, moving through a land of emptiness, silence, and mockery. Go to

2. Only they moved through the great emptiness. Go to

excitedly /ɪkˈsaɪtɪdli/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: excitadamente; agitadamente

Simple English: In a way that shows strong happy feeling.

Example: The boy talked excitedly about his new bike.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. One Ear stretched as far as he could toward the stranger and whined excitedly. Go to

extend /ɪkˈstɛnd/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: estender; alargar; prolongar

Simple English: To make something longer or larger in size.

Example: We need to extend the deadline for the project submission.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He spent half the day extending his campfire to the tree, always keeping several burning sticks ready to throw at his enemies. Go to

eyelashes /ˈaɪlæʃɪz/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: cílios; pestanas

Simple English: The short hairs that grow on the edge of the eyelids.

Example: Snow settled on her eyelashes.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Frost from their frozen breath covered their eyelashes, cheeks, and lips, so their faces could not be seen clearly. Go to

2. His face was blistering from the heat, his eyebrows and eyelashes were burned off, and the heat was too much for his feet. Go to

Original English Version

1. Eyelashes and cheeks and lips were so coated with the crystals from their frozen breath that their faces were not discernible. Go to

eyelids /ˈaɪlɪdz/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: pálpebras

Simple English: The pieces of skin that cover the eyes when they close.

Example: His eyelids were heavy with sleep.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. Henry thought long over it before he went to sleep, and as his eyelids fluttered down and he dozed off, the thought in his mind was: "There's no mistakin' it, Bill's almighty blue. Go to

familyarity /fəˌmɪliˈærɪti/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: familiaridade

Simple English: Being very used to or comfortable with something.

Example: 'That animal's familiarity with campfires is suspicious and immoral.'

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. "An' right here I want to remark," Bill went on, "that that animal's familyarity with campfires is suspicious an' immoral." Go to

Original English Version

1. "An' right here I want to remark," Bill went on, "that that animal's familyarity with campfires is suspicious an' immoral." Go to

fangs /fæŋz/ (55 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: presas; caninos afiados

Simple English: The long sharp teeth of animals such as dogs and snakes.

Example: The snake showed its fangs and drew back.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. As she sprang away, she growled and showed her white fangs, and her sadness disappeared. Go to

Original English Version

1. It was a wistfulness bred of hunger, as cruel as its own fangs, as merciless as the frost itself. Go to

2. He kept the fire brightly blazing, for he knew that it alone intervened between the flesh of his body and their hungry fangs. Go to

3. Then he would cast a glance of fear at the wolf-circle drawn expectantly about him, and like a blow the realisation would strike him that this wonderful body of his, this living flesh, was no more than so much meat, a quest of ravenous animals, to be torn and slashed by their hungry fangs, to be sustenance to them as the moose and the rabbit had often been sustenance to him. Go to

4. She had snarled as she sprang away, baring her white fangs to their roots, all her wistfulness vanishing, being replaced by a carnivorous malignity that made him shudder. Go to

5. It was he who snarled warningly at the younger members of the pack or slashed at them with his fangs when they ambitiously tried to pass him. Go to

fastened /ˈfæsənd/ (9 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: prenderam; fixaram

Simple English: Joined or fixed one thing firmly to another.

Example: They fastened his head onto his tin body.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He had fastened a leather strap around each dog's neck. Go to

Original English Version

1. About the neck of each dog he had fastened a leather thong. Go to

2. The stick prevented him from getting at the leather that fastened the other end. Go to

3. All worked well, but there came a time when he fastened the pine- knot insecurely. Go to

fatty's /ˈfætiz/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: de Fatty

Simple English: Belonging to Fatty, a sled dog's nickname in the story.

Example: 'Fatty's gone.'

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. "Fatty's gone." Go to

Original English Version

1. "Fatty's gone." Go to

fearfully /ˈfɪrfəli/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: temerosamente; com medo; terrivelmente

Simple English: In a frightened way; in older English it also means very much.

Example: The cat looked fearfully at the open door.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Then he looked fearfully at the ring of wolves around him, and the truth struck him like a blow. Go to

fiercely /ˈfɪrsli/ (27 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: ferozmente; intensamente

Simple English: In a strong and violent way.

Example: The ball of fire burned fiercely.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. They cried and whined, and sometimes snarled fiercely when a wolf came too close. Go to

Original English Version

1. A long wailing cry, fiercely sad, from somewhere in the darkness, had interrupted him. Go to

2. At once began to rise the cries that were fiercely sad--cries that called through the darkness and cold to one another and answered back. Go to

fierceness /ˈfɪrsnəs/ (8 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: ferocidade; fereza

Simple English: The quality of being violent and full of anger.

Example: There was a cold fierceness in his eyes.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. It might have been a lost soul wailing, had it not been invested with a certain sad fierceness and hungry eagerness. Go to

firebrands /ˈfaɪərbrændz/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: tições acesos

Simple English: pieces of burning wood

Example: He threw firebrands to drive the pack back.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. The rest of the pack rushed toward him, and he had to throw firebrands to both sides to drive them back. Go to

Original English Version

1. The rest of the pack was now up and surging upon him, and a throwing of firebrands right and left was necessary to drive them back to a respectful distance. Go to

firelight /ˈfaɪərlaɪt/ (15 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: luz da fogueira; clarão do fogo

Simple English: The light given out by a fire.

Example: They read by firelight because the lamp had failed.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Henry stared at the fire, and Bill watched the circle of eyes glowing in the dark beyond the firelight. Go to

2. Get the firelight out of your eyes and look hard--there! Go to

3. For a while, the two men watched the moving shapes at the edge of the firelight. Go to

4. A doglike animal moved quietly into the firelight. Go to

5. He could see them clearly in the firelight, lying down, sitting up, crawling forward on their bellies, or moving quietly back and forth. Go to

6. In the firelight, he slowly bent his fingers, one by one and then all together, spread them wide, and made quick gripping movements. Go to

Original English Version

1. Henry grunted with an intonation that was not all sympathy, and for a quarter of an hour they sat on in silence, Henry staring at the fire, and Bill at the circle of eyes that burned in the darkness just beyond the firelight. Go to

2. Get the firelight out of your eyes an' look hard--there! Go to

3. For some time the two men amused themselves with watching the movement of vague forms on the edge of the firelight. Go to

4. Full into the firelight, with a stealthy, sidelong movement, glided a doglike animal. Go to

5. They were all about him and the fire, in a narrow circle, and he could see them plainly in the firelight lying down, sitting up, crawling forward on their bellies, or slinking back and forth. Go to

firewood /ˈfaɪərwʊd/ (7 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: lenha

Simple English: Wood cut for burning.

Example: They collected firewood before dark.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. When darkness began to fall, he quickly made camp and made sure he had plenty of firewood. Go to

2. There were still several hours of grey daylight and dark twilight, and he used them to cut a large amount of firewood. Go to

3. Once he reached the tree, he studied the forest so he could cut it in the direction where there was the most firewood. Go to

Original English Version

1. At the first hint of darkness he hastened to make a camp, and he saw to it that he had a generous supply of firewood. Go to

2. Once at the tree, he studied the surrounding forest in order to fell the tree in the direction of the most firewood. Go to

firm /fɜːrm/ (10 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: firme; empresa; escritório

Simple English: A company or business, often owned by two or more partners.

Example: He works at a law firm that specializes in family law.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. "You're not well, that's the problem," Henry said firmly. Go to

2. "You mean they _think_ they know where we are," Henry said firmly. Go to

flame (9 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: chama; fogo; labareda

Simple English: the bright burning gas of a fire

Example: A small flame burned in the candle.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. As the flames rose, the circle of eyes moved back. Go to

2. He had only been asleep a few minutes when the flame burned his flesh and woke him. Go to

3. When he hid inside his shelter of flame, the whole pack came close to the edge of the fire to see him. Go to

4. He tried to step out of his circle of flame, but the wolves rushed toward him. Go to

5. The circle of flame and coals was breaking into pieces, with open spaces between them. Go to

flaming /ˈfleɪmɪŋ/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: flamejante; em chamas; ardente

Simple English: Burning with flames, or very bright red or orange.

Example: We watched the flaming logs collapse into ash.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. With a flaming brand in each hand, he sprang to the edge of the fire. Go to

Original English Version

1. With a flaming brand in each hand, he sprang to the edge of the fire. Go to

flashed /flæʃt/ (8 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: lampejaram; refletiram

Simple English: Shone with a sudden bright light.

Example: The mirror flashed in the morning sun.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. At such times her running mates flashed their teeth and growled threateningly across at each other. Go to

flickered /ˈflɪkərd/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: tremeluziu; bruxuleou

Simple English: Burned or shone in an unsteady way.

Example: The candle flickered in the draught.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. His eyes flickered shut. Go to

flinging /ˈflɪŋɪŋ/ (5 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: arremessando

Simple English: Throwing something suddenly and forcefully.

Example: He ran outside, flinging the blanket aside.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. Flinging his brands at the nearest of his enemies, the man thrust his smouldering mittens into the snow and stamped about to cool his feet. Go to

flung /flʌŋ/ (13 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: arremessou; lançou

Simple English: Threw or moved something suddenly and forcefully.

Example: She flung the door open and ran outside.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. The fire died down, and the gleaming eyes drew closer the circle they had flung about the camp. Go to

2. He flung it back, so that it struck the sled and bounced along until it fetched up on Bill's snowshoes. Go to

freezes /friːzɪz/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: gela; congela

Simple English: Becomes very cold and turns to ice.

Example: The water freezes here every winter.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. It freezes the water so it cannot run to the sea. Go to

Original English Version

1. It freezes the water to prevent it running to the sea; it drives the sap out of the trees till they are frozen to their mighty hearts; and most ferociously and terribly of all does the Wild harry and crush into submission man--man who is the most restless of life, ever in revolt against the dictum that all movement must in the end come to the cessation of movement. Go to

fright /fraɪt/ (17 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: susto; medo

Simple English: A sudden strong feeling of fear.

Example: The unexpected voice gave her quite a fright.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. In the scramble one of the dogs had been overturned on the edge of the fire, and it had yelped with pain and fright as the smell of its singed coat possessed the air. Go to

frighten /ˈfraɪtən/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: assustar; amedrontar

Simple English: To make someone feel afraid.

Example: It was very easy to frighten them.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. With his rifle in daylight, he might be able to frighten the wolves and save the dog. Go to

froze /froʊz/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: congelou; ficou paralisado

Simple English: Turned to ice, or suddenly stopped moving out of fear.

Example: The lake froze over during the cold week.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Their breath froze in the air and turned to crystals on their bodies. Go to

Original English Version

1. Their breath froze in the air as it left their mouths, spouting forth in spumes of vapour that settled upon the hair of their bodies and formed into crystals of frost. Go to

frying /ˈfraɪɪŋ/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: fritando; ardendo

Simple English: Cooking food in hot oil or fat.

Example: He smelled bacon frying in the pan.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. There were other things too - blankets, an axe, a coffee-pot, and a frying-pan - but the box took up most of the space. Go to

Original English Version

1. There were other things on the sled--blankets, an axe, and a coffee-pot and frying-pan; but prominent, occupying most of the space, was the long and narrow oblong box. Go to

funerals /ˈfjuːnərəlz/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: funerais

Simple English: ceremonies held when people are buried or cremated

Example: Carriages appeared on the street only for weddings and funerals.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. "Long trips for funerals are not something you and me can really afford." Go to

Original English Version

1. "Long-distance funerals is somethin' you an' me can't exactly afford." Go to

furred /fɜːrd/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: peludo

Simple English: covered with fur or having a particular kind of fur

Example: The soft-furred kitten curled beside the fire.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He woke from a half-nightmare sleep and saw the red-furred she-wolf in front of him. Go to

ghostly /ˈɡoʊstli/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: fantasmagórico; espectral

Simple English: Looking or sounding like a ghost; pale and unclear.

Example: A ghostly light moved slowly across the empty field.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. They looked like ghostly masks, like undertakers in a strange funeral world. Go to

Original English Version

1. This gave them the seeming of ghostly masques, undertakers in a spectral world at the funeral of some ghost. Go to

glances /ˈɡlænsɪz/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: olhares rápidos

Simple English: Quick or brief looks.

Example: Henry cast anxious glances back into the grey distance.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. Henry made no reply, and plodded on alone, though often he cast anxious glances back into the grey solitude where his partner had disappeared. Go to

glided /ˈɡlaɪdɪd/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: deslizou; escorregou

Simple English: Moved smoothly and quietly, without any effort.

Example: The great moth glided down through the dark.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. Full into the firelight, with a stealthy, sidelong movement, glided a doglike animal. Go to

gloomy /ˈɡluːmi/ (7 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: sombrio; escuro; lúgubre

Simple English: Dark and depressing, or sad and without hope.

Example: The waiting room was gloomy even at midday.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. A gloomy breakfast was eaten, and the four remaining dogs were harnessed to the sled. Go to

gnawed /nɔːd/ (5 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: roeu; corroeu

Simple English: Bit at something repeatedly, or slowly wore it away.

Example: Mice had gnawed a hole in the sack of flour.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Unless One Ear gnawed him loose. Go to

Original English Version

1. Unless One Ear gnawed 'm loose. Go to

gnawing /ˈnɔːɪŋ/ (5 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: roendo; corroendo

Simple English: Biting repeatedly or causing persistent pain or worry.

Example: A gnawing hunger kept him awake.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. And the men went early to bed, Bill first seeing to it that the dogs were tied out of gnawing-reach of one another. Go to

grab /ɡræb/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: agarrar; pegue; pegar

Simple English: To take someone or something suddenly or violently.

Example: She decided to grab her bag and leave quickly.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Then he grabbed burning sticks from the fire and threw them into the pack. Go to

greased /ɡriːst/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: untado; lubrificado

Simple English: Coated with grease or another oily substance.

Example: They greased the lead before lowering it into the water.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. "And he went like greased lightnin' once he got started. Go to

Original English Version

1. "An' he went like greased lightnin' once he got started. Go to

gripping /ˈɡrɪpɪŋ/ (5 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: agarrando; empolgante

Simple English: Holding tightly; also holding the attention completely.

Example: It was a gripping story from the first page.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. In the firelight, he slowly bent his fingers, one by one and then all together, spread them wide, and made quick gripping movements. Go to

Original English Version

1. By the light of the fire he crooked his fingers slowly and repeatedly now one at a time, now all together, spreading them wide or making quick gripping movements. Go to

2. He glanced at the hand that held the brand, noticing the cunning delicacy of the fingers that gripped it, how they adjusted themselves to all the inequalities of the surface, curling over and under and about the rough wood, and one little finger, too close to the burning portion of the brand, sensitively and automatically writhing back from the hurtful heat to a cooler gripping-place; and in the same instant he seemed to see a vision of those same sensitive and delicate fingers being crushed and torn by the white teeth of the she-wolf. Go to

3. Sleep was welling up and gripping him again, his head was sinking down upon his knees, when he roused with a sudden start. Go to

groaned /ɡroʊnd/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: gemeu

Simple English: Made a deep sound to show pain or displeasure.

Example: The old man groaned as he stood up.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Henry groaned as he moved from sleep to waking and asked, “What is wrong now?” Go to

Original English Version

1. Henry groaned as he passed from sleep to waking, and demanded, "What's wrong now?" Go to

growl /ɡraʊl/ (73 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: rosnar

Simple English: To make a low, angry sound, as an animal does.

Example: The dog was too afraid to growl.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He did not growl at her or show his teeth when she moved ahead of him. Go to

2. He often ran close to her, and then she would growl and show her teeth. Go to

3. When he tried to run beside the older wolf, which was rare, a growl and a snap sent him back again. Go to

growled /ɡraʊld/ (68 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: rosnou

Simple English: Made a low, angry sound.

Example: He often growled at the Scarecrow.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. They growled and argued with each other, but they did not seem ready to run off into the dark. Go to

2. The dogs huddled together in fear and sometimes growled when a pair of eyes came near. Go to

3. As she sprang away, she growled and showed her white fangs, and her sadness disappeared. Go to

4. She jumped back, crying in pain, and he enjoyed the smell of burned hair and flesh as she shook her head and growled angrily a little distance away. Go to

5. It cried out in fear, growled at the same time, and scrambled back to cool its paws in the snow. Go to

6. He growled at younger wolves when they tried to pass him, and he even snapped at them. Go to

Original English Version

1. At such times her running mates flashed their teeth and growled threateningly across at each other. Go to

growling /ˈɡraʊlɪŋ/ (46 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: rosnando; que rosna

Simple English: Making low, angry sounds.

Example: The growling beasts fell into the gulf.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. The two dogs were whining and growling at his feet, but she ignored them. Go to

Original English Version

1. She sprang away, yelling with pain, and while he took delight in the smell of burning flesh and hair, he watched her shaking her head and growling wrathfully a score of feet away. Go to

grub /ɡrʌb/ (5 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: comida (informal); bóia

Simple English: Food, in informal speech.

Example: The men came in for their grub at noon.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. "They'd sooner eat grub than be grub. Go to

Original English Version

1. "They'd sooner eat grub than be grub. Go to

2. "What gets me, Henry, is what a chap like this, that's a lord or something in his own country, and that's never had to bother about grub nor blankets; why he comes a-buttin' round the Godforsaken ends of the earth--that's what I can't exactly see." Go to

grunt /ɡrʌnt/ (12 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: grunhido; resmungo

Simple English: A short low sound made in the throat.

Example: He answered with a grunt and kept working.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Henry answered the news with a grunt, and then his grunt turned into a snore as he fell back asleep. Go to

Original English Version

1. Henry acknowledged receipt of the information with a grunt that slid into a snore as he drifted back into sleep. Go to

grunted /ˈɡrʌntɪd/ (10 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: grunhiu; resmungou

Simple English: Made a short low sound in the throat.

Example: The farmer grunted and picked up the sack.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Henry grunted and began to untie his moccasins. Go to

2. Henry grunted and crawled into bed. Go to

Original English Version

1. Henry grunted, and began unlacing his moccasins. Go to

2. Henry grunted and crawled into bed. Go to

3. Henry grunted with an intonation that was not all sympathy, and for a quarter of an hour they sat on in silence, Henry staring at the fire, and Bill at the circle of eyes that burned in the darkness just beyond the firelight. Go to

4. Bill grunted his disagreement with the diagnosis, and lapsed into silence. Go to

harnesses /ˈhɑːrnɪsɪz/ (5 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: arreios; armaduras

Simple English: Sets of straps for controlling or pulling with animals; historically, sets of armor or equipment.

Example: The dogs wore leather harnesses and pulled a sled.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. They wore leather harnesses, and leather traces pulled a sled behind them. Go to

2. He heard men calling, sleds moving, harnesses creaking, and dogs whining eagerly as they pulled hard. Go to

Original English Version

1. There were cries of men, and churn of sleds, the creaking of harnesses, and the eager whimpering of straining dogs. Go to

haunches /ˈhɔːntʃɪz/ (16 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: ancas; quartos traseiros

Simple English: The back legs and hips of an animal.

Example: The dog sat back on its haunches.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. One by one, the wolves joined her, until the whole pack, sitting on its haunches with noses raised to the sky, was howling its hunger cry. Go to

Original English Version

1. One by one the wolves joined her, till the whole pack, on haunches, with noses pointed skyward, was howling its hunger cry. Go to

2. At such times, confronted by three sets of savage teeth, the young wolf stopped precipitately, throwing himself back on his haunches, with fore- legs stiff, mouth menacing, and mane bristling. Go to

hearin /ˈhɪərɪn/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: ouvindo

Simple English: listening to or receiving information; here, waiting to listen to an explanation

Example: I'm warm and anxious to be hearing you explain yourself.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. "Then it's jes' warm an' anxious I am to be hearin' you explain yourself," he said. Go to

Original English Version

1. "Then it's jes' warm an' anxious I am to be hearin' you explain yourself," he said. Go to

hell /hɛl/ (8 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: inferno; diabos; droga

Simple English: The location where sinners face eternal punishment according to Christianity.

Example: Some believe that hell is a place of unimaginable pain and suffering.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. "The hell!" Henry shouted in anger, and he left the cooking to come and count the dogs. Go to

2. "If that pack ever comes at you, those three cartridges will be worth no more than three cries in hell. Go to

hissing /ˈhɪsɪŋ/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: sibilante; chiando; silvo

Simple English: Making a long sound like the letter s.

Example: A hissing kettle woke the whole house.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. All around him, where live coals had landed, the snow was hissing. Go to

howl /haʊl/ (11 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: uivo; lamúria

Simple English: A long loud cry, like that of a wolf or a dog.

Example: A howl came out of the dark forest.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Then the she-wolf sat down, pointed her nose at a star, and began to howl. Go to

Original English Version

1. Then the she- wolf sat down, pointed her nose at a star, and began to howl. Go to

howling /ˈhaʊlɪŋ/ (19 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: uivos; berreiro

Simple English: Long loud crying sounds.

Example: The howling of the dogs woke the village.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. In the dream, the fort was surrounded by wolves howling at the gates, and he and the Factor laughed at their useless attempts to get in. Go to

2. The howling grew louder, and although the dream changed into something else, the howling stayed with him. Go to

3. Then he woke and found that the howling was real. Go to

4. One by one, the wolves joined her, until the whole pack, sitting on its haunches with noses raised to the sky, was howling its hunger cry. Go to

Original English Version

1. They were howling at the very gates, and sometimes he and the Factor paused from the game to listen and laugh at the futile efforts of the wolves to get in. Go to

2. With the bursting open of the door, the noise of their howling had increased tremendously. Go to

3. This howling now bothered him. Go to

4. His dream was merging into something else--he knew not what; but through it all, following him, persisted the howling. Go to

5. And then he awoke to find the howling real. Go to

6. One by one the wolves joined her, till the whole pack, on haunches, with noses pointed skyward, was howling its hunger cry. Go to

huddled /ˈhʌdəld/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: amontoadas; apertadas umas nas outras

Simple English: Pressed close together, usually because of cold or fear.

Example: The children huddled by the fire.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. The dogs huddled together in fear and sometimes growled when a pair of eyes came near. Go to

hungrily /ˈhʌŋɡrəli/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: famintamente; com fome

Simple English: In a way that shows you want something very much.

Example: The boy ate hungrily and said nothing.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He could count about twenty wolves, staring at him hungrily or sleeping calmly in the snow. Go to

Original English Version

1. Fully a score he could count, staring hungrily at him or calmly sleeping in the snow. Go to

hurtful /ˈhɜːrtfəl/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: doloroso; prejudicial; ofensivo

Simple English: Causing physical pain, emotional distress, or damage.

Example: She apologized for asking such hurtful questions.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. He glanced at the hand that held the brand, noticing the cunning delicacy of the fingers that gripped it, how they adjusted themselves to all the inequalities of the surface, curling over and under and about the rough wood, and one little finger, too close to the burning portion of the brand, sensitively and automatically writhing back from the hurtful heat to a cooler gripping-place; and in the same instant he seemed to see a vision of those same sensitive and delicate fingers being crushed and torn by the white teeth of the she-wolf. Go to

husky /ˈhʌski/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: husky; rouco; robusto

Simple English: A northern sled dog, or an adjective meaning rough-voiced, strong, or heavily built.

Example: The large husky sled dog stood beside the camp.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. "It looks exactly like a big husky sled dog," Bill said. Go to

2. "Hello, you husky!" he called. Go to

Original English Version

1. "Looks for all the world like a big husky sled-dog," Bill said. Go to

2. "Hello, you husky!" he called. Go to

immoral /ɪˈmɔːrəl/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: imoral

Simple English: against accepted moral principles of right and wrong

Example: Gambling is immoral, said Mrs. Gradgrind.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. "An' right here I want to remark," Bill went on, "that that animal's familyarity with campfires is suspicious an' immoral." Go to

Original English Version

1. "An' right here I want to remark," Bill went on, "that that animal's familyarity with campfires is suspicious an' immoral." Go to

inch (5 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: polegada; medida; unidade

Simple English: a unit of length equal to 2.54 centimetres

Example: The shelf is twelve inches wide.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He saved himself by jumping back, and the wolf's jaws snapped shut only a few inches from his thigh. Go to

inner /ˈɪnər/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: interior; íntimo

Simple English: Situated inside of something else; internal or central.

Example: She found peace in her inner thoughts during her quiet meditation practice.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. One Ear knew the danger, but he was running on the outer circle while the wolves ran on the shorter inner circle. Go to

instinctively /ɪnˈstɪŋktɪvli/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: instintivamente; por instinto

Simple English: Without thinking, because of a natural feeling.

Example: She instinctively raised her arm to protect her face.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. Instinctively he leaped into the fire, and as he leaped, he felt the sharp slash of teeth that tore through the flesh of his leg. Go to

intruder /ɪnˈtruːdər/ (10 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: intruso; invasor

Simple English: A person who enters a place without permission.

Example: The dog barked at the intruder until help came.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. One Ear strained the full length of the stick toward the intruder and whined with eagerness. Go to

jerked /dʒɜːrkt/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: teve um sobressalto; sacudiu-se

Simple English: Moved suddenly with a short quick pull.

Example: The rope jerked out of his hands.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. He jerked his shoulder petulantly away from the grip of his questioner. Go to

jes /dʒes/ (12 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: só (forma dialetal de just)

Simple English: Just, as country people say it.

Example: I jes wanted to look at it.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. "Then it's jes' warm an' anxious I am to be hearin' you explain yourself," he said. Go to

Original English Version

1. You jes' shut up now, an' go to sleep, an' you'll be all hunkydory in the mornin'. Go to

2. "They jes' swallowed 'm alive. Go to

3. "It got half of it," he announced; "but I got a whack at it jes' the same. Go to

4. "He can gnaw through leather as clean as a knife an' jes' about half as quick. Go to

5. "You jes' bet they will," Bill affirmed. Go to

6. "They jes' know we ain't loaded to kill," Henry remarked at bed-time, indicating the gleaming circle that hemmed them in. Go to

joked /dʒoʊkt/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: gracejou; brincou

Simple English: Said something funny to make people laugh.

Example: He joked about his own bad cooking.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Bill seemed to have forgotten his fears from the night before, and he even joked with the dogs when they overturned the sled on a bad part of the trail at midday. Go to

labored /ˈleɪbərd/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: trabalhou arduamente

Simple English: Worked hard, or was done with great effort.

Example: They labored all day in the field.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. A line of wolf-like dogs labored down the frozen waterway. Go to

lain /leɪn/ (7 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: jazido; estado deitado

Simple English: Been in a flat, resting position.

Example: The house had lain on that spot for hours.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. The dogs had lain down in the snow, and he walked past them to join his partner in the sled. Go to

Original English Version

1. The dogs had lain down in the snow, and he walked past them to join his partner in the sled. Go to

lambasted /ˈlæmbæstɪd/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: criticou duramente; repreendeu com força

Simple English: Criticized someone or something very severely.

Example: "I'm a-thinkin' that was the one I lambasted with the club."

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. "I'm a-thinkin' that was the one I lambasted with the club." Go to

Original English Version

1. "I'm a-thinkin' that was the one I lambasted with the club." Go to

lashes /ˈlæʃɪz/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: cílios; chicotadas; açoita

Simple English: The short hairs on the edge of the eyelids; also blows with a whip.

Example: Her lashes were still wet from crying.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. His face was blistering in the heat, his eyebrows and lashes were singed off, and the heat was becoming unbearable to his feet. Go to

lashings /ˈlæʃɪŋz/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: amarras; cordas de fixação

Simple English: Ropes or cords used to tie something securely in place.

Example: The huskies had chewed through the sled lashings and canvas coverings.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Once he jumped up and quickly took the axe from under the lashings. Go to

Original English Version

1. It was just after the sun's futile effort to appear, that Bill slipped the rifle from under the sled-lashings and said: Go to

2. Once, he roused with a start and hastily got the axe out from underneath the lashings. Go to

lean /liːn/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: magra; enxuta; inclinar

Simple English: To bend from straight position to rest against support.

Example: You can lean against the wall while waiting for the bus.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Then they saw a dozen lean grey wolves coming at right angles to the trail and cutting off his escape. Go to

2. His two dogs stayed close to him, one on each side, leaning against him for safety. Go to

leaned /liːnd/ (5 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: apoiou; encostou

Simple English: Rested part of the body against something for support.

Example: Dorothy leaned her chin upon her hand.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. A recent wind had removed the white frost from the trees, and they leaned toward each other in the fading light, black and threatening. Go to

2. He leaned forward from the hips. Go to

Original English Version

1. His body leaned forward from the hips. Go to

leaped /liːpt/ (42 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: saltou

Simple English: Jumped a long way or high into the air.

Example: The cat leaped onto the wall.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. They leaped straight at him and the Factor. Go to

Original English Version

1. Henry leaped out of the blankets and to the dogs. Go to

2. At the sound of it the strange animal leaped back into the darkness. Go to

3. For in that instant the she-wolf leaped sidewise from the trail into the clump of spruce trees and disappeared. Go to

4. But the moment he left the protection of the fire, the boldest wolf leaped for him, but leaped short. Go to

5. Instinctively he leaped into the fire, and as he leaped, he felt the sharp slash of teeth that tore through the flesh of his leg. Go to

6. As he gave up and stumbled inside his circle, a wolf leaped for him, missed, and landed with all four feet in the coals. Go to

leaping /ˈliːpɪŋ/ (10 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: saltando; pulando

Simple English: Jumping high or a long way.

Example: The dog came leaping over the wall.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. They were leaping straight for him and the Factor. Go to

licked /lɪkt/ (27 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: lambeu

Simple English: Moved the tongue over something.

Example: The cat licked the milk from the bowl.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Her mouth opened, saliva dripped out, and she licked her lips in anticipation. Go to

Original English Version

1. "A man's half licked when he says he is. Go to

2. Her mouth opened, the saliva drooled forth, and she licked her chops with the pleasure of anticipation. Go to

lifeless /ˈlaɪfləs/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: sem vida; inanimado; apático

Simple English: Dead, or without energy and interest.

Example: The town looked lifeless on a Sunday afternoon.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. The land was empty, lifeless, and so cold and lonely that it did not even feel sad. Go to

2. They were small adventurers on a huge journey, standing against a world as far away and lifeless as space itself. Go to

Original English Version

1. The land itself was a desolation, lifeless, without movement, so lone and cold that the spirit of it was not even that of sadness. Go to

lightnin /ˈlaɪtnɪn/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: relâmpago

Simple English: Lightnin is a dialect spelling of lightning; greased lightning means extremely fast.

Example: "And he went like greased lightnin' once he got started.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. "And he went like greased lightnin' once he got started. Go to

Original English Version

1. "An' he went like greased lightnin' once he got started. Go to

Limited /ˈlɪmɪtɪd/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: limitado; limita; restrito

Simple English: Very small in quantity or available for use.

Example: The store has a limited selection of books this week.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. It pushed them deep into their own thoughts and took away their false pride and excitement, until they saw themselves as small and limited, like tiny specks moving with weak skill and little wisdom among the blind forces of nature. Go to

limped /lɪmpt/ (9 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: mancou; coxeou

Simple English: Walked with difficulty because of a hurt leg or foot.

Example: The poor animal limped on three legs.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. The weak ones, very young and very old, limped at the back. Go to

Original English Version

1. At the rear limped the weak members, the very young and the very old. Go to

2. Nevertheless, with the exception of the ones that limped, the movements of the animals were effortless and tireless. Go to

limping /ˈlɪmpɪŋ/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: mancando

Simple English: Walking unevenly because of an injured leg or foot.

Example: He came limping home after twisting his ankle.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Even so, except for the limping ones, they moved easily and did not seem to tire. Go to

lively /ˈlaɪvli/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: animada; vívido; alegre

Simple English: Full of energy and excitement; animated in action.

Example: The lively music made everyone want to dance and celebrate.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. This young wolf was fully grown, and even though the pack was weak and starving, he was stronger and more lively than most. Go to

load /loʊd/ (7 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: carga; carregar; carregamento

Simple English: To fill a space with items in an efficient way.

Example: They need to load the boxes onto the truck for delivery today.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. "I mean that this load of ours is upsetting you, and that you are starting to imagine things." Go to

2. "They know we ain't loaded to kill," Henry said at bedtime, pointing to the shining ring around them. Go to

3. But it was stuck under the overturned sled, and by the time Henry helped him right the load, One Ear and the she-wolf were too close together, and the distance was too great to risk a shot. Go to

lord /lɔːrd/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: senhor; Lorde; Deus

Simple English: Man of high rank within the noble class.

Example: The lord held a feast to celebrate the harvest season.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. "What I don't understand, Henry, is why a man like this, who is a lord or something in his own country and has never had to worry about food or blankets, comes bothering around the far ends of the earth. Go to

2. "Where's Lord Alfred?" one of the men shouted in his ear, shaking him hard. Go to

luckier /ˈlʌkiər/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: mais sortudo

Simple English: Having better luck than someone else.

Example: The second traveller was luckier and found the path.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. "Henry, I was thinking how much luckier he is than you and me will ever be." Go to

Original English Version

1. "Henry, I was a-thinkin' what a blame sight luckier he is than you an' me'll ever be." Go to

lunged /lʌndʒd/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: arremeteu; investiu

Simple English: Moved forward suddenly and with force.

Example: The dog lunged at the gate as we passed.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He lunged at the end of his stick toward the darkness, then stopped and attacked the stick again with his teeth in a wild effort. Go to

luring /ˈlʊrɪŋ/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: atraindo; seduzindo

Simple English: Drawing someone towards something, often into danger.

Example: The light was luring the moths inside.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Little by little, she was luring him away from the safety of his human companions. Go to

Original English Version

1. Step by step she was luring him away from the security of his human companionship. Go to

mane /meɪn/ (5 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: juba

Simple English: The long hair on the neck of a lion or a horse.

Example: The Lion shook his shaggy mane.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He sat back on his hind legs, held his front legs stiff, and bared his mouth threateningly, with his mane standing up. Go to

Original English Version

1. At such times, confronted by three sets of savage teeth, the young wolf stopped precipitately, throwing himself back on his haunches, with fore- legs stiff, mouth menacing, and mane bristling. Go to

mcgurry /məkˈɡʌri/ (12 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: McGurry

Simple English: the name of a fort mentioned in the story

Example: I wish we were sitting by the fire in Fort McGurry right now.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. And while I am wishing, I wish the trip was over, and you and I were sitting by the fire in Fort McGurry right now playing cribbage - that is what I wish.” Go to

2. "I wish we were heading into McGurry right now," he began again. Go to

3. "Well, you'll know for sure when we get to McGurry." Go to

4. "What you need is quinine, and I'm going to give you a strong dose as soon as we reach McGurry." Go to

5. They also knew that safety meant reaching Fort McGurry. Go to

6. He dreamed that he was in Fort McGurry. Go to

Original English Version

1. An' while I'm wishin', I wisht the trip was over an' done with, an' you an' me a-sittin' by the fire in Fort McGurry just about now an' playing cribbage--that's what I wisht." Go to

2. "I wisht we was pullin' into McGurry right now," he began again. Go to

3. "Well, you'll know all right when we pull into McGurry." Go to

4. "What you need is quinine, an' I'm goin' to dose you up stiff as soon as we make McGurry." Go to

5. Then he took the trail, the lightened sled bounding along behind the willing dogs; for they, too, knew that safety lay open in the gaining of Fort McGurry. Go to

6. It seemed to him that he was in Fort McGurry. Go to

melt /mɛlt/ (5 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: derreter; derretimento; degelo

Simple English: To turn from solid into liquid because of heat exposure.

Example: The ice will melt quickly when exposed to the warm sun.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Inside it, he crouched down, with his sleeping clothes under him to protect him from the melting snow. Go to

midday /ˈmɪddeɪ/ (5 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: meio-dia

Simple English: The middle of the day, around twelve o'clock.

Example: We rest in the shade at midday.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Bill seemed to have forgotten his fears from the night before, and he even joked with the dogs when they overturned the sled on a bad part of the trail at midday. Go to

2. At midday, the sun warmed the southern sky, and its pale golden edge even showed above the horizon. Go to

Original English Version

1. At midday the sky to the south warmed to rose-colour, and marked where the bulge of the earth intervened between the meridian sun and the northern world. Go to

2. Bill seemed to have forgotten his forebodings of the previous night, and even waxed facetious with the dogs when, at midday, they overturned the sled on a bad piece of trail. Go to

3. At midday, not only did the sun warm the southern horizon, but it even thrust its upper rim, pale and golden, above the sky-line. Go to

Mistake /mɪˈsteɪk/ (7 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: erro; engano; equívoco

Simple English: An action or judgment that is incorrect or wrong.

Example: Learning from a mistake is often more important than getting everything right.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. As his eyes closed, he thought, "There is no mistake. Go to

2. Too late, One Ear understood his mistake. Go to

mistrust /mɪsˈtrʌst/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: desconfiança

Simple English: The feeling that you cannot trust someone.

Example: There was mistrust between the two families.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. It moved with commingled mistrust and daring, cautiously observing the men, its attention fixed on the dogs. Go to

mittens /ˈmɪtənz/ (10 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: luvas sem dedos separados

Simple English: Gloves with one section for the fingers and one for the thumb.

Example: She pulled on warm mittens before going out into the snow.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. His thick mittens protected his hands for a moment, and he threw live coals in every direction until the campfire looked like a volcano. Go to

2. He threw his brands at the nearest wolves, pushed his smoking mittens into the snow, and stamped about to cool his feet. Go to

Original English Version

1. His stout mittens temporarily protected his hands, and he scooped live coals into the air in all directions, until the campfire took on the semblance of a volcano. Go to

2. Flinging his brands at the nearest of his enemies, the man thrust his smouldering mittens into the snow and stamped about to cool his feet. Go to

moccasins /ˈmɒkəsɪnz/ (8 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: mocassins

Simple English: Soft leather shoes.

Example: His moccasins were wet.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Henry grunted and began to untie his moccasins. Go to

2. He shook his fist angrily at the shining eyes, and carefully propped his moccasins near the fire. Go to

Original English Version

1. Henry grunted, and began unlacing his moccasins. Go to

2. He shook his fist angrily at the gleaming eyes, and began securely to prop his moccasins before the fire. Go to

mockery /ˈmɑːkəri/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: escárnio; zombaria

Simple English: Unkind laughing at someone.

Example: There was mockery in his polite bow.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. But they were still men, moving through a land of emptiness, silence, and mockery. Go to

Original English Version

1. But under it all they were men, penetrating the land of desolation and mockery and silence, puny adventurers bent on colossal adventure, pitting themselves against the might of a world as remote and alien and pulseless as the abysses of space. Go to

mumbled /ˈmʌmbəld/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: balbuciou; disse entre dentes

Simple English: Spoke quietly and not clearly.

Example: He mumbled an answer and looked away.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. "I guess you can come and get me any time," he mumbled. Go to

Original English Version

1. But Bill was stubborn, and he ate a dry breakfast washed down with mumbled curses at One Ear for the trick he had played. Go to

2. "I guess you can come an' get me any time," he mumbled. Go to

muttered /ˈmʌtərd/ (7 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: resmungou; murmurou

Simple English: Said something in a low voice that was hard to hear.

Example: He muttered a few words and walked away.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. "I don't know, I don't know," Bill muttered ominously. Go to

muzzle /ˈmʌzəl/ (23 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: focinho; focinheira; boca da arma

Simple English: An animal's nose and mouth, or a cover put over them.

Example: The dog pushed its muzzle into my hand.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. He, also, was addicted to crowding her, to veering toward her till his scarred muzzle touched her body, or shoulder, or neck. Go to

narrowed /ˈnæroʊd/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: estreitou; apertou os olhos; reduziu

Simple English: Became or made less wide; also partly closed the eyes.

Example: The road narrowed to a single track.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Little by little, one wolf at a time, it narrowed until the animals were almost close enough to jump. Go to

nearer /ˈnɪrər/ (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: mais perto; mais próximo

Simple English: Closer in distance.

Example: The land grows beautiful as one comes nearer the city.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. When night came in the middle of the afternoon, the cries sounded nearer, because the pursuers always moved in closer. Go to

needn't /ˈniːdənt/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: não preciso; não é preciso

Simple English: A short form of need not.

Example: You needn't wait for me.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. "You needn't stray off too far in doin' it," his partner admonished. Go to

nervously /ˈnɜːrvəsli/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: nervosamente; receosamente

Simple English: In a worried or frightened way.

Example: The mice looked at her nervously.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. The noise made the circle of eyes move nervously for a moment and even go back a little, but it soon settled again when the dogs became quiet. Go to

nightmare /ˈnaɪtmeər/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: pesadelo

Simple English: A frightening or disturbing dream.

Example: She woke up from a nightmare and felt scared and confused.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He woke from a half-nightmare sleep and saw the red-furred she-wolf in front of him. Go to

nipping /ˈnɪpɪŋ/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: beliscando; frio cortante

Simple English: In this passage, ?nipping? is used as a present participle; its meaning is fixed by the surrounding wording rather than by frequency alone.

Example: Akela and Gray Brother ran to and fro nipping the buffaloes’ legs, and though the herd wheeled once to charge up the ravine again, Mowgli managed to turn Rama, and the others followed him to the wallows.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. The wolves in back crashed into the young wolf and showed their anger by nipping his hind legs and sides. Go to

nodded /ˈnɑːdɪd/ (27 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: acenou com a cabeça

Simple English: Moved the head up and down to say yes or to greet someone.

Example: The figure nodded kindly at her.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Then, across the narrow box, they nodded to each other. Go to

2. He nodded. Go to

3. Bill nodded. Go to

4. Henry nodded toward a second pair, then a third. Go to

5. Henry nodded in approval. Go to

Original English Version

1. And then, across the narrow oblong box, each nodded to the other. Go to

2. Henry, squatting over the fire and settling the pot of coffee with a piece of ice, nodded. Go to

3. Bill nodded. Go to

4. Henry nodded his head approvingly. Go to

5. Henry nodded his consent. Go to

northland /ˈnɔːrθlænd/ (20 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: terra do norte

Simple English: The northern part of a country.

Example: They travelled far into the northland.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. It was the Wild, the savage, frozen-hearted Northland Wild. Go to

2. And this was all that was said for a dead dog on the Northland trail. Go to

Original English Version

1. It was the Wild, the savage, frozen-hearted Northland Wild. Go to

2. And this was the epitaph of a dead dog on the Northland trail--less scant than the epitaph of many another dog, of many a man. Go to

noses /ˈnoʊzɪz/ (12 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: narizes

Simple English: The parts of the face used for smelling.

Example: The cold air made their noses red.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He tried to sniff noses with her, but she moved back playfully and shyly. Go to

2. She came forward, touched noses with him for a moment, and then went back again as he followed her. Go to

3. One by one, the wolves joined her, until the whole pack, sitting on its haunches with noses raised to the sky, was howling its hunger cry. Go to

Original English Version

1. He tried to sniff noses with her, but she retreated playfully and coyly. Go to

2. But whatever idea was forming in his mind, was dissipated by the she-wolf, who advanced upon him, sniffed noses with him for a fleeting instant, and then resumed her coy retreat before his renewed advances. Go to

3. One by one the wolves joined her, till the whole pack, on haunches, with noses pointed skyward, was howling its hunger cry. Go to

nostrils /ˈnɑːstrəlz/ (7 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: narinas

Simple English: The two openings at the end of the nose.

Example: The horse opened its nostrils wide.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. It raised its head and looked at them hard, while its nostrils moved as it caught and studied their smell. Go to

Original English Version

1. When they halted, it halted, throwing up its head and regarding them steadily with nostrils that twitched as it caught and studied the scent of them. Go to

offends /əˈfɛndz/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: ofende

Simple English: Causes someone to feel upset or angry.

Example: His rude joke offends her.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Life is movement, so life offends it. Go to

opening /ˈoʊpənɪŋ/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: abertura; abrir; inauguração

Simple English: First public presentation of a play, movie, or entertainment.

Example: The opening of the new play was attended by many celebrities.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. The openings grew larger, and the pieces grew smaller. Go to

2. Once he woke up, and in an opening in the circle, right in front of him, he saw the she-wolf looking at him. Go to

outer /ˈaʊtər/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: exterior

Simple English: Located on the outside surface or edge of something.

Example: The outer part of the house needs a fresh coat of paint.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. One Ear knew the danger, but he was running on the outer circle while the wolves ran on the shorter inner circle. Go to

overturned /ˌoʊvərˈtɜːrnd/ (8 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: virou; tombou

Simple English: Turned over so that the top was at the bottom.

Example: The cart overturned on the narrow bridge.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Bill seemed to have forgotten his fears from the night before, and he even joked with the dogs when they overturned the sled on a bad part of the trail at midday. Go to

2. Once he turned his head and looked back at the overturned sled, at the other dogs, and at the two men who were calling to him. Go to

3. But it was stuck under the overturned sled, and by the time Henry helped him right the load, One Ear and the she-wolf were too close together, and the distance was too great to risk a shot. Go to

Original English Version

1. In the scramble one of the dogs had been overturned on the edge of the fire, and it had yelped with pain and fright as the smell of its singed coat possessed the air. Go to

2. Bill seemed to have forgotten his forebodings of the previous night, and even waxed facetious with the dogs when, at midday, they overturned the sled on a bad piece of trail. Go to

3. Once, as though a warning had in vague ways flitted through his intelligence, he turned his head and looked back at the overturned sled, at his team-mates, and at the two men who were calling to him. Go to

4. But it was jammed beneath the overturned sled, and by the time Henry had helped him to right the load, One Ear and the she-wolf were too close together and the distance too great to risk a shot. Go to

pace /peɪs/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: ritmo; passo; palma

Simple English: The speed at which someone moves or runs.

Example: She maintained a steady pace during the long marathon run.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. The she-wolf was one leap behind One Ear and keeping pace with him. Go to

2. She came up beside him as if that were her proper place, and she kept the pack's pace. Go to

pack's /pæks/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: da matilha

Simple English: belonging to a pack, a group of wild animals such as wolves

Example: The leaders gave the pack’s cry and ran into the woods.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. She came up beside him as if that were her proper place, and she kept the pack's pace. Go to

Original English Version

1. It was he who directed the pack's course on the heels of the she-wolf. Go to

panicked /ˈpænɪkt/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: entraram em pânico

Simple English: Became suddenly and greatly afraid.

Example: The warriors panicked and ran up the slope.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. They panicked, tangled the harness lines, and made the two men feel even worse. Go to

panics /ˈpænɪks/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: pânicos

Simple English: sudden overpowering fears that spread quickly

Example: They were so near that they often frightened the tired dogs, and the dogs had short panics.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. They were so near that they often frightened the tired dogs, and the dogs had short panics. Go to

2. After one of these panics, when he and Henry had got the dogs back in the traces, Bill said: Go to

Original English Version

1. As darkness came on, the hunting-cries to right and left and rear drew closer--so close that more than once they sent surges of fear through the toiling dogs, throwing them into short-lived panics. Go to

2. With the coming of night in the mid-afternoon, the cries sounded closer as the pursuers drew in according to their custom; and the dogs grew excited and frightened, and were guilty of panics that tangled the traces and further depressed the two men. Go to

partly /ˈpɑːrtli/ (11 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: parcialmente

Simple English: To some degree; not completely or wholly.

Example: The event was partly successful, but improvements are needed.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Then he saw Bill standing among the dogs, looking partly proud and partly disappointed, with a strong club in one hand and the tail and part of the body of a sun-cured salmon in the other. Go to

partner's /ˈpɑːrtnərz/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: do parceiro

Simple English: belonging to a person who shares work or a relationship

Example: He listened to his partner's warning.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. "Where are you going?" Henry suddenly asked, putting his hand on his partner's arm. Go to

Original English Version

1. In the morning Henry renewed the fire and cooked breakfast to the accompaniment of his partner's snoring. Go to

2. "Where are you goin'?" Henry suddenly demanded, laying his hand on his partner's arm. Go to

pasture /ˈpæstʃər/ (10 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: pastagem

Simple English: Land with grass where animals feed.

Example: The sheep were moved to a higher pasture.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. I shot it out of the pack in a moose pasture over on Little Stick. Go to

Original English Version

1. I shot it out of the pack in a moose pasture over 'on Little Stick. Go to

paused /pɔːzd/ (14 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: fez uma pausa

Simple English: stopped briefly before continuing

Example: He paused for a moment.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. It paused, head up, close by a clump of spruce trees, and with sight and scent studied the outfit of the watching men. Go to

2. They were howling at the very gates, and sometimes he and the Factor paused from the game to listen and laugh at the futile efforts of the wolves to get in. Go to

Glossary: New Words (2/2)

paws /pɔːz/ (13 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: patas; manzorras

Simple English: The feet of animals such as cats, dogs and bears.

Example: The puppy left muddy paws all over the floor.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. It cried out in fear, growled at the same time, and scrambled back to cool its paws in the snow. Go to

Original English Version

1. It cried out with terror, at the same time snarling, and scrambled back to cool its paws in the snow. Go to

pick (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: escolher; buscá; picareta

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. They had gone only a little more than a hundred yards when Henry, who was walking in front, bent down and picked up something his snowshoe had hit. Go to

piled /paɪld/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: amontoamos; empilhamos

Simple English: Put many things one on top of another.

Example: They piled the books on the small table.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. While he piled wood on the fire, he began to notice his own body in a new way. Go to

Original English Version

1. As he piled wood on the fire he discovered an appreciation of his own body which he had never felt before. Go to

plain /pleɪn/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: planície; liso; simples

Simple English: Simple in design, without pattern or decoration.

Example: He prefers plain shirts over those with bright patterns or designs.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. I'm just plain worn out... Go to

playfully /ˈpleɪfəli/ (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: brincalhonamente; de brincadeira

Simple English: In a way that shows you are joking.

Example: He playfully pulled his sister's hair.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He tried to sniff noses with her, but she moved back playfully and shyly. Go to

Original English Version

1. She moved toward him a few steps, playfully, and then halted. Go to

2. He tried to sniff noses with her, but she retreated playfully and coyly. Go to

poked /poʊkt/ (7 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: enfiou; cutucou

Simple English: Pushed something with a finger or a pointed object.

Example: She poked the fire until it burned brightly.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. They shook him and poked him until he came to. Go to

propped /prɑːpt/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: escorado; apoiado

Simple English: Supported in a particular position by something.

Example: The injured sailor was propped against the cabin wall.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He shook his fist angrily at the shining eyes, and carefully propped his moccasins near the fire. Go to

Original English Version

1. Henry propped himself up on an elbow and looked to see his comrade standing among the dogs beside the replenished fire, his arms raised in objurgation, his face distorted with passion. Go to

pursuers /pərˈsuːərz/ (8 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: perseguidores

Simple English: People who are chasing someone.

Example: He hid in the barn until his pursuers passed.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Only the cries of their pursuers broke the silence. Go to

2. The pursuers stayed behind them, unseen. Go to

3. When night came in the middle of the afternoon, the cries sounded nearer, because the pursuers always moved in closer. Go to

Original English Version

1. The silence was unbroken save by the cries of their pursuers, that, unseen, hung upon their rear. Go to

2. With the coming of night in the mid-afternoon, the cries sounded closer as the pursuers drew in according to their custom; and the dogs grew excited and frightened, and were guilty of panics that tangled the traces and further depressed the two men. Go to

3. It was vain to think of One Ear so outdistancing his pursuers as to be able to cut across their circle in advance of them and to regain the sled. Go to

quinine /ˈkwaɪnaɪn/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: quinino

Simple English: A bitter medicine used against fever.

Example: Every traveller carried quinine.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. "What you need is quinine, and I'm going to give you a strong dose as soon as we reach McGurry." Go to

Original English Version

1. "What you need is quinine, an' I'm goin' to dose you up stiff as soon as we make McGurry." Go to

remark /rɪˈmɑːrk/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: observação; comentário; obs

Simple English: To express one's opinion through a statement.

Example: He made a remark about the quality of the food at the restaurant.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. "An' right here I want to remark," Bill went on, "that that animal's familyarity with campfires is suspicious an' immoral." Go to

riverbed rɪvɜrbɛd (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: leito do rio

Simple English: Past form: the ground beneath a river.

Example: Four sleds came from the riverbed into the camp among the trees.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Four sleds came from the riverbed into the camp among the trees. Go to

roosting ˈruːstɪŋ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: empoleirando-se

Simple English: Resting or sleeping on a perch.

Example: The birds were roosting in the barn.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He's roosting in a tree at the last camp." Go to

saliva səˈlaɪvə (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: saliva

Simple English: the liquid made in the mouth

Example: Their eyes burned, and their teeth dripped saliva.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Her mouth opened, saliva dripped out, and she licked her lips in anticipation. Go to

Original English Version

1. Her mouth opened, the saliva drooled forth, and she licked her chops with the pleasure of anticipation. Go to

saplings /ˈsæplɪŋz/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: árvores novas

Simple English: Young trees that are still thin and small.

Example: A row of saplings had been planted along the path.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He cut young saplings and used them as cross-bars for a scaffold, tying them high to the trunks of standing trees. Go to

Original English Version

1. Chopping down young saplings, he made them cross-bars of a scaffold by lashing them high up to the trunks of standing trees. Go to

saving /ˈseɪvɪŋ/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: salvar; poupança; economia

Simple English: Money set aside and not spent.

Example: I started saving money for a vacation to the beach next year.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. They went on without speaking, saving their breath for the work of their bodies. Go to

scaffold /ˈskæfoʊld/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: cadafalso; plataforma de execução

Simple English: A raised platform on which a condemned person was publicly executed.

Example: The prisoner walked calmly toward the scaffold.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He cut young saplings and used them as cross-bars for a scaffold, tying them high to the trunks of standing trees. Go to

2. Then, using the sled rope as a lifting rope and with help from the dogs, he raised the coffin to the top of the scaffold. Go to

Original English Version

1. Chopping down young saplings, he made them cross-bars of a scaffold by lashing them high up to the trunks of standing trees. Go to

2. Using the sled-lashing for a heaving rope, and with the aid of the dogs, he hoisted the coffin to the top of the scaffold. Go to

scairt /skerd/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: assustado

Simple English: A dialect spelling of 'scared', meaning frightened.

Example: One Ear did not seem scairt by the danger.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. "That fool One Ear don't seem scairt much," Bill said softly. Go to

Original English Version

1. "That fool One Ear don't seem scairt much," Bill said in a low tone. Go to

2. "Ain't a bit scairt of you," Henry laughed. Go to

scarred /skɑːrd/ (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: marcado por cicatrizes

Simple English: Marked with scars left by wounds.

Example: His hands were scarred from the work.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He also kept crowding her, turning toward her until his scarred nose touched her body, shoulder, or neck. Go to

Original English Version

1. He, also, was addicted to crowding her, to veering toward her till his scarred muzzle touched her body, or shoulder, or neck. Go to

scooped /skuːpt/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: apanhou de concha; recolheu

Simple English: Lifted something up with a curved hand or tool.

Example: He scooped water from the barrel.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. His stout mittens temporarily protected his hands, and he scooped live coals into the air in all directions, until the campfire took on the semblance of a volcano. Go to

scorched /skɔːrtʃt/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: chamuscado; queimado; ressequido

Simple English: Burnt slightly on the surface, or dried out by great heat.

Example: The iron was too hot and scorched the collar of my shirt.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. The dogs showed their fear by crowding together close to the fire, so close that the heat scorched their hair. Go to

Original English Version

1. From every side the cries arose, and the dogs betrayed their fear by huddling together and so close to the fire that their hair was scorched by the heat. Go to

2. A hasty drawing back always resulted, accompanied by angry yelps and frightened snarls when a well-aimed brand struck and scorched a too daring animal. Go to

scrambled /ˈskræmbəld/ (7 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: mexidos

Simple English: Cooked while being mixed together, as eggs are.

Example: Dorothy ate porridge and scrambled eggs.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. It cried out in fear, growled at the same time, and scrambled back to cool its paws in the snow. Go to

Original English Version

1. It cried out with terror, at the same time snarling, and scrambled back to cool its paws in the snow. Go to

seat /siːt/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: assento; sede; banco

Simple English: Something you sit on.

Example: Please take a seat.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. The coffin, beside the fire, was used as both seat and table. Go to

seeming /ˈsiːmɪŋ/ (8 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: aparente; que parece ser

Simple English: Appearing to be true, though perhaps it is not.

Example: His seeming calm hid a great deal of worry.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. This gave them the seeming of ghostly masques, undertakers in a spectral world at the funeral of some ghost. Go to

self (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: self; eu; identidade

Simple English: a person's own identity or character

Example: Writing helped her understand herself.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. "It surely knows more than a self-respecting wolf should know," Henry agreed. Go to

sensations sɛnseɪʃʌnz (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: sensação

Simple English: a feeling caused by touch, pain, or emotion

Example: His strength balanced his sensuousness and made it healthier, so that he loved beauty that was clean and wholesome and felt deeply the right kind of sensations.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He looked at his nails and pressed the tips of his fingers, sometimes hard and sometimes softly, to feel the different sensations. Go to

Original English Version

1. He studied the nail-formation, and prodded the finger-tips, now sharply, and again softly, gauging the while the nerve-sensations produced. Go to

2. He was the food, and the sight of him excited in her the gustatory sensations. Go to

sentence /ˈsɛntəns/ (5 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: sentença; frase; sentencio

Simple English: A group of words expressing an idea.

Example: Write a complete sentence.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He listened, then he finished his sentence and pointed toward the sound. Go to

settle (5 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: resolver; estabelecer; assentar

Simple English: to decide, arrange, or make a home

Example: They settled the argument peacefully.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. The noise made the circle of eyes move nervously for a moment and even go back a little, but it soon settled again when the dogs became quiet. Go to

shade /ʃeɪd/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: sombra; máscara; tonalidade

Simple English: Area blocked from sunlight, producing darkness and coolness.

Example: We sat under the tree's shade to escape the heat.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Most of it was grey, but there was also a faint red shade that came and went. Go to

shelter /ˈʃɛltər/ (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: abrigo; refúgio

Simple English: A place providing food and housing to very poor people.

Example: The local shelter offers meals and beds for homeless individuals each night.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. When he hid inside his shelter of flame, the whole pack came close to the edge of the fire to see him. Go to

Ship /ʃɪp/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: navio; nave; barco

Simple English: A large boat.

Example: The ship crossed the ocean.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. "I have heard sailors talk about sharks following a ship," Bill said as he crawled back under the blankets after feeding the fire again. Go to

shiver /ˈʃɪvər/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: arrepio; calafrio

Simple English: A sudden shaking of the body from cold or fear.

Example: It sent a cold shiver down his back.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. In its place was a wild hunger that made him shiver. Go to

shocked /ʃɒkt/ (7 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: chocado; chocados; choc

Simple English: Very surprised or upset from something unexpected.

Example: I was shocked to hear about the sudden cancellation of the event.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. A strange change had happened, so strange that he was shocked awake. Go to

shone /ʃoʊn/ (7 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: brilhavam; reluziam

Simple English: Gave out or reflected light.

Example: The little stars shone in the sun like diamonds.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. When they looked closely at the place where a pair of eyes shone in the dark, the animal's shape slowly appeared. Go to

shrugged /ʃrʌɡd/ (5 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: encolheu os ombros

Simple English: Lifted the shoulders to show you do not know or do not care.

Example: She shrugged and said nothing.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Henry shrugged. Go to

Original English Version

1. Henry shrugged his shoulders. Go to

shyly /ˈʃaɪli/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: timidamente; acanhadamente

Simple English: In a nervous way, without confidence.

Example: The soldier came into the room shyly.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He tried to sniff noses with her, but she moved back playfully and shyly. Go to

skeletons /ˈskelɪtənz/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: esqueletos

Simple English: The frames of bones inside human and animal bodies.

Example: The museum displays two whale skeletons in the main hall.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Still, all of them looked more like skeletons than full wolves. Go to

Original English Version

1. Yet all were more like skeletons than full-bodied wolves. Go to

slashed /slˈæʃt/ (19 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: cortar com golpe

Simple English: to cut with a long quick stroke

Example: Buck did this by accident, and Sol-leks turned at once and slashed his shoulder down to the bone for three inches.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. Then he would cast a glance of fear at the wolf-circle drawn expectantly about him, and like a blow the realisation would strike him that this wonderful body of his, this living flesh, was no more than so much meat, a quest of ravenous animals, to be torn and slashed by their hungry fangs, to be sustenance to them as the moose and the rabbit had often been sustenance to him. Go to

2. It was he who snarled warningly at the younger members of the pack or slashed at them with his fangs when they ambitiously tried to pass him. Go to

slashing /ˈslæʃɪŋ/ (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: golpeando; cortando a golpes

Simple English: Cutting with quick strong strokes.

Example: He was slashing at the tall grass.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. Nor was she above slashing his shoulder sharply on occasion. Go to

sled /slˈɛd/ (121 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: trenó

Simple English: a vehicle that slides on snow

Example: He pulled François on a sled to the forest at the edge of the valley and brought back firewood.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. They wore leather harnesses, and leather traces pulled a sled behind them. Go to

2. The sled had no runners. Go to

3. On the sled was a long, narrow box tied tightly down. Go to

4. Another man walked behind the sled. Go to

5. On the sled, inside the box, lay a third man whose hard work was over. Go to

6. Henry made breakfast in the dark, while Bill rolled the blankets and prepared the sled to be tied down. Go to

Original English Version

1. Leather harness was on the dogs, and leather traces attached them to a sled which dragged along behind. Go to

2. The sled was without runners. Go to

3. The front end of the sled was turned up, like a scroll, in order to force down and under the bore of soft snow that surged like a wave before it. Go to

4. On the sled, securely lashed, was a long and narrow oblong box. Go to

5. There were other things on the sled--blankets, an axe, and a coffee-pot and frying-pan; but prominent, occupying most of the space, was the long and narrow oblong box. Go to

6. At the rear of the sled toiled a second man. Go to

sleds /slˈɛdz/ (8 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: trenó

Simple English: a vehicle that slides on snow

Example: Since the start of winter they had travelled eighteen hundred miles, pulling sleds the whole way.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He heard men calling, sleds moving, harnesses creaking, and dogs whining eagerly as they pulled hard. Go to

2. Four sleds came from the riverbed into the camp among the trees. Go to

Original English Version

1. There were cries of men, and churn of sleds, the creaking of harnesses, and the eager whimpering of straining dogs. Go to

2. Four sleds pulled in from the river bed to the camp among the trees. Go to

sleepily /ˈsliːpɪli/ (5 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: sonolentamente

Simple English: In a way that shows you want to sleep.

Example: The child answered sleepily from his bed.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Bill began to eat sleepily. Go to

Original English Version

1. Bill began to eat sleepily. Go to

slip (8 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: escorregar; deslizar; erro

Simple English: to slide accidentally or make a small mistake

Example: Be careful not to slip on the wet floor.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Just after the sun made one useless try to come out, Bill slipped the rifle from under the sled ropes and said: Go to

snapping /ˈsnæpɪŋ/ (8 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: estalando; batendo ao vento

Simple English: Biting or closing the jaws quickly with a sharp sound.

Example: The dog kept snapping at the flies around its head.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. They always jumped back at once, crying angrily and snapping in fear when a well-thrown brand hit and burned a bold wolf. Go to

Original English Version

1. He saved himself by springing back, the jaws snapping together a scant six inches from his thigh. Go to

snarl /snɑːrl/ (71 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: rosnar mostrando os dentes; grunhido raivoso

Simple English: An angry sound made while showing the teeth, or to make it.

Example: The dog gave a snarl and backed into the corner.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. With a snarl, she jumped on One Ear. Go to

2. At the sound of his voice, the whole circle stirred, and there was a general snarl. Go to

Original English Version

1. With a snarl she sprang upon One Ear. Go to

2. On every side, wherever the live coals had fallen, the snow was sizzling, and every little while a retiring wolf, with wild leap and snort and snarl, announced that one such live coal had been stepped upon. Go to

3. "You ain't got me yet!" he cried, savagely shaking his fist at the hungry beasts; and at the sound of his voice the whole circle was agitated, there was a general snarl, and the she-wolf slid up close to him across the snow and watched him with hungry wistfulness. Go to

4. He did not snarl at her, nor show his teeth, when any leap of hers chanced to put her in advance of him. Go to

5. When he ventured to run abreast of the older wolf (which was seldom), a snarl and a snap sent him back even with the shoulder again. Go to

snarled /snɑːrld/ (55 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: rosnou

Simple English: Spoke or made a sound in an angry way.

Example: The dog snarled at the stranger.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. They cried and whined, and sometimes snarled fiercely when a wolf came too close. Go to

Original English Version

1. The wolf-dogs, clustered on the far side of the fire, snarled and bickered among themselves, but evinced no inclination to stray off into the darkness. Go to

2. At such moments, when his dogs snarled, the whole circle would be agitated, the wolves coming to their feet and pressing tentatively forward, a chorus of snarls and eager yelps rising about him. Go to

3. She had snarled as she sprang away, baring her white fangs to their roots, all her wistfulness vanishing, being replaced by a carnivorous malignity that made him shudder. Go to

4. It was he who snarled warningly at the younger members of the pack or slashed at them with his fangs when they ambitiously tried to pass him. Go to

5. On the contrary, he seemed kindly disposed toward her--too kindly to suit her, for he was prone to run near to her, and when he ran too near it was she who snarled and showed her teeth. Go to

6. When she snarled her displeasure, the old leader would whirl on the three-year-old. Go to

snarling /ˈsnɑːrlɪŋ/ (54 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: rosnando com raiva

Simple English: Making an angry sound and showing the teeth.

Example: The snarling beasts fell into the gulf.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. The snarling ended. Go to

2. When he dozed, the dogs' whimpering and snarling woke him. Go to

3. The wolves' snarling was no longer as effective, and he could not even notice the changes in sound anymore. Go to

4. There was loud snarling and yelping. Go to

Original English Version

1. The dogs clustered together in fear, now and again snarling menacingly as a pair of eyes drew close. Go to

2. Henry was bending over and adding ice to the babbling pot of beans when he was startled by the sound of a blow, an exclamation from Bill, and a sharp snarling cry of pain from among the dogs. Go to

3. His two dogs stayed close by him, one on either side, leaning against him for protection, crying and whimpering, and at times snarling desperately when a wolf approached a little closer than usual. Go to

4. The two dogs were whimpering and snarling at his feet, but she took no notice of them. Go to

5. When he dozed despite himself, the whimpering and snarling of the dogs aroused him. Go to

6. The snarling of his dogs was losing its efficacy. Go to

snarls /snɑːrlz/ (12 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: rosna

Simple English: Makes a low angry sound, showing the teeth.

Example: The dog snarls whenever a stranger comes near.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Then came loud snarls and yelps. Go to

2. The wolves would rise and move forward a little, and snarls and eager yelps would sound around him. Go to

Original English Version

1. Then he heard a great outcry of snarls and yelps. Go to

2. The snarls ceased. Go to

3. At such moments, when his dogs snarled, the whole circle would be agitated, the wolves coming to their feet and pressing tentatively forward, a chorus of snarls and eager yelps rising about him. Go to

4. A hasty drawing back always resulted, accompanied by angry yelps and frightened snarls when a well-aimed brand struck and scorched a too daring animal. Go to

sniff /snɪf/ (9 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: fungadela; aspirada pelo nariz

Simple English: A quick breath in through the nose.

Example: He took a loud sniff and shook his head.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He tried to sniff noses with her, but she moved back playfully and shyly. Go to

Original English Version

1. He tried to sniff noses with her, but she retreated playfully and coyly. Go to

sniffed /snɪft/ (10 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: farejou; cheirou

Simple English: Smelled something by breathing in through the nose.

Example: The Lion sniffed at it as if he did not like it.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. But whatever idea was forming in his mind, was dissipated by the she-wolf, who advanced upon him, sniffed noses with him for a fleeting instant, and then resumed her coy retreat before his renewed advances. Go to

snore /snɔːr/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: ronco; roncar

Simple English: To breathe with a rough loud noise while asleep.

Example: His snore filled the small room.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Henry answered the news with a grunt, and then his grunt turned into a snore as he fell back asleep. Go to

Original English Version

1. Henry acknowledged receipt of the information with a grunt that slid into a snore as he drifted back into sleep. Go to

snored /snɔːrd/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: roncava

Simple English: Made loud noises while sleeping.

Example: He snored all through the night.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. In the morning Henry got the fire going again and cooked breakfast while his partner snored. Go to

snores /snɔːrz/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: roncos

Simple English: The rough noises a sleeping person makes.

Example: His snores could be heard through the wall.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Even as they lowered him onto the blankets, his snores were already rising in the cold air. Go to

Original English Version

1. And even as they eased him down upon the blankets his snores were rising on the frosty air. Go to

snowshoe /ˈsnoʊʃuː/ (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: raquete de neve; de lebre-americana

Simple English: a broad frame worn on the foot for walking on snow; it also modifies 'rabbit' in the older name for a snowshoe hare

Example: Dub chased a snowshoe rabbit, while the men crossed the snow in snowshoes.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. They had gone only a little more than a hundred yards when Henry, who was walking in front, bent down and picked up something his snowshoe had hit. Go to

Original English Version

1. They had travelled little more than a hundred yards, when Henry, who was in front, bent down and picked up something with which his snowshoe had collided. Go to

snowshoes /ˈsnoʊʃuːz/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: raquetes de neve

Simple English: frames worn on feet to walk over deep snow

Example: They wore snowshoes across the field.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. A man walked in front of the dogs on wide snowshoes. Go to

2. He threw it back, and it hit the sled and slid until it stopped on Bill's snowshoes. Go to

Original English Version

1. In advance of the dogs, on wide snowshoes, toiled a man. Go to

2. He flung it back, so that it struck the sled and bounced along until it fetched up on Bill's snowshoes. Go to

soul /soʊl/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: alma

Simple English: The spiritual essence of a person, considered immortal in many beliefs.

Example: She believes that her grandmother's soul is always watching over her.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. It might have sounded like a lost soul crying out, but it also had a hungry and fierce feeling. Go to

spanker /ˈspæŋkər/ (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: vela de mezena

Simple English: A fore-and-aft sail set on the aftermost mast of a sailing ship.

Example: The ship's forestaysail and mizzen spanker were still set.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. "Just because he could not chew himself loose, he chews Spanker loose." Go to

2. It was what was left of Spanker, the stick he had been tied to. Go to

3. They have not eaten for weeks, I think, except for Fatty and Frog and Spanker. Go to

Original English Version

1. "Jes' because he couldn't chew himself loose, he chews Spanker loose." Go to

2. It was all that was left of Spanker--the stick with which he had been tied. Go to

3. They ain't had a bite in weeks I reckon, outside of Fatty an' Frog an' Spanker; an' there's so many of 'em that that didn't go far. Go to

spanker's /ˈspæŋkərz/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: de Spanker

Simple English: belonging to Spanker, a sled dog character in the story who has died or left the team

Example: "Spanker's gone," Henry answered.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. "Spanker's gone," Henry answered. Go to

2. "Well, Spanker's troubles are over now, I guess. Go to

Original English Version

1. "Spanker's gone," Henry answered. Go to

2. "Well, Spanker's troubles is over anyway; I guess he's digested by this time an' cavortin' over the landscape in the bellies of twenty different wolves," was Henry's epitaph on this, the latest lost dog. Go to

specks /speks/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: pontinhos

Simple English: Very small spots or bits of something.

Example: Specks of dust danced in the sunlight.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. It pushed them deep into their own thoughts and took away their false pride and excitement, until they saw themselves as small and limited, like tiny specks moving with weak skill and little wisdom among the blind forces of nature. Go to

Original English Version

1. It crushed them into the remotest recesses of their own minds, pressing out of them, like juices from the grape, all the false ardours and exaltations and undue self-values of the human soul, until they perceived themselves finite and small, specks and motes, moving with weak cunning and little wisdom amidst the play and inter-play of the great blind elements and forces. Go to

sphinx /sfɪŋks/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: Esfinge

Simple English: The mythical creature famous for asking riddles and guarding secrets.

Example: The silent woman seemed as mysterious as the Sphinx.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. It seemed to hold a terrible kind of laughter, colder than sorrow, like the cold smile of the sphinx. Go to

Original English Version

1. There was a hint in it of laughter, but of a laughter more terrible than any sadness--a laughter that was mirthless as the smile of the sphinx, a laughter cold as the frost and partaking of the grimness of infallibility. Go to

spitting /ˈspɪtɪŋ/ (7 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: cuspindo

Simple English: Pushing liquid out of the mouth.

Example: Spitting in the street is not allowed.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. A log broke apart with a loud, spitting sound. Go to

spoonful /ˈspuːnfʊl/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: colherada

Simple English: the amount that a spoon can hold

Example: She sprinkled a spoonful of sulphur over the coals.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Take a spoonful of soda, and you will feel much better and be easier to be with." Go to

Original English Version

1. Swallow a spoonful of sody, an' you'll sweeten up wonderful an' be more pleasant company." Go to

sprang /spræŋ/ (53 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: saltou; pulou

Simple English: Jumped or moved suddenly and quickly.

Example: He sprang out of bed when the alarm rang.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. As she sprang away, she growled and showed her white fangs, and her sadness disappeared. Go to

2. With a flaming brand in each hand, he sprang to the edge of the fire. Go to

Original English Version

1. With a snarl she sprang upon One Ear. Go to

2. But even as he reached, and before his fingers had closed on the missile, she sprang back into safety; and he knew that she was used to having things thrown at her. Go to

3. She had snarled as she sprang away, baring her white fangs to their roots, all her wistfulness vanishing, being replaced by a carnivorous malignity that made him shudder. Go to

4. She sprang away, yelling with pain, and while he took delight in the smell of burning flesh and hair, he watched her shaking her head and growling wrathfully a score of feet away. Go to

5. With a flaming brand in each hand, he sprang to the edge of the fire. Go to

6. Burning brands made them spring aside, but they no longer sprang back. Go to

spruce /spruːs/ (20 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: abeto

Simple English: an evergreen tree with short needles

Example: Dark spruce forest stood on both sides of the frozen waterway.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Dark spruce forest stood on both sides of the frozen waterway. Go to

2. When darkness fell, they led the dogs into a group of spruce trees at the edge of the waterway and set up camp. Go to

3. Bill had finished his pipe and was helping his friend spread the fur and blanket bed on the spruce branches he had laid on the snow before supper. Go to

4. Then it stopped near some spruce trees, lifted its head, and studied the men with both sight and smell. Go to

5. At that moment, the she-wolf jumped sideways off the trail into a group of spruce trees and vanished. Go to

6. Bill had already disappeared, but now and then One Ear could be seen moving through the brush and small spruce trees. Go to

Original English Version

1. Dark spruce forest frowned on either side the frozen waterway. Go to

2. At the fall of darkness they swung the dogs into a cluster of spruce trees on the edge of the waterway and made a camp. Go to

3. Bill had finished his pipe and was helping his companion to spread the bed of fur and blanket upon the spruce boughs which he had laid over the snow before supper. Go to

4. It paused, head up, close by a clump of spruce trees, and with sight and scent studied the outfit of the watching men. Go to

5. For in that instant the she-wolf leaped sidewise from the trail into the clump of spruce trees and disappeared. Go to

6. Bill had already gone from sight; but now and again, appearing and disappearing amongst the underbrush and the scattered clumps of spruce, could be seen One Ear. Go to

squatting /ˈskwɑːtɪŋ/ (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: agachado; de cócoras

Simple English: Sitting with the knees bent and the feet flat.

Example: A man sat squatting by the roadside.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Henry was squatting by the fire and cooling the coffee pot with a piece of ice. Go to

Original English Version

1. Henry, squatting over the fire and settling the pot of coffee with a piece of ice, nodded. Go to

squeal /skwiːl/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: guinchar

Simple English: To make a long high cry or sound.

Example: The gate began to squeal as it swung open.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Did you hear it squeal?" Go to

Original English Version

1. D'ye hear it squeal?" Go to

stare /stɛər/ (9 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: olhar; encarar; fitar

Simple English: To look at someone or something without blinking for long.

Example: The child couldn't help but stare at the magician's tricks.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Henry stared at the fire, and Bill watched the circle of eyes glowing in the dark beyond the firelight. Go to

2. He could count about twenty wolves, staring at him hungrily or sleeping calmly in the snow. Go to

startled /ˈstɑːrtəld/ (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: assustada; sobressaltada

Simple English: Suddenly surprised or frightened.

Example: Aunt Em was startled by the child's laughter.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. Henry was bending over and adding ice to the babbling pot of beans when he was startled by the sound of a blow, an exclamation from Bill, and a sharp snarling cry of pain from among the dogs. Go to

stayin /ˈsteɪɪn/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: ficando; permanecendo

Simple English: a dialect spelling of staying

Example: The visitors were stayin for lunch.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. "Seems to me, Henry, they're stayin' remarkable close to camp," Bill said. Go to

Original English Version

1. "Seems to me, Henry, they're stayin' remarkable close to camp," Bill commented. Go to

stiff /stɪf/ (10 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: rígida; dura; duro

Simple English: Not flexible; difficult to bend or change shape.

Example: After the long flight, my neck felt stiff and uncomfortable.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He sat back on his hind legs, held his front legs stiff, and bared his mouth threateningly, with his mane standing up. Go to

stiffly /ˈstɪfli/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: rigidamente; com dificuldade

Simple English: In a way that shows the body does not bend easily.

Example: Her hair was white and she walked stiffly.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. He merely sprang to the side and ran stiffly ahead for several awkward leaps, in carriage and conduct resembling an abashed country swain. Go to

stirred /stɜːrd/ (7 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: sacudiu; despertou

Simple English: Moved someone or something a little.

Example: A soft wind stirred the long grass.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. At the sound of his voice, the whole circle stirred, and there was a general snarl. Go to

2. No life stirred anywhere. Go to

Original English Version

1. No life stirred. Go to

stomachs /ˈstʌməks/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: estômagos

Simple English: The parts of the body where food goes after eating.

Example: Their empty stomachs made them walk faster.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Their ribs stick out like washboards, and their stomachs are almost touching their backbones. Go to

Original English Version

1. Their ribs is like wash-boards, an' their stomachs is right up against their backbones. Go to

straightened /ˈstreɪtənd/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: endireitou; alinhou

Simple English: Made something straight, upright, or orderly.

Example: Random straightened the mat with his foot.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. He straightened up in time to see a dim form disappearing across the snow into the shelter of the dark. Go to

straightening /ˈstreɪtənɪŋ/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: endireitando

Simple English: Making something straight, or standing up straight.

Example: She rose, straightening her apron.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. "Here, you, One Ear!" he cried, straightening up and turning toward the dog. Go to

Original English Version

1. "Here, you, One Ear!" he cried, straightening up and turning around on the dog. Go to

stretch /strɛtʃ/ (8 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: esticar; estiramento; trecho

Simple English: To extend body or body parts to full length.

Example: Before running, it is important to stretch your muscles properly.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. One Ear stretched as far as he could toward the stranger and whined excitedly. Go to

2. While Henry watched, the wolf stretched like a lazy dog, yawned in his face, and looked at him as if he were only a meal waiting to be eaten. Go to

3. Now they sat in a tight circle like dogs, blinking, yawning, and stretching their thin bodies in the strange warmth. Go to

sunless /ˈsʌnləs/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: sem sol

Simple English: without sunlight or not reached by the sun

Example: They entered a sunless valley.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. The pale light of the short, sunless day was starting to fade when a faint cry rose in the still air. Go to

Original English Version

1. The pale light of the short sunless day was beginning to fade, when a faint far cry arose on the still air. Go to

surround /səˈraʊnd/ (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: surround; cercam; rodeiam

Simple English: To be all around something or someone on every side.

Example: The garden is surrounded by a tall stone wall for privacy.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Silence surrounded them on every side and pressed on them like a real force. Go to

2. In the dream, the fort was surrounded by wolves howling at the gates, and he and the Factor laughed at their useless attempts to get in. Go to

swear /swɛər/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: juro; jurar; juram

Simple English: To assert strongly that something is true or binding.

Example: I swear I saw her at the concert last night without a doubt.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. In the morning, Henry woke up because Bill was swearing loudly. Go to

swung /swʌŋ/ (11 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: abriu-se girando; balançou

Simple English: Moved smoothly in a curve, as a door does.

Example: The big gate swung slowly open.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. At the fall of darkness they swung the dogs into a cluster of spruce trees on the edge of the waterway and made a camp. Go to

2. They had lost no dogs during the night, and they swung out upon the trail and into the silence, the darkness, and the cold with spirits that were fairly light. Go to

sympathy (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: simpatia; compaixão; solidariedade

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Henry gave a sound that did not fully show sympathy, and they sat in silence for fifteen minutes. Go to

tangled /ˈtæŋɡəld/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: emaranhado; coberto de mato

Simple English: Twisted together in an untidy mass that is hard to separate.

Example: The kite came down with its string badly tangled.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. They panicked, tangled the harness lines, and made the two men feel even worse. Go to

Original English Version

1. With the coming of night in the mid-afternoon, the cries sounded closer as the pursuers drew in according to their custom; and the dogs grew excited and frightened, and were guilty of panics that tangled the traces and further depressed the two men. Go to

tear /tɪər/ (9 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: lágrima; rasgo; rasgar

Simple English: Drop of salty liquid produced by the eyes naturally.

Example: A tear rolled down her cheek during the sad movie.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Their teeth could tear it apart, just as he had often eaten moose and rabbit. Go to

tempt /tɛmpt/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: tentar; seduzir

Simple English: To make someone want to do something wrong.

Example: Money could not tempt him to lie.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. "It's very good coffee," Henry said, trying to tempt him. Go to

thinkin /ˈθɪŋkɪn/ (10 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: pensando (fala popular)

Simple English: A spoken short form of thinking.

Example: What are you thinkin of, Trot?

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. "Henry, I'm a-thinkin'," Bill said. Go to

2. "Thinkin' what?" Go to

3. "I'm a-thinkin' that was the one I lambasted with the club." Go to

4. "Ain't thinkin' it'll hurt my digestion?" Go to

Original English Version

1. "Then you're thinkin' as it was--" Go to

2. "Henry, I was a-thinkin' what a blame sight luckier he is than you an' me'll ever be." Go to

3. "Henry, I'm a-thinkin'," Bill announced. Go to

4. "Thinkin' what?" Go to

5. "I'm a-thinkin' that was the one I lambasted with the club." Go to

6. "Ain't thinkin' it'll hurt my digestion?" Go to

thong /θɔːŋ/ (25 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: correia de couro

Simple English: A narrow strip of leather used to tie things.

Example: A leather thong held the bundle.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. About the neck of each dog he had fastened a leather thong. Go to

2. The other end of the stick, in turn, was made fast to a stake in the ground by means of a leather thong. Go to

threat /θrɛt/ (10 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: ameaça

Simple English: Something posing danger or potential harm.

Example: The storm was a serious threat to the coastal community.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Bill waved his hand at it in a threat and shouted loudly, but the animal showed no fear. Go to

threaten /ˈθrɛtn/ (17 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: ameaçar

Simple English: To declare intention to harm if demands are unmet.

Example: They threaten to cancel the event if the conditions are not met.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. A recent wind had removed the white frost from the trees, and they leaned toward each other in the fading light, black and threatening. Go to

2. She seemed to smile at him, showing her teeth in a friendly way, not a threatening one. Go to

threateningly /ˈθrɛtənɪŋli/ (7 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: ameaçadoramente; em atitude de ameaça

Simple English: In a way that seems to promise harm.

Example: The Wheelers rolled toward them threateningly.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He sat back on his hind legs, held his front legs stiff, and bared his mouth threateningly, with his mane standing up. Go to

Original English Version

1. Bill waved his hand at it threateningly and shouted loudly; but the animal betrayed no fear. Go to

2. At such times her running mates flashed their teeth and growled threateningly across at each other. Go to

throats /θroʊts/ (5 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: gargantas

Simple English: The front parts of the neck.

Example: The cold wind hurt their throats.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. I bet he was crying out as he went down their throats, damn them!" Go to

Original English Version

1. I bet he was yelpin' as he went down their throats, damn 'em!" Go to

tiredly /ˈtaɪərdli/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: cansadamente; com fadiga

Simple English: In a way that shows you need rest.

Example: She sat down tiredly on the step.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. At last he stood up tiredly, as if all his strength had left him, and he tied the dogs to the sled. Go to

tireless /ˈtaɪərləs/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: incansável

Simple English: Working on and on without becoming tired.

Example: She was a tireless helper at the school.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. Nevertheless, with the exception of the ones that limped, the movements of the animals were effortless and tireless. Go to

tongues /tʌŋz/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: línguas; bocas

Simple English: The soft parts inside the mouth used for speaking.

Example: The news passed by a thousand tongues.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. They trotted calmly behind and on both sides, their red tongues hanging out and their thin ribs showing with every step. Go to

Original English Version

1. The wolves were now more open in their pursuit, trotting sedately behind and ranging along on either side, their red tongues lolling out, their lean sides showing the undulating ribs with every movement. Go to

toothed /tuːθt/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: dentado; com dentes

Simple English: Having teeth or toothlike points.

Example: The wolf drew back from the sharp-toothed object.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. After each repulse, when the old wolf sheered abruptly away from the sharp-toothed object of his desire, he shouldered against a young three- year-old that ran on his blind right side. Go to

track /træk/ (10 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: faixa; pista; trilha

Simple English: Path or course used by vehicles or trains.

Example: The train travels on the track through the mountains.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. "So when I saw it run across the snow, I looked at the snow and saw its tracks. Go to

2. The tracks are still there in the snow now. Go to

trampled /ˈtræmpəld/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: pisoteado

Simple English: Pressed down by many feet walking on it.

Example: The grass was trampled where the cattle stood.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Only the trampled snow showed how close they had been to him. Go to

Original English Version

1. Remained only the trampled snow to show how closely they had pressed him. Go to

trembling /ˈtrɛmblɪŋ/ (5 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: tremendo; tremor

Simple English: Shaking slightly or the act of shaking, often from fear or excitement.

Example: Lucy stood trembling in the hallway after the argument.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. But for some time longer he sat and brooded, the two remaining dogs crouching and trembling at his feet. Go to

trip /trɪp/ (12 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: viagem; desengate; tropeçar

Simple English: A journey.

Example: We took a trip to Rome.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Henry looked at him with pity and said, "I'll be very glad when this trip is over." Go to

2. "Long trips for funerals are not something you and me can really afford." Go to

3. And I wish I had never started on this trip, Henry. Go to

4. And while I am wishing, I wish the trip was over, and you and I were sitting by the fire in Fort McGurry right now playing cribbage - that is what I wish.” Go to

5. They are very hungry, Henry, and they will have us wondering before this trip is over." Go to

trotted /ˈtrɑːtɪd/ (30 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: foi trotando; seguiu a passo miúdo

Simple English: Ran with short quick steps, said of a horse or a person.

Example: The pony trotted across the yard to meet us.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. After a careful look, the animal trotted forward a few steps. Go to

2. They trotted calmly behind and on both sides, their red tongues hanging out and their thin ribs showing with every step. Go to

Original English Version

1. To the rear, from around the last bend and plainly into view, on the very trail they had just covered, trotted a furry, slinking form. Go to

2. Its nose was to the trail, and it trotted with a peculiar, sliding, effortless gait. Go to

3. After a searching scrutiny, the animal trotted forward a few steps. Go to

trotting /ˈtrɑːtɪŋ/ (13 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: trotando; em passinhos rápidos

Simple English: Running with short, quick steps.

Example: Toto came trotting quietly behind her.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Behind them, around the last bend and clearly on the trail they had just made, a furry shape was trotting after them. Go to

2. When he saw the she-wolf trotting slowly across the snow, he made the pack run faster. Go to

Original English Version

1. The wolves were now more open in their pursuit, trotting sedately behind and ranging along on either side, their red tongues lolling out, their lean sides showing the undulating ribs with every movement. Go to

2. And it was he who increased the pace when he sighted the she-wolf, now trotting slowly across the snow. Go to

trunks /trʌŋks/ (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: troncos

Simple English: The thick main stems of trees.

Example: Its legs were as long as tree trunks.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He cut young saplings and used them as cross-bars for a scaffold, tying them high to the trunks of standing trees. Go to

Original English Version

1. Chopping down young saplings, he made them cross-bars of a scaffold by lashing them high up to the trunks of standing trees. Go to

unchangeable /ʌnˈʧeɪnʤəbəl/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: imutável

Simple English: unable to be altered; always remaining the same

Example: It crushed them with the power of endless space and unchangeable law.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. It crushed them with the power of endless space and unchangeable law. Go to

undertakers /ʌndərtækərs/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: agentes funerários

Simple English: to do the action meant by undertakers

Example: They looked like ghostly masks, like undertakers in a strange funeral world.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. They looked like ghostly masks, like undertakers in a strange funeral world. Go to

Original English Version

1. This gave them the seeming of ghostly masques, undertakers in a spectral world at the funeral of some ghost. Go to

unharness /ʌnˈhɑːrnɪs/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: desatrelar

Simple English: To take the straps off a horse that pulls a cart.

Example: They stopped to unharness the tired horse.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. The sled was upside down and stuck between a tree trunk and a huge rock, so they had to unharness the dogs to fix it. Go to

Original English Version

1. The sled was upside down and jammed between a tree-trunk and a huge rock, and they were forced to unharness the dogs in order to straighten out the tangle. Go to

untie /ʌnˈtaɪ/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: desatar; desamarrar

Simple English: To open a knot and free something.

Example: Please untie the rope from the post.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Henry grunted and began to untie his moccasins. Go to

urge /ɜːrdʒ/ (5 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: exortar; instar; impulso

Simple English: To strongly recommend or encourage someone to take action.

Example: I urge you to apply for that scholarship before the deadline.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. "Go on," Henry urged, lifting the pot. Go to

villan /ˈvɪl.ən/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: Villan

Simple English: the name of a man mentioned who once owned a dog

Example: Old Villan had a dog once that ran away with the wolves.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. "Old Villan had a dog once that ran away with the wolves," Bill said to himself. Go to

2. Old Villan cried like a baby. Go to

Original English Version

1. "Ol' Villan had a dog once that run away with the wolves," Bill cogitates aloud. Go to

2. An' Ol' Villan cried like a baby. Go to

wag /wæɡ/ (8 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: abanar; balançar (o rabo)

Simple English: to move something from side to side, as a dog moves its tail

Example: I would not be surprised to see it wag its tail.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. "I would not be surprised to see it wag its tail." Go to

Original English Version

1. "I wouldn't be s'prised to see it wag its tail." Go to

warmed /wɔːrmd/ (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: aqueceu

Simple English: Made someone or something less cold.

Example: The fire warmed her and made her feel less lonely.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. At midday, the sun warmed the southern sky, and its pale golden edge even showed above the horizon. Go to

Original English Version

1. At midday the sky to the south warmed to rose-colour, and marked where the bulge of the earth intervened between the meridian sun and the northern world. Go to

2. At twelve o'clock the southern horizon was warmed by the unseen sun; and then began the cold grey of afternoon that would merge, three hours later, into night. Go to

washboards /ˈwɑʃˌbɔrdz/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: tábuas de lavar roupa

Simple English: ridged boards used for rubbing clothes clean by hand

Example: Their ribs stick out like washboards.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Their ribs stick out like washboards, and their stomachs are almost touching their backbones. Go to

watchful /ˈwɑːtʃfəl/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: vigilante; atento

Simple English: Careful to notice everything that happens around you.

Example: A watchful dog lay across the doorway.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He slowed to a watchful, delicate walk and then stopped. Go to

waterway /ˈwɔtərˌweɪ/ (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: via navegável; canal

Simple English: a river or channel that boats can travel along

Example: Dark spruce forest stood on both sides of the frozen waterway.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Dark spruce forest stood on both sides of the frozen waterway. Go to

2. A line of wolf-like dogs labored down the frozen waterway. Go to

3. When darkness fell, they led the dogs into a group of spruce trees at the edge of the waterway and set up camp. Go to

Original English Version

1. Dark spruce forest frowned on either side the frozen waterway. Go to

2. Down the frozen waterway toiled a string of wolfish dogs. Go to

3. At the fall of darkness they swung the dogs into a cluster of spruce trees on the edge of the waterway and made a camp. Go to

whimpering /ˈwɪmpərɪŋ/ (20 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: choramingando; ganindo baixo

Simple English: Making low weak crying sounds.

Example: The puppy lay whimpering in the corner.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. When he dozed, the dogs' whimpering and snarling woke him. Go to

Original English Version

1. His two dogs stayed close by him, one on either side, leaning against him for protection, crying and whimpering, and at times snarling desperately when a wolf approached a little closer than usual. Go to

2. The two dogs were whimpering and snarling at his feet, but she took no notice of them. Go to

3. When he dozed despite himself, the whimpering and snarling of the dogs aroused him. Go to

4. There were cries of men, and churn of sleds, the creaking of harnesses, and the eager whimpering of straining dogs. Go to

whined /waɪnd/ (10 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: ganiu; choramingou

Simple English: Made a long, high, sad sound, as a dog does.

Example: Toto pushed his nose into her face and whined.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. One Ear stretched as far as he could toward the stranger and whined excitedly. Go to

2. They cried and whined, and sometimes snarled fiercely when a wolf came too close. Go to

Original English Version

1. One Ear strained the full length of the stick toward the intruder and whined with eagerness. Go to

whirl /wɜːrl/ (5 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: girar; rodopiar

Simple English: To turn round and round very fast.

Example: The dry leaves began to whirl in the wind.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. When she snarled her displeasure, the old leader would whirl on the three-year-old. Go to

whisper /ˈwɪspər/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: sussurro; sussurrar; cochichar

Simple English: To speak very quietly so others nearby cannot easily hear.

Example: She had to whisper so the teacher wouldn’t hear their conversation.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. "Look here, Henry," Bill said, and his voice became a whisper without him meaning to. Go to

whispered /ˈwɪspərd/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: sussurraram; cochicharam

Simple English: Spoke very quietly, so that few people could hear.

Example: They stopped and whispered among themselves.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. "Look at that, Bill," Henry whispered. Go to

2. "It's a she-wolf," Henry whispered back. Go to

Original English Version

1. "Look at that, Bill," Henry whispered. Go to

2. "It's a she-wolf," Henry whispered back, "an' that accounts for Fatty an' Frog. Go to

whistled /ˈwɪsəld/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: assobiou

Simple English: Made a high sound by blowing through the lips.

Example: The farmer whistled and the dog came running.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. Henry whistled long and comprehendingly. Go to

willin /ˈwɪlɪn/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: disposto (forma dialetal)

Simple English: Willing, with the last sound left off.

Example: I am willin to try it once more.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. In the meantime they're willin' to pick up anything eatable that comes handy." Go to

willing /ˈwɪlɪŋ/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: disposto; desejando; querendo

Simple English: Ready and enthusiastic to do something or agree.

Example: She is willing to help us with the project this weekend.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Then he started down the trail, and the lighter sled bounced behind the willing dogs. Go to

wind (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: vento; eólica; enrolar

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. A recent wind had removed the white frost from the trees, and they leaned toward each other in the fading light, black and threatening. Go to

woken /ˈwoʊkən/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: acordado; desperto

Simple English: No longer sleeping.

Example: Toto had woken up.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. But the wolves were becoming braver, and the men were woken more than once. Go to

wolf's /wʊlfs/ (16 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: do lobo

Simple English: Belonging to a wolf.

Example: He cut off the wolf's head with one blow.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He saved himself by jumping back, and the wolf's jaws snapped shut only a few inches from his thigh. Go to

2. Still, he ran with his head level with the old wolf's shoulder. Go to

Original English Version

1. That wolf's a dog, an' it's eaten fish many's the time from the hand of man." Go to

2. On the instant, the she- wolf's coyness and playfulness disappeared. Go to

wrap /ræp/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: envoltório; embrulhar; enrole

Simple English: To cover an object in paper, fabric, or material.

Example: I will wrap the gift carefully before the party starts.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Their bodies were wrapped in fur and soft leather. Go to

yawned /jɔːnd/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: bocejou

Simple English: Opened the mouth wide because of being tired.

Example: He stretched and yawned.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. While Henry watched, the wolf stretched like a lazy dog, yawned in his face, and looked at him as if he were only a meal waiting to be eaten. Go to

yawning /ˈjɔːnɪŋ/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: bocejando

Simple English: Opening the mouth wide because of being tired.

Example: He sat down, yawning.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Now they sat in a tight circle like dogs, blinking, yawning, and stretching their thin bodies in the strange warmth. Go to

Original English Version

1. And even as he looked, the brute deliberately stretched himself after the manner of a lazy dog, yawning full in his face and looking upon him with a possessive eye, as if, in truth, he were merely a delayed meal that was soon to be eaten. Go to

2. Hitherto they had been denied access to the fire, and they now settled down in a close-drawn circle, like so many dogs, blinking and yawning and stretching their lean bodies in the unaccustomed warmth. Go to

yelped /jelpt/ (14 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: ganiu

Simple English: Made a short sharp cry, as a dog does.

Example: The dog yelped when the door shut on its tail.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. In the rush, one dog was knocked over onto the edge of the fire, and it yelped in pain and fear as the smell of its burned fur filled the air. Go to

Original English Version

1. In the scramble one of the dogs had been overturned on the edge of the fire, and it had yelped with pain and fright as the smell of its singed coat possessed the air. Go to

yelping /ˈjelpɪŋ/ (7 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: ganindo; latindo agudo

Simple English: Making short high cries, as a dog in pain or excitement.

Example: The yelping dogs ran ahead of the sledge.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. The yelping faded away. Go to

2. There was loud snarling and yelping. Go to

Original English Version

1. The yelping died away. Go to

2. There was a great snarling and yelping. Go to

yelps /jɛlps/ (10 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: ganidos; gritos agudos

Simple English: Short, sharp cries like those made by a dog.

Example: Their frightened yelps echoed through the passage.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Then came loud snarls and yelps. Go to

2. The wolves would rise and move forward a little, and snarls and eager yelps would sound around him. Go to

Original English Version

1. Then he heard a great outcry of snarls and yelps. Go to

2. At such moments, when his dogs snarled, the whole circle would be agitated, the wolves coming to their feet and pressing tentatively forward, a chorus of snarls and eager yelps rising about him. Go to

3. A hasty drawing back always resulted, accompanied by angry yelps and frightened snarls when a well-aimed brand struck and scorched a too daring animal. Go to

Original Text: Rare Words (1/3)

Compact help for additional rare words found only in the original text. Each entry gives the spelling, pronunciation, common Portuguese meanings and one exact return to the source paragraph.

a'ready /əˈredi/ — já (forma dialetal de already). "They've half got you a'ready, a-talkin' like that," Henry retorted sharply. Return to Original English Version

abashed /əˈbæʃt/ — envergonhado; constrangido. He merely sprang to the side and ran stiffly ahead for several awkward leaps, in carriage and conduct resembling an abashed country swain. Return to Original English Version

abreast /əˈbrɛst/ — lado a lado; no mesmo nível. When he ventured to run abreast of the older wolf (which was seldom), a snarl and a snap sent him back even with the shoulder again. Return to Original English Version

abysses /əˈbɪsɪz/ — abismos; profundezas. But under it all they were men, penetrating the land of desolation and mockery and silence, puny adventurers bent on colossal adventure, pitting themselves against the might of a world as remote and alien and pulseless as the abysses of space. Return to Original English Version

accession /ækˈseʃən/ — ascensão ao trono; acesso. The only change in it that they could notice was an accession of alertness. Return to Original English Version

accompaniment /əˈkʌmpənimənt/ — acompanhamento. In the morning Henry renewed the fire and cooked breakfast to the accompaniment of his partner's snoring. Return to Original English Version

adhered /ədˈhɪrd/ — aderiu; manteve-se fiel a. For several hours he adhered to this programme. Return to Original English Version

administering /ədˈmɪnɪstərɪŋ/ — administrando; ministrando. The wolves behind collided with the young wolf and expressed their displeasure by administering sharp nips on his hind-legs and flanks. Return to Original English Version

admonished /ədˈmɑːnɪʃt/ — admoestou; repreendeu; advertiu. "You needn't stray off too far in doin' it," his partner admonished. Return to Original English Version

adventurous /ədˈventʃərəs/ — aventureiro; audacioso. So near did the wolves approach, that the dogs became frantic with terror, and it was necessary to replenish the fire from time to time in order to keep the adventurous marauders at safer distance. Return to Original English Version

affirmed /əˈfɜːrmd/ — afirmou. "You jes' bet they will," Bill affirmed. Return to Original English Version

agitated /ˈædʒɪteɪtɪd/ — agitado; perturbado. At such moments, when his dogs snarled, the whole circle would be agitated, the wolves coming to their feet and pressing tentatively forward, a chorus of snarls and eager yelps rising about him. Return to Original English Version

ailin /ˈeɪlɪn/ — incomodando. That's what's ailin' you. Return to Original English Version

alertness /əˈlɜːrtnəs/ — vivacidade; estado de alerta. The only change in it that they could notice was an accession of alertness. Return to Original English Version

all'll /ˈɔːləl/ — todos estarão. They all'll be here in the mornin' hunkydory." Return to Original English Version

ambitiously /æmˈbɪʃəsli/ — ambiciosamente. It was he who snarled warningly at the younger members of the pack or slashed at them with his fangs when they ambitiously tried to pass him. Return to Original English Version

angered /ˈæŋɡərd/ — enfureceu; irritado. This was not Bill's way, for he was easily angered by sharp words. Return to Original English Version

apace /əˈpeɪs/ — rapidamente; a olhos vistos. Had there been food, love-making and fighting would have gone on apace, and the pack-formation would have been broken up. Return to Original English Version

apathetically /ˌæpəˈθetɪkli/ — apaticamente. "How'd it happen?" he asked apathetically. Return to Original English Version

approvingly /əˈpruːvɪŋli/ — com aprovação. Henry nodded his head approvingly. Return to Original English Version

ardours /ˈɑːrdərz/ — ardores; entusiasmos intensos. It crushed them into the remotest recesses of their own minds, pressing out of them, like juices from the grape, all the false ardours and exaltations and undue self-values of the human soul, until they perceived themselves finite and small, specks and motes, moving with weak cunning and little wisdom amidst the play and inter-play of the great blind elements and forces. Return to Original English Version

arm's /ɑːrmz/ — do braço (em arm's reach: ao alcance do braço). But the pot was beyond arm's length and beside Henry. Return to Original English Version

aroused /əˈraʊzd/ — despertado; estimulado; exaltado. As he dozed off he was aroused by his comrade's voice. Return to Original English Version

ary /ˈɛri/ — qualquer; algum (dialetal). I said I wouldn't if ary dog turned up missin', an' I won't." Return to Original English Version

atmospheres /ˈætməsfɪrz/ — atmosferas. It affected their minds as the many atmospheres of deep water affect the body of the diver. Return to Original English Version

attentions /əˈtɛnʃənz/ — atenções; gentilezas; corte. As with the running mate on the left, she repelled these attentions with her teeth; but when both bestowed their attentions at the same time she was roughly jostled, being compelled, with quick snaps to either side, to drive both lovers away and at the same time to maintain her forward leap with the pack and see the way of her feet before her. Return to Original English Version

auspiciously /ɔːˈspɪʃəsli/ — de modo auspicioso; favoravelmente. The day began auspiciously. Return to Original English Version

awakened /əˈweɪkənd/ — despertado; acordado; reavivado. His eyes were closed but few minutes when the burn of the flame on his flesh awakened him. Return to Original English Version

awoke /əˈwoʊk/ — acordou; despertou. In the morning it was Henry who awoke first and routed his companion out of bed. Return to Original English Version

babbling /ˈbæblɪŋ/ — balbuciando; tagarelando; murmúrio. Henry was bending over and adding ice to the babbling pot of beans when he was startled by the sound of a blow, an exclamation from Bill, and a sharp snarling cry of pain from among the dogs. Return to Original English Version

baffling /ˈbæflɪŋ/ — desconcertante; enigmático. The dominant colour was grey, and yet there was to it a faint reddish hue--a hue that was baffling, that appeared and disappeared, that was more like an illusion of the vision, now grey, distinctly grey, and again giving hints and glints of a vague redness of colour not classifiable in terms of ordinary experience. Return to Original English Version

baring /ˈbɛrɪŋ/ — expondo; arreganhando. She had snarled as she sprang away, baring her white fangs to their roots, all her wistfulness vanishing, being replaced by a carnivorous malignity that made him shudder. Return to Original English Version

bedlam /ˈbedləm/ — balbúrdia; algazarra. Cry after cry, and answering cries, were turning the silence into a bedlam. Return to Original English Version

beginnin /bɪˈɡɪnɪn/ — começo (grafia coloquial de beginning). "I mean that this load of ourn is gettin' on your nerves, an' that you're beginnin' to see things." Return to Original English Version

bein /ˈbiːɪn/ — sendo (grafia coloquial de being). "First time I ever heard you say anything about their not bein' wise." Return to Original English Version

bellowed /ˈbɛloʊd/ — bramiu; berrou. "Where's Lord Alfred?" one of the men bellowed in his ear, shaking him roughly. Return to Original English Version

bellying /ˈbɛliɪŋ/ — rastejando de barriga; enfunando. Bit by bit, an inch at a time, with here a wolf bellying forward, and there a wolf bellying forward, the circle would narrow until the brutes were almost within springing distance. Return to Original English Version

benumbed /bɪˈnʌmd/ — entorpecido. Besides, they were snarling all the time, and his benumbed and drowsy senses no longer took note of changing pitch and intensity. Return to Original English Version

besieged /bɪˈsiːdʒd/ — sitiado; cercado. Also, it seemed to him that the fort was besieged by wolves. Return to Original English Version

bespoke /bɪˈspoʊk/ — denotava; indicava. He recognised One Ear's yell of pain and terror, and he heard a wolf-cry that bespoke a stricken animal. Return to Original English Version

bestowed /bɪˈstoʊd/ — concedeu; outorgou. As with the running mate on the left, she repelled these attentions with her teeth; but when both bestowed their attentions at the same time she was roughly jostled, being compelled, with quick snaps to either side, to drive both lovers away and at the same time to maintain her forward leap with the pack and see the way of her feet before her. Return to Original English Version

bethought /bɪˈθɔːt/ — lembrou-se; pôs-se a pensar (passado de bethink). In the meantime, Bill had bethought himself of the rifle. Return to Original English Version

better'n /ˈbɛtərn/ — melhor que. They know their business better'n we do, an' they ain't a-holdin' our trail this way for their health. Return to Original English Version

bickered /ˈbɪkərd/ — discutiram; brigaram. The wolf-dogs, clustered on the far side of the fire, snarled and bickered among themselves, but evinced no inclination to stray off into the darkness. Return to Original English Version

blasphemy /ˈblæsfəmi/ — blasfêmia. In the morning Henry was aroused by fervid blasphemy that proceeded from the mouth of Bill. Return to Original English Version

blazing /ˈbleɪzɪŋ/ — flamejante; ardente; em chamas. He kept the fire brightly blazing, for he knew that it alone intervened between the flesh of his body and their hungry fangs. Return to Original English Version

bodied /ˈbɑːdid/ — de corpo (em soft-bodied, de carnes moles). Yet all were more like skeletons than full-bodied wolves. Return to Original English Version

bony /ˈboʊni/ — ossuda; magra; esquelética. They were very lean, mere skin-bags stretched over bony frames, with strings for muscles--so lean that Henry found it in his mind to marvel that they still kept their feet and did not collapse forthright in the snow. Return to Original English Version

botherin /ˈbɒðərɪn/ — incomodando. That's what's botherin' me." Return to Original English Version

boughs /baʊz/ — galhos grandes. Bill had finished his pipe and was helping his companion to spread the bed of fur and blanket upon the spruce boughs which he had laid over the snow before supper. Return to Original English Version

boundless /ˈbaʊndləs/ — ilimitado; sem fim. He was laying up trouble for himself, for lack of food and short tempers went together; but with the boundless faith of youth he persisted in repeating the manoeuvre every little while, though it never succeeded in gaining anything for him but discomfiture. Return to Original English Version

bristly /ˈbrɪsli/ — eriçado; cerdoso. Their bristly fur was rimed with frost. Return to Original English Version

brooded /ˈbruːdɪd/ — remoeu; ficou matutando. But for some time longer he sat and brooded, the two remaining dogs crouching and trembling at his feet. Return to Original English Version

brute /bruːt/ — bruto; besta; animal irracional. And even as he looked, the brute deliberately stretched himself after the manner of a lazy dog, yawning full in his face and looking upon him with a possessive eye, as if, in truth, he were merely a delayed meal that was soon to be eaten. Return to Original English Version

brutes /bruːts/ — brutos; feras. Bit by bit, an inch at a time, with here a wolf bellying forward, and there a wolf bellying forward, the circle would narrow until the brutes were almost within springing distance. Return to Original English Version

bulge /bʌldʒ/ — saliência; estufar. At midday the sky to the south warmed to rose-colour, and marked where the bulge of the earth intervened between the meridian sun and the northern world. Return to Original English Version

bursting /ˈbɜːrstɪŋ/ — morrendo de vontade; a ponto de estourar. With the bursting open of the door, the noise of their howling had increased tremendously. Return to Original English Version

bushwhack /ˈbʊʃwæk/ — emboscar; atacar de surpresa. I'll bushwhack her as sure as my name is Bill." Return to Original English Version

buttin /ˈbʌtɪn/ — se metendo. "What gets me, Henry, is what a chap like this, that's a lord or something in his own country, and that's never had to bother about grub nor blankets; why he comes a-buttin' round the Godforsaken ends of the earth--that's what I can't exactly see." Return to Original English Version

carcases /ˈkɑːrkəsɪz/ — carcaças; cadáveres. "You an' me, Henry, when we die, we'll be lucky if we get enough stones over our carcases to keep the dogs off of us." Return to Original English Version

carefulness /ˈkerfəlnəs/ — cuidado; cautela. Henry looked about with great carefulness and shook his head. Return to Original English Version

carnivorous /kɑːrˈnɪvərəs/ — carnívoro. She had snarled as she sprang away, baring her white fangs to their roots, all her wistfulness vanishing, being replaced by a carnivorous malignity that made him shudder. Return to Original English Version

cartridges'd /ˈkɑːrtrɪdʒɪzd/ — os cartuchos... seriam. "If that pack ever starts to jump you, them three cartridges'd be wuth no more'n three whoops in hell. Return to Original English Version

cautiously /ˈkɔːʃəsli/ — cautelosamente. It moved with commingled mistrust and daring, cautiously observing the men, its attention fixed on the dogs. Return to Original English Version

cavortin /kəˈvɔːrtɪn/ — saltitando. "Well, Spanker's troubles is over anyway; I guess he's digested by this time an' cavortin' over the landscape in the bellies of twenty different wolves," was Henry's epitaph on this, the latest lost dog. Return to Original English Version

certitude /ˈsɜːrtɪtuːd/ — certeza absoluta. This certitude was shown by the whole pack. Return to Original English Version

cessation /seˈseɪʃən/ — cessação; interrupção. It freezes the water to prevent it running to the sea; it drives the sap out of the trees till they are frozen to their mighty hearts; and most ferociously and terribly of all does the Wild harry and crush into submission man--man who is the most restless of life, ever in revolt against the dictum that all movement must in the end come to the cessation of movement. Return to Original English Version

chanced /tʃænst/ — aconteceu por acaso; calhou de. He did not snarl at her, nor show his teeth, when any leap of hers chanced to put her in advance of him. Return to Original English Version

cheery /ˈtʃɪri/ — animado; alegre. Breakfast eaten and the slim camp-outfit lashed to the sled, the men turned their backs on the cheery fire and launched out into the darkness. Return to Original English Version

chided /ˈtʃaɪdɪd/ — ralhou; censurou. "Say, Henry," he chided gently, "ain't you forgot somethin'?" Return to Original English Version

churn /tʃɜːrn/ — revolver; agitar violentamente. There were cries of men, and churn of sleds, the creaking of harnesses, and the eager whimpering of straining dogs. Return to Original English Version

classifiable /ˈklæsɪfaɪəbəl/ — classificável. The dominant colour was grey, and yet there was to it a faint reddish hue--a hue that was baffling, that appeared and disappeared, that was more like an illusion of the vision, now grey, distinctly grey, and again giving hints and glints of a vague redness of colour not classifiable in terms of ordinary experience. Return to Original English Version

clump /klʌmp/ — tufo; moita; touceira. It paused, head up, close by a clump of spruce trees, and with sight and scent studied the outfit of the watching men. Return to Original English Version

clustered /ˈklʌstərd/ — agrupado; reunido em cachos. The wolf-dogs, clustered on the far side of the fire, snarled and bickered among themselves, but evinced no inclination to stray off into the darkness. Return to Original English Version

cogitates /ˈkɑːdʒəteɪts/ — reflete; medita. "Ol' Villan had a dog once that run away with the wolves," Bill cogitates aloud. Return to Original English Version

collided /kəˈlaɪdɪd/ — colidiu; bateu. They had travelled little more than a hundred yards, when Henry, who was in front, bent down and picked up something with which his snowshoe had collided. Return to Original English Version

colossal /kəˈlɑːsəl/ — colossal; descomunal. But under it all they were men, penetrating the land of desolation and mockery and silence, puny adventurers bent on colossal adventure, pitting themselves against the might of a world as remote and alien and pulseless as the abysses of space. Return to Original English Version

commingled /kəˈmɪŋɡəld/ — misturado; entremeado. It moved with commingled mistrust and daring, cautiously observing the men, its attention fixed on the dogs. Return to Original English Version

commiseratingly /kəˈmɪzəreɪtɪŋli/ — com compaixão; de modo solidário. Henry looked at him commiseratingly, and said, "I'll be almighty glad when this trip's over." Return to Original English Version

commotion /kəˈmoʊʃən/ — comoção; tumulto; agitação. The commotion caused the circle of eyes to shift restlessly for a moment and even to withdraw a bit, but it settled down again as the dogs became quiet. Return to Original English Version

comprehendingly /ˌkɑːmprɪˈhendɪŋli/ — com compreensão. Henry whistled long and comprehendingly. Return to Original English Version

contraction /kənˈtrækʃən/ — contração; encolhimento. Behind every steel-like contraction of a muscle, lay another steel-like contraction, and another, and another, apparently without end. Return to Original English Version

contraption /kənˈtræpʃən/ — engenhoca; aparelho estranho. "It's the only contraption that'll ever hold One Ear," he said. Return to Original English Version

cornered /ˈkɔːrnərd/ — encurralado; acuado. It was the she-wolf who had first caught the sound of men's voices and the whining of the sled-dogs; and it was the she-wolf who was first to spring away from the cornered man in his circle of dying flame. Return to Original English Version

coy /kɔɪ/ — tímido; esquivo; recatado. But whatever idea was forming in his mind, was dissipated by the she-wolf, who advanced upon him, sniffed noses with him for a fleeting instant, and then resumed her coy retreat before his renewed advances. Return to Original English Version

coyly /ˈkɔɪli/ — com faceirice; timidamente. He tried to sniff noses with her, but she retreated playfully and coyly. Return to Original English Version

coyness /ˈkɔɪnəs/ — timidez; recato; esquivança. On the instant, the she- wolf's coyness and playfulness disappeared. Return to Original English Version

crestfallen /ˈkrestfɔːlən/ — cabisbaixo; desanimado. Then he saw Bill, standing amid the dogs, half triumphant, half crestfallen, in one hand a stout club, in the other the tail and part of the body of a sun-cured salmon. Return to Original English Version

cringing /ˈkrɪndʒɪŋ/ — encolhendo-se; servil; rastejante. The unrest of the dogs had been increasing, and they stampeded, in a surge of sudden fear, to the near side of the fire, cringing and crawling about the legs of the men. Return to Original English Version

critter's /ˈkrɪtərz/ — do bicho. I tell you right now, Henry, that critter's the cause of all our trouble. Return to Original English Version

croakin /ˈkroʊkɪn/ — reclamando, resmungando. "Shut up your wishin' and your croakin'," Henry burst out angrily. Return to Original English Version

curiously /ˈkjʊəriəsli/ — curiosamente; com curiosidade. His comrade looked at him curiously. Return to Original English Version

danged /dæŋd/ — danado; maldito (eufemismo). "I'll be ding-dong-danged if I do. Return to Original English Version

decoy /ˈdiːkɔɪ/ — isca. She's the decoy for the pack. Return to Original English Version

defiantly /dɪˈfaɪəntli/ — desafiadoramente; com insolência. Henry laughed defiantly. Return to Original English Version

deliberation /dɪˌlɪbəˈreɪʃən/ — deliberação. "Henry," said the other, munching with deliberation the beans he was eating, "did you happen to notice the way them dogs kicked up when I was a-feedin' 'em?" Return to Original English Version

delicacy /ˈdelɪkəsi/ — delicadeza. He glanced at the hand that held the brand, noticing the cunning delicacy of the fingers that gripped it, how they adjusted themselves to all the inequalities of the surface, curling over and under and about the rough wood, and one little finger, too close to the burning portion of the brand, sensitively and automatically writhing back from the hurtful heat to a cooler gripping-place; and in the same instant he seemed to see a vision of those same sensitive and delicate fingers being crushed and torn by the white teeth of the she-wolf. Return to Original English Version

delicately /ˈdelɪkətli/ — delicadamente. It fascinated him, and he grew suddenly fond of this subtle flesh of his that worked so beautifully and smoothly and delicately. Return to Original English Version

desirefully /dɪˈzaɪərfəli/ — com desejo; ansiosamente. He regarded her carefully and dubiously, yet desirefully. Return to Original English Version

desisting /dɪˈsɪstɪŋ/ — desistindo; cessando. One Ear was uttering quick, eager whines, lunging at the length of his stick toward the darkness, and desisting now and again in order to make frantic attacks on the stick with his teeth. Return to Original English Version

desolation /ˌdesəˈleɪʃən/ — desolação; devastação; solidão. The land itself was a desolation, lifeless, without movement, so lone and cold that the spirit of it was not even that of sadness. Return to Original English Version

devour /dɪˈvaʊər/ — devorar. They alone were alive, and they sought for other things that were alive in order that they might devour them and continue to live. Return to Original English Version

dictum /ˈdɪktəm/ — sentença; máxima. It freezes the water to prevent it running to the sea; it drives the sap out of the trees till they are frozen to their mighty hearts; and most ferociously and terribly of all does the Wild harry and crush into submission man--man who is the most restless of life, ever in revolt against the dictum that all movement must in the end come to the cessation of movement. Return to Original English Version

discernible /dɪˈsɜːrnəbəl/ — discernível; perceptível. Eyelashes and cheeks and lips were so coated with the crystals from their frozen breath that their faces were not discernible. Return to Original English Version

discomfiture /dɪsˈkʌmfɪtʃər/ — embaraço; desconcerto. He was laying up trouble for himself, for lack of food and short tempers went together; but with the boundless faith of youth he persisted in repeating the manoeuvre every little while, though it never succeeded in gaining anything for him but discomfiture. Return to Original English Version

dispassionately /dɪsˈpæʃənətli/ — com serenidade; sem se exaltar. "We've got six dogs," the other reiterated dispassionately. Return to Original English Version

displeasure /dɪsˈpleʒər/ — desagrado; descontentamento. When she snarled her displeasure, the old leader would whirl on the three-year-old. Return to Original English Version

dissipated /ˈdɪsəpeɪtɪd/ — dissipado; desfeito. But whatever idea was forming in his mind, was dissipated by the she-wolf, who advanced upon him, sniffed noses with him for a fleeting instant, and then resumed her coy retreat before his renewed advances. Return to Original English Version

diver /ˈdaɪvər/ — mergulhador. It affected their minds as the many atmospheres of deep water affect the body of the diver. Return to Original English Version

dog'll /ˈdɒɡəl/ — o cachorro vai. "An if I get a chance at it, that wolf that's a dog'll be jes' meat," Bill declared. Return to Original English Version

dogmatised /ˈdɒɡmətaɪzd/ — afirmou de modo dogmático. "You're off colour, that's what's the matter with you," Henry dogmatised. Return to Original English Version

doubly /ˈdʌbli/ — duplamente; duas vezes mais. This was doubly resented, even triply resented. Return to Original English Version

doze /doʊz/ — cochilo; cochilar. He came out of a doze that was half nightmare, to see the red-hued she- wolf before him. Return to Original English Version

drooled /druːld/ — babou; salivou. Her mouth opened, the saliva drooled forth, and she licked her chops with the pleasure of anticipation. Return to Original English Version

drooping /ˈdruːpɪŋ/ — pendente; caído; murcho. His shoulders, relaxed and drooping, and his head on his knees advertised that he had given up the struggle. Return to Original English Version

drowsy /ˈdraʊzi/ — sonolento; entorpecido. Besides, they were snarling all the time, and his benumbed and drowsy senses no longer took note of changing pitch and intensity. Return to Original English Version

dubiously /ˈduːbiəsli/ — com dúvida; hesitante. He regarded her carefully and dubiously, yet desirefully. Return to Original English Version

eagerness /ˈiːɡərnəs/ — ânsia; entusiasmo; avidez. It might have been a lost soul wailing, had it not been invested with a certain sad fierceness and hungry eagerness. Return to Original English Version

ear's /ɪərz/ — de Orelha (Uma Orelha). He recognised One Ear's yell of pain and terror, and he heard a wolf-cry that bespoke a stricken animal. Return to Original English Version

eased /iːzd/ — aliviou; abrandou; moveu com cuidado. And even as they eased him down upon the blankets his snores were rising on the frosty air. Return to Original English Version

eatable /ˈiːtəbəl/ — comestível. In the meantime they're willin' to pick up anything eatable that comes handy." Return to Original English Version

effortless /ˈefərtləs/ — fácil; sem esforço. Its nose was to the trail, and it trotted with a peculiar, sliding, effortless gait. Return to Original English Version

elevating /ˈeləveɪtɪŋ/ — elevando; erguendo. "Go on," Henry pleaded, elevating the pot. Return to Original English Version

emitted /ɪˈmɪtɪd/ — emitiu. A few minutes later, Henry, who was now travelling behind the sled, emitted a low, warning whistle. Return to Original English Version

enticingly /ɪnˈtaɪsɪŋli/ — de modo tentador; de forma atraente. "It's darn good coffee," Henry said enticingly. Return to Original English Version

epitaph /ˈɛpɪtæf/ — epitáfio. And this was the epitaph of a dead dog on the Northland trail--less scant than the epitaph of many another dog, of many a man. Return to Original English Version

evinced /ɪˈvɪnst/ — evidenciou; manifestado. The wolf-dogs, clustered on the far side of the fire, snarled and bickered among themselves, but evinced no inclination to stray off into the darkness. Return to Original English Version

exaltations /ˌeɡzɔːlˈteɪʃənz/ — exaltações; entusiasmos intensos. It crushed them into the remotest recesses of their own minds, pressing out of them, like juices from the grape, all the false ardours and exaltations and undue self-values of the human soul, until they perceived themselves finite and small, specks and motes, moving with weak cunning and little wisdom amidst the play and inter-play of the great blind elements and forces. Return to Original English Version

exclamation /ˌekskləˈmeɪʃən/ — exclamação. Henry was bending over and adding ice to the babbling pot of beans when he was startled by the sound of a blow, an exclamation from Bill, and a sharp snarling cry of pain from among the dogs. Return to Original English Version

expanse /ɪkˈspæns/ — extensão; vastidão. It was to the rear, somewhere in the snow expanse they had just traversed. Return to Original English Version

expectantly /ɪkˈspektəntli/ — de modo expectante. Then he would cast a glance of fear at the wolf-circle drawn expectantly about him, and like a blow the realisation would strike him that this wonderful body of his, this living flesh, was no more than so much meat, a quest of ravenous animals, to be torn and slashed by their hungry fangs, to be sustenance to them as the moose and the rabbit had often been sustenance to him. Return to Original English Version

facetious /fəˈsiːʃəs/ — jocoso; gracejador. Bill seemed to have forgotten his forebodings of the previous night, and even waxed facetious with the dogs when, at midday, they overturned the sled on a bad piece of trail. Return to Original English Version

faggots /ˈfæɡəts/ — feixes de lenha. He spent half the day extending his campfire to the tree, at any moment a half dozen burning faggots ready at hand to fling at his enemies. Return to Original English Version

famished /ˈfæmɪʃt/ — esfomeado. This young wolf had attained his full size; and, considering the weak and famished condition of the pack, he possessed more than the average vigour and spirit. Return to Original English Version

fasten /ˈfæsən/ — prender; amarrar; atar. At last he arose in a weary manner, as though all the resilience had gone out of his body, and proceeded to fasten the dogs to the sled. Return to Original English Version

feedin /ˈfiːdɪn/ — alimentando. "Henry," said the other, munching with deliberation the beans he was eating, "did you happen to notice the way them dogs kicked up when I was a-feedin' 'em?" Return to Original English Version

feelin /ˈfiːlɪn/ — sentimento. "I ain't feelin' special enthusiastic," Bill persisted. Return to Original English Version

ferociously /fəˈroʊʃəsli/ — ferozmente. It freezes the water to prevent it running to the sea; it drives the sap out of the trees till they are frozen to their mighty hearts; and most ferociously and terribly of all does the Wild harry and crush into submission man--man who is the most restless of life, ever in revolt against the dictum that all movement must in the end come to the cessation of movement. Return to Original English Version

fervid /ˈfɜːrvɪd/ — fervoroso; ardente. In the morning Henry was aroused by fervid blasphemy that proceeded from the mouth of Bill. Return to Original English Version

fetched /fetʃt/ — buscou; trouxe. He flung it back, so that it struck the sled and bounced along until it fetched up on Bill's snowshoes. Return to Original English Version

flanks /flæŋks/ — flancos; ilhargas. The wolves behind collided with the young wolf and expressed their displeasure by administering sharp nips on his hind-legs and flanks. Return to Original English Version

fleeting /ˈfliːtɪŋ/ — fugaz; passageiro. But whatever idea was forming in his mind, was dissipated by the she-wolf, who advanced upon him, sniffed noses with him for a fleeting instant, and then resumed her coy retreat before his renewed advances. Return to Original English Version

fling /flɪŋ/ — arremesso. He spent half the day extending his campfire to the tree, at any moment a half dozen burning faggots ready at hand to fling at his enemies. Return to Original English Version

flitted /ˈflɪtɪd/ — esgueirou-se; passou veloz. Once, as though a warning had in vague ways flitted through his intelligence, he turned his head and looked back at the overturned sled, at his team-mates, and at the two men who were calling to him. Return to Original English Version

fluttered /ˈflʌtərd/ — esvoaçavam; adejavam. Henry thought long over it before he went to sleep, and as his eyelids fluttered down and he dozed off, the thought in his mind was: "There's no mistakin' it, Bill's almighty blue. Return to Original English Version

followin /ˈfɒloʊɪŋ/ — seguindo. "I've hearn sailors talk of sharks followin' a ship," Bill remarked, as he crawled back into the blankets after one such replenishing of the fire. Return to Original English Version

forebodings /fɔːrˈboʊdɪŋz/ — maus pressentimentos. Bill seemed to have forgotten his forebodings of the previous night, and even waxed facetious with the dogs when, at midday, they overturned the sled on a bad piece of trail. Return to Original English Version

forego /fɔːrˈɡoʊ/ — abrir mão de; renunciar a. The pack had been loath to forego the kill it had hunted down, and it lingered for several minutes, making sure of the sounds, and then it, too, sprang away on the trail made by the she-wolf. Return to Original English Version

forthright /ˈfɔːrθraɪt/ — diretamente; de imediato. They were very lean, mere skin-bags stretched over bony frames, with strings for muscles--so lean that Henry found it in his mind to marvel that they still kept their feet and did not collapse forthright in the snow. Return to Original English Version

founts /faʊnts/ — fontes; mananciais. Their stringy muscles seemed founts of inexhaustible energy. Return to Original English Version

frantic /ˈfræntɪk/ — desesperados; fora de si. One Ear was uttering quick, eager whines, lunging at the length of his stick toward the darkness, and desisting now and again in order to make frantic attacks on the stick with his teeth. Return to Original English Version

frog's /frɑːɡz/ — do sapo; da rã. "Frog's gone," came the answer. Return to Original English Version

frosty /ˈfrɔːsti/ — gelado; com geada. And even as they eased him down upon the blankets his snores were rising on the frosty air. Return to Original English Version

frowned /fraʊnd/ — franziu o cenho. Dark spruce forest frowned on either side the frozen waterway. Return to Original English Version

futile /ˈfjuːtaɪl/ — fútil; inútil. It was just after the sun's futile effort to appear, that Bill slipped the rifle from under the sled-lashings and said: Return to Original English Version

futility /fjuːˈtɪləti/ — futilidade; inutilidade. It was the masterful and incommunicable wisdom of eternity laughing at the futility of life and the effort of life. Return to Original English Version

gait /ɡeɪt/ — andar; modo de caminhar. Its nose was to the trail, and it trotted with a peculiar, sliding, effortless gait. Return to Original English Version

gauging /ˈɡeɪdʒɪŋ/ — medindo; avaliando. He studied the nail-formation, and prodded the finger-tips, now sharply, and again softly, gauging the while the nerve-sensations produced. Return to Original English Version

gaunt /ɡɔːnt/ — magro e abatido. It was large for a wolf, its gaunt frame advertising the lines of an animal that was among the largest of its kind. Return to Original English Version

gazing /ˈɡeɪzɪŋ/ — contemplando; olhando fixamente. Once he awakened, and in an opening in the circle, directly in front of him, he saw the she-wolf gazing at him. Return to Original English Version

glanced /ɡlænst/ — lançou um olhar; deu uma olhada. He glanced casually at the huddling dogs. Return to Original English Version

gleaming /ˈɡliːmɪŋ/ — brilhante; reluzente. There was no suggestion of form in the utter blackness; only could be seen a pair of eyes gleaming like live coals. Return to Original English Version

glints /ɡlɪnts/ — lampejos; reflexos. The dominant colour was grey, and yet there was to it a faint reddish hue--a hue that was baffling, that appeared and disappeared, that was more like an illusion of the vision, now grey, distinctly grey, and again giving hints and glints of a vague redness of colour not classifiable in terms of ordinary experience. Return to Original English Version

gnaw /nɔː/ — roer. The dog was unable to gnaw through the leather at his own end of the stick. Return to Original English Version

godforsaken /ˈɡɒdfərseɪkən/ — abandonado por Deus; desolado. "What gets me, Henry, is what a chap like this, that's a lord or something in his own country, and that's never had to bother about grub nor blankets; why he comes a-buttin' round the Godforsaken ends of the earth--that's what I can't exactly see." Return to Original English Version

goo /ɡuː/ — Goo (parte do nome Googly-Goo). Goo' night, everybody." Return to Original English Version

gravely /ˈɡreɪvli/ — gravemente; seriamente. "I thought of that," Bill answered gravely. Return to Original English Version

grimness /ˈɡrɪmnəs/ — severidade; aspecto sombrio. There was a hint in it of laughter, but of a laughter more terrible than any sadness--a laughter that was mirthless as the smile of the sphinx, a laughter cold as the frost and partaking of the grimness of infallibility. Return to Original English Version

gripped /ɡrɪpt/ — agarrou; tomou conta de. He glanced at the hand that held the brand, noticing the cunning delicacy of the fingers that gripped it, how they adjusted themselves to all the inequalities of the surface, curling over and under and about the rough wood, and one little finger, too close to the burning portion of the brand, sensitively and automatically writhing back from the hurtful heat to a cooler gripping-place; and in the same instant he seemed to see a vision of those same sensitive and delicate fingers being crushed and torn by the white teeth of the she-wolf. Return to Original English Version

grizzled /ˈɡrɪzəld/ — grisalho. On her other side ran a gaunt old wolf, grizzled and marked with the scars of many battles. Return to Original English Version

guessin /ˈɡɛsɪn/ — adivinhando. They're damn hungry, Henry, an' they'll have you an' me guessin' before this trip's over." Return to Original English Version

gustatory /ˈɡʌstəˌtɔːri/ — gustativo. He was the food, and the sight of him excited in her the gustatory sensations. Return to Original English Version

haggard /ˈhæɡərd/ — abatido; exausto. Morning found the man haggard and worn, wide-eyed from want of sleep. Return to Original English Version

harnessed /ˈhɑːrnɪst/ — atrelados; arreados. A gloomy breakfast was eaten, and the four remaining dogs were harnessed to the sled. Return to Original English Version

haste /heɪst/ — pressa; urgência. Without haste, with the air of one resigned to misfortune Bill turned his head, and from where he sat counted the dogs. Return to Original English Version

hastened /ˈheɪsənd/ — apressou-se; acelerou. At the first hint of darkness he hastened to make a camp, and he saw to it that he had a generous supply of firewood. Return to Original English Version

hastily /ˈheɪstɪli/ — às pressas; apressadamente. Once, he roused with a start and hastily got the axe out from underneath the lashings. Return to Original English Version

hasty /ˈheɪsti/ — apressado; precipitado; impulsivo. A hasty drawing back always resulted, accompanied by angry yelps and frightened snarls when a well-aimed brand struck and scorched a too daring animal. Return to Original English Version

hearn /hɜːrn/ — ouviu. "I've hearn sailors talk of sharks followin' a ship," Bill remarked, as he crawled back into the blankets after one such replenishing of the fire. Return to Original English Version

heaving /ˈhiːvɪŋ/ — arfante; ondulante; erguendo com esforço. Using the sled-lashing for a heaving rope, and with the aid of the dogs, he hoisted the coffin to the top of the scaffold. Return to Original English Version

hemmed /hɛmd/ — embainhado; com bainha feita. "They jes' know we ain't loaded to kill," Henry remarked at bed-time, indicating the gleaming circle that hemmed them in. Return to Original English Version

henry's /ˈhɛnriz/ — de Henry. "Ain't the slightest doubt in the world," was Henry's response. Return to Original English Version

hitherto /ˌhɪðərˈtuː/ — até agora; até então. Hitherto they had been denied access to the fire, and they now settled down in a close-drawn circle, like so many dogs, blinking and yawning and stretching their lean bodies in the unaccustomed warmth. Return to Original English Version

hoarse /hɔːrs/ — rouco; áspero. His voice sounded hoarse and unreal, and he had spoken with apparent effort. Return to Original English Version

hoisted /ˈhɔɪstɪd/ — içou; levantou. Using the sled-lashing for a heaving rope, and with the aid of the dogs, he hoisted the coffin to the top of the scaffold. Return to Original English Version

holdin /ˈhoʊldɪn/ — segurando (fala popular). They know their business better'n we do, an' they ain't a-holdin' our trail this way for their health. Return to Original English Version

how'd /haʊd/ — como; de que modo. "How'd it happen?" he asked apathetically. Return to Original English Version

huddling /ˈhʌdəlɪŋ/ — amontoando-se; encolhendo-se. From every side the cries arose, and the dogs betrayed their fear by huddling together and so close to the fire that their hair was scorched by the heat. Return to Original English Version

hue /hjuː/ — matiz; tonalidade. The dominant colour was grey, and yet there was to it a faint reddish hue--a hue that was baffling, that appeared and disappeared, that was more like an illusion of the vision, now grey, distinctly grey, and again giving hints and glints of a vague redness of colour not classifiable in terms of ordinary experience. Return to Original English Version

hued /hjuːd/ — de muitas cores; matizado. He came out of a doze that was half nightmare, to see the red-hued she- wolf before him. Return to Original English Version

hunkydory /ˌhʌŋkiˈdɔːri/ — tudo bem; em perfeita ordem. You jes' shut up now, an' go to sleep, an' you'll be all hunkydory in the mornin'. Return to Original English Version

hurl /hɜːrl/ — arremesso; lançamento violento. Then he would seize brands from the fire and hurl them into the pack. Return to Original English Version

imitated /ˈɪmɪteɪtɪd/ — imitou; imitado. "Look here, Henry," Bill said, unconsciously lowering his voice to a whisper because of what he imitated. Return to Original English Version

inclination /ˌɪnklɪˈneɪʃən/ — inclinação; vontade. The wolf-dogs, clustered on the far side of the fire, snarled and bickered among themselves, but evinced no inclination to stray off into the darkness. Return to Original English Version

incommunicable /ˌɪnkəˈmjuːnɪkəbəl/ — incomunicável; que não se pode partilhar. It was the masterful and incommunicable wisdom of eternity laughing at the futility of life and the effort of life. Return to Original English Version

indomitable /ɪnˈdɑːmɪtəbəl/ — indomável; inquebrantável. But at front and rear, unawed and indomitable, toiled the two men who were not yet dead. Return to Original English Version

inequalities /ˌɪnɪˈkwɑːlətiz/ — desigualdades. He glanced at the hand that held the brand, noticing the cunning delicacy of the fingers that gripped it, how they adjusted themselves to all the inequalities of the surface, curling over and under and about the rough wood, and one little finger, too close to the burning portion of the brand, sensitively and automatically writhing back from the hurtful heat to a cooler gripping-place; and in the same instant he seemed to see a vision of those same sensitive and delicate fingers being crushed and torn by the white teeth of the she-wolf. Return to Original English Version

inertness /ɪˈnɝtnəs/ — inércia; imobilidade. They alone moved through the vast inertness. Return to Original English Version

inexhaustible /ˌɪnɪɡˈzɔːstəbəl/ — inesgotável; sem fundo. Their stringy muscles seemed founts of inexhaustible energy. Return to Original English Version

infallibility /ɪnˌfælɪˈbɪləti/ — infalibilidade. There was a hint in it of laughter, but of a laughter more terrible than any sadness--a laughter that was mirthless as the smile of the sphinx, a laughter cold as the frost and partaking of the grimness of infallibility. Return to Original English Version

Original Text: Rare Words (2/3)

ingratiating /ɪnˈɡreɪʃieɪtɪŋ/ — insinuando-se; caindo nas graças de. She seemed to smile at him, showing her teeth in an ingratiating rather than a menacing way. Return to Original English Version

insecurely /ˌɪnsɪˈkjʊrli/ — de modo inseguro; frouxamente. All worked well, but there came a time when he fastened the pine- knot insecurely. Return to Original English Version

intervened /ˌɪntərˈviːnd/ — interveio. At midday the sky to the south warmed to rose-colour, and marked where the bulge of the earth intervened between the meridian sun and the northern world. Return to Original English Version

intonation /ˌɪntəˈneɪʃən/ — entoação; sotaque. Henry grunted with an intonation that was not all sympathy, and for a quarter of an hour they sat on in silence, Henry staring at the fire, and Bill at the circle of eyes that burned in the darkness just beyond the firelight. Return to Original English Version

irons /ˈaɪərnz/ — ferros; grilhões. "Of course a wolf that knows enough to come in with the dogs at feedin' time, 'd know all about shooting-irons. Return to Original English Version

jammed /dʒæmd/ — emperrou; ficou preso; apertou. The sled was upside down and jammed between a tree-trunk and a huge rock, and they were forced to unharness the dogs in order to straighten out the tangle. Return to Original English Version

jostled /ˈdʒɑːsəld/ — empurrada; acotovelada. As with the running mate on the left, she repelled these attentions with her teeth; but when both bestowed their attentions at the same time she was roughly jostled, being compelled, with quick snaps to either side, to drive both lovers away and at the same time to maintain her forward leap with the pack and see the way of her feet before her. Return to Original English Version

juices /ˈdʒuːsɪz/ — sucos; líquidos; secreções. It crushed them into the remotest recesses of their own minds, pressing out of them, like juices from the grape, all the false ardours and exaltations and undue self-values of the human soul, until they perceived themselves finite and small, specks and motes, moving with weak cunning and little wisdom amidst the play and inter-play of the great blind elements and forces. Return to Original English Version

knowed /ˈnoʊd/ — sabia, soube. "I might have knowed it," Bill chided himself aloud as he replaced the gun. Return to Original English Version

lapsed /læpst/ — decorreu; caducado; recaiu. Bill grunted his disagreement with the diagnosis, and lapsed into silence. Return to Original English Version

lashed /læʃt/ — amarrou firme; açoitou; fustigou. On the sled, securely lashed, was a long and narrow oblong box. Return to Original English Version

lashing /ˈlæʃɪŋ/ — chicoteando; açoitando. Daylight was yet three hours away, though it was already six o'clock; and in the darkness Henry went about preparing breakfast, while Bill rolled the blankets and made the sled ready for lashing. Return to Original English Version

leaps /liːps/ — saltos; pulos. He merely sprang to the side and ran stiffly ahead for several awkward leaps, in carriage and conduct resembling an abashed country swain. Return to Original English Version

lemme /ˈlɛmi/ — deixe-me. "Say, you lemme alone. . . . Return to Original English Version

lightened /ˈlaɪtənd/ — aliviou; clareou; aligeirou. Then he took the trail, the lightened sled bounding along behind the willing dogs; for they, too, knew that safety lay open in the gaining of Fort McGurry. Return to Original English Version

lingered /ˈlɪŋərɛd/ — demorar-se; permanecer. The pack had been loath to forego the kill it had hunted down, and it lingered for several minutes, making sure of the sounds, and then it, too, sprang away on the trail made by the she-wolf. Return to Original English Version

loath /ˈlæʌθ/ — relutante. The pack had been loath to forego the kill it had hunted down, and it lingered for several minutes, making sure of the sounds, and then it, too, sprang away on the trail made by the she-wolf. Return to Original English Version

lolling /ˈlɑːlɪŋ/ — recostado à toa; pendendo frouxo. The wolves were now more open in their pursuit, trotting sedately behind and ranging along on either side, their red tongues lolling out, their lean sides showing the undulating ribs with every movement. Return to Original English Version

lunging /ˈlʌndʒɪŋ/ — arremetendo. One Ear was uttering quick, eager whines, lunging at the length of his stick toward the darkness, and desisting now and again in order to make frantic attacks on the stick with his teeth. Return to Original English Version

malignity /məˈlɪɡnəti/ — malignidade; má vontade. She had snarled as she sprang away, baring her white fangs to their roots, all her wistfulness vanishing, being replaced by a carnivorous malignity that made him shudder. Return to Original English Version

manoeuvre /məˈnuːvər/ — manobra (grafia britânica). He was laying up trouble for himself, for lack of food and short tempers went together; but with the boundless faith of youth he persisted in repeating the manoeuvre every little while, though it never succeeded in gaining anything for him but discomfiture. Return to Original English Version

many's /ˈmeniz/ — muitos são (many is). That wolf's a dog, an' it's eaten fish many's the time from the hand of man." Return to Original English Version

marauders /məˈrɔːdərz/ — saqueadores. So near did the wolves approach, that the dogs became frantic with terror, and it was necessary to replenish the fire from time to time in order to keep the adventurous marauders at safer distance. Return to Original English Version

masques /mæsk/ — máscaras teatrais. This gave them the seeming of ghostly masques, undertakers in a spectral world at the funeral of some ghost. Return to Original English Version

masterful /ˈmæstərfəl/ — magistral; autoritário. It was the masterful and incommunicable wisdom of eternity laughing at the futility of life and the effort of life. Return to Original English Version

maundered /ˈmɔːndərd/ — resmungou; falou de modo confuso. He looked at them like a drunken man and maundered in strange, sleepy speech. Return to Original English Version

me'll /miːl/ — eu vou. "Henry, I was a-thinkin' what a blame sight luckier he is than you an' me'll ever be." Return to Original English Version

mebbe /ˈmebi/ — talvez (forma dialetal de maybe). "Mebbe you'll need that in your business," Henry said. Return to Original English Version

mechanically /məˈkænɪkli/ — mecanicamente. Mechanically, at short range, without letting go of it, he thrust a brand full into her open and snarling mouth. Return to Original English Version

meditatively /ˈmɛdɪteɪtɪvli/ — pensativamente; com ar reflexivo. " He sucked meditatively at his pipe for some time before he went on. Return to Original English Version

menacing /ˈmenəsɪŋ/ — ameaçador. She seemed to smile at him, showing her teeth in an ingratiating rather than a menacing way. Return to Original English Version

menacingly /ˈmenəsɪŋli/ — ameaçadoramente. The dogs clustered together in fear, now and again snarling menacingly as a pair of eyes drew close. Return to Original English Version

merciless /ˈmɜːrsɪləs/ — impiedoso; implacável. It was a wistfulness bred of hunger, as cruel as its own fangs, as merciless as the frost itself. Return to Original English Version

merging /ˈmɜːrdʒɪŋ/ — fundindo-se. His dream was merging into something else--he knew not what; but through it all, following him, persisted the howling. Return to Original English Version

meridian /məˈrɪdiən/ — meridiano. At midday the sky to the south warmed to rose-colour, and marked where the bulge of the earth intervened between the meridian sun and the northern world. Return to Original English Version

mincing /ˈmɪnsɪŋ/ — afetado ou exageradamente delicado nos gestos ou na fala. He slowed down to an alert and mincing walk and then stopped. Return to Original English Version

mirthless /ˈmɜːrθləs/ — sem alegria; forçado (riso). There was a hint in it of laughter, but of a laughter more terrible than any sadness--a laughter that was mirthless as the smile of the sphinx, a laughter cold as the frost and partaking of the grimness of infallibility. Return to Original English Version

misfortune /mɪsˈfɔːrtʃuːn/ — infortúnio. "Henry, it's a blame misfortune to be out of ammunition." Return to Original English Version

missin /ˈmɪsɪn/ — faltando; desaparecido. "If one of em' turns up missin', I'll go without my coffee." Return to Original English Version

mistakin /mɪˈsteɪkɪn/ — confundindo; tomando por engano. Henry thought long over it before he went to sleep, and as his eyelids fluttered down and he dozed off, the thought in his mind was: "There's no mistakin' it, Bill's almighty blue. Return to Original English Version

more'n /mɔːrn/ — mais que (fala popular de more than). "They did cut up more'n usual," Henry acknowledged. Return to Original English Version

mornin /ˈmɔːrnɪn/ — manhã (forma dialetal). You jes' shut up now, an' go to sleep, an' you'll be all hunkydory in the mornin'. Return to Original English Version

morrow /ˈmɒrəʊ/ — amanhã. I'll have to cheer him up to-morrow." Return to Original English Version

motes /moʊts/ — partículas minúsculas. It crushed them into the remotest recesses of their own minds, pressing out of them, like juices from the grape, all the false ardours and exaltations and undue self-values of the human soul, until they perceived themselves finite and small, specks and motes, moving with weak cunning and little wisdom amidst the play and inter-play of the great blind elements and forces. Return to Original English Version

munched /mʌntʃt/ — mastigou ruidosamente. Henry did not reply, but munched on in silence, until, the meal finished, he topped it with a final cup of coffee. Return to Original English Version

munching /ˈmʌntʃɪŋ/ — mastigando ruidosamente. "Henry," said the other, munching with deliberation the beans he was eating, "did you happen to notice the way them dogs kicked up when I was a-feedin' 'em?" Return to Original English Version

neared /nɪrd/ — aproximaram-se de; chegaram perto de. As he neared her, he became suddenly cautious. Return to Original English Version

nips /nɪps/ — belisca; pequenos goles. The wolves behind collided with the young wolf and expressed their displeasure by administering sharp nips on his hind-legs and flanks. Return to Original English Version

objurgation /ˌɒbdʒəˈɡeɪʃən/ — repreensão severa. Henry propped himself up on an elbow and looked to see his comrade standing among the dogs beside the replenished fire, his arms raised in objurgation, his face distorted with passion. Return to Original English Version

oblong /ˈɒblɒŋ/ — oblongo. On the sled, securely lashed, was a long and narrow oblong box. Return to Original English Version

offen /ˈɒfən/ — de; para fora de. They've ate the leather offen both ends. Return to Original English Version

ominous /ˈɑːmɪnəs/ — agourento; de mau presságio. The trees had been stripped by a recent wind of their white covering of frost, and they seemed to lean towards each other, black and ominous, in the fading light. Return to Original English Version

ominously /ˈɑːmɪnəsli/ — de modo agourento. "I don't know, I don't know," Bill muttered ominously. Return to Original English Version

oughter /ˈɔːtər/ — deveria (fala popular de ought to). It's got away with three of our dogs, an' we oughter put a stop to it. Return to Original English Version

ourn /aʊərn/ — nosso; nossa; o nosso. "I mean that this load of ourn is gettin' on your nerves, an' that you're beginnin' to see things." Return to Original English Version

outcry /ˈaʊtkraɪ/ — clamor; grito de protesto. Then he heard a great outcry of snarls and yelps. Return to Original English Version

outdistancing /ˌaʊtˈdɪstənsɪŋ/ — deixar para trás. It was vain to think of One Ear so outdistancing his pursuers as to be able to cut across their circle in advance of them and to regain the sled. Return to Original English Version

overpowering /ˌoʊvərˈpaʊərɪŋ/ — avassalador; irresistível. The night was a repetition of the night before, save that the need for sleep was becoming overpowering. Return to Original English Version

pall /pɔːl/ — mortalha; pano fúnebre; manto sombrio. The grey light of day that remained lasted until three o'clock, when it, too, faded, and the pall of the Arctic night descended upon the lone and silent land. Return to Original English Version

palpitant /ˈpælpɪtənt/ — trêmula. It soared upward with a swift rush, till it reached its topmost note, where it persisted, palpitant and tense, and then slowly died away. Return to Original English Version

partaking /pɑːrˈteɪkɪŋ/ — partilhando; participando de. There was a hint in it of laughter, but of a laughter more terrible than any sadness--a laughter that was mirthless as the smile of the sphinx, a laughter cold as the frost and partaking of the grimness of infallibility. Return to Original English Version

penetrating /ˈpenɪtreɪtɪŋ/ — penetrante; agudo. But under it all they were men, penetrating the land of desolation and mockery and silence, puny adventurers bent on colossal adventure, pitting themselves against the might of a world as remote and alien and pulseless as the abysses of space. Return to Original English Version

persisted /pərˈsɪstɪd/ — persistiu; insistiu. It soared upward with a swift rush, till it reached its topmost note, where it persisted, palpitant and tense, and then slowly died away. Return to Original English Version

pervaded /pərˈveɪdɪd/ — impregnou; permeou. A flush of angry blood pervaded Bill's face. Return to Original English Version

pesky /ˈpeski/ — irritante. Takes more'n a handful of them pesky critters to do for yours truly, Bill, my son." Return to Original English Version

petulantly /ˈpɛtʃələntli/ — com petulância; de mau humor. He jerked his shoulder petulantly away from the grip of his questioner. Return to Original English Version

pitting /ˈpɪtɪŋ/ — opondo; pondo à prova contra. But under it all they were men, penetrating the land of desolation and mockery and silence, puny adventurers bent on colossal adventure, pitting themselves against the might of a world as remote and alien and pulseless as the abysses of space. Return to Original English Version

plainly /ˈpleɪnli/ — claramente. To the rear, from around the last bend and plainly into view, on the very trail they had just covered, trotted a furry, slinking form. Return to Original English Version

playfulness /ˈpleɪfəlnəs/ — alegria brincalhona. On the instant, the she- wolf's coyness and playfulness disappeared. Return to Original English Version

plodded /ˈplɑːdɪd/ — caminhou pesadamente. Henry made no reply, and plodded on alone, though often he cast anxious glances back into the grey solitude where his partner had disappeared. Return to Original English Version

plump /plʌmp/ — rechonchudo; roliço. I'm jes' plump tuckered out. . . . Return to Original English Version

plunged /plʌndʒd/ — lançaram-se; precipitaram-se. Gun in hand, he plunged into the underbrush that lined the side of the trail. Return to Original English Version

pointedly /ˈpɔɪntɪdli/ — de modo incisivo; com intenção. "You mean they _think_ they're sure of us," Henry objected pointedly. Return to Original English Version

positiveness /ˈpɒzətɪvnəs/ — firmeza. "I saw the other one run off across the snow," Bill announced with cool positiveness. Return to Original English Version

possessive /pəˈzɛsɪv/ — possessivo. And even as he looked, the brute deliberately stretched himself after the manner of a lazy dog, yawning full in his face and looking upon him with a possessive eye, as if, in truth, he were merely a delayed meal that was soon to be eaten. Return to Original English Version

precarious /prɪˈkeriəs/ — precário; instável. Never had he been so fond of this body of his as now when his tenure of it was so precarious. Return to Original English Version

precipitately /prɪˈsɪpɪtətli/ — precipitadamente. At such times, confronted by three sets of savage teeth, the young wolf stopped precipitately, throwing himself back on his haunches, with fore- legs stiff, mouth menacing, and mane bristling. Return to Original English Version

prodded /ˈprɑːdɪd/ — cutucou. He studied the nail-formation, and prodded the finger-tips, now sharply, and again softly, gauging the while the nerve-sensations produced. Return to Original English Version

prodding /ˈprɑːdɪŋ/ — cutucando; incitando. They were shaking and prodding him into consciousness. Return to Original English Version

protracted /proʊˈtræktɪd/ — prolongado; arrastado. His two dogs were missing, and he well knew that they had served as a course in the protracted meal which had begun days before with Fatty, the last course of which would likely be himself in the days to follow. Return to Original English Version

pullin /ˈpʊl.ɪn/ — puxando (remando). "I wisht we was pullin' into McGurry right now," he began again. Return to Original English Version

pulseless /ˈpʊlsləs/ — sem pulso. But under it all they were men, penetrating the land of desolation and mockery and silence, puny adventurers bent on colossal adventure, pitting themselves against the might of a world as remote and alien and pulseless as the abysses of space. Return to Original English Version

puny /ˈpjuːni/ — franzino; insignificante. But under it all they were men, penetrating the land of desolation and mockery and silence, puny adventurers bent on colossal adventure, pitting themselves against the might of a world as remote and alien and pulseless as the abysses of space. Return to Original English Version

queried /ˈkwɪrid/ — perguntou; indagou. "Seven again?" Henry queried. Return to Original English Version

questioner /ˈkwestʃənər/ — quem faz a pergunta. He jerked his shoulder petulantly away from the grip of his questioner. Return to Original English Version

rangin /ˈreɪndʒɪn/ — percorrendo (uma área). "They're scattered an' rangin' along wide," he said: "keeping up with us an' lookin' for game at the same time. Return to Original English Version

ravenous /ˈrævənəs/ — voraz; faminto. Then he would cast a glance of fear at the wolf-circle drawn expectantly about him, and like a blow the realisation would strike him that this wonderful body of his, this living flesh, was no more than so much meat, a quest of ravenous animals, to be torn and slashed by their hungry fangs, to be sustenance to them as the moose and the rabbit had often been sustenance to him. Return to Original English Version

realisation /ˌriːələˈzeɪʃən/ — percepção; realização (grafia britânica). Then he would cast a glance of fear at the wolf-circle drawn expectantly about him, and like a blow the realisation would strike him that this wonderful body of his, this living flesh, was no more than so much meat, a quest of ravenous animals, to be torn and slashed by their hungry fangs, to be sustenance to them as the moose and the rabbit had often been sustenance to him. Return to Original English Version

rearranged ˌri˙əˈreɪndʒd — reorganizou. Every time he was thus awakened he drove back the wolves with flying brands, replenished the fire, and rearranged the pine-knot on his hand. Return to Original English Version

recesses /ˈriːsesɪz/ — reentrâncias; recônditos; nichos. It crushed them into the remotest recesses of their own minds, pressing out of them, like juices from the grape, all the false ardours and exaltations and undue self-values of the human soul, until they perceived themselves finite and small, specks and motes, moving with weak cunning and little wisdom amidst the play and inter-play of the great blind elements and forces. Return to Original English Version

reddish /ˈrɛdɪʃ/ — avermelhado. The dominant colour was grey, and yet there was to it a faint reddish hue--a hue that was baffling, that appeared and disappeared, that was more like an illusion of the vision, now grey, distinctly grey, and again giving hints and glints of a vague redness of colour not classifiable in terms of ordinary experience. Return to Original English Version

redness ˈrɛdnəs — vermelhidão. The dominant colour was grey, and yet there was to it a faint reddish hue--a hue that was baffling, that appeared and disappeared, that was more like an illusion of the vision, now grey, distinctly grey, and again giving hints and glints of a vague redness of colour not classifiable in terms of ordinary experience. Return to Original English Version

regaining /rɪˈɡeɪnɪŋ/ — recuperando; readquirindo. He thrust her off with his shoulder, and, his retreat cut off and still intent on regaining the sled, he altered his course in an attempt to circle around to it. Return to Original English Version

reigned /reɪnd/ — puxou as rédeas (grafia corrompida de reined). A vast silence reigned over the land. Return to Original English Version

reiterated /riˈɪtəreɪtɪd/ — repetidas; reiteradas. "We've got six dogs," the other reiterated dispassionately. Return to Original English Version

rejoined riːˈdʒɔɪnd — reuniu-se. "But we ain't got people an' money an' all the rest, like him," Henry rejoined. Return to Original English Version

remotest /rɪˈmoʊtəst/ — a mais remota; a mais distante. It crushed them into the remotest recesses of their own minds, pressing out of them, like juices from the grape, all the false ardours and exaltations and undue self-values of the human soul, until they perceived themselves finite and small, specks and motes, moving with weak cunning and little wisdom amidst the play and inter-play of the great blind elements and forces. Return to Original English Version

repelled /rɪˈpeld/ — repeliu; rechaçado. As with the running mate on the left, she repelled these attentions with her teeth; but when both bestowed their attentions at the same time she was roughly jostled, being compelled, with quick snaps to either side, to drive both lovers away and at the same time to maintain her forward leap with the pack and see the way of her feet before her. Return to Original English Version

repetition /ˌrɛpəˈtɪʃən/ — repetição. The day was a repetition of the days that had gone before. Return to Original English Version

replenish /rɪˈplenɪʃ/ — reabastecer. So near did the wolves approach, that the dogs became frantic with terror, and it was necessary to replenish the fire from time to time in order to keep the adventurous marauders at safer distance. Return to Original English Version

replenished /rɪˈplenɪʃt/ — reabastecido. Henry propped himself up on an elbow and looked to see his comrade standing among the dogs beside the replenished fire, his arms raised in objurgation, his face distorted with passion. Return to Original English Version

replenishing rɪˈplɛnɪʃ — reabastecer. "I've hearn sailors talk of sharks followin' a ship," Bill remarked, as he crawled back into the blankets after one such replenishing of the fire. Return to Original English Version

repulse /rɪˈpʌls/ — repulsa; recusa. After each repulse, when the old wolf sheered abruptly away from the sharp-toothed object of his desire, he shouldered against a young three- year-old that ran on his blind right side. Return to Original English Version

resented rɪˈzɛnt — ressentir-se. This was doubly resented, even triply resented. Return to Original English Version

respectin /rɪˈspɛktɪn/ — respeitando. "It knows for certain more'n a self-respectin' wolf ought to know," Henry agreed. Return to Original English Version

restlessly /ˈrestləsli/ — inquietamente; sem sossego. The commotion caused the circle of eyes to shift restlessly for a moment and even to withdraw a bit, but it settled down again as the dogs became quiet. Return to Original English Version

retorted ritɔrtɪd — replicar. "They've half got you a'ready, a-talkin' like that," Henry retorted sharply. Return to Original English Version

retreated ritritʌd — recuar. He tried to sniff noses with her, but she retreated playfully and coyly. Return to Original English Version

rimed raɪmd — coberto de geada. Their bristly fur was rimed with frost. Return to Original English Version

roostin /ˈruːstɪn/ — empoleirado. He's roostin' in a tree at the last camp." Return to Original English Version

rouse raʊz — despertar. "I hadn't the heart to rouse you." Return to Original English Version

roused raʊzd — despertar. Once, he roused with a start and hastily got the axe out from underneath the lashings. Return to Original English Version

routed /ˈraʊtɪd/ — derrotado; posto em debandada. In the morning it was Henry who awoke first and routed his companion out of bed. Return to Original English Version

s'prised /spraɪzd/ — surpreso (fala popular). "I wouldn't be s'prised to see it wag its tail." Return to Original English Version

salient ˈseɪljənt — saliente. "But no fool dog ought to be fool enough to go off an' commit suicide that way." He looked over the remainder of the team with a speculative eye that summed up instantly the salient traits of each animal. Return to Original English Version

savagely /ˈsævɪdʒli/ — ferozmente. "You ain't got me yet!" he cried, savagely shaking his fist at the hungry beasts; and at the sound of his voice the whole circle was agitated, there was a general snarl, and the she-wolf slid up close to him across the snow and watched him with hungry wistfulness. Return to Original English Version

scant /sk\u00e6nt/ — escasso. And this was the epitaph of a dead dog on the Northland trail--less scant than the epitaph of many another dog, of many a man. Return to Original English Version

scarcely /\u02c8sk\u025brsli/ — mal. But scarcely had the cheer of its light departed, than he went into camp. Return to Original English Version

scatter /ˈskætər/ — espalhar; esparramar. Morning came, but for the first time the light of day failed to scatter the wolves. Return to Original English Version

scramble /ˈskræmbəl/ — se apressar; subir com dificuldade. In the scramble one of the dogs had been overturned on the edge of the fire, and it had yelped with pain and fright as the smell of its singed coat possessed the air. Return to Original English Version

securely /sɪˈkjʊrli/ — com segurança; bem trancado. On the sled, securely lashed, was a long and narrow oblong box. Return to Original English Version

sedately /sɪˈdeɪtli/ — com compostura. The wolves were now more open in their pursuit, trotting sedately behind and ranging along on either side, their red tongues lolling out, their lean sides showing the undulating ribs with every movement. Return to Original English Version

semblance /ˈsembləns/ — aparência; semelhança. His stout mittens temporarily protected his hands, and he scooped live coals into the air in all directions, until the campfire took on the semblance of a volcano. Return to Original English Version

sensitively sɛnsɪtɪvli — sensível. He glanced at the hand that held the brand, noticing the cunning delicacy of the fingers that gripped it, how they adjusted themselves to all the inequalities of the surface, curling over and under and about the rough wood, and one little finger, too close to the burning portion of the brand, sensitively and automatically writhing back from the hurtful heat to a cooler gripping-place; and in the same instant he seemed to see a vision of those same sensitive and delicate fingers being crushed and torn by the white teeth of the she-wolf. Return to Original English Version

sepulchre ˈsɛpəlkər — sepulcro. "They got Bill, an' they may get me, but they'll sure never get you, young man," he said, addressing the dead body in its tree-sepulchre. Return to Original English Version

sheered /ʃɪrd/ — desviou-se bruscamente. After each repulse, when the old wolf sheered abruptly away from the sharp-toothed object of his desire, he shouldered against a young three- year-old that ran on his blind right side. Return to Original English Version

shet /ʃɛt/ — calar. "Oh, shet up your croakin'. Return to Original English Version

shouldered /ʃəʊldɜːd/ — carregou no ombro. After each repulse, when the old wolf sheered abruptly away from the sharp-toothed object of his desire, he shouldered against a young three- year-old that ran on his blind right side. Return to Original English Version

shoved /ʃʌvd/ — empurrou; enfiou bruscamente. Bill shoved his cup aside. Return to Original English Version

shrillness /ˈʃrɪlnəs/ — estridência. A second cry arose, piercing the silence with needle-like shrillness. Return to Original English Version

shudder /ˈʃʌdər/ — estremecimento; arrepio. She had snarled as she sprang away, baring her white fangs to their roots, all her wistfulness vanishing, being replaced by a carnivorous malignity that made him shudder. Return to Original English Version

sidelong /ˈsaɪdlɔːŋ/ — de esguelha; de soslaio. Full into the firelight, with a stealthy, sidelong movement, glided a doglike animal. Return to Original English Version

sidewise /ˈsaɪdwaɪz/ — de lado. For in that instant the she-wolf leaped sidewise from the trail into the clump of spruce trees and disappeared. Return to Original English Version

sidling /ˈsaɪdlɪŋ/ — andando de lado; esgueirando-se. The two men were bent over the sled and trying to right it, when Henry observed One Ear sidling away. Return to Original English Version

singed /sɪndʒd/ — chamuscou; queimou de leve. In the scramble one of the dogs had been overturned on the edge of the fire, and it had yelped with pain and fright as the smell of its singed coat possessed the air. Return to Original English Version

sittin /ˈsɪtɪn/ — sentado (fala popular de sitting). An' while I'm wishin', I wisht the trip was over an' done with, an' you an' me a-sittin' by the fire in Fort McGurry just about now an' playing cribbage--that's what I wisht." Return to Original English Version

sizzling /ˈsɪzʌlɪŋ/ — chiando. On every side, wherever the live coals had fallen, the snow was sizzling, and every little while a retiring wolf, with wild leap and snort and snarl, announced that one such live coal had been stepped upon. Return to Original English Version

skyward /ˈskaɪwərd/ — em direção ao céu. One by one the wolves joined her, till the whole pack, on haunches, with noses pointed skyward, was howling its hunger cry. Return to Original English Version

sleepin /slˈiːpɪn/ — dormindo. "You was sleepin' jes' too comfortable for anything," Henry told him, as he routed him out for breakfast. Return to Original English Version

slinking /ˈslɪŋkɪŋ/ — escapulindo; saindo de fininho. To the rear, from around the last bend and plainly into view, on the very trail they had just covered, trotted a furry, slinking form. Return to Original English Version

smouldering /ˈsmoʊldərɪŋ/ — ardendo sem chama; latente. Flinging his brands at the nearest of his enemies, the man thrust his smouldering mittens into the snow and stamped about to cool his feet. Return to Original English Version

snap'd /ˈsnæpəd/ — onda de frio fosse. "An' I wisht this cold snap'd break," he went on. Return to Original English Version

snoring /ˈsnɔːrɪŋ/ — que ronca; ressonante. In the morning Henry renewed the fire and cooked breakfast to the accompaniment of his partner's snoring. Return to Original English Version

snort /snɔːrt/ — bufo; resfolego. On every side, wherever the live coals had fallen, the snow was sizzling, and every little while a retiring wolf, with wild leap and snort and snarl, announced that one such live coal had been stepped upon. Return to Original English Version

soared /sɔːrd/ — alçou voo; subiu muito; disparou. It soared upward with a swift rush, till it reached its topmost note, where it persisted, palpitant and tense, and then slowly died away. Return to Original English Version

sody /ˈsoʊdi/ — bicarbonato de sódio. Swallow a spoonful of sody, an' you'll sweeten up wonderful an' be more pleasant company." Return to Original English Version

solitude /ˈsɑləˌtud/ — solidão. Henry made no reply, and plodded on alone, though often he cast anxious glances back into the grey solitude where his partner had disappeared. Return to Original English Version

sombre /ˈsɑːmbər/ — sombrio. There were still several hours of grey daylight and sombre twilight, and he utilised them in chopping an enormous supply of fire-wood. Return to Original English Version

somewheres /ˈsʌmwerz/ — em algum lugar (fala popular). "I wisht they'd strike game somewheres, an' go away an' leave us alone." Return to Original English Version

spasm /ˈspæzəm/ — espasmo. A spasm of fear went through him. Return to Original English Version

spectral /ˈspektrəl/ — espectral; fantasmagórico. This gave them the seeming of ghostly masques, undertakers in a spectral world at the funeral of some ghost. Return to Original English Version

spluttering /ˈsplʌtərɪŋ/ — balbuciando com pressa. A log fell apart with a loud spluttering noise. Return to Original English Version

spouting /ˈspaʊtɪŋ/ — jorrando. Their breath froze in the air as it left their mouths, spouting forth in spumes of vapour that settled upon the hair of their bodies and formed into crystals of frost. Return to Original English Version

springing /ˈsprɪŋɪŋ/ — saltando; brotando; surgindo. Bit by bit, an inch at a time, with here a wolf bellying forward, and there a wolf bellying forward, the circle would narrow until the brutes were almost within springing distance. Return to Original English Version

spumes /spjuːmz/ — nuvens espumosas. Their breath froze in the air as it left their mouths, spouting forth in spumes of vapour that settled upon the hair of their bodies and formed into crystals of frost. Return to Original English Version

stampeded /stæmˈpiːdɪd/ — debandou. The unrest of the dogs had been increasing, and they stampeded, in a surge of sudden fear, to the near side of the fire, cringing and crawling about the legs of the men. Return to Original English Version

stead /stɛd/ — lugar; herdade (em home-stead). We'd have six dogs at the present time, 'stead of three, if it wasn't for her. Return to Original English Version

stealthy /ˈstelθi/ — furtivo. Full into the firelight, with a stealthy, sidelong movement, glided a doglike animal. Return to Original English Version

stick's /stɪks/ — do bastão; do graveto. "The stick's as clean as a whistle. Return to Original English Version

stomach's /ˈstʌməks/ — do estômago; o estômago está. Your stomach's sour, that's what's botherin' you." Return to Original English Version

stout /staʊt/ — grosso e resistente; robusto. It was made of stout birch-bark, and its full surface rested on the snow. Return to Original English Version

straighten /ˈstreɪtən/ — endireitar; desamassar. The sled was upside down and jammed between a tree-trunk and a huge rock, and they were forced to unharness the dogs in order to straighten out the tangle. Return to Original English Version

straining /ˈstreɪnɪŋ/ — forçando; coando. There were cries of men, and churn of sleds, the creaking of harnesses, and the eager whimpering of straining dogs. Return to Original English Version

stringy /ˈstrɪŋi/ — fibroso; filamentoso. Their stringy muscles seemed founts of inexhaustible energy. Return to Original English Version

strove /stroʊv/ — lutava; esforçava-se. In vain he strove to drive them back. Return to Original English Version

sun's /sʌnz/ — do sol. It was just after the sun's futile effort to appear, that Bill slipped the rifle from under the sled-lashings and said: Return to Original English Version

surged /sɜːrdʒd/ — irrompeu; avançou em massa; subiu de golpe. The front end of the sled was turned up, like a scroll, in order to force down and under the bore of soft snow that surged like a wave before it. Return to Original English Version

surges /ˈsɜːrdʒɪz/ — vagalhões; ondas grandes. As darkness came on, the hunting-cries to right and left and rear drew closer--so close that more than once they sent surges of fear through the toiling dogs, throwing them into short-lived panics. Return to Original English Version

surging /ˈsɜːrdʒɪŋ/ — avançando com ímpeto; agitando-se. The rest of the pack was now up and surging upon him, and a throwing of firebrands right and left was necessary to drive them back to a respectful distance. Return to Original English Version

sustenance /ˈsʌstənəns/ — sustento; alimento. Then he would cast a glance of fear at the wolf-circle drawn expectantly about him, and like a blow the realisation would strike him that this wonderful body of his, this living flesh, was no more than so much meat, a quest of ravenous animals, to be torn and slashed by their hungry fangs, to be sustenance to them as the moose and the rabbit had often been sustenance to him. Return to Original English Version

swain /sweɪn/ — pretendente; jovem camponês. He merely sprang to the side and ran stiffly ahead for several awkward leaps, in carriage and conduct resembling an abashed country swain. Return to Original English Version

sweeten /ˈswiːtən/ — adoçar; tornar mais agradável. Swallow a spoonful of sody, an' you'll sweeten up wonderful an' be more pleasant company." Return to Original English Version

sympathised /ˈsɪmpəθaɪzd/ — compadeceu-se (grafia britânica). "They do get on the nerves horrible," Henry sympathised. Return to Original English Version

tangle /ˈtæŋɡəl/ — emaranhado; nó; enredar-se. The sled was upside down and jammed between a tree-trunk and a huge rock, and they were forced to unharness the dogs in order to straighten out the tangle. Return to Original English Version

tanned /tænd/ — bronzeado; curtido. Their bodies were covered with fur and soft-tanned leather. Return to Original English Version

tellin /ˈtelɪn/ — contando (fala popular). "You've only got three cartridges, an' there's no tellin' what might happen." Return to Original English Version

tempers /ˈtempərz/ — temperamentos; ânimos. He was laying up trouble for himself, for lack of food and short tempers went together; but with the boundless faith of youth he persisted in repeating the manoeuvre every little while, though it never succeeded in gaining anything for him but discomfiture. Return to Original English Version

tentatively /ˈtɛntətɪvli/ — hesitantemente; com cautela. At such moments, when his dogs snarled, the whole circle would be agitated, the wolves coming to their feet and pressing tentatively forward, a chorus of snarls and eager yelps rising about him. Return to Original English Version

thickets /ˈθɪkɪts/ — matagais; moitas. Somewhere out there in the snow, screened from his sight by trees and thickets, Henry knew that the wolf-pack, One Ear, and Bill were coming together. Return to Original English Version

toil /tɔɪl/ — labuta; lida; trabalhar duro. On the sled, in the box, lay a third man whose toil was over,--a man whom the Wild had conquered and beaten down until he would never move nor struggle again. Return to Original English Version

toiled /tɔɪld/ — labutou. Down the frozen waterway toiled a string of wolfish dogs. Return to Original English Version

toiling /ˈtɔɪlɪŋ/ — subindo com grande esforço. As darkness came on, the hunting-cries to right and left and rear drew closer--so close that more than once they sent surges of fear through the toiling dogs, throwing them into short-lived panics. Return to Original English Version

topmost /ˈtɑːpmoʊst/ — o mais alto; do topo. It soared upward with a swift rush, till it reached its topmost note, where it persisted, palpitant and tense, and then slowly died away. Return to Original English Version

towered /ˈtaʊərd/ — erguia-se; elevava-se. Twenty feet away towered a huge dead spruce. Return to Original English Version

trailed /treɪld/ — arrastou-se; seguiu atrás; desvaneceu. "I ain't been trailed this way by wolves before, but I've gone through a whole lot worse an' kept my health. Return to Original English Version

traversed /trəˈvɜːrst/ — atravessou; percorreu. It was to the rear, somewhere in the snow expanse they had just traversed. Return to Original English Version

tremendously /trɪˈmɛndəsli/ — tremendamente; muitíssimo. With the bursting open of the door, the noise of their howling had increased tremendously. Return to Original English Version

trip's /trɪps/ — viagem. Henry looked at him commiseratingly, and said, "I'll be almighty glad when this trip's over." Return to Original English Version

triply /ˈtrɪpli/ — três vezes mais; de modo triplo. This was doubly resented, even triply resented. Return to Original English Version

triumphant /traɪˈʌmfənt/ — triunfante. Then he saw Bill, standing amid the dogs, half triumphant, half crestfallen, in one hand a stout club, in the other the tail and part of the body of a sun-cured salmon. Return to Original English Version

triumphantly /traɪˈʌmfəntli/ — triunfalmente; com ar de vitória. "Wrong," Bill proclaimed triumphantly. Return to Original English Version

tuckered /ˈtʌkərd/ — exausto. I'm jes' plump tuckered out. . . . Return to Original English Version

twas /twəz/ — era; foi. "An' I wisht 'twas three hundred. Return to Original English Version

twitched /twɪtʃt/ — contraíram-se; estremeceram. When they halted, it halted, throwing up its head and regarding them steadily with nostrils that twitched as it caught and studied the scent of them. Return to Original English Version

unaccustomed /ˌʌnəˈkʌstəmd/ — desacostumado; inabitual. Hitherto they had been denied access to the fire, and they now settled down in a close-drawn circle, like so many dogs, blinking and yawning and stretching their lean bodies in the unaccustomed warmth. Return to Original English Version

unalterable /ʌnˈɔːltərəbəl/ — inalterável. It crushed them with the weight of unending vastness and unalterable decree. Return to Original English Version

unawed /ˌʌnˈɔːd/ — não intimidado. But at front and rear, unawed and indomitable, toiled the two men who were not yet dead. Return to Original English Version

unbearable /ʌnˈbɛrəbəl/ — insuportável. His face was blistering in the heat, his eyebrows and lashes were singed off, and the heat was becoming unbearable to his feet. Return to Original English Version

unbroken /ʌnˈbroʊkən/ — ininterrupto; intacto; contínuo. The silence was unbroken save by the cries of their pursuers, that, unseen, hung upon their rear. Return to Original English Version

unconsciously /ˌənˈkɑnʃəsli/ — inconscientemente. "Look here, Henry," Bill said, unconsciously lowering his voice to a whisper because of what he imitated. Return to Original English Version

Original Text: Rare Words (3/3)

underbrush /ˈʌndərbrʌʃ/ — mato rasteiro; vegetação baixa. Gun in hand, he plunged into the underbrush that lined the side of the trail. Return to Original English Version

undue /ʌnˈduː/ — indevido; excessivo. It crushed them into the remotest recesses of their own minds, pressing out of them, like juices from the grape, all the false ardours and exaltations and undue self-values of the human soul, until they perceived themselves finite and small, specks and motes, moving with weak cunning and little wisdom amidst the play and inter-play of the great blind elements and forces. Return to Original English Version

undulating /ˈʌndʒuleɪtɪŋ/ — ondulante. The wolves were now more open in their pursuit, trotting sedately behind and ranging along on either side, their red tongues lolling out, their lean sides showing the undulating ribs with every movement. Return to Original English Version

unending /ʌnˈendɪŋ/ — interminável. It crushed them with the weight of unending vastness and unalterable decree. Return to Original English Version

unlacing /ʌnˈleɪsɪŋ/ — desamarrando os cordões. Henry grunted, and began unlacing his moccasins. Return to Original English Version

unmistakable /ˌʌnmɪˈsteɪkəbəl/ — inequívoco. Three dogs could not drag the sled so fast nor for so long hours as could six, and they were showing unmistakable signs of playing out. Return to Original English Version

uproar /ˈʌprɔːr/ — alvoroço; algazarra; clamor. Once their uproar became so loud that Bill woke up. Return to Original English Version

utilised /ˈjutəlaɪzd/ — utilizou; aproveitou; empregou. There were still several hours of grey daylight and sombre twilight, and he utilised them in chopping an enormous supply of fire-wood. Return to Original English Version

uttered /ˈʌtərd/ — pronunciou; proferiu. Bill uttered an exclamation. Return to Original English Version

uttering /ˈʌtərɪŋ/ — proferindo; emitindo. One Ear was uttering quick, eager whines, lunging at the length of his stick toward the darkness, and desisting now and again in order to make frantic attacks on the stick with his teeth. Return to Original English Version

vanishing /ˈvænɪʃɪŋ/ — desaparecendo; que se esvai. She had snarled as she sprang away, baring her white fangs to their roots, all her wistfulness vanishing, being replaced by a carnivorous malignity that made him shudder. Return to Original English Version

vapour /ˈveɪpər/ — vapor (grafia britânica). Their breath froze in the air as it left their mouths, spouting forth in spumes of vapour that settled upon the hair of their bodies and formed into crystals of frost. Return to Original English Version

vastness /ˈvæstnəs/ — vastidão. It crushed them with the weight of unending vastness and unalterable decree. Return to Original English Version

veering /ˈvɪrɪŋ/ — guinando; mudando de rumo. He, also, was addicted to crowding her, to veering toward her till his scarred muzzle touched her body, or shoulder, or neck. Return to Original English Version

ventured /ˈventʃərd/ — arriscou; atreveu-se a; aventurou-se. When he ventured to run abreast of the older wolf (which was seldom), a snarl and a snap sent him back even with the shoulder again. Return to Original English Version

vigour /ˈvɪɡər/ — vigor (grafia britânica). This young wolf had attained his full size; and, considering the weak and famished condition of the pack, he possessed more than the average vigour and spirit. Return to Original English Version

wailing /ˈweɪlɪŋ/ — gemendo; lamentando; lamento. It might have been a lost soul wailing, had it not been invested with a certain sad fierceness and hungry eagerness. Return to Original English Version

warningly /ˈwɔːrnɪŋli/ — em tom de aviso. It was he who snarled warningly at the younger members of the pack or slashed at them with his fangs when they ambitiously tried to pass him. Return to Original English Version

waxed /wækst/ — encerou; alisou com cera. Bill seemed to have forgotten his forebodings of the previous night, and even waxed facetious with the dogs when, at midday, they overturned the sled on a bad piece of trail. Return to Original English Version

welling /ˈwɛlɪŋ/ — brotando; aflorando (lágrimas). Sleep was welling up and gripping him again, his head was sinking down upon his knees, when he roused with a sudden start. Return to Original English Version

whack /wæk/ — pancada; golpe forte; baque. "It got half of it," he announced; "but I got a whack at it jes' the same. Return to Original English Version

what'd /ˈwʌtəd/ — o que (ele/ela) fez; o que faria. "What'd it look like?" Henry asked. Return to Original English Version

whines /waɪnz/ — choraminga. One Ear was uttering quick, eager whines, lunging at the length of his stick toward the darkness, and desisting now and again in order to make frantic attacks on the stick with his teeth. Return to Original English Version

whirled /wɜːrld/ — girou; rodopiou. Sometimes she whirled with him. Return to Original English Version

whoops /wuːps/ — gritos de alegria; berros. "If that pack ever starts to jump you, them three cartridges'd be wuth no more'n three whoops in hell. Return to Original English Version

wishin /ˈwɪʃɪn/ — desejando. An' while I'm wishin', I wisht the trip was over an' done with, an' you an' me a-sittin' by the fire in Fort McGurry just about now an' playing cribbage--that's what I wisht." Return to Original English Version

wisht /wɪʃt/ — queria. "An' I wisht 'twas three hundred. Return to Original English Version

wistful /ˈwɪstfəl/ — saudoso; melancólico. It looked at them in a strangely wistful way, after the manner of a dog; but in its wistfulness there was none of the dog affection. Return to Original English Version

wistfully /ˈwɪstfəli/ — com nostalgia; melancolicamente; com saudade. She was not more than half a dozen feet away sitting in the snow and wistfully regarding him. Return to Original English Version

wistfulness /ˈwɪstfəlnəs/ — melancolia; nostalgia; saudade. It looked at them in a strangely wistful way, after the manner of a dog; but in its wistfulness there was none of the dog affection. Return to Original English Version

wolfish /ˈwʊlfɪʃ/ — lupino; feroz como um lobo. Down the frozen waterway toiled a string of wolfish dogs. Return to Original English Version

wooing /ˈwuːɪŋ/ — corte; galanteio; namoro. They might have fought, but even wooing and its rivalry waited upon the more pressing hunger-need of the pack. Return to Original English Version

wrathfully /ˈræθfəli/ — iradamente; com raiva. She sprang away, yelling with pain, and while he took delight in the smell of burning flesh and hair, he watched her shaking her head and growling wrathfully a score of feet away. Return to Original English Version

writhing /ˈraɪðɪŋ/ — contorcendo-se; retorcendo-se. He glanced at the hand that held the brand, noticing the cunning delicacy of the fingers that gripped it, how they adjusted themselves to all the inequalities of the surface, curling over and under and about the rough wood, and one little finger, too close to the burning portion of the brand, sensitively and automatically writhing back from the hurtful heat to a cooler gripping-place; and in the same instant he seemed to see a vision of those same sensitive and delicate fingers being crushed and torn by the white teeth of the she-wolf. Return to Original English Version

wuth /wʌθ/ — valendo. "If that pack ever starts to jump you, them three cartridges'd be wuth no more'n three whoops in hell. Return to Original English Version

yelpin /ˈjɛlpɪn/ — ganindo. I bet he was yelpin' as he went down their throats, damn 'em!" Return to Original English Version