Snowdrift: A Story of the Land of the Strong Cold

by James B. (James Beardsley) Hendryx

"Snowdrift: A Story of the Land of the Strong Cold" by James B. Hendryx is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set in the harsh wilderness of Canada and follows the journey of Murdo MacFarlane, a fur trader, who dreams of seeking gold in the untamed North. As he discusses his ambitions and the dangers involved with those around him, he is depicted as a determined character motivated by love for his family and the desire for a better life. The opening portion introduces us to the characters of Murdo MacFarlane and his wife, Margot, as they engage in a discussion about the potential for gold in the North. While Molaire, Margot's father, cautions against Murdo's dreams of fortune, the couple's resolve is evident. The scene is set against the backdrop of a fierce winter storm, emphasizing the isolation and danger of their environment. As conversations shift from the mundane to the adventurous, we sense the impending choice that will lead Murdo into the wilds, straddling the line between aspiration and peril. Throughout this portion, the themes of ambition, familial bonds, and the stark realities of the northern wilderness emerge, laying the foundation for the adventure that lies ahead.