Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
marizing the expedition's discoveries. A freewheeling discussion ensued. No one had
any heart to pursue further approaches to Dhaula; Terray, the strongest member, was
the most vehemently opposed. One by one, the teammates turned their thoughts to
Annapurna, which still lay hidden in a haze of topographical ignorance.
By the end of that discussion, the die was cast. Ever the loyalist, Terray summarized
the fateful moment:
Maurice Herzog hesitated before the choice. Should he abandon a prize, however doubtful,
in favor of a mystery so insubstantial? Could he expose men who had taken their oath to
obey him to mortal danger? In full awareness of his terrible responsibility Maurice chose
the more reasonable but uncertain course: we would attempt Annapurna.
