Chapters XVIII Through the Paddy Fields and XIX Gorakhpur Summary and Analysis

Herzog as awakened from his vision by a stab of pain from the injection of penicillin given to him by Ichac. The rain continues to fall and the team prepares to leave the wood. Lachenal and Herzog are placed on stretchers. As they move into the lower areas, the temperature begins to climb, and many of the porters turn back, unable to cope with the heat.

Herzog has no appetite, but Oudot insists that he eat, threatening to force feed him if necessary. He is improving slightly and begins to take more interest in what is happening. The team has difficulty employing enough porters and resorts to practically forcing any able-bodied men to help them carry their equipment.

Oudot continues to treat Herzog's frostbitten digits...