The worst day of the trip happened today. The group has split. Martin rode out alone this morning, to continue the trip at his own pace. There was tension in the previous few days about the pace we were making, and for some reason it burst today. There is much more to be said about the split, but I won't discuss it here.

So Ian and I packed up the rest of our things, and were ready to leave when it began to rain softly. In what has become something of a catch-phrase for me, I said to Ian, "Let's go before it gets any worse." I promise not to say this again, because it got a lot worse. The rain and strong headwind forced us to stop in a driveway and wait for half an hour until the blue sky on the horizon eventually made its way overhead. We continued to Thessalon, where we saw Martin just as he was heading out! We were glad to see him, but he was still fixed in his decision, and left quickly. Ian and I took shelter in the library, with its tremendous internet access, for a few hours before making the final journey of the day into Bruce Mines, which was a mere 20km, but for the headwind, my legs felt tired for the first time in this trip. We had dinner at a restaurant (now feeling like a rare occurrence!) before retiring to the municipal campground for the night.

The rest of the trip will be very different without Martin. Provided we both stay safe, though, perhaps this is for the best. We need to go at our own pace. Farewell, Martin!