smythe and wyn harris reconnoitred the mountain at the foot of the north col on the other (western) side. they decided that, in monsoon conditions, an ascent from that side would be safer though less wind-protected. however, the higher ridges of the mountain would not be climbable anyway. the expedition departed base camp on 17 june and before the expedition was over they had written a long letter calling for the reform of the alpine club.