Answer:
He tried to push the group to continue towards Sandy bar because the pathway between Poker Flat to Sandy Bar was arduous and they were not equipped for the journey. The season was advanced and unfavorable while the trail was difficult.
Explanation:
A group of four misfits that included Mr. Oakhurst, uncle Billy, Piney Woods and the Duchess had just been barred from entering entering Poker Flat a community in California. The group sojourn towards Sandy Bar but the trail to their destination was difficult and was worsened by the winter season marked by snow. Two in the group were women and Uncle Billy was a drunkard.
Mr. Oakhurst who seemed to have his sense in tact encouraged the group to continue towards Sandy Bar because he knew that they were not prepared for the journey and the path was difficult.