As for corn, provision and contribution from the Savages, we had nothing but mortal wounds, with clubs and arrows; as for our Hogs, Hens, Goats, Sheep, Horse, or what lived, our commanders, officers & Savages daily consumed them, some small proportions sometimes we tasted, till all was devoured; then swords, arms, pieces, or anything, we traded with the Savages, . . . and the loss of our ships, of five hundred within six months after Captain Smiths departure, there remained not past sixty men, women and children, most miserable and poor creatures; and those were preserved for the most part, by roots, herbs, acorns, walnuts, berries, now and then a little fish: they that had starch in these extremities, made no small use of it; yea, even the very skins of our horses. . This was that time, which still to this day we called the starving time. —John Smith, 1609

Based on the excerpt above, which conclusion can best be reached?

Group of answer choices

The settlement nearly failed because they only had men among their ranks.

The settlers nearly failed because they refused to trade with local Native tribes.

The settlers were unable to survive the harsh climate because they did not bring farm animals.

The settlers could not adapt to the environment and they were unprepared for starting a colony.