Final answer:
Charlie takes the shortcut. Therefore, the correct option is c. He takes the shortcut.
Step-by-step explanation:
Based on the given information, Charlie takes the shortcut when the two travelers come to a crossroads. In the passage, it states that Charlie 'turned to the left and wended his skulking way southward a mile or more to the opening.' This indicates that Charlie chooses to take a different, shorter path rather than staying on the main path or pausing to search for food. Therefore, the correct answer is c. He takes the shortcut.