The way grew very steep, and each rider kept his eyes fixed on the hobbling curved form of the rider and donkey directly in front of him.

Rather more strain was being put upon their bodies than is quite legitimate in a party of pleasure, and Hewet overheard one or two slightly grumbling remarks.
"Expeditions in such heat are perhaps a little unwise," Mrs.Elliot murmured to Miss Allan.
But Miss Allan returned, "I always like to get to the top"; and it was true, although she was a big woman, stiff in the joints, and unused to donkey-riding, but as her holidays were few she made the most of them.
The vivacious white figure rode well in front; she had somehow possessed herself of a leafy branch and wore it round her hat like a garland.

They went on for a few minutes in silence.
"The view will be wonderful," Hewet assured them, turning round in his saddle and smiling encouragement.

Rachel caught his eye and smiled too.
They struggled on for some time longer, nothing being heard but the clatter of hooves striving on the loose stones.

Then they saw that Evelyn was off her ass, and that Mr.Perrott was standing in the attitude of a statesman in Parliament Square, stretching an arm of stone towards the view.