There were a few cracks in the rock and Helen had got half way down before she took his hands.

He felt the strain and braced himself, determined that he would be pulled over before he let her fall.
"Loose me now," she said.
"Have you got a safe hold for your foot ?" Festing gasped.
"I think I have.

Let go." "Make sure first," he answered with a sobbing breath.
She looked up into his set face, and although the strain was heavy he thrilled as he saw her smile.

The smile indicated courage and trust.
"I'm quite safe," she said, and he let her go.
She leaned cautiously over the next edge, but after a moment or two turned and waved her hand.
"This is the way I thought.

Send Alison down." Miss Jardine descended with some help from both, and Festing dropped safely on the gravel.