James Bruck took the lead; and we had only to follow him as best we could.
We advanced slowly.

Our guides did not attempt to conceal their doubt and hesitation.

Soon Horn left us and went far ahead to spy out which road promised most chance of success.
Twenty minutes later he returned and led us onward toward the northwest.

It was on this side that the Black Dome rose at a distance of three or four miles.

Our path was still difficult and painful, amid the sliding stones, held in place only occasionally by wiry bushes.