"We are in a trap." Malchus looked round in dismay.

It was evident that some of the natives must have seen the fall of their leader and watched them pursue the bear, and had now closed in behind them to cut off their retreat.

The situation was a most unpleasant one.

The ledge extended no further than the platform; below, the precipice fell away sheer down a hundred feet; above, it rose as high.

The narrow path was occupied with numerous foes.
In the den behind them was the angry bear.
For a moment the two men looked at each other in consternation.
"We are fairly caught, Nessus," Malchus said.