Nessus repeated his blow, but the animal was dead.

Five young bears rushed out after their mother, growling and snapping; but as these were only about a quarter grown they were easily despatched.
"There is a supply of food for a long time," Malchus said cheerfully; "and as there is a drip of water coming down in this angle we shall be able to quench our thirst.

Ah! we are just in time." As he spoke an arrow struck the rock close to them and dropped at their feet.

Others came in rapid succession; and, looking at the brow of the opposite side of the ravine, they saw a number of natives.
"Pull the bear's body across the mouth of the cave," Malchus said, "it will prevent the arrows which strike the rock in front from glancing in.
The little bears will do for food at present." They were soon in the cave, which opened beyond the entrance and extended some distance into the mountain; it was seven or eight feet wide and lofty enough to stand upright in.

Nessus lay down behind the bear, with his bow and arrow so as to command the angle of the rock.
Malchus seated himself further in the cave, sheltered by the entrance from the arrows which from time to time glanced in at the mouth.