I confess it needed all my courage, for I did not know but that the tree might be loose, and that it and I might go rattling down four hundred feet.

It was my only hope, however, so I set my teeth, and wriggling up a few inches, made a grab at it.

Thank God it held, and with a great effort I pulled my shoulder over the ledge, and breathed freely.
My difficulties were not ended, but the worst was past.

The rest of the gully gave me good and safe climbing, and presently a very limp and weary figure lay on the cliff-top.

It took me many minutes to get back my breath and to conquer the faintness which seized me as soon as the need for exertion was over.
When I scrambled to my feet and looked round, I saw a wonderful prospect.