It was but for a moment.

The irresistible momentum of the flying mass behind pushed them over.

Down they came, absolutely a living cataract, upon the rocks below.

Some struck on the projecting rocks in the descent, and their bodies were dashed almost in pieces, while their blood spurted out in showers.

Others leaped from rock to rock with awful bounds, until, losing their foothold, they fell headlong; while others descended sheer down into the sweltering mass that lay shattered at the base of the cliffs.
Dick Varley and his dog remained rooted to the rock, as they gazed at the sickening sight, as if petrified.