Besides, it's an extensive fire, and I'm doubtful whether we could get down to the water farther along." They waited for an hour, keeping the cattle together with some trouble, and watching the blaze, which grew brighter rapidly.

At last, wisps of pungent smoke rolled into the bluff.
"The beasts are ready to stampede!" George suddenly called to Edgar.
"We'll have to make a start! Get into the saddle and drive them toward the ford!" They were very busy for a while.

Their horses were hard to manage, the timber was thick, and the herd attempted to break away through it; but at last they reached the steep dip to the waterside.

One beast plunged in and vanished, more followed, and George, plying his quirt and shouting, rode in among the diminishing drove.

He felt the water lapping about his boots, and then the horse lost its footing.