The pursuers evidently were aware of the place, in which they had taken refuge, and knew the need of cautious approach.

Mexicans do not lack bravery, but both Obed and Ned were sure there would be a long delay.
"I think that all we've got to do for the present," said Obed, "is to watch the woods in front of us, and see that none of them sneaks up near enough for a good shot." Nearly an hour passed, and they neither saw nor heard anything in the forest.

Then there was a rushing sound, a tremendous impact in front of them and something huge bounded and bounded again among the bushes.

It was a great rock that had been rolled over the cliff above, in the hope that it would fall upon them, but the arch of stone over their heads was too deep.

It struck fully five feet in front of them.