It was evident that he considered that the position, held by 200 determined men, was a formidable one.

Lying down, as they were, only the heads of the Portuguese could be seen; while a force attacking them would have to march across level ground, affording no shelter whatever from the defenders' fire, and then to climb a very steep ascent.

Moreover, the whole force they had been pursuing might be gathered, just behind.
After another five minutes' delay, half a battalion broke up into skirmishers; while the rest divided into two parties, and marched parallel to the rocks, left and right.

Terence saw that these movements must be successful for, with 200 men, he could not defend a line of indefinite length.

However, his object had now been achieved.