The bluff towered vertically above them, like a wall of rude masonwork.

A cat could not have scaled it, much less horse, or man.

They did not think of making the attempt.
And now, what were they to do?
Ride out from the smoke-cloud, or remain under its favouring shelter?
In either case they were sure of being discovered and pursued.

It would soon clear off, and they would be seen from the waggons.

Already it was fast thinning around them; the Indians having nearly extinguished the fires in order to save the treasure, which had no doubt been their chief object for attacking the caravan.
Soon there would be no smoke--and then?
The pursued men stayed not to reflect further.