The ruse could not remain long undetected.
They had plunged into the chasm as drowning men grasp at the nearest thing afloat--a slender branch or bunch of grass, a straw.
As they now ascended the rock-strewn gorge both had their reflections, which, though unspoken, were very similar.

And from these came a gleam of hope.

If they could but reach the summit-level of the cliff! Their pursuers could, of course, do the same; but not on horseback.

It would then be a contest of pedestrian speed.

The white men felt confidence in their swiftness of foot; in this respect believing themselves superior to their savage pursuers.