The trio reached a turn in the ravine and passed beyond view of the cliff, so they were safe from the bullets of the men above.
For some moments they paused, panting from their exertions.
The girl looked at her companions in admiration.
"You are strong and brave," she said. "I feel that you will save me."
"But we are not out of the woods yet," said Frank. "Those fellows will be sure to give us a chase."
"How can they get down from the cliff?" asked Bart.
"There is a way to do that, you may be sure. As soon as we get our breath we must hasten on. We will be fortunate if we strike Blake, Long, and Jones without delay."
They did not wait long before hastening forward. The boys took the girl between them, both assisting her, sometimes carrying her over the worst places.
Her strength came back to her, after a time, and they were surprised by her skill and fleetness of foot.
Out of the ravine they made their way, and dropped over into the other, beginning to feel relieved by the non-appearance of their enemies.