"It would seem so," responded Allen seriously.
"Grizzly Pass; rather a suggestive name," said Noel.
"Ye-as; especially when a big grizzly shows hisself," drawled Watson, and there the conversation dropped.
Despite the fierce sunshine, it was deliciously cool along the base of the rocky wall, and the horses made good progress over the hard but level trail. Here and there immense brier bushes overhung the way, but these were easily avoided by the animals, who were more afraid of them than were their riders.
Presently the trail took an upward course, leading between a split in the rocks.
"Ye want ter be careful hyer," cautioned Ike Watson. "It's a mighty slippery spot fer the best o' hoss flesh."
Scarcely had he spoken when Noel Urner gave a cry of alarm.
He was in the rear, and both the old hunter and Allen turned quickly to see what was the matter.
They found Noel's horse on his knees, having slipped to one side of the trail.
The young man was on the ground, one foot caught in the stirrup.