It was quite time, for the Maoris had either seen them or some of the traces they had left behind; and, carefully examining every foot of the narrow valley shelf along which they had climbed, were coming rapidly on.
Don’s heart sank, for it seemed to him that they were in a trap. On his right was the wall-like side of the gully they ascended; on his left the sheer precipice down to the awful torrent; before them the sound of a mighty cataract; and behind the enemy, coming quickly and stealthily on.
Chapter Forty Seven.
A Dangerous Phase.
Ngati took all in at a glance, and signing to his companions to follow, he again lay down, creeping on for a short distance, trailing his spear, till they were well behind a pile of rocks.
Here he gave a sharp look round at the cul de sac into which they had been driven, and without hesitation crept to their left to where the rocky wall descended to the raging torrent.
To him the place seemed to have no danger, as he passed over the edge and disappeared, but to Don it was like seeking death.
“We can never do it, Jem,” he said.