nd in a steep
slope, was a part of the terrace-like path they were to follow, while on
their left was its commencement, one heavy stone-strewn track, which in
places rose like a series of gigantic steps.

Here a halt was called, and the men lay down for a brief rest, while the
perilous-looking path in front was reconnoitred first by the officers
with their glasses, the eminence above the track being carefully
searched for hidden bodies of the enemy ready to commence their attack
as before by thrusting off the stones which hung aloft ready to fall,
almost at a touch.

But there was no sign of danger apparent. A great eagle was gliding
here and there in the mouth of the wild ravine, out of which came the
deep roar of the river in a series of foaming cascades; while no sign
was visible of the enemy in the rear, and the officers soon came to the
conclusion that there was nothing to fear from their left unless there
was some pass known to their foes by which the mountains high above the
shelf-like track could be reached.

"We're to form the rear-guard again, lads," said Roberts, who had just
received his orders. "Did it so well before, the Colonel says," he
added a little bitterly.

"Well, if we want more fighting we ought to have been sent in advance,"
replied Bracy, "for I feel convinced that there's something unpleasant
waiting for us as soon as we enter that black rift."

"Most likely," said Roberts. "The Major leads again, but they're going
to send half a company on first scouting. Yes," he said impatiently,
"there must be something bad ready for us. The enemy would never be
such fools as to let us go through there. Why, Bracy, give us our
company, and twenty-four hours to prepare, and we could hold that place
against a thousand."

"Yes, I suppose we could."

"Well, what are we waiting for?" cried Roberts impatiently. "It doesn't
want above two hours to sunset, and to be caught there with the night
coming on--Ugh!"

"There they go!" cried Bracy excitedly, as the active lads selected as
scouts began to ascend the track in the lightest order; and their
progress was watched with the keenest anxiety as they rose more and more
into the full view of the regiment, apparently meeting with no obstacles
to their progress, and showing the track to be followed by the waiting
party below.

Just then the Colonel rode back to where the young officers were
standing.

"This track is so narrow, Roberts," he said, "th