Some tore along the path, precipitating those in front of them over the precipice, others lost their footing, and, dragging with them the carts to which they were attached, fell into the valley below.

All order was lost.

Incapable of defence or of movement the column appeared to be on the verge of destruction.
"Come, my men," Malchus exclaimed to his Arabs, "where these men can climb we can follow them; the safety of the whole column is at stake." Slinging their weapons behind them the scouts began to climb the crags.
Sure footed and hardy as they were, it was with the greatest difficulty that they could make their way up.

Many lost their footing, and rolling down were dashed to pieces; but the great majority succeeded in climbing the heights, and at once became engaged in desperate battle with the natives.
Every narrow ledge and crag was the scene of a conflict.

The natives from the distant heights encouraged their companions with their shouts, and for a time the confusion in the column below was heightened by the combat which was proceeding far above them.