Now I see why he wanted us to leave the spears, and I think," he shouted as we began to gallop, "that before all is done the Shaman may prove himself a true prophet." Away we sped through the gathering darkness, heading straight for the Peak.

While we went I calculated our chances.

Our horses, as good as any in the land, were still strong and fresh, for although we had ridden far we had not over-pressed them, and their condition was excellent.

But doubtless the death-hounds were fresh also, for, meaning to run us down at night when he thought that he might catch us sleeping, Rassen would have brought them along easily, following us by inquiry among the peasants and only laying them on our spoor after the last village had been left behind.
Also he had two mounts, and for aught we knew--though afterwards this proved not to be the case, for he wished to work his wickedness alone and unseen--he might be followed by attendants with relays.

Therefore it would appear that unless we reached some place whither he did not dare to follow, before him--that is the slopes of the Peak many miles away, he must run us down.