"I'm going to drop down to it now.
Then you must try to lower yourself along the bush, inch by inch, until you feel the ledge under you.

Don't be afraid, because I mean to grab hold of you; but when you feel me touching you, above all things don't let go above, or you'll throw us both down.

Now, be ready, Claude; and, remember, it's going to be all right.

Keep cool!" Of course, Hugh only said that last to reassure the poor chap.

Claude was already cold with as cold as an icicle, in fact; and quaking with fear in the bargain.
It was easy enough for Hugh to drop down another foot or so, until he felt the solid little ledge under him.