I looked all around.

To go back was as bad as to go forward, for there, also, a line of smoke arose which showed the progress of the flames.

To the right there was less smoke; but in that direction there was only a wilderness, through which we could not hope to pass for any distance.

The only hope was the river.
If we could traverse the flames in that direction, so as to reach the water, we would be safe.

In a few words I communicated my decision to my companion.