The only thing that I can see is to cross the Esk, and to take refuge in the hills.

I know not if there are any fords, or where they are; but, were we to turn to the right, we should be getting farther and farther away.

The Esk is no great width, and we can carry them across it, easily enough." "The water will be dreadfully cold," Jessie said, with a shiver, for it was now the beginning of April.
"Hush, Jessie!" her sister said.

"What matters a little cold, when our lives are at stake ?" "No, that is our only hope," Oswald said.

"Quick, girls, there is no time to lose." The river was but some fifty yards from the road, and they ran down to it.
"Now, girls," Oswald said when they reached it, "you must take off your cloaks, and all upper garments.