They could try it without any great trouble.

It would only need to spin some more rope from the hemp--of which they had plenty--attach it to the leg of the bearcoot, and give the bird its freedom.

There was no question as to the direction the eagle would take.

He had already had enough of the valley; and would no doubt make to get out of it at the very first flight he should be permitted to make.
The scheme superficially considered appeared plausible enough; but as its details were subjected to a more rigorous examination, two grand difficulties presented themselves--so grand that they almost obliterated the hope, so suddenly, and with too much facility, conceived.
The first of these difficulties was, that the bearcoot, notwithstanding his great strength of wing, might not be able to carry up a rope, which would be strong enough to carry one of themselves.

A cord he might easily take to the top of the cliff, or even far beyond; but a mere cord, or even a very slender rope, would be of no use.