The little sticks were to be laid transversely against the rope, and then so tightly tied in their places, as to prevent them from slipping down.
The first was to be attached about the height of a man's waist from the ground; and the second on a level with his chin.

Then with the feet resting upon the first, and the left hand grasping the rope above, it would be possible to fix another at the height of the chin, as it would then be.

By climbing up to the second, a fourth could be placed at a little distance above; and thus in succession, till the top of the cliff should be attained.
It was not supposed, that any one could continue the process of attaching the steps, till all were set in their places; nor did they contemplate being able to complete the work in a little time.

On the contrary, they expected it to occupy them for days; and they knew, moreover, that long intervals of rest would be required by any one who should have to execute it.

Standing upon such unstable footing, for any considerable length of time, would be both irksome and fatiguing; and they were about to enter upon the task with a full knowledge of its difficulties.
On reaching the cord they at once set to work upon it.