The thin line of bushes and other undergrowth at the hillock's foot were quickly consumed; leaving only a broad bed of ember and spark.

And the conflagration swept on to the left, over the only course open to it.

To the right, the multiple ridges of rock and the dearth of vegetation were sufficient "No Thoroughfare" enforcement.
This same odd rock-formation had kept the wagon track clear, up to the twist where it bore to leftward at the base of the knoll.

And the Mistress and the Master were able to guide their rattlingly protesting car in safety up the trail from the main road far below.

The set of the wind prevented them from being blinded or confused by smoke.