Delaney did not hesitate. She led them to the slightly less steep side of the embankment, and they carefully slid down the muddy slope together, using the tree trunks for balance.
When they reached the bottom, the sheer scale of the destruction was evident.
"Lord have mercy," Wayne whispered, looking at the shattered wood.
The older farmer immediately went to the driver. The carriage driver was sitting in the mud, holding his left arm tightly against his chest, groaning in pain.
"Let me see, friend," the farmer said gently. He quickly checked the driver's arm and shoulder. "His collarbone is snapped, and his leg is badly bruised, but he will live. Wayne, help him stand."
Wayne put his strong arm around the driver's waist, hoisting the injured man carefully to his feet.
