s and offices,
and then in an undertone said a few words to his cousin which made the
other turn pale with fear and dread.

"The scheme is a grand one, Dick," he at length gasped out; "but even if
it succeeds, I don't see how you personally can possibly make your
escape from the town. Don't risk it, old man," he pleaded; "we can't
afford to lose you. And if you got caught, what am I to do? I shall
never be able to keep these scoundrels off, or get Dora and Rose out of
the country with only the Zulus to help me."

"Now, Alf," replied Grenville, "you know I always make my mind up
beforehand, so it's no use you arguing; besides, I really think I can
escape from the place. Remember, the confusion created will amount to a
positive wholesale panic, and a man less or more in the streets will
never be noticed. Moreover, if the plan succeeds, it will mean at all
events practical immunity from interference in the future, and will
probably result in our finding an exit from the country. Of this I am
determined--either I will find a way out or I will make one."

In vain Leigh urged his view of the question--our hero had indeed come
to a determination, and met all opposition, remonstrance, and entreaty
with the same inflexible resolve.

His cousin next pleaded to be permitted to share the danger, but neither
would Grenville allow this.

"I will," he said, "risk no one's life or liberty except my own upon
such a fearfully hazardous expedition. I intend that Amaxosa shall
accompany me inside the walls, to carry my heavy armour; and when once I
have reached my destination, he will return to you. And remember, Alf,
that if I happen to be taken or killed before or, possibly indeed, after
the execution of my project, the Mormons will at once deliver a
tremendous attack upon your position. Keep them off as long as you can
with the rifles--for I shall leave you mine, as also my revolvers--and
then when they are massed together and absolutely climbing the rock,
light those infernal machines of theirs and throw them into the crowd.
Let the fuses burn at least thirty seconds before you throw them down,
though; and I guess you won't have much more trouble with the Mormons.
And if you, or I, or both fail, God help us, old man."

"You don't mean to tell me you are going unarmed amongst those devils,
who are raging for your blood?" remonstrated Leigh.

"Not a bit of it," was the reply; "I'm going to take that heavy revolver
of Myz