ivers of the waggon, uncertain
of the reception they might meet with at the end of their journey, would
not hasten on the oxen even when the ground was level, and it was
frequently rough, with steep hills to ascend or descend, so that a
quicker pace was impossible. The warriors belonged to a regiment of
unmarried men or boys, as could be seen from their heads wanting the
ring at the top, which is the mark of those who have been allowed by the
king to take to themselves wives. As they marched along they shouted
and sang songs descriptive of the deeds they had performed, or of those
they intended to do, referring sometimes to their prowess in having
captured a party of white men, who had not ventured to strike a blow for
freedom; while they boasted especially of the way they intended to
annihilate Umbulazi and his followers. Some gave way to their exuberant
spirits by leaping and dancing in a fashion which offered a curious
contrast to the march of a regiment of life guards. They shrieked, they
quivered their assegais, and clashed their shields together, until
Crawford, who had never before seen an exhibition of the sort, began to
fear that they might take it into their heads to kill him and his
companions.

"I think we should be prepared for an attack from these savages," he
said to Denis, gravely. "For my part, I hope that we shall sell our
lives dearly, if they attempt to take them."

"No fear of that for the present," answered Denis; "they are only in
somewhat high spirits at the thought of having soon to engage in battle.
You see Hendricks rides on as composedly as ever, so does Lionel, who
perfectly understands what they are saying. They don't intend us any
harm. However, I confess that it is possible their mood may change, and
it would be as well not to do anything to offend them. Hendricks knows
them better than most people, and will take care to keep them in good
humour. I shall be very glad when we are out of their company
notwithstanding."

"So say I," exclaimed Crawford. "I confess that had I known what
savages they are, I should not have been so eager to come into their
country."

"As to that, I do not suppose they are worse than other tribes," said
Denis; "they are certainly more intelligent and brave. My chief regret
is that we shall have further delay in going in search of my father. I
wish that you were to accompany us instead of stopping with Captain
Broderick, although I daresay Percy w