in shape like the letter V. They were
to be about a mile and a half long; and at the point of convergence a
space was to be left open, wide enough to permit of the largest animal
to pass through. Beyond the angle, or where it should have been, had
the fences met, was dug a pit about forty feet long, fifteen wide, and
eight deep. Heavy trunks of trees were laid along its edges, slightly
projecting over them. The intention was, that any animal driven through
would be precipitated into the pit from which escape would be
impossible. Near it the fences were made of great strength and height,
to resist any attempt at leaping over them, or pressing them down.

The pit was covered with reeds and rushes; and no means were neglected
to make the hopo as effective as possible for the purpose required of
it.

Working with a will,--both white hunters and black Makololo,--the hopo
was soon pronounced complete, and ready to receive the game; and the
next day was appointed to carry out the objects of its construction. A
mimosa forest lay in front of it,--for on this account had the situation
been selected. This forest was to be "beaten" by the men of Macora, and
all its four-footed denizens driven into the trap.

Early in the morning the whole tribe, with the white hunters and their
dogs, mustered for the grand drive. They were divided into two parties.
Willem, Hendrik, and Macora led one to the left, while Hans, Arend, and
a principal warrior and hunter of the Makololo conducted the other to
the right, thus taking the mimosa forest on both flanks. The area to be
surrounded was about four miles in length and three in breadth.

On arriving at its northern edge, the great cover was entered by the
beaters along with most of the dogs. The white hunters, who were
mounted on their own horses, and some of the Makololo who rode upon
oxen, kept along the borders, to prevent the startled game from breaking
cover at the sides. For a time the beaters and their canine companions
appeared vying with each other, as to which could make the greatest
noise; and the effect of their united efforts was soon observed by those
riding outside the timber.

Before they had proceeded half a mile from the point of separation, they
had sufficient evidence that the repose of many species of wild beasts
had been disturbed. Mingled with the loud trumpeting of elephants were
the sounds of crashing branches, the roar of lions, the shrieks of
baboons, an