g journey was
before them, and a powerful and merciless enemy in their rear. Even the
dogs seemed to understand the danger that menaced their masters, and
exerted themselves in urging along the droves.

By travelling until a late hour, a good distance was made that same day;
and as nothing was seen or heard of the pursuing savages, our
adventurers began to think that the pursuit had been abandoned.

Although riding on horses, they were far more fatigued than the
Makololo, who went on foot, and who, used to such an exodus, thought
nothing of its toils. The hunters would gladly have given up their
flight, thinking there was no longer a need for it. "It is only the
wicked and foolish who flee when no man pursueth," was their thought.

But in this, the chief did not agree with them. Instead of neglecting
to take precautions, he was very particular about all the appointments
of their night camp, stationing guards around it, and outlying pickets,
to prevent any sudden surprise. Never, since the retreat commenced, had
he appeared more apprehensive of an attack.

Our hunters became anxious to ascertain for what reason all these
precautions were being taken; and with Congo's assistance, they made
inquiry.

The explanation Macora condescended to give was, that Moselekatse's
warriors never slept till they had accomplished their purpose. They
would certainly not relinquish the pursuit without a greater defeat than
they had yet sustained. They were, he said, only waiting until their
different parties could be got together, and they should be in force
sufficient to insure the destruction of him and his tribe. In two days
more he would be able to reach the Makololo territory, where they would
all be safe; and for that reason he was determined not to neglect any
means that might secure the safety of his followers or that of the
guests under his protection. His own life was little to him compared
with the duty he had to perform for others.

Next morning, they were on the move before daybreak, and hastening
forward with all possible speed. Hendrik, Arend, and Hans accompanied
Macora with some reluctance, partly because they believed that flight
was no longer necessary.

"Never mind," urged Groot Willem, to encourage them. "It will only last
two days longer, and we are going to a part of the country we have not
yet visited."

Before noon, there was some reason for believing that Macora had
reasoned aright. A party of