nd before I left the pa it was reduced to a heap of ashes.
Sentinels were posted in every direction to give notice of the approach
of an enemy. _Mr._ Kiney Kiney (as he was sometimes called) was
splendidly apparelled on this occasion: he had, by some means or other,
become possessed of a light infantry sabre, with all its paraphernalia of
belts and buckles; this was girded round his naked body, which gave him a
very gallant air, and, I have no doubt, was the envy and admiration of
all his followers.

CHAPTER XL.

A SHAM FIGHT.

After we had seen and approved all their preparations, we were treated
with a grand review and sham fight: they divided themselves into two
parties; one half the number took their station on a hill, and lay
concealed; the other party crouched on the plains to receive the attack,
all kneeling on one knee, with their eyes fixed on the spot whence they
expected the rush of their pretended enemies. In a moment, the concealed
party burst forth from their ambush, with a tremendous and simultaneous
shout, and the mock battle began with great fury.

Nothing in nature can be imagined more horrible than the noise they make
on these occasions. I have heard, under circumstances of some peril, the
North American Indian war-whoop; but that is trifling compared with it
and their countenances are hideous beyond description. My principal
astonishment on these occasions was, that they did not actually kill each
other, or, at least, break each other's bones; for they seemed to strike
with all the fury and vigour of a real engagement; but they kept such
exact time, that at a moment's notice they all left off, and began joking
and laughing, except a very few, whom I observed to sneak away to wash
off some bloody witness, or to put a plaster on their broken skin.

After these military and gymnastic exhibitions, they formed a grand
assembly, and the chiefs, as usual, made long speeches in rotation. This
rude parliament is one of the most beautiful features in savage
government: all public matters are discussed openly, grievances are
complained of, and justice is summarily administered.

Thus, after spending a pleasant day, we rose to depart, and took an
affectionate leave of our entertainers, who were most anxious that we
should remain longer; but we thought we had better return to Kororarika,
where our property had been left. Most of the chiefs accompanied us to
our boats, and, after exhibiting various