en by the hunters were trained shooting horses, and were
not therefore likely to be alarmed by the noises made by these men.
Each animal also would allow its rider to fire from its back without
moving a muscle; and thus the five hunters, armed as they were, well
supplied with ammunition, and deadly as shots, were most formidable
enemies, more so than the Matabili seemed to think; for these men had
hitherto been opposed only to Hottentots and Griquas, whose courage and
skill they despised. When, therefore, the Dutchmen halted, and each,
selecting a victim, raised his rifle or smooth-bore to fire, the
Matabili uttered taunting yells, dodged from side to side to distract
their enemies' aim, and charged towards their foes.

Suddenly the five guns were discharged, and five Matabili rolled over on
the plain, each either killed or mortally wounded. The hunters
instantly turned their horses, and, galloping at speed, avoided the
charge of their enemies and the numerous assagies that were hurled after
them. Adopting the same plan as on the former occasion, the hunters
loaded as they rode away; and as soon as each man was ready, the signal
was given for a halt, when it was found that the Matabili, finding
pursuit useless, were returning after their stolen oxen. They did not
seem to suspect the style of warfare which the Dutchmen practised, as
they retreated very slowly, believing that their enemies were only
anxious to escape; they soon, however, found, their mistake, as their
enemies galloped up to within a hundred yards, and discharged their
barrels into the crowded mass, a dozen men either falling or limping
away badly wounded; for the heavy bullets and heavy charge of powder had
caused one shot, in some cases, to bring down two victims.

The Matabili, finding by experience the power and skill of their few
enemies, were now bent only on making their escape; and therefore,
separating, they ran in all directions, leaving the oxen to be
recaptured. Bent upon revenge, and upon freeing themselves from their
enemies, the hunters followed their foes, shooting them like so many
buck, until, finding their ammunition growing short, they returned to
their oxen, which had been quietly grazing, unconscious of the battle
that was being fought for their ownership. The animals being collected,
were soon driven off towards the waggons; and before the sun had long
passed the meridian, the oxen were inspanned, and the five Dutchmen and
one