for you; and when
the body of poor Gozo was found, it was feared that you had met with the
same fate. He was so dreadfully cut up, that I thought he would have
abandoned his expedition and gone back to Maritzburg."

"I am sorry to have caused the fine old boy so much trouble," answered
Denis. "He may be certain that it was very much against our wish, and I
know that I wouldn't again go through what we did for a good deal. But,
faith, those black fellows are getting mighty near; and if they happen
to have a musket or two among them, they may shoot one of us. Pull
away, Rupert!"

"You are right, Paddy," said Rupert. "Though I doubt if they have
firearms, I don't wish to run the chance."

They accordingly both gave way with a will. Instead of returning to the
place where the boat was usually kept, Rupert directed her upstream
until they came to a point where the moat communicated with the river.
Landing, they quickly towed her through the moat to the entrance, where
she could lie protected from an enemy. Here they found Captain
Broderick, who had risen on hearing that the Zulus had been seen moving
towards the river. After welcoming Crawford, whom he was prepared to
receive, as Percy had mentioned the invitation he had given him, he
eagerly asked what had become of Hendricks.

"He begged me to express his regret at not being able to pay you a
visit; for he has been so long detained during the search for your son
and Maloney, and by various other misadventures, that he is anxious to
push on northward without further delay," answered Crawford. "He has,
however, sent his chief hunter to escort back our Irish friend, who is
of course desirous of proceeding in search of his father."

"Had Hendricks known how anxious I am to see him and young Lionel, he
would have paid me his promised visit," exclaimed Captain Broderick. "I
would at once set off with Maloney, but I dare not leave the farm with
these Zulus in the neighbourhood, even could I get away without being
observed by them. I doubt, indeed, whether it will be safe for our
friend here and his guide, to set off while they remain; for if seen
leaving the farm, the Zulus will certainly endeavour to capture them,
and hold them hostages until I deliver up the fugitives who have sought
my protection; and that I am bound not to do."

Crawford expressed his delight at seeing Percy, who now came down from
the platform.

"We will tell you all about our adventures b