y were beyond the range of the muskets of the
fort, when they halted, and Mohammed asked whether they would renew the
attack and revenge the loss of their friends or retreat.

The point was settled by the appearance of a band of black warriors
armed, some with shields and spears and others with muskets, issuing
from the gate.

The retreat was continued, and Mohammed had the greatest difficulty in
preventing it from becoming a disorganised flight. Bravely he faced
about, and setting the example to his men fired his musket at the
advancing foe; but the latter, halting when the Arabs stopped, kept out
of range, again advancing as soon as they moved on.

Ned remained with Mohammed, who shook his head mournfully as if
acknowledging his defeat. He had reason to look grave. The distance to
the camp was great, they were in an enemy's country, and there was more
than one defile to pass through, while the thick woods and tall grass on
either side might conceal large bodies of their foes. Again and again
the Arab called on his men to keep together, and not to be disheartened,
though he himself showed his apprehensions by the expression of his
countenance. For a couple of hours the retreating force had marched on,
the dark band of savages hovering in their rear, but not venturing near
enough to come to blows.

Mohammed continued to cast anxious glances on either hand, and retained
his musket instead of giving it back to Ned to carry for him. Ned
longed to be able to ask him what hope there was of getting back safe to
the camp, but when he made signs the chief only gave in return an
ominous shake of the head.

One of the denies they had to pass through was entered, Mohammed gazed
round even more anxiously than before, scanning every rock and bush
which might conceal a foe. While their pursuers were still in sight,
the narrowest part was gained. The chief had inspired Ned with his own
apprehensions, and every moment he expected to be assailed by a shower
of arrows and javelins. He breathed more freely when they once more
entered the open country. As they advanced they looked behind, hoping
that the negroes would not have ventured through the pass, but they were
still pursuing. The Arabs dared not halt to rest or take any
refreshment, for it was all-important to reach their camp before
nightfall. Once there, as it was well stored with provisions, they
might wait for reinforcements.

A thick wood, however, was before