nd wait till the moon
rises, to see if we can discover any thing: and we can easily join the
wagons by daybreak. We will keep the fires up, to allow them to suppose
that we are still encamped, that they may not pursue."

"And also to keep off the lions," observed Alexander, "which are not
enemies to be despised."

"I think it is a very good plan; but why not have more men with you? We
have plenty of horses, and so have the Griquas."

"Well then, let us talk to the Griquas."

The Griquas approved of the plan; and, having their own horses, six of
them agreed to remain with Alexander and the Major, and Swanevelt and
two more of the Hottentots were also mounted to remain; which made a
force of twelve men, well mounted and well armed. The remainder of the
caravan yoked the oxen to the wagons, and, under the direction of
Swinton, set off in a southerly direction, across the desert, instead of
going by the banks of the Val River, as before.

This had been arranged previously to any expected attack from the
Matabili, as it would considerably shorten the distance on returning,
although they knew that they would find much difficulty in procuring
water for a few days. After the caravan had departed, it was found that
Omrah had helped himself to a horse and a gun, and had remained in the
camp; but as he was always useful, his so doing was passed over without
notice. In half an hour the wagons were out of sight, and the noise of
their wheels was no longer to be heard.

They fastened their horses in the center of the fires, and sat down by
them till the moon rose, when they directed their eyes to the opposite
bank of the river; but for some time nothing was discovered to confirm
their suspicions. When the moon was about an hour high, they perceived a
body of men coming, down toward the banks, and the moon shone upon their
shields, which were white. As soon as they arrived at the bank of the
river, they all sat down, without making any noise. Shortly afterward,
another body with dark-colored shields, made their appearance, who came
down and joined the first.

"We were not wrong in our suspicions, at all events," said the Major; "I
should say that there are not less than a thousand men in these two
parties which have already appeared. Now, what shall we do? Shall we
remain here, or shall we be off, and join the wagons?"

"I really can hardly decide which would be the best," replied Alexander;
"let us have a consultation with B