en
collected, moved away to the wood, while the chief, with four of his
companions and Malchus, remained with the wounded Romans. It was late in
the evening before the Romans returned, after having, as has been said,
followed the Numidians right up to Hannibal's camp. There was some
grumbling on the part of the Roman soldiers when they found that their
allies had forestalled them with the spoil; but the officer in command
was well pleased at finding that the wounded had been carefully attended
to, and bade the men be content that they had rendered good service
to the public, and that Scipio would be well satisfied with them. The
native chief now exhibited the helmet and armour of Malchus, who was led
forward by two of his men.

"Who are you?" the commander asked Malchus in Greek, a language which
was understood by the educated both of Rome and Carthage.

"I am Malchus, and command the scouts of Hannibal's army."

"You are young for such a post," the officer said; "but in Carthage
it is interest not valour which secures promotion. Doubtless you are
related to Hannibal."

"I am his cousin," Malchus said quietly.

"Ah!" the Roman said sarcastically, "that accounts for one who is a mere
lad being chosen for so important a post. However, I shall take you
to Scipio, who will doubtless have questions to ask of you concerning
Hannibal's army."

Many of the riderless horses on the plain came in on hearing the sound
of the Roman trumpets and rejoined the troop. Malchus was placed on
one of these. Such of the wounded Romans as were able to ride mounted
others, and a small party being left behind to look after those unable
to move, the troops started on their way.

They were unable, however, to proceed far; the horses had been
travelling since morning and were now completely exhausted; therefore,
after proceeding a few miles the troop halted. Strong guards were
posted, and the men lay down by their horses, ready to mount at a
moment's notice, for it was possible that Hannibal might have sent a
large body of horsemen in pursuit. As on the night before, Malchus felt
that even if Nessus had so far followed him he could do nothing while so
strong a guard was kept up, and he therefore followed the example of the
Roman soldiers around him and was soon fast asleep.

At daybreak next morning the troops mounted and again proceeded to the
south. Late in the afternoon a cloud of dust was seen in the distance,
and the party presently