one after the other, Hans and Victor had
time to reload, and before the most active savage could set his foot on
the rock, he was thrust back with the long spears, a second and a third
stabbed in the same manner, whilst, dropping the spear and seizing his
gun, Hans shot two Matabili who were urging on those before them.

Such rapid slaughter caused a panic among those who were exposed to the
deadly aim of the hunters, and they gave up their first attempt of
climbing on the rock, and fled amongst the bushes and trees.

"Now, Hans," said Victor, "let us push these trees down: it will take
them some time to put them up again."

The two men pushed the tops of the trees which reached to their position
on one side, and then by aid of their long bamboos shoved them so much
out of the perpendicular that they fell by their own weight to the
ground.

Having accomplished this, they were able to turn their attention to
their numerous enemies below them, who seemed to be clustering together
for a second rush, and another attempt on their stronghold. The whole
force had now assembled for a determined assault, and were merely
waiting for the signal of the chief who was to direct them. At this
instant Hans heard the voice of Katrine, which was audible amidst the
din of the yelling savages below. Knowing that she would not take off
his attention unless for a special reason, he called out--

"What is it, Katie?"

"Help is near, Hans: I am certain I saw three mounted Mensch ride at a
gallop over the far ridge, and enter the bush. I just looked there, and
as I looked I saw these three an instant before they disappeared."

"Are you certain, Katie? But three men, unless they could come up here
to us, will only be slaughtered if they get into the bush."

"There might have been many more, Hans, and they might have gone out of
sight before I looked up; but they must come here in a very few minutes.
Oh, the fiends, how they yell!" exclaimed Katrine, as the Matabili,
preparing for their rush, shrieked at the top of their voices.

"Don't let us waste a shot, Victor: we must hold on another half-hour,
and we may get aid. Rate has seen white men near."

"The Matabili are very numerous, Hans: I hope there will be plenty of
aid, if it does come."

"Look, Victor! look! what are they doing?" exclaimed Hans, as the
Matabili, suddenly ceasing their yells, turned from the rock, and ran
rapidly into the bush.

The two besieged men were n