I halted exactly opposite the noble-looking beast, who, seeing me in advance of the party, increased his rage and growled deeply, fixing his glance upon the horse.

I now patted Tetel on the neck and spoke to him coaxingly.

He gazed intently at the lion, erected his mane, and snorted, but showed no signs of retreat.

"Bravo! old boy!" I said, and, encouraging him by caressing his neck with my hand, I touched his flank gently with my heel.

I let him just feel my hand upon the rein, and with a "Come along, old lad," Tetel slowly but resolutely advanced step by step toward the infuriated lion, that greeted him with continued growls.