I then advanced towards him, but before I got round a bush that intervened, he had darted away.

I was fearful that he was gone to collect his tribe, and, under this impression, rode quickly back for my gun to support Mr.Hume.On my arrival I found the native was before me.
He stood about twenty paces from Mr.Hume, who was endeavouring to explain what he was; but seeing me approach he immediately poised his spear at him, as being the nearest.

Mr.Hume then unslung his carbine, and presented it; but, as it was evident my re-appearance had startled the savage, I pulled up; and he immediately lowered his weapon.

His coolness and courage surprised me, and increased my desire to communicate with him.
He had evidently taken both man and horse for one animal, and as long as Mr.Hume kept his seat, the native remained upon his guard; but when he saw him dismount, after the first astonishment had subsided, he stuck his spear into the ground, and walked fearlessly up to him.

We easily made him comprehend that we were in search of water; when he pointed to the west, as indicating that we should supply our wants there.