There was so much to be arranged that it might have been wiser to wait till the morrow, had we not determined that if we could help it nothing would induce us to spend another night in that place.

Blankets were served out to each of the bearers who, poor naked creatures, seemed quite touched at the gift of them; the loads were apportioned, having already been packed at Durban in cases such as one man could carry.

The pack saddles were put upon the four donkeys which proved to be none the worse for their journey, and burdens to a weight of about 100 lbs.

each fixed on them in waterproof hide bags, besides cooking calabashes and sleeping mats which Hans produced from somewhere.

Probably he stole them out of the deserted village, but as they were necessary to us I confess I asked no questions.