Although I had formed a certain view as to what should be done, the _pros_ and _cons_ seemed so evenly balanced that I determined to consult the little Hottentot and accept his verdict.

This, after all, was but a form of gambling like pitch and toss, since, although it is true Hans was a clever, or at any rate a cunning man according to his lights, and experienced, it meant that I was placing my own judgment in abeyance, which no one considering a life-and-death enterprise should do, taking the chance of that of another, whatever it might be.

However, not for the first time, I did so--to my grief.
In the tiniest of whispers with my lips right against his smelly head, I submitted the problem to Hans, asking him what we should do, go on or go back.

He considered a while, then answered in a voice which he contrived to make like the drone of a night beetle.
"Those men are fast asleep, I know it by their breathing.

Also the Baas has the Great Medicine.