I did not for some moments know how to act.

My gun was still loaded--for, after thinking of saving our little flock, I did not care to empty it at the antelopes.
I could get one, thought I, at any time when I had secured the sheep in the kraal.

The piece, therefore, was loaded and with bullets.
"Should I take aim at the lion, and fire?
I asked myself this question, and was just on the point of deciding in the affirmative, when I reflected that it would be imprudent.

I observed that the lion, whose back was turned to me, had either not seen, or as yet took no notice of me.

Should I only wound him--and from the position he was in I was not likely to do more,--how then?
I would most likely be torn to pieces.
"These were my reflections, all of which scarce occupied a second of time.