They were followed by a couple of strong, rough-looking dogs.
Their purpose was to drive home the oxen and the other horses that were feeding a good distance off.

This they were in the habit of doing every evening at the same hour,--for in South Africa it is necessary to shut up all kinds of live-stock at night, to protect them from beasts of prey.

For this purpose are built several enclosures with high walls,--"kraals," as they are called,--a word of the same signification as the Spanish "corral," and I fancy introduced into Africa by the Portuguese--since it is not a native term.
These kraals are important structures about the homestead of a boor, almost as much so as his own dwelling-house, which of itself also bears the name of "kraal." As young Hendrik and Swartboy rode off for the horses and cattle, Hans, leaving his work in the garden, proceeded to collect the sheep and drive them home.

These browsed in a different direction; but, as they were near, he went afoot, taking little Jan along with him.
Truey having tied her pet to a post, had gone inside the house to help Totty in preparing the supper.

Thus the field-cornet was left to himself and his pipe, which he still continued to smoke.
He sat in perfect silence, though he could scarce restrain from giving expression to the satisfaction he felt at seeing his family thus industriously employed.