I've been thinking, too, that if we make this detour to the west we shall get into some rougher country, where we can lie up among the rocks of some kopje when it gets broad daylight." "And not go on during the day ?" "Certainly not; for two reasons: our horses could not keep on without rest, and we should certainly be seen by the Boers who are crowding over the Vaal." West was silent again.
"Hang it all!" cried Ingleborough.

"Not so much as a grunt now! Look here, can you propose a better plan ?" "I don't know about better, but I was thinking quite differently from you." "Let's have your way then." "Perhaps you had better not.

You have had some experience in your rides out on excursions with Mr Norton, and I daresay your plan is a better one than mine." "I don't know," said Ingleborough shortly.

"Let's hear yours." "But--" "Let's--hear--yours," cried the other imperatively, and his voice sounded so harsh that West felt annoyed, and he began: "Well, I thought of doing what you propose at first." "Naturally: it seems the likeliest way." "But after turning it over in my mind it seemed to me that the Boers would all be hurrying across the border and scouring our country, looking in all directions as they descended towards Kimberley." "Yes, that's right enough.

But go on; don't hesitate.