The quaint remarks and merriment after these little adventures seemed to the listener like the pleasant prattle of children.

Mbia and Mantlanyane, however, killed one buffalo each; both the beasts were in prime condition; the meat was like really excellent beef, with a smack of venison.

A troop of hungry, howling hyenas also thought the savour tempting, as they hung round the camp at night, anxious to partake of the feast.

They are, fortunately, arrant cowards, and never attack either men or beasts except they can catch them asleep, sick, or at some other disadvantage.

With a bright fire at our feet their presence excites no uneasiness.