At length Simba spoke, saying: "We had intended, Lord, to keep you and the priest of the Child here as hostages against mischief that might be worked on us by the followers of the Child, who have always been our bitter enemies and done us much undeserved wrong, although on our part we have faithfully kept the pact concluded in the days of our grandfathers.

It seems, however, that fate, or your magic, is too strong for us, and therefore I have determined to let you go.

To-night at sundown we will set you on the road which leads to the ford of the River Tava, which divides our territory from that of the White Kendah, and you may depart where you will, since our wish is that never again may we see your ill-omened faces." At this intelligence my heart leapt in joy that was altogether premature.

But, preserving my indignant air, I exclaimed: "To-night! Why to-night?
Why not at once?
It is hard for us to cross unknown rivers in the dark." "The water is low, Lord, and the ford easy.

Moreover, if you started now you would reach it in the dark; whereas if you start at sundown, you will reach it in the morning.