The Nilghai said so, and it was well to be in readiness.

The Keneu had telegraphed to Cairo for horses; Cassavetti had stolen a perfectly inaccurate list of troops that would be ordered forward, and was reading it out amid profane interruptions, and the Keneu introduced to Dick some man unknown who would be employed as war artist by the Central Southern Syndicate.

'It's his first outing,' said the Keneu.

'Give him some tips--about riding camels.' 'Oh, those camels!' groaned Cassavetti.

'I shall learn to ride him again, and now I am so much all soft! Listen, you good fellows.