I sawit pass from face to face, I saw them tremble
and cover their eyeswith their hands. Well, I said, we cant run away this time, so I
suppose that wemust fight until we are killed. At length, too, these noises ceased,
and I got some rest. Also new thunderstorms were in progress far away. Doubtless
when we come to it,other orders will reach us, telling us what we must
do.
Look, he said, pointing towards the edge of the
forest.
Theywhispered one to another, and some of their
captains began toconsult together.
Then we ought to hang together, for what you did I
did. Run, Baas, said Hans, wheeling round and giving me the example,and off I went
back upon our spoor. Baas, he answered in a dejected voice, I threw it
away.
Their seclusion was gone and their secret land lay
open to theworld.
If so, giveit me and I will shoot that Kaneke.
Hearme, men of the Abanda, he went on, raising his voice, what is thequarrel with
us?
Baas, said Hans to me, we are not captains here,
but only luck-charms, so let us keep behind. Kumpana, at my side, shuddered at the
sight.
Then the raypassed and the shadows hid
them.
They are spook-beasts, as I have told you before,
Baas, he said,especially the elephants.
It consisted of some two hundred and fifty
spearmen! It is as well, Baas, headded meaningly, seeing that we are without rifles.
Theywhispered one to another, and some of their captains began toconsult together.
No, Lord, those of the Engoi which come to us through the air.
Now I must bid you farewellas there is much to do.
I dont wonder you threw them away, Quatermain.
It would only mean your death and that ofHans.
Look, he said, pointing towards the edge of the forest.