At first the beast did not seem to be incommoded by this
wound; indeed, it only caused it to gallop quicker, and Benita rejoiced,
thinking that it was but a scratch. Then she forgot about it, for some
of the Matabele, who had guns, began to shoot them, and although their
marksmanship was vile, one or two of the bullets went nearer than was
pleasant. Lastly a man, the swiftest runner of them all, shouted after
them in Zulu:
"The horse is wounded. We will catch you both before the sun sets."
Then they passed over the crest of a rise and lost sight of them for a
while.
"Thank God!" gasped Benita when they were alone again in the silent
veld; but Mr. Clifford shook his head.
"Do you think they will follow us?" she asked.
"You heard what the fellow said," he answered evasively. "Doubtless they
are on their way to attack Bambatse, and have been round to destroy some
other wretched tribe, and steal the cattle which we saw. Yes, I fear
that they will follow. The question is, which of us can get to Bambatse
first."
"Surely we ought to on the horses, father."
"Yes, if nothing happens to them," and as he spoke the words the mare
which he was riding dropped sharply upon her hind leg, the same that had
been struck with the spear; then recovered herself and galloped on.
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