ON THE MARCH AGAIN. 275 of heavily-laden chariots^ betokened the flight of a herd of bufTaloes ; but with thèse exceptions no animal of any magnitude appeared in view. For about two miles Dick followed the course of the rivulet, in the hope that it would émerge into a more im- portant stream, which would convey them without much difficulty or danger direct to the sea. Towards noon about three miles had been accomplished, and a hait was made for rest. Neither Negoro nor Harris had been seen, nor had Dingo reappeared. The encamp- ment for the midday refreshment was made under the shelter of a clump of bamboos, which effectually concealed them ail. Few words were spoken during the meal. Mrs. Weldon could eat nothing ; she had again taken her little boy into her arms, and seemed wholly absorbed in watch- ing him. Again and again Dick begged her tb take some nourishment, urging upon her the necessîty of keeping up her strength. " We shall not be long in findîng a good current to carry us to the coast," said the lad brightly. Mrs. Weldon raised her eyes to his animated features. With so sanguine and resolute a leader, with such devoted servants as the five negroes in attendance, she felt that she ought not utterly to despaîr. Was she not, after ail, on friendly soil ? what great harm could Harris perpetrate against her or her belongings ? She would hope still, hope for the best. Rejoiced as he was to see somethîng of its former bright- ness return to her countenance, Dick nevertheless had scarcely courage steadily to return her searchîng gaze. Had she known the whole truth, he knew that her hcart must fail her utterly. T 2
