“Because they are nearly beaten!” said West sadly.
“By no means, you croaking old raven!” cried Ingleborough cheerily. “It’s because they want to save their ammunition! They only want to fire when they have something worth firing at. As for the enemy, they have the whole town to shoot at, and keep on pitching their shells in at random. There, don’t be grumpy!”
“I can’t help it!” cried West passionately. “Give me credit for having kept up well till now. It’s because we are so near success that I feel everything so keenly.”
“I know, old fellow, and you may trust me!” said Ingleborough. “I didn’t play a false prophet’s part just to encourage you. I’m speaking the simple truth! Just a little more patience, and you shall deliver your despatch.”
“If I could only feel that!” cried West. “It may be the saving of Mafeking to receive news perhaps of help being on the way.”
“Be patient then! It will soon be night, and then we’ll mount and make our final dash!”
“No,” said West bitterly; “we shall have to make it now. Look.”