“They’ll go on till they come upon the next lot o’ their pardners, and then they’ll tell ’em they were attacked by two whole ridgements, and show their wounds, if they’ve got any. Don’t think I hit one, sir. Did you?”
“I did not even try to,” said Bracy. “I only thought of firing as quickly as I could. Now, then, a drink of water apiece, and forward. We can’t stop to rest, but must eat as we go.”
They hurried down in turn to where the tribes-men had refreshed themselves, each watching while the other drank hastily, and remounted to the track; after which, food in hand, they were about to recommence their journey, when Gedge started.
“What is it?” said Bracy quickly.
“One on ’em down, sir. Didn’t think we had hit any of ’em, but yonder’s one lying among the bushes.”
“Yes,” said Bracy; “perfectly still. I saw and covered him while you were drinking, and was going to see if he is dead as we went by, in case he might be only wounded, and dangerous.”
“Pouf!”
“What is it?” said Bracy wonderingly, for Gedge had broken into a quiet little laugh.
“It’s the bear they shot, sir, and brought into camp with ’em. Won’t come back to fetch it—will they?”
“We will not stop to see,” said Bracy quietly. “Now, forward once more.”