But he was wrong, for the vultures had found two assegais leaning against a bush, and looking so ominous with their bright blades where the General had left them, that they had not dared to touch the lion, and the consequence was that a magnificent skin was obtained, one that proved to be no light load for Peter and Chicory, who carried it swinging from a pole resting upon their shoulders.
The load was increased as they picked up the skin of the leopard, while the boys carried the game.
The young leopard proved to be quite safe in the game-bag, which formed a comfortable hammock for it as it hung in a tree, but no sooner was it swung from Jack’s shoulder, and felt the motion of the walker, than it became furious, spitting and tearing, and trying to get out.
One way and another they were so loaded that the sight of the waggon proved very welcome, and all were only too glad to partake of a good basin of what Mr Rogers called “Dinny’s restorative,” namely the rich thick venison soup always stewing in the great pot, and being added to every day.
And it was wonderful how invigorating this rich meat essence proved. No matter how weary they were, a basin of it could be enjoyed, and its effect seemed to be almost instantaneous.
After a good dinner in the shade of the big tree by the waggon, both Jack and Dick had another look at poor Coffee, to find that he slept a good deal, and quite easily, Mr Rogers saying that he was less feverish.
“Well, boys, what do you think of the medicine-chest now? Was I not right in being prepared for emergencies?”
The boys agreed that it was right, and hoped all the same that they would never have to make any demands upon it, either for doses or lint and plaister—invaluable in poor Coffee’s case now.
Then the lion’s skin was admired, and laid out to dry. The leopard’s followed, and was greatly praised by Mr Rogers; and indeed it was beautiful in the harmony of its brown and creamy-yellow tints.
“Bedad and that’s the very baste,” cried Dinny. “I know him by that spot at the back of his left ear, and the payculiar twisht of his tail.”