The colonel gave a few sharp orders respecting being on the alert for an expected attack to follow this attempt—one that he felt to have been arranged to throw the little camp into confusion; and with all lights out, and a wide berth given to the neighbourhood of the headquarters, the troops stood ready to receive the on-coming Boers with fixed bayonets.
But an hour passed away, and the doubled outposts and those sent out to scout had nothing to report, while all remained dark and silent in the neighbourhood of the damaged huts.
Meanwhile Dickenson had hurried Lennox and the sergeant off to the doctor’s quarters, where they were examined by that gentleman and his aids.
“Well, upon my word, you ought to congratulate yourself, Lennox.”
“I do, sir,” was the reply, made calmly enough.
“And you too, sergeant.”
“Yes, sir,” said the man stolidly.
“Why, my good fellow, you ought to have been blown all to pieces.”
“Ought I, sir?”
“Of course you ought. It’s a wonderful escape.”