"Well, let us round up some horses, in case we get word of him. We'll probably find a good many in the woods."
"A good idea. Some of the Hausas can ride—I will send them."
He selected half-a-dozen of the Hausas, including Gambaru and Kulana, and sent them under John's command to bring in any horses they might find within a short distance of the fort. While they were gone, Challis related the incident of his fall into the pit.
"But for John's disobedience I should never have got out," he concluded. "We owe a good deal to the devotion of our men, Hugh."
"We do, indeed, and it shan't go unrewarded. The way they have stuck to us is magnificent."
After about an hour, John and his party returned, riding on captured horses and leading others. They also brought several Tubu prisoners, tied to their saddles. John was evidently much excited.
"Goruba, sah!" he cried, springing from his horse. "Him run away."
"We know that," said Royce. "Which way did he go? Did you see him?"
"No see him, sah. Hah! Him berry clebber chap, sah, Gamba feel very bad, sure 'nuff."
"Who is Gamba? What do you mean?" Royce asked.