“Hurrah! we are saved!” he cried joyously.

“Not yet, my son; but jump up without delay, and we’ll do our best,” answered one of the riders, as they reined up beside the escaped prisoners.

“Halloa! you’ve got a tribe with you, I see,” said the leader, as Ned and his chums sprang into the empty saddles.

“Yes; what about them?”

“They must run for it and take their chance; we have no more horses here.”

“Never mind us, Baas. We know where to hide. You get along. The Boers will follow you.”

“Good-bye, brothers,” shouted Ned.

“Good-bye, Baas! I’ll see you again by-and-by, never fear,” cried Cocoeni in his full, deep tones.

Next instant the troop were riding at full speed, while the Kaffirs had disappeared as if the earth had swallowed them.