On the morning that our heroes took their walk, they found the streets and between the chains blocked with people.
But no business was being done, neither did men venture to speak to each other. Every one suspected his fellow to be a spy. Business was at a complete stand, and they watched the Zarps hustling the pedestrians about, and inwardly speculated when the Krupp guns would begin their devastating work.
Anything might be expected now from Pretoria. With that first act Kruger had pitched the gauntlet straight in the face of England. Surely he must have already completed his arrangements with Germany.
Halfway down the street the young men met Philip Martin. He was no longer looking so anxious as he had been the past few days. He stopped for a moment and whispered to Ned.
“Hold yourselves in readiness to leave for Rhodesia tomorrow. I shall have a message for you to carry.”
“Oh,” replied Ned, a little disappointed. “Must we clear out before the fun begins?”
“Don’t be afraid. Nothing will take place here yet awhile. This present buster will blow over. I have just had a bit of news which will make the old gentleman draw in his horns for a bit.”
“That’s all right,” answered Ned, laughing.
Philip Martin had only turned his back on them when four Zarps, who had been watching them, came forward, scattering the people to right and left.
Their batons were drawn, and their purpose unmistakable. Doom had come upon our heroes.