Now the presence of these hideous brutes was a new point for consideration. If the lioness should allow them to begin their feast upon the antelopes, in a very short while scarce a morsel of either would remain. The yägers, although they had resigned all hope of dining on the gemsbok venison, nevertheless looked forward to making their supper of it; but if the hyenas were permitted to step in, they would be disappointed.
How were the brutes to be kept off?
To drive them off would be just as perilous an undertaking as to drive off the lioness herself.
Once more Groot Willem and Hendrik talked about attacking the latter; but, as before, were opposed by Hans, who had to use all his influence with his companions before he could induce them to abandon the rash project.
At this moment an unexpected proposal put an end to their discussion.
The proposal came from Congo the Kaffir. It was neither less nor more than that he himself should go forth and do battle with the lioness!
“What! alone?”
“Alone.”
“You are mad, Congo. You would be torn to pieces!”
“No fear, Mynheeren. Congo the leuw kill without getting scratch. You see, young masters.”