"No," I answered, "my enthusiasm for elephants is less than it was."
"Well," she responded, "so is mine. I'm thinking I have had all the elephant and buffalo shooting I care for, and Mrs. Roberts shares my opinion."
"Do you intend to remain much longer in this region?" I asked.
"I think not," was the answer; "I was talking the matter over with Mrs. Roberts last evening, and we are pretty well agreed that when you gentlemen leave us we will start for Walvisch Bay."
I explained that the time of separation was approaching; that our wagons were nearly filled with the articles that a hunter usually brings back from the chase, and in a day or two we would probably inspan and start for Durban.
"Our roads diverge from this point," said Miss Boland, with a sigh.
"Yes, that is true," I replied; "Durban and Walvisch Bay are on opposite sides of South Africa. But the roads may come together again."
"I don't think I understand you quite, Mr. Manson," replied Miss Boland, with a blush rising on her cheek, browned though it was by the sun of Africa.
"I will make my meaning clear in a few words: we have become pretty well acquainted during our sojourn, and I have no hesitation in asking you, Miss Boland, to become my wife. Will you do so?"
If we had been on foot the reader would be justified in surmising that we fell into each other's arms after the usual manner of lovers when one of the most important questions of life is asked; but as we were on horseback in the open plain the scene was varied—our horses edged closely to each other, we clasped our right hands, leaned over in our saddles and exchanged a kiss, and after the kiss was exchanged Miss Boland uttered the single word "Yes."