"And what takes you so far from home?" queried the veldt-cornet.
"We settlers hunt sometimes," suggested Jack.
"But not without weapons. Where is your rifle?" demanded Steyn.
"The country is under martial law," replied Jack.
"The rooineks' law," sneered Steyn.
"As you say," observed Jack diplomatically.
"You mean that you have lost or mislaid your rifle?" queried Steyn.
"I had an adventure with lions," said Jack. "I——" Our hero hesitated, and then added, "I will join you."
"Spoken like a man!" cried the veldt-cornet. "Maartens, the roan mare and a Mauser for the youngster, before he changes his mind."
"The mare is quiet, I trust?" asked Jack.