1 88 



THE HUNTER'S ARCADIA. 



to show that they took some interest in our occupa- 

 tion, for both, after nosing about as if their curiosity 

 had been excited, went to the front and disappeared 

 into the adjacent covert. Tracking here became 

 impossible, so there was nothing for it but to wait 

 for the dogs to give indication that they had found 

 the game, which every one of the natives, judging 

 from the expectant expression of their countenances, 

 confidently hoped they would do. 



In a few minutes a whimper was heard, soon after 

 several, and then the curs opened up a chorus in grand 

 style. At this signal off went the darkies to their 

 dogs as fast as their legs could carry them, heed- 

 less alike of brush and thorn. I never pretended to 

 be much of a runner myself, so soon was out of the 

 crowd; but " Chummy," who deems himself " some 

 pumpkins " in this description of manly exercise, 

 nevertheless did not get so far in front of me as to 

 prevent my availing myself of the openings made 

 through the bush by his stalwart figure. It was 

 desperately hot work, and in consequence I was 

 perfectly bathed in perspiration, and my eyes almost 

 blinded with sweat ; still I pushed forward, deter- 

 mined, if possible, to see or assist at the death of 

 the plucky old boar. 



