ON THE CREST OF THE HILL. 



123 



Further inspection showed that the head of the animal was shaped like that of the 

 wild ass, while his mane and tail were those of the horse. Several black bands 

 about the head suggest that the oryx continually wears a stall-collar. 



One of the most notable characteristics of the oryx is its horns, which are a yard 

 in length, ringed at the base, curving very slightly backward, and of a glossy black 

 color. These constitute the most effective of weapons, as our friends were destined 

 to learn sooner than they anticipated. 



The female's appearance differs from that of the male only in height, which is a 

 few inches less, and in the horns, which are more dainty and tapering. These are 



THE AFRICAN ELEPHANT. 



so exactly similar that when the oryx is viewed from the side, it appears to have 

 but a single one. 



I am going for them," Jac.. abruptly declared ; " they are so slight in size and 

 strength that the question of danger doesn't enter into the business." 



"You will think different if you run against those horns, which are as bad as the 

 tusks of the wild boar." 



" I don't see any need of running against them," quietly replied the Texan, " for 

 I judge the critters won't attack us." 



" They are not apt to unless driven at bay." 



Although the elevated situation of the party rendered them conspicuous, there 

 were no evidences that they had attracted the attention of any of the animals in 

 sight. 



