A LOST HOTTENTOT. 307 



There was no mistaking that answer, and once more the two looked at each other 

 with something like consternation. 



The loss of a horse was a grievous one, but considerably less so than the loss 

 of the owner of the horse would have been. 



" Where is Diedrick ? " shouted Dick. " I've lost him, too." 



Before his friends could ask the meaning of this alarming declaration, Bob 

 explained that they had become separated, and he did not know where to look for 

 the Hottentot. 



It followed that it was hard work for Bob to pick his way through the grass, 

 which offered such obstruction to the animals, and the party rode toward him. The 

 youths frequently called to each other, and in this way approached in a direct line. 

 In the course of fifteen or twenty minutes the figure of the lad was discerned labor- 

 ing forward under the Burden of his heavy rifle and the saddle and bridle of his 

 dead horse. 



All were so glad to s*s him alive and well that the loss of his steed seemed a 

 small matter, since they had extra animals. 



Bob told his thrilling story, and Dick gave an account of what had befallen 

 them since the separation. It was then arranged that the saddle and bridle should 

 be secured upon the horse of Jack that is, merely for the purpose of being carried 

 as a part of the luggage of the party, while Bob himself should mount behind Dick. 



It need not be said that his seat was lacking in comfort, but he could support 

 himself very well by throwing one arm about his friend, who sat securely in the 

 saddle, besides which the cousins could exchange situations whenever they chose. 



The question now was as to the whereabouts of the Hottentot. He had van- 

 ished so suddenly, and kept out of sight so persistently, that the boys were afraid 

 some accident had befallen him. The Texan, however, felt little anxiety on his 

 account. 



" He understands the country and himself well enough to pull through any 

 scrape he is likely to run into," said the Texan. 



The boys wished they could share the faith of Jack Harvey, but were unable 

 to do so. 



