CHAPTER IX. 



OUR BATTERY A TROPICAL STORM. 



As the night was cool, and a nice invigorating 

 breeze had sprung up, after a short outspan, we 

 resolved to renew our journey, but as we had 

 tramped as far as inclination prompted us, both 

 adjourned to my conveyance to inspect some of 

 our heretofore unpacked armanent, in case chafing 

 should have occurred to any of the guns through 

 the oscillation or swing of the waggon-box. For- 

 tunately we had not suffered in this respect, although 

 each weapon had been inspected by the custom- 

 house officers at Port Elizabeth, and they or their 

 employers could scarcely be expected to return our 

 treasures to their cases with the same care as had 

 been bestowed upon them by their respective makers. 

 My ship of the desert was very snug inside, com- 

 fortable, and far from unattractive in fine weather, 

 so we dawdled in our occupation. If the reader 

 likes, we will admit him into our confidence ; for if, 

 at some future period, he should wish to do the 

 same, he may derive some knowledge which may 



