238 THE LAND OF THE LION 



unknown epidemic sweeps away the herds, as is always 

 possible on this continent, this would seem to be the sana- 

 torium of the Protectorate. Alas, in so highly favoured a 

 region small place, I fear me, may be found for these children 

 who for ages have possessed it, and who have fought bravely 

 and often paid dearly in blood the price of its possession. 



