294 



IN THE GRIP OF THE NYIKA CHAP. 



on the alert, as lions, on their way to the waterholes, 

 were roaring in all directions round our camp. 

 Sometimes, indeed, they gave a low sinister growl 

 quite close at hand, so, as I did not want anyone to 

 be carried off if such an accident could be avoided, 

 I kept a good fire going and two sentries on the 





THE COOK'S TENT. 



look-out. Once, while visiting the askaris, I caught 

 a glimpse of one of these lions stalking through 

 the bushes towards the tents; he saw me, however, 

 and was off again before I had time to cover him with 

 my rifle. 



At about 4 A.M. B. seemed 'to be sleeping quietly 

 and peacefully, so I went to the cook's tent and, 



