8o THE SHIKARI 



streaks for cover, when one gets a snap-shot in as at 

 a rabbit — more often than not planking the whole 

 charge in some tree, the Httle beggars being very- 

 quick to take advantage of any cover. 



Another excellent way of obtaining the small bush- 

 haunting antelope is to find out from the natives 

 when they are organizing a drive and join it, 

 getting one of the head-boys to put you in a good 

 position. 



These drives are extremely interesting apart from 

 the sport that may be obtained. The modus operandi 

 is usually for a stretch of country to be surrounded 

 on three sides ; most of the natives squat in convenient 

 spots with their bows and arrows ready, and a few 

 drive through the bush with the dogs on the fourth 

 side, these men also being armed to take any game 

 that may break back. At times this sport is quite 

 exciting, for one never knows what may break cover, 

 as it may be bird, antelope, pig, or even leopard ; 

 and a regular mixed bag often results. 



The natives of course have the advantage, shooting 

 with the silent bow, and it is fascinating to watch 

 the man nearest you, who is squatting on the ground, 

 a few arrows laid by his side and the bow with an 

 arrow strung, watching intently the bush in front of 

 him. Slowly he raises and bends his weapon, and as 

 silently the arrow speeds on its mission of death ; 

 perhaps he has missed, when he rapidly strings 

 another and takes aim again, or more likely he has 



