HUNTING THE ELEPHANT. 139 



* lopes, of the kind called blesbok, and away we went in 

 chase at full speed. The fleet animals led us for about 

 three miles over the plain, and then took shelter on one 

 side of a rocky ridge, where we found it impossible to 

 cross. Thus were we completely defeated ; but with com- 

 mendable resignation we immediately turned our attention 

 to waking up other game. 



Night was gradually approaching, flinging long sha- 

 dows on the ground. We saw no antelope, and were about 

 to take the return track, when a crashing noise, far to our 

 right, caused us to check our horses. What a sight for 

 our bloods ! Beating and slashing among a grove of 

 mimosa were two elephants. The next moment revealed 

 three, and the next four of these lords of the plains, 

 evidently full grown. I need not attempt to say with 

 what thrill of excitement we concerted a plan of at- 

 tack. We knew it was a venture more critical than any 

 we had ever yet dared. Encountering the ferocious 

 grizzly bear of the Rocky Mountains was comparatively 

 safe. But we were determined to conquer or perish in 

 the effort. Briefly, Mr. Barrill, who had gained much 

 information in regard to the nature and habits of the 

 elephant, gave me instructions, thus : 



" The elephant entertains an extraordinary dread of 

 man, and is therefore difficult to approach. Happily we 

 have the wind in our favor, and so may get close enough 



