DISCOVER A RHINOCEROS. 207 



we proceeded, and about the middle of the afternoon, we 

 found ourselves once more amidst the jungles, and in the 

 vicinity of all kinds of Indian game. The few inhabitants 

 we met, belonged to the rude tribe called Bheels. They 

 were known to be warlike, and fond of nocturnal maraud- 

 ing expeditions ; but we were well-armed, and did not care 

 for their favor or hostility. 



As we were riding watchfully through the luxuriant 

 and fragrant forest, an almost naked Bheel suddenly ap- 

 peared in front, and, in much alarm, informed us that he 

 had seen a huge rhinoceros in a thicket a quarter of a mile 

 ahead. He spoke in a language which one of our Parsees 

 interpreted to us. The fellow was armed only with a 

 short spear. We directed him to guide us to the spot ; 

 but prepared for treachery. Cautiously, and with sight 

 and nerves at the utmost strain, we followed the Bheel, 

 frdm grove to grove, till, as we neared a thicket which 

 seemed to put an effectual check to our further progress, 

 a quick rustle was heard among the leaves, and before we 

 had time to check the horses, a monstrous rhinoceros 

 charged out upon us. With a fear-spurred agility, the 

 Bheel turned back, and sprang upon a horse behind one 

 of the Parsees. Experience had given Mr. Barrill and I a 

 high degree of presence of mind, and, while our servants 

 instantly turned and fled, we took the best aim possible 

 under the circumstances, fired, and then dodged aside, 



