294 
AFEICAN HUNTING. 
Puller told me that he overheard them saying what 
they would do when Sechele had gone ; but I am 
always slow to believe such stories, as I have been 
among the Kaffirs of every tribe and nation for the 
last seven years, and have never been actually mo¬ 
lested by them. 
Lopepes Vley. — Last night the lions paid us a 
visit, frightening Sechele’s oxen out of the kraal, 
and killing two within ten yards of one another, but 
a good way off from the wagons. I and twenty 
Bechuanas, all with guns, had a long unsuccessful 
hunt after them this morning, following the spoor to 
within forty yards of some very dense reeds ; and I 
feel sure they are safely housed there now. Sechele 
and his men fired two volleys among the reeds; but 
I told him it was only powder and lead thrown 
away. I bought about 100 lbs. of ivory from Se¬ 
chele, on pretty good terms, as I can make about 
200 per cent, profit on it. This will help to pay my 
losses, or his exorbitant demands. We intend to 
remain here three days, to refresh the oxen, as the 
road from here is very heavy, and we shall find no 
water for three days. 
8tli [Sunday). — I am now all anxiety to get to 
Sechele’s State, hearing that the German mission¬ 
aries, who went down for their wives, and by whom I 
sent two letters, have returned, and I am longing to 
receive a batch of home news. It is now eighteen 
months since I heard a word, even indirectly, from 
my friends. As soon as I reach Kapong, four hard, 
