TIANG 
87 
even so slight a signal escaped observation by the 
watchful tiang far beyond. Several at once faced directly 
round, and suspicion deepened in their minds to certainty 
when the intrusive bushbuck bounded away. Fifteen 
long minutes slowly elapsed ere those acute suspicions 
began to relax and then some of the tiang laid down. 
Three sentries still gazed fixedly; despite which I then 
wormed a serpent-like advance to the outmost tree, whose 
triple bole afforded a scant but welcome screen. Beyond, 
it was impossible to move a single inch. I therefore 
adjusted sights to 300 yards and was preparing a “rest” 
on the friendly trunk when I observed the whole troop 
suddenly face the other way. The recumbent animals 
sprang up, and it was evident that some fresh alarm 
threatened from beyond. I therefore reserved my fire, in 
the hope that the disturbed troop might retreat my way. 
Presumably they would have done so, but alas! that 
“ bushbuck-signal ” still lingered cogent in their minds 
—wild creatures never forget—and the whole herd, 
purposely avoiding the danger-spot, galloped off wide to 
my left, entering the timber far beyond range. 
On standing up, I observed half a mile away a dozen 
Shilluks, with dogs, directly beyond the spot where the 
tiang had been standing. Presumably these savages 
would have, unconsciously, driven the game right into 
my face . . . but for that thrice-blessed bushbuck! 
An hour’s walk revealed the fugitive herd on a wide 
forest-open, moving straight down-wind, thus involving 
another two-mile detour. This circuit placed us on their 
flank to leeward, as they skirted the trees. Shortly we 
were, for ten seconds, within 100 yards; but so thickly 
grew the bush at that point that no clear shot offered, 
and we were fain to forego that chance and follow on 
once more. 
Then, at last, the long-delayed opportunity arrived. 
The forest ran out in a long tongue and, hurrying to its 
apex, I found myself within shot. The tiang, not having 
