They were still too exhausted, however, to walk briskly, and therefore lay down among some thick bushes until they should feel equal to setting out on the long tramp to rejoin their companions.

After lying for a couple of hours Malchus rose to his feet, and issuing from the bushes looked round.

He had resumed his armour and sword.

As he stepped out a sudden shout arose, and he saw within a hundred yards of him a body of natives some hundred strong approaching.
They had already caught sight of him.
"Nessus," he exclaimed, without looking round, "lie still.

I am seen, and shall be taken in a minute.