It was true that they still had the pass signed by the Boer general, but after what had occurred not unnaturally they were somewhat sceptical about the value of a pass, and certainly most unwilling to put its efficacy to the proof.
So after due consideration they determined to avoid Standerton and ride in the opposite direction till they found a practicable ford of the Vaal.

Fortunately, they both of them had a very good idea of the lay of the land; and, in addition to this, John possessed a small compass, fastened to his watch-chain, which would enable him to steer a fairly correct course across a veldt--a fact that rendered them independent of the waggon tracks.

On the roads they were exposed to the risk, if not the certainty, of detection.

But on the wide veldt the chances were they would meet no living creature except the wild game.

Should they see houses they could avoid them, and probably their male inhabitants would be far away from home on business connected with the war.
Accordingly they rode ten miles or more along the bank without seeing a soul, till they reached a space of bubbling, shallow water that looked fordable.