However, it was not so fated." "I was going to ride up and bid farewell when the oxen were inspanned," I answered.

"But who is that man ?" "You will find out presently, Macumazahn.

Look, my father is beckoning to us." So I went on to the circle, and as I advanced Umbezi rose and, taking me by the hand, led me to the big man, saying: "This is Masapo, chief of the Amansomi, of the Quabe race, who desires to know you, Macumazahn." "Very kind of him, I am sure," I replied coolly, as I threw my eye over Masapo.

He was, as I have said, a big man, and of about fifty years of age, for his hair was tinged with grey.

To be frank, I took a great dislike to him at once, for there was something in his strong, coarse face, and his air of insolent pride, which repelled me.