"We want all our rifles to be speaking as we retire." Just then a thought struck me.
"He must be carried," I said.
"It can't be done, sir," was the reply.

"The men can't be spared.

One of us must have him in front of the saddle as we retreat." "No, no," I said.

"Here, wait a minute .-- Joeboy!" I shouted, and, shield and assagai in hand, the black dashed to my side as if to defend me from some attack.
"Can you carry this officer on your back down the valley, Joeboy ?" I said.
"Um!" was the prompt reply.

"You take my spears." "Yes.