We'll both bend and break it to-night." We sat talking for a bit, and watched the Boers till they were quite invisible.

Then we could do nothing but wait for orders, no one believing that any attack would be made by our mounted enemy.

However, about an hour after it was quite dark an alarm was suddenly given; but every man was on the alert, and the entrances to our fort were doubly strengthened.

For there was the sound of shouts and horses thundering over the plain towards the fort; and at last the order was given to fire, a sharp fusillade ringing out in the horsemen's direction.

It had its effect, for the enemy turned and galloped away, the sounds of their retreat rapidly dying out; and all seemed quiet till one of the defenders of the gap in the wall challenged, with the customary "Halt! or I fire!" "Um!" cried a familiar voice.