"The poor horses have got the worst of it.

But we're all starving, and choked with thirst." "We can manage water for you," said the Major; "but I'm afraid to say anything about food." "Never mind," said Denham cheerfully; and then he seemed to turn away, for his voice sounded distant as he said--to the men with him, of course--"Tighten your belts another hole, lads.

We'll forage for food to-morrow." "That we will," cried the Major; and then out of the darkness came the trampling of horses' feet, followed by a few neighs, which were answered from where the horses stood together in the court.

Meanwhile I tried to get to the front, but could not, and had to wait till the men began to file in after the homes; but at last I heard Denham's voice again.
"Not a bad wound ?" he said.
"A nasty but clean cut from some Boer who had one of our swords." "But tell me," said Denham eagerly--"young Val Moray?
Did he get in safely ?" "Any one would think he was a cousin or brother," said the Major pettishly.

"Yes, he managed all right, after giving up his horse to the Colonel and getting him in after he had been down." "Val did ?" cried Denham eagerly.