My _impi_ is afar, and that of Hafela is at our gates.

Yonder in the valley, though we be few, we can defend ourselves till succour reaches us, which already messengers have gone out to seek.

But first we must give time for the women and children, the sick and the aged, to withdraw with food and cattle; and this we can do in one way only, by keeping Hafela at bay till they have passed the archway, all of them.

Now, soldiers, for the sake of your own lives, of your honour and of those you love, swear to me, in the holy Name which we have been taught to worship, that you will fight out this great fight without fear or faltering." "We swear it in the holy Name, and by your head, King," roared the regiments.
"Then victory is already ours," answered Nodwengo.

"Follow me, Children of Fire!" and shaking his great spear, he led the way towards that portion of the outer fence upon which Hafela was advancing.
By now the town behind them was a scene of almost indescribable tumult and confusion, for the companies detailed to the task were clearing the numberless huts of their occupants, and collecting women, children and oxen in thousands, preparatory to driving them into the defile.