CHAPTER XXXI

Summary

As Mr. Archbell found it necessary to make a very short stay, and having myself left home without any intention of travelling half so far, I informed his savage majesty that my visit must also be short, as my family and friends at the Kuruman would suppose that evil had befallen me on a road where there was little other company than beasts of prey. This was all very reasonable, but he contrived, with no little artifice and persuasion, to detain me ten days. During this period, I had frequent interviews with him, but I was not favourably situated for obtaining a knowledge of his real character, for not a soul in his dominions dared breathe a syllable that was not calculated to set him forth as the best and noblest of beings, immaculate in his actions, the very perfection of all that was lovely, just, and good, possessing a power which could hurl the mountains from their foundations; and finally, that his smile was life, while his frown scattered horror and death. However, I learned something of his disposition from the attendants of the chiefs who had visited the Kuruman, and who were permitted to remain at my wagons, with additions to their number, to serve or carry messages, but in reality to watch our movements, and take cognizance of all intercourse between myself and the natives. They were nevertheless very obedient to my suggestions, for when I wanted quietness, I had only to hold up my finger to signify who I wished should go, or who remain.