So as the Black Elephant was growing more and more enraged
under the stirrings up of Imbozwi, it was obvious that that evening's
ceremony must be performed. Indeed, as it was part of his duty to
superintend the erection of the posts to which we were to be tied and
the digging of our graves at their bases, he had just come to count us
again to be sure that he had not made any mistake as to the number.
Also, if there were any articles that we would like buried with us,
would we be so kind as to point them out and he would be sure to see
to the matter. It would be soon over, and not painful, he added, as he
had selected the very best archers in Beza Town who rarely missed and
could, most of them, send an arrow up to the feather into a buffalo.
Then he chatted a little about other matters, as to where he should
find the magic shield I had given him, which he would always value as
a souvenir, etc., took a pinch of snuff with Mavovo and departed,
saying that he would be sure to return again at the proper time.
It was now four o'clock, and as Sammy was quite beyond it, Stephen
made himself some tea.
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