before we could reload, a particular schanz, of which perhaps the first
builders had fallen, would be raised so high that our slugs could no
longer hurt those who lay behind it. Also, our supply of ammunition was
limited, and the constant expenditure wasted it so much that at length
only about six charges per man remained. At last, indeed, I was obliged
to order the firing to cease, so that we might reserve ourselves for the
great rush which could not now be much delayed.

Finding that they were no longer harassed by our bullets, the Quabies
advanced more rapidly, directing their attack upon the south end of the
house, where there was but one window, and thus avoiding the fire that
might be poured upon them from the various openings under the veranda.
At first I wondered why they selected this end, till Marie reminded me
that this part of the dwelling was thatched with reeds, whereas the rest
of the building, which had been erected more recently, was slated.

Their object was to fire the roof. So soon as their last wall was near
enough (that is, about half-past ten of the clock) they began to throw
into the thatch assegais to which were attached bunches of burning
grass. Many of these went out, but at length, as we gathered from their
shouts, one caught. Within ten minutes this part of the house was
burning.

Now our state became desperate. We retreated across the central
passage, fearing lest the blazing rafters should fall upon our natives,
who were losing heart and would no longer stay beneath them. But the
Quabies, more bold, clambered in through the south window, and attacked
us in the doorway of the larger sitting-room.

Here the final fight began. As they rushed at us we shot, till they