They dismounted, and while their horses were left to feed as best they could on the veldt, they flung themselves down to have a much-needed rest. Pipes were filled and lighted, then most of them lay on their backs and smoked enjoyably while they looked at the deep blue space overhead. No one spoke, they were too tired for that; possibly each one had plenty to think about as they lay there. They had accomplished their purpose and wiped out a few of the general enemy. They had also taken time by the forelock, and had not much fear of being stopped on the railway, no matter what telegraphic messages were sent on before them. Kruger had his spies in Rhodesia as he had elsewhere, but these agents were known, and could be kept back by those who were working this affair. Dr Jim had the most to think about, for after Bulawayo was reached he had a long distance to ride before he could drop his disguise and feel safe. Our heroes also would run most risks. But they had a fearless and keen-brained man to guide them and think for them; they felt they had not much to fear. The sky was rapidly changing from deep orange to ruddy violet when Dr Jim roused himself, and said-- "I say, Lawson, you had better ride in advance, and get things ready for us. We'll be after you in half an hour." One of the Boer-like men rose lazily and walked over to his horse; then mounting, he cantered easily off into the dusk. Half an hour later, the ebon sky was clustered with stars; then the company got up and resumed their journey. When they reached Palla they found the station clear of all except the railway officials, and the engine ready for starting. Their horses were put into a couple of boxes behind them. Together they entered the comfortable saloon, where a good supper was waiting for them. While they were enjoying this, the train was running along smoothly at about forty miles per hour, and all their troubles over for the present. They made no stops, but glided on smoothly through the night. When they woke the train was slackening speed, and the bright morning sun once more lit up the level veldt and glistened on the zinc roofs of Bulawayo. They had arrived at the present termination of the Chartered Company's latest and most gigantic enterprise. CHAPTER EIGHTEEN. THE RIDE TO SALISBURY. There was no chance of letters getting in before them, while as for telegraphic messages, it was too early yet for such to be delivered. As they rolled into the station they saw no one about, except the station-master and one sleepy porter. The town had not yet woken up, as they could see from the lack of wood smoke issuing from any of the chimneys.