He pointed as he spoke to a large number of horsemen galloping across the country from different directions, towards us.  They halted outside the wood, and several of them appeared to be wounded; but they did not allow themselves to exhibit any sign of suffering.  Having taken the saddles and bridles from their horses, the greater number led them down towards the water to drink; while six, who, from their more ornamental dresses, appeared to be chiefs, advanced towards us.  Their principal man, or head chief, spoke to us; but as we could not understand what he said, we knew that it would be useless to reply.  He then pointed to Mike and me, and addressed a few words to his companions.  They nodded, and we were led to separate trees, to which we were bound, with our hands secured behind us in a very unpleasant fashion.