midday
Presently the girl returned with the message that all was prepared . She walked from the kraal to find her mare , which had been well fed and groomed by Tamboosa , who had seen horses in Natal , and knew how they should be treated , saddled and waiting , whilst before and behind it , arranged as on the previous day , stood the warriors , who received her in dead , respectful silence . She mounted , and the procession went forward . With a two hours ' halt at midday they marched on over hill and dale , passing many villages of beehive-shaped huts . As they came the inhabitants of these places deserted them and fled , crying _ `` Nomkubulwana ! Nomkubulwana ! '' _ It was evident to Rachel that the tale of the death of the Isanuzi had preceded her , and they feared lest , should they cross her path , her fate would be their fate .