GREYBEARDS AND THE CHICKEN 95 the size of vrens', and, indeed, were already inhabited.

Not that the Sudanese fowls, being of the ordinary African type, can claim an enormous advantage over the wren in point of weight. Dry of flesh, too, and scraggy of body, they are invariably tough as rhinoceros hide, partly owing to the habit of killing them just before meal-time.

A startling agility is exhibited when they are chased, and at Singa I once witnessed a ridiculous sight. Two ancient and skinny greybeards, their few rags flying behind in the breeze, coursed full tilt across the square at top speed, spears in hand but reversed, in the wake of a nimble but very small fowl. The fowl doubled smartly, and " Father Abraham," following suit, missed his footing and rolled head over heels in the dust. All the dignity remained with the chicken, which flew to a roof-top and justifiably crowed ! Piggy was out for an airing one day, and strolled along in his usual casual fashion. He unfortunately took too long in investigating me, and fell a victim, owing to fresh meat being wanted for the men. It gave an opportunity of witnessing the terrible destructive effects of the expanding •400 bullet. I wounded him badly at first, but had to take a flying shot as he went off*, to stop him. The bullet, coming from behind, completely destroyed one hind-quarter, causing a rent a foot long, and blowing a large piece out at the exit.