CHAPTER XIV.

Formation of a zeriba Sir Herbert mortally wounded Seven hours under fire Advance of the square Action of Abu Kru The Nile at last.

THE country we were now on was a vast gravelly slope, covered with scrub and tussocks, evidently reaching in the distance down to the Nile, though we could not yet see it. We hoped to strike it unseen by the enemy some way below Metemmeh, so as to get water and rest awhile before attacking.

But our hopes were disappointed. As we advanced, the Hussars brought in word that crowds of Arabs were scattered about the bush, and had already opened fire on them. The column still moved on, but when about four miles off the river (still invisible) such numbers of sharpshooters were seen in the grass round about, that the General determined to rest and feed the men a bit before engaging the enemy. Accordingly, the column was closed up and