1 92 WITH THE CAMEL CORPS UP THE NILE.

What was to be done ? It was no use waiting for instructions from Korti, for they might be weeks coming, and meanwhile we should probably be attacked. Obviously the only thing was to fortify our position still more strongly and wait the course of events. The only question was whether we should still further weaken our small force by sending back a convoy and escort for more stores. As, however, it was not for us personally to determine that knotty point, we dropped it, and discussed the main question in all its bearings. What a slap in the face this would be for the Government ! Was Gordon alive or dead ? If alive, he must be got hold of somehow.

Government must be kicked out for this ! Wonder how many niggers will go for us at once, and when ? How this will raise the natives' spirits all over the country ! Hope Wolseley has got his plans cut and dried, even for this emergency ! How disgusting to be just too late ! And many more futile questions and remarks. We had to talk in whispers, for the men were not to be told on any account yet, though it would not be long before they must learn the news.

Orders speedily came for all hands to set to work