MESSAGES FROM THE MAHDI. 121 the interpreter being present at the interview with Khashm, to whom the men (one of whom was his relation, Sheikh Abulata) had brought two letters, one promising him the Mahdi's pardon if he submitted, and the other threatening him with everlasting punishment if he remained loyal to the English. " You are aware that we have been trying to save you, and that you were trying to destroy yourselves. After the wreck of the steamer yesterday—(the letter was dated ' 15th Rabia the second, 1302,' which represents ist February 1885), you sent a boat to Metammeh to call the English to your assistance. Should the boat be destined to get there safely, and should the English come and take you with them to Europe, Rome, and Constantinople, remember that we shall conquer all the same, as it has been foretold by our Prophet; peace be unto him. If you live long enough you will see the troops of the Mahdi spreading over Europe, Rome, and Constantinople, after which there will be nothing left for you but hell and damnation."

This letter was addressed from Muhammed-el-Mabarsi, and Muhammed Mansur to Khashm-el-Mus, Abd-ul-Hamid, and Muhammed Abud; and probably the promise of restoration decided Abd-ul-Hamid to desert, which he did soon afterwards, with some of his men, aided by the Greek who had brought Gordon's letters, and like many of his countrymen played double that he might be comparatively safe whatever happened.

Khashm was proof against the message, and told his relation that he meant to keep to the English, who would in two days be at the island to protect him and his companions, at the same time asking the messengers whether they thought any force sent by the Mahdi could take the seriba. The Shagiyeh, who admitted that Stuart-Wortley had safely passed the batteries, replied to a question of Khashm, that they should remain neutral if English troops came up the river. Again Khashm refused to surrender unless the Mahdi sent him a letter under his own seal promising him protection and safety. Ten of Khashm's personal followers were sent off to Halfiyeh to get information about Khartum and the fate of Gordon, the rumour of whose death the Shagiyeh had confirmed.