94 WITH KITCHENEK IN THE SOUDAN ing to the fact that, even did we make an advance south from here with the intention of cutting off his retreat to Khartoum, he would be able to reach Metemmeh before we could get there.

“Undoubtedly, a British general, if commanding a force constituted as Mahmud’s is, would make a dash across the desert and fall upon us, unless indeed he felt certain that after the difficulties we encountered last time we attempted to take the desert route, we should be certain to advance by the river step by step, continuing the policy that we have followed since we began to push forward from Assouan. Mahmud is in a very difficult position. He is controlled by his father at Khartoum. Among those with him are many important Emirs, men of almost equal rank with himself, and he could hardly hope that whatever decision he might personally arrive at would be generally accepted by all ; and those who opposed him would do so with all the more force as they could declare that in making any movement he was acting in opposition to his father’s orders. However, our total ignorance as to Mahmud’s plans and intentions is most unfortunate; but it can hardly be helped, for naturally the natives coming down from Kordofan give Metemmeh a very wide berth. As to sending up any of the natives here to find out what is going on, it is out of the question, for they would be detected at. once, as their language is so different from that of the Baggara.”

Later on the General retired to his quarters. Gregory went there. “Can I speak to you for a few minutes, sir?” he asked.

“ Certainly, Mr. Hilliard. What can I do for you ? ” “ I have been thinking over what you were saying regarding information as to Mahmud’s intentions. With your permission I am ready to undertake to go into his camp, and to find out what the general opinion is as to his plans.”

“ Impossible, Mr. Hilliard ! I admire your courage in making the offer, but it would be going to certain death.”