184 WITH KITCHENER IN THE SOUDAN Instead of provoking a pistol-shot, as he had intended, his remark was followed by a roar of laughter from the emirs, for Osman’s cowardice was a byword among them, and his nickname was “ One who always runs.” Osman indeed had put his hand on the stock of one of the pistols in his belt, but Mahmud said imperiously, The man’s life is mine, not yours, Osman Digna. If you shoot him, I shoot you I ” The fearlessness of the lad had pleased the other emirs, for, recklessly brave themselves, the Baggara appreciated and esteemed courage and honour. One of the others said ; “ This is a brave young fellow, and infidels as his people are, we admit that they are brave. Were it for ourselves only, we would say let him live until we see what comes of it. But our people complain. They say his folk, with whom we had no quarrel, come here and aid the Egyptians against us. They slew many yesterday. It is not right that this man should be living among us when his countrymen are fighting against us.”

There was a murmur of assent among the others, then Mahmud spoke. I have promised that he should not be killed unless by order of the Khalifa. But this I will do: he shall be placed in the front rank. If Allah wills it, he will be killed by the bullets of his countrymen. If when the fight is over he is unharmed, you shall all agree that the matter be left for the Khalifa to decide. But, mind, I wash my hands of his death. On the eve of a battle it is not for me to set my wishes above those of my emirs and my tribesmen, and I yield to your demands because it is necessary that all be of one mind. If he is killed, which surely he will be unless Allah protects him, his blood be upon your heads ! ” He waved his hand, and the men came forward and again took Gregory to his tent. The latter was well contented with the decision that he should be killed. He had no doubt that at least his death would be swift and sudden; he would not be speared or cut to pieces with knives. He would see his countrymen advancing ; he would know that he would be