342 WITH KITCHEN'ER IN THE SOUDAN and attacked the town, but was driven off with a loss of five hundred men. He is now eight miles from the town. The place is unhealthy, and although it can be defended. Colonel Parsons has asked for reinforcements to enable him to attack Padil.’

“ That is good news indeed. We have all been extremely anxious, for there was no doubt that Colonel Parsons’ force was wholly inadequate for the purpose. How long is it since you left ? ” About forty-six hours, sir.” “Indeed! that seems almost impossible, Mr. Hilliard.” “We started at eleven o’clock in the morning, sir, and rode on donkeys to Mugatta, where I had left my camels ; arrived there at eight, and started an hour later on the camels. We rode till nine o’clock the next day, halted till five, and have just arrived here. The camels were excellent beasts, and travelled a good six miles an hour. I did not press them, as I knew that if we arrived opposite the town at night, we should have difficulty in getting across the river.”

“It was a great ride, afreat achievement! You must be hungry as well as tired. I will tell my man to get you some breakfast at once. You can eat it while I read this despatch. Then I may have a few questions to ask you. After that you had better turn in till evening.”

Gregory enjoyed his breakfast with the luxuries of tinned fruit after his rough fare for the past fortnight. When he went to the General’s room again the latter said : “ Colonel Parsons’ despatches are very full, and I think I quite understand the situation. Ho praise is too high for the conduct of his officers and troops. All seemed to have behaved equally well, and he mentions the gallant part you took in the defence of the baggage with Captain Ruthven and the doctor, and only some thirty-four soldiers of the camel corps. How I will not detain you longer. I hope you will dine with me this evening; I should like to hear more of the affair.”