DEATH OF GENERAL SIR HERBERT STEWART. 201 Abu-Klea was a difficult and dangerous place for a small force to hold against the host of the enemy, for, as we have seen, the seriba was on low or level ground surrounded by hills, the occupation of which could only be effected by a considerable number of troops, while the enemy concealed amidst the heights could keep up a constant, deadly, and harassing fire from their long-range rifles. As a large force of the Arabs had followed General Duller on the march they were able to take up a threatening position around his camp at Abu-Klea, where he was compelled to avoid a general engagement. Even if he could have stimulated the enemy to come out and fi<rht he could not risk adding to the number of the wounded, for he had so few camels that he was compelled to wait for the return of those that had gone on with the convoy to Gakdul on the 15th.

Alas, on the day following their departure (the 1 6th February), just as that convoy came to a halt at the end of the day's march, the general who had led the desert column from Korti passed into the silent land. For some time it had been feared — had been expected — that the effects of the wound he had received must be fatal, and he had himself felt from the first that he would not live to reach England. All that was mortal of the brave and beloved general was carried to Gakdul on the 17th of February, and on the afternoon of that day his grave was made in the solitude of the desert, where his body was laid by his sorrowing comrades and with military honours, amidst a scene so impressive that it was not to be forgotten by any of those who were present.

The following despatch was sent by Lord Wolseley to the secretary of state for war: — "Korti, February 22, 1885. — My Lord, — I have the honour to forward herewith Colonel Talbot's report of the death of Major-general Sir Flerbert Stewart, K.C.B., an event which has deprived her Majesty of one of her bravest soldiers and most brilliant leaders, and has caused amongst all ranks of the army of the Soudan the most genuine and heart-felt sorrow. Few commanders have succeeded to a greater degree than Sir Herbert Stewart in winningf the affection of those who served with or under him, whilst his many and high military