102 THE WAR IN THE SOUDAN.

reach their friends. He points out that they can cross the desert direct to Merawi, and promises to provide camels to transport the whole forty-two men. It is a tempting offer. True, it is a terrible ride. A hundred and sixty miles lie between them and Merawi, and it is through that terrible Bahiuda desert. Still it can be traversed in a week by hard riding. And Suleiman is friendly. They accept the offer. The whole party disembark and are escorted to the tent of the Sheikh, a blind old man named Fakrietman, who receives them cordially.

The rest is sad news. They all go unarmed except Colonel Stewart who carries a small revolver in his belt. Presently Suleiman makes a sign, and immediately those standing by divide into two parties and fall upon the strangers. Swords, spears, and muskets are used. Colonel Stewart is one of the first killed. A few throw themselves into the river and escape. The rest are shot or drown.

So ended this little expedition. Gordon is now left quite alone. Un¬ friended by his country, bereft of his friends, he has now single-handed to renew the conflict with his foes.

GOVERNMENT HOUSE, KHARTOUM.