THE EVACUATION OF THE SOUDAN. 349 all they came across, till the survivors had reached the shelter of a fort which Baker had erected hard by Trinkitat, for the protection of the transports. The Turkish and Nubian soldiers were the only ones who showed any fight, but they were swept away by the tumultuous retreat of their Egyptian comrades.

Nearly two-thirds of the whole force were killed or taken prisoners. Four Krupp guns and two Gatling guns were left in the hands of the enemy. Of the European officers six English and five Italian were killed in gallant but hopeless efforts to rally their terror-stricken troops. What was left of Baker's army was embarked at once on the transports, and proceeded next day to Suakin, where the news of the Dervish victory at El Teb created such excitement amidst the Arab population that it became more than doubtful whether the Egyptian troops under Baker s command could either maintain order within the city or protect it against attack from without.

In consequence, Suakin, with the sanction of both the British and Egyptian Governments, was handed over to Admiral Hewett, who garrisoned it with British marines and sailors, and employed the Egyptian soldiers to work in strengthening the fortifications.

Immediately after Suakin had been placed under British administration, news arrived that Sinkat had been captured by the Dervishes, and the garrison cut to pieces. The capture of Sinkat was followed within a fortnight by the capitulation of Tokar.