d
on the skyline all round, giving unmistakable warning that the tribes
were gathering in large numbers.

From the information brought me by the Cavalry, and from my own
examination of the ground, I decided to advance along the left bank of
the river: and to facilitate this movement I determined to seize the
heights on either side of the gorge at daybreak, whether Macpherson's
brigade had arrived or not. That night strong piquets were thrown out
round the camp, and Cavalry patrols were ordered to proceed at dawn to
feel for the enemy. _L'homme propose, mais Dieu dispose_.

[Footnote 1: Macdonald, having subsequently further distinguished
himself, was given a commission, and is now commanding a regiment in
the Egyptian Army. Sher Mahomed was rewarded with the Order of Merit.]

[Footnote 2:

FROM THE AMIR OF KABUL, DATED KUSHI, 27TH SEPTEMBER,1879.

(After compliments.) Your friendly letter has reached me just at
this moment, 8 p.m., the 10th Shawal (27th September), and opened
the doors of joy and happiness on the face of my heart marked
with affection. I feel perfectly certain and confident that the
movements of Her Imperial Majesty's victorious troops are merely
for the purpose of consolidating the foundation of my kingdom and
strengthening the basis of my government.

In truth, the sympathy of friends with friends is fitting and
proper, and the indulgence and kindness of a great Government to
a sincere and faithful friend are agreeable and pleasing. I am
exceedingly gratified with, and thankful to, the representatives
of the illustrious British Government for their expression of
sympathy and their support of my cause. Your friendly and wise
suggestion that none of the ignorant tribes of Afghanistan should
oppose the British troops, so that the officers of the British
Government should be the better able to support and protect me, is
very acceptable and reasonable. Before I received your letter,
I had sent orders repeatedly to the Governors of Jalalabad and
Lalpura not to let anyone oppose or resist the British troops,
and stringent orders have again been issued to the Governor of
Jalalabad to use his utmost endeavours and efforts in this
respect. The order in question to the address of the Governor of
Jalalabad will be shown you to-morrow, and sent by an express
courier.]

[Footnote 3: It was a matter of inte