and the hearty
co-operation of so useful a servant: and in parting from you, I desire to
express my sincere thanks to you; assuring you that my remembrance of you
and of your services to this country will never be forgotten."

Gordon was greatly in need of the rest he now seemed to have secured by
his resignation. His over sensitive nature could not have borne up much
longer; a frame of iron must have gone under in such circumstances; for
on his own individual shoulders he carried each man's burden, causing him
days of anxiety and nights of unrest. At Alexandria he was examined by
Dr. MacKie the surgeon to the British Consulate, who certified that he
was "suffering from symptoms of nervous exhaustion. I have recommended
him (the Dr. adds) to retire for several months for complete rest, and
quiet--and that he may be able to enjoy fresh and wholesome food, as I
consider much of this illness is the result of continued bodily fatigue,
anxiety and indigestible food. I have strongly insisted on his
abstaining from all exciting work--especially such as implies business or
political excitement." Splendid advice, but would Gordon follow it?
Could his active life be suppressed even for so short a time? None find
it harder to rest than those who need it most. Gordon had often thought
of what pleasure in rest he would find when his retirement was an
accomplished fact. He would lie in bed until dinner. He would take
short walks after dinner. He would undertake no long journeys, either
driving or by railway. He would not be tempted to go to dinner parties.
He would really have a quiet time; it was, however, only for a short
period.

The private secretaryship to Lord Ripon was vacant, and it was offered to
Gordon; he accepted it, but on landing at Bombay he found the position
would not be to his liking. He says of Lord Ripon, "we parted perfect
friends." After Gordon left Egypt someone there wrote to our press
saying, "The name of Gordon whenever and wherever mentioned sends a
thrill of admiration and love throughout the vast Soudan territory. For
a hand so strong, yet withal so beneficent, has never before ruled the
peoples of this unhappy country." Gordon left the Soudan peaceful,
prosperous and happy, comparatively. After his resignation of the
position of private secretary to Lord Ripon, he was invited to visit
China again by Mr. Hart, Chinese Commissioner of Customs at Pekin, who
said to Gordon, "I am directed t