f our caravans. They could plunder them
and get back to their mountain fastnesses before we could interfere or
overtake them. Nothing but fear will restrain them.

If I had my way I would hang one at the mouth of every ravine as a
warning to the gang. They are personifications of the devil to look at,
hawk-nosed, full-lipped, with a mane of tangled hair, and most Satanic
sneer. No news today from the Front.

October 2.--I must really ask Herbert for another company at the very
least. I am convinced that the communications would be cut off if any
serious attack were made upon us.

Now, this morning two urgent messages were sent me from two different
points more than sixteen miles apart, to say that there were signs of a
descent of the tribes.

Elliott, with one gun and the Sowars, went to the farther ravine, while
I, with the infantry, hurried to the other, but we found it was a false
alarm. I saw no signs of the Hillmen, and though we were greeted by a
splutter of jezail bullets we were unable to capture any of the rascals.

Woe betide them if they fall into my hands. I would give them as short
a shrift as ever a Highland cateran got from a Glasgow judge. These
continued alarms may mean nothing or they may be an indication that the
Hillmen are assembling and have some plan in view.

We have had no news from the Front for some time, but to-day a convoy of
wounded came through with the intelligence that Nott had taken Ghuznee.
I hope he warmed up any of the black rascals that fell into his hands.

No word of Pollock.

An elephant battery came up from the Punjab, looking in very good
condition. There were several convalescents with it going up to rejoin
their regiments. Knew none of them except Mostyn of the Hussars and
young Blakesley, who was my fag at Charterhouse, and whom I have never
seen since.

Punch and cigars _al fresco_ up to eleven o'clock.

Letters to-day from Wills & Co. about their little bill forwarded on
from Delhi. Thought a campaign freed a man from these annoyances. Wills
says in his note that, since his written applications have been in
vain, he must call upon me in person. If he calls upon me now he will
assuredly be the boldest and most persevering of tailors.

A line from Calcutta Daisy and another from Hobhouse to say that Matilda
comes in for all the money under the will. I am glad of it.

October 3.--Glorious news from the Front today. Barclay, of the Madras
Cavalry, galloped throug