Gregory returned home so stiff, and tired, that he could
scarcely crawl along. Still, he felt that he had made a good deal of
progress; and that, when he got up to Dongola, he would be able to
mount and ride out without exciting derision. On the morning of the day
on which he was to start, he went to say goodbye to Mr. Murray.

"Have you everything ready, Hilliard?" the banker asked.

"Yes, sir. The uniform and the tent are both ready. I have a cork bed,
and waterproof sheet to lay under it; and, I think, everything that I
can possibly require. I am to meet Captain Ewart at the railway, this
afternoon at five o'clock. The train starts at half past.

"I will draw another twenty-five pounds, sir. I have not spent more
than half what I had, but I must leave some money with our old servant.
I shall have to buy a horse, too, when I get up to Dongola, and I may
have other expenses, that I cannot foresee."

"I think that is a wise plan," the banker said. "It is always well to
have money with you, for no one can say what may happen. Your horse may
get shot or founder, and you may have to buy another. Well, I wish you
every luck, lad, and a safe return."

"Thank you very much, Mr. Murray! All this good fortune has come to me,
entirely through your kindness. I cannot say how grateful I feel to
you."

Chapter 5: Southward.

At the hour named, Gregory met Captain Ewart at the station. He was now
dressed in uniform, and carried a revolver in his waist belt, and a
sword in its case. His luggage was not extensive. He had one large
bundle; it contained a roll-up cork bed, in a waterproof casing. At one
end was a loose bag; which contained a spare suit of clothes, three
flannel shirts, and his underclothing. This formed the pillow. A
blanket and a waterproof sheet were rolled up with it. In a small sack
was the tente d'abri, made of waterproof sheeting, with its two little
poles. It only weighed some fifteen pounds. His only other luggage
consisted of a large case, with six bottles of brandy, and the
provisions he had been recommended to take.

"Is that all your kit?" Captain Ewart said, as he joined him.

"Yes, sir. I hope you don't think it is too much."

"No; I think it is very moderate, though if you move forward, you will
not be able to take the case with you, The others are light enough, and
you can always get a native boy to carry them. Of course, you have your
pass?"

"Yes, sir. I received it yesterday, when