Luffe joined the Khan, sought to push through to Kohara and rescue Linforth, but was driven back.

He and his troops and the Khan were now closely besieged by Wafadar Nazim.
The work of mobilisation was pressed on; a great force was gathered at Nowshera; Brigadier Appleton was appointed to command it.
"Luffe will hold out," said official India, trying to be cheerful.
Perhaps the only man who distrusted Luffe's ability to hold out was Brigadier Appleton, who had personal reasons for his views.

Brigadier Appleton was no fool, and yet Luffe had not suffered him gladly.

All the more, therefore, did he hurry on the preparations.

The force marched out on the new road to Chiltistan.