The houses were all loopholed, for defence.
When within a mile of the town, they must have been sighted by the Dervish sentries on a lofty watchtower.

No movement, however, was visible, and there was a general feeling of disappointment, as the impression gained ground that the enemy had retreated.

The 9th and 10th Soudanese made a sweep round, to attack from the desert side.

The 11th, and half of the Egyptian battalion--the other half having been left to guard the baggage--followed the course of the river.
Major Kincaid rode forward, to the edge of the steep slope that looked down to the town.

He could see no one moving about.