Great changes had been made, since the place was captured from the Dervishes.

At that time the population had been reduced to a handful, and the natives who remained tilled but enough ground for their own necessities; for they knew that, at any time, a Dervish force might come along and sweep everything clear.

But with the advent of the British, the fugitives who had scattered among the villages along the river soon poured in.
Numbers of Greek traders arrived, with camels and goods, and the town assumed an aspect of life and business.

The General established a court of justice, and appointed authorities for the proper regulation of affairs; and by the time Gregory came up, the town was showing signs of renewed prosperity.
But the steamer stopped at Dongola only to land stores needed for the regiment stationed there.

The headquarters had, months before, been moved to Merawi, some eighty miles higher up, situated at the foot of the fourth cataract.
Although he had enjoyed the journey, Gregory was glad when the steamer drew up against a newly constructed wharf at Merawi.