We know that they are well informed, by their spies here, of our movements.

We shall send a strong force to make a reconnaissance, as far as Gakdul.

This will appear to be a preliminary step to our advance, and should keep Mahmud inactive, till too late.

He will not dare advance to Berber, because he will be afraid of our cutting him off from Omdurman.
"You are satisfied with your horse?
It is advisable that you should have a good one, and yet not so good as to attract attention." "Yes; I could not want a better horse, General.

He is not handsome, but I have ridden him a great deal, and he is certainly fast; and, being desert bred, I have no doubt has plenty of endurance.