Then he blew his whistle, to attract the rear guard as it passed, in the dark.
The whistle was heard and, in little groups, they fell back with the wounded to the house.

It was a poor place, but capable of defence; and the Pathans drew off, knowing that there was loot in abundance to be gained down by the river.
As night wore on the greatest anxiety prevailed, when transport officers and small parties straggled in, and reported that tribesmen were looting and cutting up followers, within a mile of camp; and that they had no news to give of the men who composed the rear guard.

So anxious were the headquarter staff that a company of the Borderers were sent out, to do what they could.
Lieutenant Macalister took them out and, going a mile up the river, was able to collect many followers and baggage animals, but could find no signs of the rear guard.

Early in the morning a company of the 2nd Punjab Infantry went out, as a search party, and got into communication with the rear guard.

They were safe in the house; but could not move, as they were hampered with the wounded, and were surrounded by the enemy.