We certainly have that reputation and, no doubt, it was for that reason we were chosen for the expedition, although there are several other regiments nearer to the spot.
"From what I hear, Colonel Kelly will be the commanding officer of the column, and we could not wish for a better.

I hear that there is another column, and a much stronger one, going from Peshawar.
That will put us all on our mettle, and I will warrant that we shall be the first to arrive there; not only because we are good marchers, but because the larger the column, the more trouble it has with its baggage.
"Baggage is the curse of these expeditions.

What has to be considered is not how far the troops can go, but how far the baggage animals can keep up with them.

Some of the animals are no doubt good, but many of them are altogether unfitted for the work.
When these break down they block a whole line; and often, even if the march is a short one, it is very late at night before the last of the baggage comes in; which means that we get neither kit, blankets, nor food, and think ourselves lucky if we get them the next morning.
"The government is, we all think, much to blame in these matters.
Instead of procuring strong animals, and paying a fair price for them; they buy animals that are not fit to do one good day's march.
Of course, in the end this stinginess costs them more in money, and lives, than if they had provided suitable animals at the outset." Lisle had had a great deal of practice with the rifle, and had carried away several prizes shot for by the officers; but he was unaccustomed to carry one for so many hours, and he felt grateful, indeed, when a halt was sounded.

Fires were lighted, and food cooked; and then all lay down, or sat in groups in the shade of a grove.