These were found most valuable, both in the work and in obtaining information.

From their knowledge of the habits of the people, they were able to discover where the natives had hidden their supplies; which was generally in the most unlikely places.
The reconnoitring party had found that, some six miles on, the snow ceased; and all looked forward with delight to the change.

A small garrison of about a hundred, principally levies, were left at Laspur; with instructions to come on when the second party arrived.
The main force started at nine o'clock.
At Rahman the snow was left behind.

Here they learned that the enemy would certainly fight, between the next village and Mastuj.
Lieutenant Beynon went on with a party of levies and gained a hill, from which he could view the whole of the enemy's position.

Here he could, with the aid of his glasses, count the men in each sangar, and make out the paths leading up the cliffs from the river.