There was the greatest joy among the Pioneers, when they received instructions to prepare for an advance to Khusalghar.

Officers and men alike were in the highest spirits, and not the least pleased was Lisle, who had begun to tire of the monotony of camp life.

The mention of the place at which they were to assemble put an end to the discussion, that had long taken place, as to route to be followed.

Six days' easy march along a good road would take them to Shinawari and, in three or four days more, they would get into the heart of the Tirah.
Illustration: Map illustrating the Tirah Campaign.
Much would depend on the conduct of the Orakzais, a powerful tribe whose country lay between Kenmora and that of the Zakka-Khels.

The latter had indeed declared against us, but they were known to be very half hearted; for they felt that, lying as they did close to the British frontier, they would be sure to suffer most if we obtained the upper hand.