llets and fragments of shrapnel-shell flew around
them. The enemy's gunners proved that their training had been good. They
worked their guns quickly and their aim was accurate. General Baker, who
was acting as head of the intelligence department, was struck in the
face by a ball from one of the shrapnel-shells. This imbedded itself so
deeply in his jaw that it could not be got out by the surgeons until
after the conclusion of the fight. But the gallant officer, having had
his face bandaged up, remounted his horse, and continued his duties
throughout the day.

Upon getting to a position at the end of the ridge held by the enemy the
men were ordered to lie down, while the artillery continued their fire
against the enemy's batteries. At a quarter to twelve the Arab guns
ceased to fire, and the men were ordered to their feet again, and with
loud cheers continued the advance. The square moved on until well in
rear of the enemy's position, and then marched straight towards it.
Owing to this change in the direction of its march the left flank of the
square now became its front, and it was the 65th with the Naval Brigade
on one flank and the Royal Highlanders on the other, who were nearest to
the enemy.

Fast and thick the flashes of musketry broke out from the bushes; but as
the square approached the fire ceased, and then groups of black forms
sprang to their feet, and with loud yells rushed towards the square,
waving their spears and swords. It seemed incredible that these little
groups of ten or twelve men each should intend to assail the solid lines
of the British, but as fresh parties every moment sprang up and charged
down, the order was given to fire. A flash of flame ran along the face
of the great square, and then a continuous roar told that the
breech-loading rifles were at work, while the machine-guns of the
sailors added their rattle to the din of the musketry.

[Illustration: "WITH A DESPERATE RUSH THEY REACHED THE SAILORS."]

As if utterly heedless of death the Arabs rushed forward through the
leaden storm, but were mowed down like grass before it. Not one of these
intrepid warriors reached the face of the square, not one turned to fly;
but of those who left their shelter to attack the square, every man fell
with his face to the foe. Without halting for a moment the square kept
on its way until the front line reached the bushes. Then with a wild
yell a swarm of Arabs sprang to their feet, with so sudden and des