the boat, because
I had quite made up my mind that their guns would not carry so far, and
so it was a complete surprise to me."

"Yes, it was a very harmless affair. Still, it was good as a
preparation for something more severe. You have got accustomed to the
noise, now, and that is always as great a trial to the nerves as actual
danger."

"I wish I could be doing something, sir. Everyone else had some duty,
from yourself down to the black firemen--even my servant made himself
useful, in carrying up shot."

"I tell you what I will do, Mr. Hilliard. I will get those marine
sergeants to instruct you in the working of the Maxim, and in the
duties of the men attending on it. Then next time we come up, I will
put you in command of one of them. Your duties will not be severe, as
you would simply direct the men as to the object at which they are to
aim, watch the effect and direction of the bullets, and see that they
change their aim, as circumstances may direct. The black gunners are
well trained, and know their work; still, if by any chance the gun
jams, it will be useful for you to be able to show them what to do;
even though they know it as well as, or better than, you do yourself.
The blacks like being commanded by a white officer, and will feel
pleased, rather than otherwise, at your being appointed to command
their gun. Your lessons cannot begin for a day or two, for I have not
done with Metemmeh, yet."

"I am very much obliged to you, indeed," Gregory said warmly. "I will
take care not to interfere with the men's working of the gun."

"No, you will not have to do that; but a word or two of commendation,
when they make good practice, pleases them immensely; and they will
work all the better, and faster, for your standing by them."

At daybreak next morning the gunboats went up again, and engaged the
forts, as before. The Dervishes had placed more guns in position, but
again the shells fell short, while those of the boats played havoc with
the enemy's defences. Some ten thousand of the Dervish horse and foot
came down near the town, in readiness to repel any attempt at a
landing.

After some hours' bombardment, the gunboats retired. As they steamed
away, the Dervish host were shouting and waving their banners,
evidently considering that they had won a great victory.

Having fulfilled their object, which was to retain Mahmud at Metemmeh
by showing him that, if he advanced against Merawi and Dongola, we had
it i