In conclusion, I will add in General Gordon’s own words, “It is, of course, on the cards that Kartoum is taken under the nose of the Expeditionary Force, which will be just too late. The Expeditionary Force will perhaps think it necessary to retake it; but that will be no use, and will cause loss of life uselessly on both sides. It had far better quietly return with its tail between its legs; for, once Kartoum is taken, the sun will have set and the people will not care much for the satellites. If Kartoum falls, then go quietly back to Cairo, for you will only lose men and spend money uselessly in carrying on the campaign.”
H. W. Gordon.
[THE MISSION OF COLONEL SIR CHARLES WILSON,
R.E., K.C.M.G.]
Very severe criticisms have been made upon the manner in which Sir Charles Wilson carried out the duties that had been entrusted to him, with regard to communicating with General Gordon at Kartoum.
The charges made against him may be with advantage restricted to two:—
First—The delay in not proceeding to Kartoum at the latest on the morning of the 22nd; and
Second—In not having pushed on to Kartoum itself in order to ascertain General Gordon’s fate beyond a doubt.
Sir Charles Wilson left England in order to assume the position of Head of the Intelligence Department, and also with the tacit understanding that he was to be specially employed in order to open direct communication with General Gordon.