[218] It is important there should be no misconstruction placed on these words. Had General Gordon thought their death would benefit the Soudan, he would never have said when he urged their going down, “If you go, you do me a great service, i.e. do the Soudan a great service.” When he said, “I dare not, with my views, say their death is an evil,” he merely meant, “I dare not say that two brave, just, upright men are not happier in the future life than in the present one.”—Ed.
[219] General Gordon means, in my opinion, “Fairly just in his political views.” Herbin was the Editor of the Bosphore Égyptien.—Ed.
[220] This refers to a telegram sent by Colonel Coetlogon to Colonel Fraser Floyer, at Wady Halfa, at the above date, which runs: “No fresh news. Anxiously awaiting reinforcements.” Underneath this General Gordon has written: “If Coetlogon had only been then informed that there was no intention to send reinforcements (further than nine persons) for (nearly) a year!”—Ed.
[221] Major Kitchener did not know it himself
[222] A soldier previously mentioned, who was thought to have deserted.—Ed.
[223] This recovery of biscuit enabled General Gordon to hold Kartoum until the gates were treacherously opened to the enemy.—Ed.
[224] Vide General Graham’s despatch in re Black Watch.—Ed.
[225] Fort Mogrim.—Ed.
[226] I expect that this story of Ismailia being again struck twice is a fib!
[227] i.e. 1,200 yards.—Ed.