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4.

strong for a wild push, 10th & 18th Hussars, 300 of
Cairo Mounted infantry. I was a sort of interpreter!
Next morning, we were recalled! Then only
Chermside & I were to go. I drew up a bit of
provisions for 2 camels, 1 plenty of mineral
water - 2 Biscuits, tinned meals & milk.
In the inner room one after another
officers came in & begged Chermside to take them.
He refused - No only D.A.C. comes with me.
That day the raid was countermanded from
home & I had failed a 2nd time in trying to get to
Gordon! Then I came back to the Cairo
Agency & Egerton, dear old Egerton, Elliot & I
worked all through that summer for Gordon.
I used to transcribe the figures of the Cipher with a crow-
/quill