Egypt.

Manawatu Herald, 6 October 1898, Page 2

Egypt.

France will open negotiations with England in regard to the occupancy of Fashoda immediately, without waiting for Captain Marchand's report.

The Dervishes attempted to retake Gedareff, but were badly repulsed.

A contingent from Omdurman will reinforce Gedareff to enable Lieu r.enant Colonel Parsons to clear the province of the Dervishes. It is believed here that Captain Bfarohand will shortly evacuate Paohoda.

The officers from there report that G&ptain Marchand'a position was critical when relieved. He was on a tongue of land surrounded by menacing natives.* Many of his own followers had deserted, and the rest were delighted when he was rescued.

Captain Marchand was informed that such an ineffective occupation was untenable.

Captain Marchand has been promoted to the rank of major, ostensibly for his services on the Übangi river — the great northern branch of the Congo which fornn r.he eastern boundary between French Congo and the Congo Free State — but really in response to the honours conferred by the British Crown on General Kitchener in making him a peer. The Cameron Highlanders have returned from Fashoda to Cairo.

The British post at the former place blocks Captain Marohand's access to the mainland.

Four of his officers hare died while the Cingalese force are suffering from Barriberri fever.