THE LATE GENERAL STEWART'S MARCH ACROSS THE DESERT.

Manawatu Standard, Volume IX, Issue 77, 4 March 1885, Page 2

THE LATE GENERAL STEWART'S MARCH ACROSS THE DESERT.

The march of the late General; Stewart's column across the desert was m every way a great success, the march having occupied only sixty-five-^ Hours, and the distance covered heifig;. close upon a hundred miles. There was no casualties of any kind on the road. The men worked capitally, although they 'were almost* without sleep*- from the time they marched out of camp to their arrival at Gakdul. An unlimited supply of good water was found at the place, but there was but a small quantity to be obtained upon the road, and -thei&Smels were not watered till they reached Gakdul. On the way ten prisoners were captured, some of whom were , Jn the Mahdi's uniform. They were caught near the wells on the way up. They fired a few shots ; from the Remington rifles with which they are armed," but surrendered on being overtaken and surrounded by the cavalry. ; On.^reaching Gakdul a very strong natural' position was found, close to the water, and the Guards and Marines, who were to remain behind, at once set io woVk to fortify it. In their hands it will be able to resist an attack by any number' of the eneniy. A. few camels gave, out ? on the way, but, as a whole, they have stood the long and fatiguing journey wonderfully weell. No flocks or herds were seen ' upon the journey. The force, marching m extended order, covered a frontage of forty yards, witn scouts as the 'advance and rear guards, and presented a, most formidable appearance.