The steamers departed at 8am. Wilson aboard the “Bordein” with half the Sussex men and 110 black troops, plus the crew, while Captan Trafford, commanding the Sussex detachment, was aboard the “Talahwiyeh”, with the remaining Sussex and 80 black soldiers. “Talawiyeh” also towed a large dismasted nuggar, or native boat, with 40 to 50 aditional soldiers and a large supply of dura grain for Khartoum.

About 10.30 a native was taken aboard, who told of a battery with a gun ahead. Rounding a corner, the battery was seen and troops were landed, Gascoine with some of the black troops from Wilson’s boat, and Trafford and Wortly with black troops from the other boat. The battery was empty, with fresh marks from gun wheels. Locals said the gun had been withdrawn after the Emir of Shendy had heard the Boats had gone towards Shendy. Luckily, Wilson’s earlier reconnaissance had paid off by accident.

Like all the gun positions encountered it had three embrasures – to fire up, down and across the river.

A little father up river a large enemy mounted force was sighted on the left bank, and a few ineffective shots were fired at the boats. Stray shots were fired from the left bank throughout the day.

At about 12.30 a halt was made at a deserted village to take on wood. The native troops were ill-disciplined while ashore and Wilson had the kurbash(whip) administered. The boats kept going until dark and tied up on the right bank near Gos el Bessabir.

Stewart's Dash to Khartoum The Final Attempt to Relieve General Gordon

Introduction
January 24
January 25
January 26
January 27

Part II

Stewart's Dash to Khartoum The Final Attempt to Relieve General Gordon Part II

January 28
January 29
January 30-31
February 1-3
February 4 and Bibliography
Orders of Battle
Gaming the Action
Models, Terrain, and Tactics