The preparations for the march against the Mullah have at
last been completed, and the expedition from Obbia has reached Debit, whence it will advance, according to the latest telegram, upon Galkayu. The force has with it provisions for twenty-five days; but it is quite possible that it may retire without a victory, for the Mullah is obviously retreating into the interior, and unless he is forced to fight, as the Mahdi was, for his reputation's sake, he may continue that policy. No one appears to know accurately of what force he disposes, or whether he can face the delays, which will perplex us more than resistance. It is doubtful if we shall follow him, for Mr. Brodrick has stated in Parliament that the expense will be only £500,000, which does not imply a lengthy expedition. The Government at home, however, has a habit of optimism.
Previous page
