from his temples. There were deep bays of baldness there and his
hairline was frayed and irregular. 'Please continue. ' 'Well, I was
saying-it looks like a trap. They've left those bridges because . .
.
' 'It is your duty to collect information, Curtis. It is the duty of
the general staff to evaluate it. I think that completes your
report?
Good, then you may leave. ' He must have a drink now, already his hand
was on the handle of the drawer.
'Oh, Curtis.' His voice croaked with the terrible dryness in his
throat, but he spoke on through it. 'That promotion you spoke of is
approved. Make the man a sergeant.'
'Very well, sir.
'Of course, in the event of a frontal assault on the bridges he will
act as guide for the first attack.
'Sir?'
'You see the need for it, don't you?' Tim had never heard this
wheedling tone from him before. It was almost as though he wanted
Tim's approval. As though he were trying to justify his decision. 'I
mean, he knows the bridges. He's been over them. He's the one who
knows them, isn't he?'
'Yes, Sir.'
'And after all, he's a sergeant. I mean, we should send someone with
rank-we can't just send anybody.'
'I could go, Sir. ' I
'No. No. We'll need you at the ford.
'As YOU wish. 'You won't forget, will you? You will send him, won't
YOU?
Almost pleading now.
'I'll send him,' agreed Tim and stooped out of the tent.
Garry jerked open the drawer and his fingernails scrabbled on the rough
wood in their haste to find the flask.
To General Sir Redvers Buller, V. C. Officer Commanding, British
Expeditionary Army of Natal At Chievely December 19the 1899 Sir, I have
the honour to report that in accordance with orders received a
reconnaissance was carried out by officers and men of the Natal Corps
of Guides on the night of December 18th.
The results of which are set out below: Ford marked
'A ' on attached Map: Although the ford promises passage for a large
body of men, it is difficult to locate in darkness and a night crossing
is not recommended.
Bridge marked -B ' on attached map: This is a road bridge of metal
construction. At present it is undamaged, probably due to its sturdy
construction resisting demolition by the enemy.
Bridge marked
'C ' on attached Map: This is a railway bridge also constructed of
metal, but has been demolished by the enemy.
General: Limited penetration of area beyond the Tugela River by
elements of the NCG revealed the presence of the enemy on the hills
