Page 26 - GAHS Journal Volume 9

THE DEATH OF COLONEL FRED BURNABY

the next day in order to seize them.

Major General Stewart opted to camp overnight two miles
short of Abu Klea and although under constant sniper fire, a thorn
bush barrier known as a zariba, was constructed to protect the
Column compound. At daylight a strong force of Mahdists could
be seen formed up to the left of the zariba. Several unsuccessful
attempts were made by the British to lure this force into attacking
them by sending a strong force forward which then retreated into
the zariba. As this ploy had no effect, Major General Stewart
resolved to advance to the wells at Abu Klea in a square
formation which provided all round defence.

At 7.30 a.m. the square began its difficult and cumbersome
advance, the aim being to pass the flank of the Mahdist position
and force them to attack it. Forward skirmishers moved ahead

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