In spite of the general discontent, I could place the greatest reliance
upon the "Forty Thieves" and their officers.
This little corps performed
nearly all the active service. Their red shirts had become so well
known, that the colour was enough to keep the natives at a distance; but
although the Baris were now afraid to risk a stand-up fight, they
troubled us by their stealthy tactics. It was impossible to say where
they were concealed. They were spread all over the country: some hidden
in the tall dhurra, others behind bushes. Their favourite place was in
the grass and scattered bush on the banks of the river, where they lay
in wait for any unlucky soldier whose disobedience of orders led him to
tempt his fate.
It seemed almost as impossible to clear the country of these people, as
to purge Africa from snakes. Patrols were of little service, as the
natives lay as closely concealed as hares in form.
I determined at length to meet them with their own tactics:
They occupied the neighbourhood in ambush. . .I would also lie in
ambush. This system of ambuscade employed so generally by the Baris had
created a wholesome alarm among the troops, which tended to obedience.
They now began to appreciate the orders that no one should stray alone
from the camp, and that the watering party should consist of a powerful
guard. At the same time, the surprises that had occurred had somewhat
shaken their confidence.
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