very large, splendidly built, and well defended. Our experience had taught us that the Arab fortifications were generally weaker in what they considered their rear, and the Commandant, moreover, wished to be on the enemy's natural line of retreat in the event of a successful attack. In spite of the severe lessons we had already taught them, the Arabs seemed unable to grasp the fact that we were as likely as not to make a detour before attacking.

Having completely turned the enemy's flank, at about two o'clock in the afternoon the column approached a large fort, hidden by the high grass. and not visible until within a quarter of a mile of the enemy. The line having been formed, the companies of Doorme and Lange advanced slowly in skirmishing order, the signal to charge being a shell thrown into the fort.