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and energetic man, got up and made a short speech, telling them that he would in no case submit to the Bacha whose very name was a national disgrace, the blackest spot on the history of the Afghans. He said that he was determined to fight to the last, and if none joined him, he would face the enemy single-handed. Saying this he took up his rifle and left for the front. His brave words and bold example worked a miracle. He was at once followed by sixty men. The overwhelming host of the invaders now began to press on all sides, but these sixty men put up a heroic fight. Much blood was shed and the defenders in spite of heavy losses held on. They were hourly reinforced but at no time did their number exceed six hundred. At this critical time, the Ahmadzai lashkar arrived to the rescue of the beseiged. Fortunately, a cavalry of Totakhels and Mangals of Mirzaka sent by the Marshal appeared on the scene. The tables were now turned and the Saqaoists were dispersed. At nine in the evening the rout was complete. The enemy could not keep themselves even in the White Fort and had to cross the Altamoor 142