The report that mentions this story says it was only one of many
exhibitions of coolness and courage shown by the Gordon Highlanders in
their brave charge.
It is said that while the British are full of pride over the conduct of
the Highlanders, they are very uneasy at finding the enemy so well
supplied with rifles and ammunition, and so well drilled in the use of
their weapons.
Every one is wondering where the rebels obtained this large supply of
ammunition, and once more the Ameer of Afghanistan is suspected of bad
faith.
It is certain that the arms could not have been bought of English or
continental merchants, because the laws are very strict in India, and
forbid the introduction of arms, except for government uses. To be
brought in by European merchants they would have had to be very cleverly
smuggled, and this would have been such a difficult affair that it is
thought to have been impossible to bring large quantities of arms into
the country that way. It is therefore hinted that they have come from
the Ameer's famous factory at Cabul, as it would have been easy for him
to supply the tribesmen from his side of the border without being found
out.
In the heart of his country this ruler has established an arsenal which
is managed by Englishmen who are in his service.
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