“Colonel!” Donnelly shook Jack awake. “I’m sorry to wake you, but there’s a message, sir.”
Jack opened his eyes with a struggle. “What message, Donnelly?” He glanced at his watch. “It’s quarter to four, damn it, man. Can it not wait until morning?” He sat up. “What day is it?”
“It’s Tuesday the 12th of September, sir,” Donnelly said, “and it can’t wait. General Wolseley sends his compliments, sir, and could you accompany him in a reconnaissance towards Arabi’s lines.” Donnelly waited until Jack digested the information. “I have your uniform ready, sir, and the coffee is about to boil. There’s biscuit beside the mug.”
“Good man, Donnelly,” Jack dressed in haste, sipped at the coffee, and checked his revolver was loaded. He buckled on his sword and spoke through a mouthful of biscuit. “Be
