four in the
afternoon
Major Melliss was accordingly ordered to proceed thither the following morning with two guns , a Hausa company with a Maxim , and a column of carriers . They were to remain there a day , and put the place in a state of defence ; and then they would be joined by a force under Colonel Burroughs , which was to complete the relief of Coomassie , by doubling its garrison and supply of stores . The little party started , and tramped along the intervening fifteen miles much more comfortably than usual ; as the rains had temporarily ceased , and the track had been greatly improved by the kings of Bekwai and Pekki . There was great difficulty in crossing the bridge over the Ordah river , but the guns were at last taken over safely , and they arrived at Pekki at half-past four in the afternoon . They were received with delight by the villagers , who had been in a state of terrible fear . The war chief put his house at the disposal of the officers . Fortunately , no attack was made by the Ashantis .