four in the morning
I expect we shall try a reconnaissance . If the Arabs bolt , and we find that we can take the place without hard fighting , we shall take it ; but if they show a determination to stick there and defend it to the last I think we shall leave it alone . '' The column returned to the river without meeting with any opposition ; but it was evident from the number of Arabs who were seen moving about in the direction of Metemmeh that the check of the previous day had by no means disheartened them , and that they were still in very considerable force in and around the town . Late at night the orders were issued for the troops to parade at half-past four in the morning ; and leaving a small force to guard Abu Kru , or as it was sometimes called Gubat , the rest of the troops marched towards Metemmeh . Two villages deserted by the inhabitants were passed , and then a view was obtained of the town . Crowds of Arabs were seen outside its walls . The officer in command of the company of Grenadiers that was marching in extended order in front of the column picked out twenty of the best shots and ordered them to elevate their sights to two thousand yards and fire five volleys .