§ MR. SCLATER-BOOTHasked the Secretary of State for War, What answer was received from Lord Wolseley to his telegram, No. 17 (Egypt, No. 2, 1885), dated February 9th 1885, 8 p.m.—
Force proposed for Suakin.…about 9,000 all ranks. I apprehend difficulty in providing transport for so large a force. Give your opinion as between this and smaller force.…Indian brigade and cavalry demanded in your No. 55 is ordered.
THE MARQUESS OF HARTINGTONLord Wolseley's reply entered into some details which I do not think it is desirable to publish; but it was to the effect that he did not think the proposed force too large, and that the larger the force the more likely were the tribes to help us with camels.