The coming of Gordon was a bold and unexpected move, as the rebels must
have outnumbered his force five to one. But Gordon had brought two
field pieces along, and at once opened fire. By night-fall the enemy
had enough of it, and retreated. The next morning the Ever-Victorious
Army marched triumphantly into Chanzu, where they received a great
welcome. Gordon thus received reinforcements not only from this
garrison, but also from some of the rebel forces who had begun to
"smell a mouse" and decided to come over while the coming was good.
Gordon was much interested in some of these young rebel chiefs. He
says that they were very intelligent, and were splendidly dressed in
their silks, and had big pearls in their caps. The head man was about
thirty-five years old, and was ill and worn with anxiety.
"He was so very glad to see me, and chin-chinned most violently,
regretting his inability to give me a present, which I told him was not
the custom of our people."
This rapid victory was productive of several good results. It once
more put the rebels "on the run," it restored the morale of his troops
and gave them confidence in their new leader, and it brought him many
recruits. One especially gratifying result was that several British
officers asked leave to serve under him.
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