Chapter 8

THE MASSACRE OF THE GUIDES AT KABUL.

The Cavignari mission--Escort of the Guides--Cordial reception--The clouds gather--Insubordination of Herati regiments--The storm bursts--Seventy men against thousands--Defence of the Residency--The fight begins--Cavignari's bravery and death--Messages to the Amir--The attempt of Shahzada Taimus--The enemy's guns arrive--The distant witness--The three officers lead a charge--Kelly's death--Another charge by Hamilton and Jenkyns--Jenkyns killed--Hamilton's last charge and heroic death--The last bright flash--Retribution 97