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Hawke's Bay Tribune, Volume II, Issue 46, 7 February 1912, Page 6

Kitchener’s ability in disguising himself has given rise to many stories, true and otherwise, of this famous soldier. The following incident was told by otto who served with the Essex Regiment in a campaign against the DerVishes:—“l was acting corporal of the guard over a large number of ‘gentlemen of the desert’ whom we had taken prisoners. In the course of my rounds a captive within the tent drew my attention, and I v.~s surprised to hear in good English the request, ‘Corporal, I wish to get out of this.’ I, of course, reported the occurrence to the sergeant of the guard, only to be met with the curt reply, ‘Let the fool stay where he is.’ I continued my rounds, and was again met with the request. Again I reported the matter, and this time the reply was as curt, but a bit stronger, so I went on my rounds agam. As I passed the spot this time the voice from within said. ‘Say, corporal, you are of the Essex Regiment’’ I answered that I was, and the prisoner said, ‘Well, tell Mr. B. that I xVant to speak to him.’ ‘What name?’ I queried. ‘Kitchener,’ came the reply, and I at once reported accordingly to the sergeant? He immediately made for the prisoners’ quarters, and I shall never forget that meeting. The dishevelled ‘dervish’ was in reality the Lord Kitchener that was to be, who had been out spying among the enemy, and had apparently been taken prisoner by his own troops.’”