June 1.—Reveille at 6. Breakfast. Moved off at 8 west as follows: Two companies Gough's Mounted Infantry, two squadrons Johannesburg Mounted Rifles, 13th Mounted Infantry, two guns J Battery, two guns 74th Battery and pom-pom, under General Officer Commanding. Flying column on left flank. Fourteenth Mounted Infantry do rearguard to column; Nos. 3 and 4 Companies do our side guards and scouting. A boisterous, windy, and cold day, and very dusty. About fifty or sixty Boers followed us again, and kept us fairly busy. We crossed the Vaal River over Beginderlen Bridge (a fine stone one), and halted and camped the other side at 4 p.m., after having marched about nine miles. The force under General Officer Commanding had a running fight with 200 or 300 Boers.
June 2. —Outspann, Beginderlen Bridge Reveille at 6; breakfast at 7. Marched off at 8 as follows: Johannesburg Mounted Rifles and two guns 74th Battery R.A. advanced guard, 14th Mounted Infantry and three guns 74th Battery R.A. rearguard, Gough's Mounted Infantry and two guns 74th Battery R.A. right and left flanks.
My company was rearguard, and I had charge of outlying scouts. Our friends came again, and gave us a friendly greeting; it was very difficult to see them, owing to all the veldt being burnt. A series of small skirmishes followed. We had no casualties. Marched about eight miles, then halted and camped at 2 o'clock.
June 3.—Dorpsplaats. Reveille at 6; breakfast at 7. Marched off as follows: Gough's Mounted Infantry and two guns R.A. advanced guard, 14th Mounted Infantry left flank, 13th Mounted Infantry right flank, Johannesburg Mounted Rifles and two guns R.A. rearguard. No. 4 Company scout on left flank, remainder of battalion in support. A bright, hot day, after a very cold night. The veldt, black and burnt, is a great contrast to the blue sky and brilliant sun. We came into touch on the left with Knox's column going southeast, with Plumer's column on his right, going in the same direction, and informed Colonel Jenner and the General. Halted and camped at 2 p.m., after having marched about nine miles. Same camp as we were at on May 15.
June 4.—Morgenzou, Kaffir Spruit Reveille at 6; moved off at 8 as follows: 13th Mounted Infantry and two guns R.H.A. advanced guard, Gough's Mounted Infantry and two guns R.H.A. rearguard, Johannesburg Mounted Rifles right and left flanks.
We marched the identical march as on May 15. The veldt all burnt. A lovely day. The rearguard was in action all day, and had two casualties. We halted and camped at 2 p.m. A bitterly cold night.
June 5. — Uitkyk, Standerton road. Reveille at 6. Moved off at 8 towards Standerton. I had permission to go on ahead to get stores for my company. I rode on with an orderly, and reached Standerton at 11. No stores here, as all were cleared out by outgoing columns. Took 4 o'clock down mail to Newcastle. Reached here at 2 a.m. Awfully cold.
June 6.—Newcastle. Went to the Salisbury Hotel. Bought stores sufficient for three months, and got same put on truck for midnight goods-train to-night. Saw Eustace, also Major Burton. I hear that Colonel Hill and Major Blake have gone home, retired. Four other fellows were getting stores, too, for Gough's Mounted Infantry and Johannesburg Mounted Rifles.
No. 1 Company 14M Mounted Infantry, 5th Corps, Field Force, South Africa, Standerton, June 10.
Reveille at 6. Got fifteen good remounts to-day. Went into Standerton. Cold, windy, cloudy day. Standerton is a small, straggling town. At 1 o'clock General Officer Commanding moved to Leeuwspruit (south-east) with part of column and waggons. Bodyguard (200 men only now) and pom-pom advanced guard, Gough's Mounted Infantry flanks and rearguard. J Battery and 74th Battery; battalion of Dorsets. Fifth Corps and Johannesburg Mounted Rifles remain here till to-morrow to get horses. Usual camp duties with us.
June 11.—Reveille at 5. Breakfast. We (No. 1) get thirty horses from 13th Mounted Infantry, and No. 3 and 4 Companies get horses from No. 2 Company, who remain here. Thirteenth Mounted Infantry remain here, all except one company, who are attached to us.
The force moved off at 8, under Colonel Jenner, as follows: Remainder of column and waggons, 14th Mounted Infantry (No. 1 Company) advanced guard, 14th Mounted Infantry (No. 2 Company) right flank guard, Johannesburg Mounted Rifles rearguard and left flank (600 men).
Marched to Leeuwspruit, and here joined General Officer Commanding. Marched, then, another five miles south-east, and halted and camped at 3. A cold, windy, rainy day. Strength of our company ninety-six men.
June 12.—Uitkyk. Reveille at 6. Marched off at 8 south-east as follows: 14th Mounted Infantry (No. 2 Company) and two guns J Battery advanced guard, Gough's Mounted Infantry rearguard, bodyguard right flank guard, Johannesburg Mounted Rifles left flank guard.
Marched about six miles south-east, when we got to more broken country. The left flank of the advanced guard got into touch with between thirty and fifty Boers. After some firing on both sides, our guns shelled the Boers, who retired, leaving one killed. Our casualties were nil. One dog was shot, however, through the neck, but is still alive, and a great hero in consequence. We moved on another three miles, then halted and camped at 2 p.m. Grazed and watered horses.
June 13.—Morgenzou (Standerton road). Reveille at 6. A flying column, under General Officer Commanding, moved off at 8.30, composed of three companies 14th Mounted Infantry (13th Company remain in), Gough's Mounted Infantry (less one company), Johannesburg mounted Rifles (less one squadron), bodyguard, pop-pop, J Battery R.H.A.
The whole of the remainder of the column remain here entrenched. Carry two days' rations and forage. No tents. We moved off at 8 south-east. It was a lovely morning. We marched about twelve miles over old familiar country, and halted and camped at 4. Camped at Kaffir Spruit. No. 1 Company (mine) was ordered out for a night trek to a farm four miles due east, close to stony kopjes, six miles west of branch, to blockade drift and junction of roads. Proceeded at 7, mounted. A cold, frosty, dark night, uneventful except for the fact that we shot a mounted Kaffir, who was undoubtedly a Boer spy. The General's two guides came with us — Forbes and another. We reached our destination at 9.30, but did not find any Boers. Put outposts, and kraaled horses. I took a section on the ridge overlooking country. A farm was burnt and destroyed by Gray's column.
June 14.—Column at Kaffir Spruit. We are at a farm four miles east. Stood to arms at 5. All quiet; not a Boer in sight. Rejoined main body at 9. Order of march: Johannesburg Mounted Rifles and two guns R.H.A. advanced guard, 14th Mounted Infantry rearguard, bodyguard right flank, Gough's Mounted Infantry left flank.
Marched west-south-west. A most beautiful day, after a cold night. Halted, and had welcome breakfast at 10. The veldt is burnt for miles round, as well as almost every farm. An uneventful march over old ground. We marched twelve miles, and halted and camped at 4. We joined remainder of column here.
June15.—Doth Plaats, Kaffir Spruit. Reveille at 6. Marched off at 9 due south as follows: 14th Mounted Infantry left flank; Johannesburg Mounted Rifles rearguard and two guns R.H.A.; bodyguard advance-guard, RH.A.; Gough's Mounted Infantry right flank.
Gough's Mounted Infantry and Johannesburg Mounted Rifles had a bit of a skirmish with fifty or sixty Boers on right front. The Boers, however, retired hastily. We marched about seven miles, and halted and camped at 2. Gough's Mounted Infantry had one man hit and two horses shot. I went on outpost with twenty-five men and held north-east section. A cold night, but all quiet.
June 16.—Beginderlen Bridge, Vaal River. This is another old camp. Stood to arms this morning at 5. All quiet; firing, however, on south-west side of camp. Relieved at 6.30. A beautiful sunrise, but a cold, frosty morning. Returned to camp. We had orders to move at 1, which were ultimately cancelled. The General Officer Commanding left here at 8 p.m. with a flying column composed of: Gough's Mounted Infantry on extreme right flank; remainder of force on extreme left flank; we (14th Mounted Infantry) remain behind to escort convoy.
June 17.—Reveille at 5. Moved off at 7 due south with column as follows: No. 1 Company left flank; No. 2 Company rearguard; No. 3 Company advanced guard; No. 4 Company right flank.
I was in charge of extreme left flank scouts, and saw General Officer Commanding's column on extreme left. Proceeded. Firing on right flank. Marched about seven miles, and then General Officer Commanding's force came in and joined main column after having done a comparatively uneventful trek. We remained out on left flank, and came in touch with fifty or sixty Boers. I kept up a running skirmish with these, being reinforced by another section; then halted near Rolfontein, and took up a strong position to cover left or east of camp. The Boers came on, and exchanged shots with us. I hit one, but he got off. At 4 p.m. I went out to reconnoitre a big farm, and took ten good men. We got sniped, but had no casualties. I got information I wanted about the supplies at the farm, and according to orders returned to camp at 7. Slight actions were fought on our right flank and rearguard. We took three prisoners and had two casualties.
June 18.—Rolfontein. Reveille at 6. Column marched at 9 a.m. as follows: Two guns R.A., Gough's Mounted Infantry advanced guard; 14th Mounted Infantry right flank; Johannesburg Mounted Rifles left flank; bodyguard rearguard.
I turned out at 4 and took fifteen good men and a waggon to the farm I reconnoitred last night. I arrived there at 5, and procured for my company ten sacks of mealies (1,500 lb.). All clear; no Boers. Returned to camp at 7.30. As before stated, we moved off at 9 due south towards Wakkerstroom. A most lovely day; there are magnificent mountains to the south of us. No. 3 Company (Cooke) scouted on right flank to-day. We had an uneventful march of about ten miles, and halted and camped at 2 p.m. A slight action was fought by the advanced guard and left flank guard with twenty or thirty Boers. The country becomes rather stiff and hilly. I received the welcome intelligence to-day, from helio at Graspan, that last month 2,600 Boers were taken prisoners, and this month (up to 9th inst.) 620 had been taken prisoners; I also heard that General Elliot had defeated De Wet at Reitz. Our marches are greatly enlivened every day by game - shooting—koran, hares, quail, plover, paauws, etc. I have no gun, but Brass shoots something every day, and we have game every night. I have only a carbine, and it is awfully hard to hit anything with it. We marched to-day south-south-west.
June 19.—Driefontein. Reveille at 5. Marched south as follows: 14th Mounted Infantry and two guns 74th advanced guard; bodyguard right flank guard; Gough's Mounted Infantry left flank guard; Johannesburg Mounted Rifles and pom-pom rearguard.
No. 1 Company furnished advanced guard, and I was in charge of forty men in the scouting line. The country was very stiff, but it was an enjoyable march. There were no trees, however, which was rather disappointing. A lovely day. Marched about ten miles, then halted and camped within seven miles of Wakkerstroom. We halt here for three days to send in empty waggons and get out fresh supplies, then proceed, probably, to Bethel, then on to Standerton. Our horses are in splendid condition, and the men are very keen and working well. The weather is magnificent-cold, frosty nights and lovely hot days. The country is black, but rugged and most beautiful.
14th Mounted Infantry, Heidelberg, June 20.
General Bullock has been sent down the lines of communication, and our new General is Brigadier-General Spens (Shropshires). Our transport is to be considerably curtailed by order of K. of K., and we shall, I expect, not take any tents. Yesterday we got seventy-nine new horses for the battalion, mostly Canadian, and very fair. We are well off for horses now, having about twenty-four spare per company.
The other evening R. P. Lewis (Oxford wicket-keeper), late of C.I.V. M.I., dined with me, also Gretton. The former has taken a commission in the Devons, and is now in Gough's Mounted Infantry.
June 21.— Langburg, seven miles north-east of Wakkerstroom. Reveille at 6. At 10 No. 1 Company (mine) went out on reconnaissance four miles out due north. We came in touch with eight Boers, who sniped us some way off. They decamped, however. The veldt all round is burnt, and as black as charcoal. Returned at 3 to camp. The convoy returned from Wakkerstroom with twelve days' supplies and mails, also No. 2 Company (14th Mounted Infantry) and 13th Mounted Infantry. I heard to-day of a bad disaster near Bethel: 250 men and two pom-poms were rushed at night by a strong commando of Boers, and were compelled to surrender. This is very bad news, as it strengthens the Boers and defers the end of the war. It rained all night.
June 22.—Reveille at 6. A cold, cloudy day. We marched off at 10 due north-east as follows: Johannesburg Mounted Rifles and two guns advanced guard; Gough's Mounted Infantry and two guns flying column on left flank; 13th Mounted Infantry left flank guard to column; 14th Mounted Infantry right flank guard to column; bodyguard and their guns and pom-pom and No. 3 Company (14th Mounted Infantry) rearguard.
Marched about eight miles. I scouted on right flank. Desultory sniping. A stiff, mountainous country. There were many halts owing to the column having to cross four drifts. Encamped at 5. It rained all night.
June 23.—Mooipoort. Reveille at 6. Moved off at 10 due east as follows: Johannesburg Mounted Rifles and two guns advanced guard; bodyguard and their guns rearguard; Gough's Mounted Infantry and two guns flying column left flank; 13th and 14th Mounted Infantry, two guns and pom-pom flying column on right flank.
A warm cloudy day. Country still very stiff. We (5th Corps) went about three miles from column and came in touch with thirty to fifty Boers, who retired after being well shelled. The column marched about five miles, and we halted and camped at 3 o'clock. Our camp lies in a shallow depression surrounded by high ground. I slept on inlying picket.
June 24.—Vrigheid's Farm. Reveille at 6. I stood to arms with my picket at 5.30. A glorious sunrise; the mountains look most beautiful tipped with the morning sun. A 9 a.m. observation posts west of camp were driven in by ten venturesome Boers. They decamped, however, after being well pom-pommed.
No. 1 Company (mine) went out at once, and occupied the whole ridge west of camp, I on left with thirty men, Waters next, and then Brass. We saw our friends and made it pretty hot for them whenever they appeared.
Column moved at 10 as follows: Bodyguard and guns and pom-pom, two companies Gough's Mounted Infantry, two guns, advanced guard; Gough's Mounted Infantry right flank; 14th Mounted Infantry and two guns R.H.A. rearguard; Johannesburg Mounted Rifles and two guns on left flank.
At 10.30 Johannesburg Mounted Rifles came in contact with a strong commando of between 300 and 400 Boers strongly posted on a huge ridge on left flank, about due north. A general action now came on, chiefly artillery directed on the position the Boers held. This lasted till 12.30, when the Boer firing virtually ceased. Johannesburg Mounted Rifles had one casualty, and besides there were one or two others. The column only went four or five miles east and halted.
June 25.—Waterval. The column remained halted. Two strong forces went out, however, on reconnaissance amongst the Ilangaapiesberg and Verzamelsberg as follows:—No. 1 column, under General Officer Commanding: 14th Mounted Infantry and pom-pom, advanced guard and flanks; 12th Mounted Infantry, four guns J Battery, main body; one squadron Johannesburg Mounted Rifles rearguard. No. 2 column under Lieutenant-Colonel Chesney, of bodyguard: bodyguard and their guns; Gough's Mounted Infantry.
Reveille was at four, and we marched off at 6 due east; then immediately due south towards the Ilangaapiesberg. Colonel Chesney's force were on our extreme right. A fine, cold day. No. 1 Company was advanced guard, and I had charge of scouting. A most magnificent country, but very difficult to scout. On my right was a succession of huge kopjes. We met with desultory sniping all along, so proceeded cautiously. At 8.30 we reached a farm, out of which we saw four Boers gallop. We halted here and cleared the farm of poultry, etc. The Boers opened fire at us from kopjes on the right, and from another farm 1,200 yards on our left front. I got my men together in groups and replied, then sent back for support. Brass came up with the remainder of the company, two guns J Battery, and pom-pom. After being well shelled, the Boers evacuated. I followed those on our left front and put a good fire into them. It was a most exciting ride over the hills and dongas. All halted here till 2 p.m., then returned to camp the same way, bringing in with us 400 cattle and 3,000 sheep. We reached camp at 4. No. 1 Company were for outpost. My post was on a huge kopje about a mile south-east of the camp, with thirty men. It was a cold, rainy night, but all was clear. Colonel Chesney did well on the right; he killed one Boer and brought in 800 oxen and 2,000 sheep.
June 26.—Reveille at 5. I stood to arms at 5.30, and saw a wonderful sunrise with early morning mists among the mountains. From where I was I could see fifty miles round.
The force moved at 8 back due north as follows: Johannesburg Mounted Rifles and two guns advanced guard; 14th Mounted Infantry and two guns rearguard; bodyguard and guns, right flank; Gough's Mounted Infantry and pom-pom left flank.
No. 1 Company (mine) was escort to guns. We had a quiet though very interesting march. It was a warm day; we marched over nek due west of big kopje, which was held by between 200 and 300 Boers. Our guns shelled a big farm and kopje 7,300 yards northwest of nek, and drove out quite 100 Boers. Gough's Mounted Infantry were about six miles on left flank, and did some very effective work. We proceeded and camped at this big farm. This place was a centre for a Boer commando.
June27.—Beelzebub (here's a name for you!). Reveille at 5. No. 1 Company stood to arms at 5.30. The column marched at 10 due north as follows: 14th Mounted Infantry and two guns J Battery advanced guard; Johannesburg Mounted Rifles and two guns rearguard; 13th Mounted Infantry right flank; Gough's Mounted Infantry left flank.
No. 2 Company advanced guard and scouts. We had an uneventful march of about eight miles, seeing few Boers, and those far off. We passed over old ground, and halted and camped at Mooipoort. The only excitement was when a hare or a covey of koran got up, which was an immediate signal to all fellows with guns to trek off, followed by thirty or forty dogs —a regular tally-ho! It is great fun, too, in camp when a hare gets up; there is enormous excitement and a regular hue and cry.
We reached camp at 4; a cold, fine, windy day.
June 28.—Mooipoort Reveille at 6. A cold misty morning. We moved off at g due north through the poort as follows: Gough's Mounted Infantry and two guns J Battery advanced guard; 13th Mounted Infantry right flank; Johannesburg Mounted Rifles left flank; 14th Mounted Infantry and two guns J Battery rearguard.
The 14th Mounted Infantry were rearguard, and took up positions on ridges surrounding rear of column.
No. 1 Company afterwards proceeded on right rear to relieve 13th Mounted Infantry. I went out with thirty men, and took up a position about a mile out, at a farm. Was there for an hour; thirty or forty Boers came within 1,800 yards, not knowing we were there, and we gave them a warm reception. They retired hastily. After that we rejoined the company, and all proceeded gradually through the poort, the Boers all round following and sniping us. Major Bridgeford worked the whole thing splendidly. It was a most difficult nek, with huge ridges on either side
J Battery sent shells into any party of Boers who showed themselves. The column was very slow shoving along, owing to the many drifts. We proceeded gradually, and halted and camped three miles north-north-east of nek. We reached camp at dusk (5.30 p.m.). It was a fine, cold, moonlight night after a cold, cloudy day. The Major is a rattling good commanding officer. It has been a long day, and we were very glad to get in. A company of the 13th Mounted Infantry had rather an exciting experience on the right flank early this morning. As I have already written, it was very misty. Well, they suddenly came in contact with from thirty to fifty Boers, who fired at them at 200 yards; they, of course, retired hastily, luckily having only three horses and one man hit. Pom-pom, however, and reinforcements came up at once, and the Boers bolted. At g, Brass and I walked over to the gunners' camp, and we had a very jolly musical evening round a huge camp-fire. Delightful to hear some good songs again! I played a small selection. Turned in at 12.
June 29.—Driefontein. Reveille at 6. A thick mist and very cold. Moved at 9 north-west as follows: 14th Mounted Infantry and two guns J Battery advanced guard; Gough's Mounted Infantry, two guns, rearguard; 13th Mounted Infantry right flank; Johannesburg Mounted Rifles left flank. A. most lovely day after the mist. We had an uneventful march of nine miles to Amersfoort. On approaching the hills beyond Amersfoort the scouts (No. 3 Company) got sniped. I was sent out with fifty men to hold a farm and cover their retreat, as they had gone too far. Did so, and retired again. Encamped here at 3. A brilliant sunset, beyond all description.
June 30.—Bergvliet, near Amersfoort. Reveille at 4. Flying column moved off at 6 north-west to Blaauwkop on reconnaissance, under General Officer Commanding as follows: Three companies 14th Mounted Infantry, three companies 13th Mounted Infantry, Johannesburg Mounted Rifles, three companies Gough's Mounted Infantry, J Battery R.H.A., pom-pom, taking two days' rations and forage. No carts or tents, except ambulance waggons.
No. 2 Company stayed with the main column, which moved at 9 due west to Stryd Kraal.
A cold morning. A very uneventful and tedious march of fourteen miles to Blaauwkop. We reached there at 12, and halted. Saw forty Boers, who trekked off. At 3 we moved back due south. I was left flank guard, and had a bit of sniping with eight or ten Boers, who followed us up. Trekked on till ten o'clock, when we reached the camp of the main column. It was a cold moonlight night, and both the men and horses were rather done. Turned in at 12.
July 1.—Stryd Kraal. Reveille at 6. The main column moved at 8.30 due west-south-west. All troops who were out yesterday moved at 11 in the same direction. We had another uneventful march of ten miles en route to Platrand—14th and 13th Mounted Infantry on right flank, Johannesburg Mounted Rifles rearguard. The latter came in for a skirmish with from thirty to fifty Boers, and had three men wounded. Halted and camped at 3.
July 5.—We trek the day after to-morrow to Orange River Colony after De Wet. No rest in Mounted Infantry, I am glad to say!
14th Mounted Infantry, 5th Corps, Field Forces, South Africa.
July 7.—Standerton. Reveille at 4. A fine cold morning. A flying column went under General Officer Commanding due west towards Orange River Colony at 7 a.m. as follows: Gough's Mounted Infantry and two guns 74th Battery move on left flank and close to Vaal River; 5th Corps 13th Mounted Infantry, 14th Mounted Infantry, four guns R.H.A., pom-pom, advanced column moving due west and north of Vaal River; remainder of force with Nos. 3 and 4 Com- panies; 14th Mounted Infantry go with main column (convoy) at 9 a.m.
A lovely morning. 13th Mounted Infantry found advanced guard; 14th Mounted Infantry found right flank and rear guards. We marched through a fiat, rolling veldt, all burnt and black for about ten miles. Shot seventy-six horses. Gough's Mounted Infantry on left flank had a skirmish with a few Boers under Commandant Strydman, all of whom got off, though Strydman has since been reported to be wounded. I went out two miles on right flank. Camped at 4 p.m. MacLean, of the East Yorks, joined the company to-night. I was very glad to see him.
July 8.—Goedgevonden. Reveille at 6. Moved off at 9 due west as follows: 14th Mounted Infantry, Gough's Mounted Infantry, four guns J Battery, F Section pom-pom, flying column under General Officer Commanding. The remainder of the troops go with the main column under Lieutenant-Colonel Law.
We crossed Vaal River to southern side. No. 4 Company (Gloucesters) were advanced guard. We marched about six miles to Zamenskomst, where we got in touch with fifty or sixty Boers. We had a running skirmish; the whole of the Mounted Infantry, with Gough's on extreme right and the 14th on the left, made a gallop. I had forty men on extreme left. We had a good gallop for eight miles, and saw more Boers, all, however, scattered and bolted. It was very exciting. We went as far as Hartebeestfontein, where we were ordered to stop. All then rendezvoused on high ground here at 4 p.m. Then came the long march of ten miles back to camp at Zamenskomst. Had it not been for peremptory orders to stop from General Bullock, we should have snaffled six waggons and several Boers. We reached camp at 7. There were huge veldt fires. It was a lovely cold night.
July 9.—Zamenskomst, Vaal River and Klip River. Reveille at 6. A most lovely morning. We moved off west-north-west as follows: Johannesburg Mounted Rifles, two companies Gough's Mounted Infantry, 13th Mounted Infantry, 74th Battery, flying column under General Officer Commanding on left flank. Remainder of troops moved with main column as follows: Two companies Gough's Mounted Infantry, two guns J Battery advanced guard; two companies 14th Mounted Infantry (Nos. 3 and 4), right flank; Johannesburg Mounted Rifles and pom-pom rearguard.
We had an uneventful march of ten miles; General Officer Commanding's column had a bit of a skirmish with from thirty to forty Boers on our left flank. The column had two drifts to cross, consequently had many halts. We camped at 4.
July 10.—Inloop, Vaal River. Reveille at 6. A fine cold morning. We moved off at g due west as follows: Two companies Gough's Mounted Infantry and two guns J Battery advanced guard; two companies 14th Mounted Infantry (Nos. 1 and 2), two guns, 74th Battery rearguard; No. 4 Company (Gloucesters) 14th Mounted Infantry right flank; No. 3 Company (Gloucesters) left flank.
Ox-waggons moved across drift, starting at daybreak. I had charge of right rear. We exchanged shots with five Boers, who persistently followed us, but kept at a respectful distance, and shot a good many Boer horses (Commander-in-Chief's orders), otherwise it was a long, uneventful march of ten or twelve miles with many halts. The day was hot and rather misty, very like a summer's day in London. Good old London! Eventually we camped at 5. We are now once again in the Orange River Colony. Last night's camp was just over the border. Gough's Mounted Infantry caught two Boers to-day. We marched to-day about ten miles west-south-west.
July 11.—Sidbury. Reveille at 6. A lovely cold morning. We marched off at 9 west-south-west as follows: Two companies 13th Mounted Infantry and two guns R.A. advanced guard; two companies Gough's Mounted Infantry rearguard; one company 13th Mounted Infantry right flank; one company 13th Mounted Infantry left flank.
An uneventful march of four miles. We found the country full of farms which have been untapped. We halted and camped at 12 o'clock. At 2 p.m. the General took out a force on reconnaissance due west as follows: Nos 2 and 3 Companies 14th Mounted Infantry, two companies 13th Mounted Infantry, two companies Gough's Mounted Infantry, and four guns J Battery. The remainder of the force remained in camp. The force went through Perth towards Wilje River, and took one prisoner, captured by a man who spotted two legs sticking out of an antbear hole. Returned at 6. No. 1 Company furnished north-east section of outposts (forty men under MacLean).
July 12.—Schiedam. The force remains halted today. Reveille at 6. At 10 o'clock General Officer Commanding took out the following force on reconnaissance due north: Nos. 1 and 4 Companies 14th Mounted Infantry, two companies 13th Mounted Infantry, two guns J Battery, two companies Gough's Mounted Infantry. A fine, hot day. We came into touch with twenty or thirty Boers on hilly ground on right flank, who retired hastily after exchanging some shots. I destroyed a farm and filled up with mealies, then returned to camp at 4, after having marched about six miles out and seven miles in. Now Mac-Lean has come, and there are four of us in the mess, we play bridge every night after dinner. There are quantities of game, hares—koran, dikkops, minor bustards, quails and plover—about here.
July 13th.—Reveille at 6. Moved off at 8.30 due north-north-west towards Villiersdorp as follows: two companies 14th Mounted Infantry (Nos. 3 and 4) and two guns 74th Battery rearguard; one company (No. 1) right flank; one company (No. 2) left flank; 13th Mounted Infantry (one company) advanced guard, and two guns 74th Battery main body. The remainder of the mounted troops went as a flying column under General Officer Commanding on left flank: one squadron Johannesburg Mounted Rifles, three companies 13th Mounted Infantry, Gough's Mounted Infantry, J Battery (four guns and pom-pom). The flying column came in touch with between 100 and 150 Boers, and had a running skirmish with them. I was in charge of right flank scouts and only saw Boers in the far distance. Marched ten to twelve miles, and halted and camped at Villiersdorp (Vaal River). The latter we crossed, and camped the other side. By Jove! I was here a year ago with the C.I.V. M.I. It brought back old memories.
July 14.—Villiersdorp. Reveille at 6. Moved off at g north-north-west towards Heidelberg as follows: Two companies Gough's Mounted Infantry, two guns J Battery, advanced guard; one company right flank; two companies 13th Mounted Infantry rearguard; one company left flank. The rearguard had a good deal of sniping when we left. We had with us 7,000 sheep (commandeered). Owing to being unable to get them across the Vaal, we killed 5,000 of them; this kept the whole column back till 1 p.m. We then moved on north-north-east. The rearguard were closely followed by fifty or sixty Boers, and several skirmishes took place, resulting in one Johannesburg Mounted Rifle being killed and one 13th Mounted Infantry severely wounded. The left flank guard also came into touch with 100 or 150 Boers on left flank. Halted and camped at 5, after having marched about ten miles.
July 15.—Rietfontein. Reveille at 5. Flying column moved due south at 7 a.m., under General Officer Commanding, as follows: Three companies 13th Mounted Infantry, three companies 14th Mounted Infantry (Nos. 4,3, and 1), three companies Gough's Mounted Infantry, F Section pom-pom, four guns J Battery. The object: to burn Grist Mill, and if possible round up 100 to 150 Boers under Commandant Roos known to be in the neighbourhood. The remainder of the column remained halted here. No. 1 Company advanced guard, I in charge of scouts and supports. Proceeded. At 8.30 my left flank scouts came into touch with Boer vedettes, who retired after exchanging shots. I saw them go off in direction of Grobler's Drift, and reposted. At 8.45 my right flank scouts caught a Boer and sent him in. I got some valuable information as to the whereabouts and strength of Commandant Roos, and reported. Crossed the Vaal River and captured a cart and two women stuck in the drift. A man got off. Proceeded to Grist Mill, which I destroyed; the Engineers blew up two hydraulic engines. The main body baited at the drift for two hours, then I picketed the hill round the Grist Mill. It was a lovely hot day. At 12 we proceeded south-south-east, and suddenly came on twenty Boers at 1,000 yards. My scouts behaved admirably, and fired off their horses without waiting. I got my supports up and sent back word, then proceeded at gallop. About 200 or 300 Boers came in view to left front and right front. I sent back word and asked for guns to come up sharp. The force deployed. All went forward—an exciting gallop, but our friends were too quick away for us. I saw twenty or thirty waggons about five miles west-north-west, and about 300 or 400 Boers trekking away as hard as they could in twos and threes, covering quite eight miles of country.
July 16.—Reveille at 6. The column moved at g a.m. north-north-west as follows: two companies 13th Mounted Infantry advanced guard to convoy; one company 13th Mounted Infantry right flank guard; one company Gough's Mounted Infantry left flank guard; one company Gough's Mounted Infantry rearguard; Elswick gun and 74th Battery. Remainder of force (14th Mounted Infantry, four guns J Battery, one company 13th Mounted Infantry, one company Gough's Mounted Infantry, one company Johannesburg Mounted Rifles) remain and lie quiet after convoy has moved off, and wait events under General Officer Commanding.
Well, we waited till the column had moved, and then took up a hidden position on black ground half-way up a rise. After waiting an hour we saw fifteen or twenty Boers come after the convoy. The whole of J Battery shelled them at 3,500 yards, and killed one man and two horses. No. 4 Company at same time made a gallop for them, but they all cleared like steam. The whole of the force then proceeded after the column, and marched about ten or twelve miles. A lovely day. We camped at 5 o'clock two miles from a big dam. Water and wood are both rather scarce.
July 17.-—Vlakfontein. Reveille at 6. Marched off about due north as follows: Two companies Gough's Mounted Infantry advanced guard; one company Gough's Mounted Infantry right flank guard; two companies 14th Mounted Infantry (Nos. 1 and 2) rearguard; one company 14th Mounted Infantry (No. 4) left flank guard; all to main column. Remainder of mounted troops (one company Gough's Mounted Infantry, 13th Mounted Infantry, No. 3 Company 14th Mounted Infantry, one company Johannesburg Mounted Rifles, four guns J Battery, one pom-pom) flying column under General Officer Commanding in advance. A fine day; an uneventful march of ten miles. I was in charge of rearguard and supports, and the unpleasant job fell to me of killing horses, oxen and sheep on the line of march. As regards the enemy, only a few snipers. We halted and camped in the hills near Heidelberg. Most lovely scenery and beautiful weather.
July 18.—Zuiterbosch. Reveille at 6. The column moved at 8 into Heidelberg, about eight miles over hilly, but beautiful, country. We reached here at 2 o'clock. Heidelberg is a most beautifully situated town. Hext, of the Devons, rejoins here; Waters goes to Indian Staff Corps.
July 19.—Heidelberg. We shall probably remain here for seven days, then continue trekking to Orange River Colony after De Wet and De la Rey.
14th Mounted Infantry, 5th Corps, Heidelberg, July 27.
After a welcome rest for all ranks of one week we started our trek this morning. Brigadier - General Spens, C.B., A.D.C, is in command vice Brigadier-General Bullock. The column moved at 6 a.m. south-south-east as follows: Fourteenth Mounted Infantry, two guns R.H.A. advanced-guard; R.E., three companies Dorsets, two guns R.F.A., Elswick gun, one company Dorsets, hospital, 2nd line transport, supply column, main body; four companies Dorsets, two companies 13th Mounted Infantry, two guns R.F.A., rearguard; Gough's Mounted Infantry, Colt guns, pom-pom, flying column on left flank; one company 13th Mounted Infantry right flank to column; one company 13th Mounted Infantry left flank to column.
July 28.—Malane Kraal Column moved at 6.30, south-south-west as follows: One company Gough's Mounted Infantry and two guns advanced guard; one company Gough's Mounted Infantry right advanced guard; one company Gough's Mounted Infantry left advanced guard; one company Gough's Mounted Infantry and two guns rearguard; 13th Mounted Infantry and pom-pom flying column on left flank; 14th Mounted Infantry and two guns R.H.A. on right flank.
July 29. —Main column moved at 7 a.m.; reached Villiersdorp about 11. Thirteenth here joined our main body south side of Vaal River. Marched another two and a half miles south-west and halted and camped at 4 p.m. at Alleman's Home on the spruit. Ambulance of 13th Mounted Infantry was fired upon by four Boers; one man was wounded and one mule killed. On the whole it was a good day's work.
August 1.—Van Reenan's Kop. Reveille at 6. The main column moved at 8, and we moved at 8.30 to join them. Before Colonel Jenner's column joined we marched as follows: 13th Mounted Infantry with waggons, 14th Mounted Infantry finding guards, one and a half companies (forty men) being right flank guard. Main column moved as follows, due west: One company 13th Mounted Infantry advanced guard; one company 13th Mounted Infantry right flank guard; one company 13th Mounted Infantry left flank guard; one company Gough's Mounted Infantry and two guns R.F.A. rearguard.
Well, we proceeded to join the main column, which was moving due west towards Wilge River, I being in charge of the right flank. We came then into touch with the rearguard to the main column, who were being sniped. Captain Nott (King's Royal Rifles, Gough's Mounted Infantry) here asked me to help him, as he and his company were going to lie low in the farm to surprise the Boers who were likely to come on; and he wanted me to screen the guns and also cover his retreat. I was also to hide my men and the guns (two 15-pounders, 74th Battery). I did so on a big burnt depression of the ground. Nott had 100 men with him. Well, Nott's post came in at the gallop, and the whole place looked as if we had left altogether. Nineteen to twenty Boers came up (this is Nott's story; I could not see) to within 100 yards of the farm. Unfortunately one man let off his rifle too soon, and the Boers took alarm and galloped off; however, they wounded four of them badly. Directly I heard the firing I moved out. Nott then retired at the gallop, with several Boers following. I let drive at these fellows, and with the second volley dropped one man and a horse. It was a great pity, as it might have been so successful I must here say that I had previously written over to the Commanding Officer and asked for permission to help Nott, which was granted. After this the guns shelled eighty or ninety Boers who were following on the left rear, coming out of the Nek in Van Reenan's Kop. Well, we then went on as rearguard, I looking after the right rear, sniping and counter-sniping proceeding all along. Just before crossing the Wilge River we had a fairly long halt, to permit the waggons to cross. I had one of my posts at a kraal about 1,500 yards on my right rear. They had quite a little scrap with six Boers, and I am glad to say they took one. Here we crossed the Wilge River, Nott covering my retirement. I covered his and guns. We then marched into camp, two and a half miles west of Leeuwbank Drift (the drift we crossed by), reaching camp at 4. A good day's work: five Boers and no casualties to us, which more than balances the three men hit yesterday. I reported to Colonel Jenner and Major Bridgeford on arrival in camp, and had tea with the latter.
August 2.—The column remains halted to-day here, at Avondozon (Klip River). Reveille at 6. No. 1 Company find vedettes; 13th Mounted Infantry and Gough's Mounted Infantry patrols of fifty men each, to reconnoitre the banks of Klip River. A lovely day; usual camp duties. Two forces move at 11 p.m. and 3 a.m. as follows: 5th Corps 13th Mounted Infantry, 14th Mounted Infantry, pom-pom, under Colonel Jenner, proceed to Frankfort at 11; Gough's Mounted Infantry and two guns J Battery (Major Gough) go back to Wilge River and search banks at 3.
No. 1 Company, unfortunately, are on outpost, so MacLean and I and fifty men have to remain behind. Very unfortunate. Thirteenth Mounted Infantry leave thirty men and Gough's Mounted Infantry fifty men behind.
I dined with Nott of the King's Royal Rifles (Gough's Mounted Infantry), and had a most enjoyable evening. Is not the world small ? Lewis (late C.I.V. M.I.) is his subaltern. Brass went at 11 with twenty-eight men. Either he or I had to remain behind, so we tossed up, and he won. MacLean was on outpost. A lovely moonlight night.
August 3.—Avondozon. Reveille at 5. The main column moves as follows: Fifty men Gough's Mounted Infantry advanced guard; twenty - five men 13th Mounted Infantry right flank guard; and two guns R.F.A. rearguard. I was in charge of the rearguard. The column marched in south - west direction. I picketed hills till all had moved off. An uneventful march of twelve miles, except for killing the livestock left behind. No enemy.
After a long, tedious march halted and camped at Lubbe. As we came into camp Colonel Jenner came back with his force from Frankfort. They reached there at daybreak, and completely surprised the Boers. Captured 20 waggons, 19 Cape-carts, 3,000 oxen, 34 prisoners (armed), men, women, and children, 5,000 sheep, and horses, etc. Frankfort was burnt to the ground. To all accounts this was a marvellous sight. Lieutenant Torkington, of the 13th Mounted Infantry, did very well by capturing a laager on his own bat; and the whole thing was a great success to all concerned. I do wish I had been there! However, one can't have everything. Jenner's column must have done about forty or fifty miles. The company turned out top speed at 5 to bring in Provost-Marshal, as he was being sniped bringing in sheep. I went out, but the Boers had decamped. Returned at 6.30.
August 4.—Lubbe. Reveille at 5.30. The column marched at 7.30 west-north-west to Gravenhage (eight miles) as follows: Two companies 13th Mounted Infantry advanced guard; one company 13th Mounted Infantry rearguard; one company 14th Mounted Infantry (No. 2) left flank guard; one company 14th Mounted Infantry '(No. 1), fifty men 13th Mounted Infantry (No. 1), fifty men Gough's Mounted Infantry, and pom-pom form flying column on right flank and proceed through Aanshoek, Wolvefontein, Klip River to Gravenhage, under Captain Brass.
I had, consequently, charge of the company. Mac-Lean took advanced guard and I right flank and Klip River. It was a clear, lovely day; we only saw a very few Boers, and met with desultory sniping. We destroyed 300 sacks of mealies, and got 600 sheep and 90 horses (foals and mares). Took in three Boer families. Joined main column at Gravenhage.
August 5.—Gravenhage. Reveille at 4.30. Marched off to Heilbron (fourteen miles). A hot, fine day; an uneventful march over old familiar country. We reached Heilbron at 2 p.m., and halted and camped on east side Rimington's and Plumer's columns are here Both have done well, and have cleared the country. Gough's column joined as well to-day. He also made a splendid bag at the Wilge River and got 4,000 oxen, 40 waggons, 19 Cape-carts, 8,000 sheep, horses and Boer families.
So General Spens' first trek has been highly successful, and he well deserves it. Majors Bridgeford and Pratt and Colonel Jenner and Major Gough have all been also very successful. I rode into Heilbron; nothing there. A terrible place this for dead horses and bad water.
August 6.—Heilbron. We trekked off due southwest at 1 p.m. as follows: One company 13th Mounted Infantry advanced guard; fifty men Gough's Mounted Infantry right flank guard; fifty men Gough's Mounted Infantry left flank guard; fifty men 13th Mounted Infantry rearguard.
A hot afternoon, and an uneventful march of seven miles. We halted and camped at 5 p.m. At 11.45 the following troops moved out south-west as follows: 13th Mounted Infantry, 14th Mounted Infantry, two guns J Battery, pom-pom, under Colonel Jenner; Gough's Mounted Infantry, Colt guns, under Major Gough. It was a clear, moonlight night.
Objective: to round up a Boer laager and work in co-operation with Rimington on our left and Gough on our right. Crossed the Rhenoster River at 2 a.m.
August 7.—Proceeded to Zwakfontein on Heilbron-Kroonstad road, and then swung round to the left, or south, as far as Tulbagh, which we reached at 5 a.m., having so far marched twenty miles. Here Vassall's company (Gloucesters), who were advanced guard, were sent out to surround two farms near Rietkuil At 6 a.m. we halted, and MacLean became advanced guard with half a company (No. 1). Heavy firing was heard in Vassall's direction. It was just getting light. Cape-carts and Boer waggons were reported. The Major sent me with three sections (seventy men) to go after them. We had galloped about three miles when I met Colonel Jennerj who told me to go no further than a long, high ridge two miles to my left front, as there were 400 or 500 Boers in close proximity (De Wet's commando). I occupied this hill where Brass joined me. I heard Rimington's guns on my left. Here I pushed forward to a large farm, one mile from me and three miles from a long, stony ridge of four miles occupied by the enemy. Reached farm and burnt it, being sniped the whole time pretty freely. At 7 a.m. the whole of Tenner's column swung to the right to Welgelegen, where they came in contact with Rimington's force. I went back to the high ridge, and rejoined Brass. In the hollow were nine Cape-carts and two ox-waggons, which we captured together with eight Boer women, innumerable children, and one Boer prisoner, also 800 oxen and 700 sheep, horses, and mules. We sent these on. Three Cape-carts could not be persuaded to go, so I changed the horses. At g a.m. about thirty or forty Boers came up to within 2,000 yards, and started firing at me. I had only thirty men, but Brass covered me from the ridge. It was altogether very funny; I could not get the blessed carts to go on, so I cleared off the men and boys. But the women, who were very fat and huge, refused to get out of the carts. Our friends all the time were peppering us. Well, I got some of the Tommies to help, and we forcibly got the women off, although they kicked like blazes, and were not at all decorous in their behaviour. Then, the carts being lighter, we got them to shove along, and made the women shove along too. All retired on to main body. The slowness of our little capture caused several delays, and kept us fighting a little rearguard action with quite ioo to 150 Boers, who followed us most persistently. I am glad to say we had no casualties. I joined main column (Jenner's) at 2. Rimington captured eighty Boers, fourteen Cape-carts, and three waggons, which we drove on to him. Colonel Jenner himself this morning at first dawn rode down and captured one Boer. Our bag resulted in twelve Cape-carts, four waggons, 800 oxen, 900 sheep, seventy-five horses, fifteen mules, nine prisoners (armed), men, women, and children.
Altogether it was a most successful reconnaissance, and reflected great credit on Colonel Jenner and all concerned. We joined the main column at Paardekraal after a march of twelve miles. The men and horses had no rest, and must have done from forty to fifty miles—eighteen hours in the saddle.
August 10.—Paarde Kraal. Main column moved as follows: Fifty men 14th Mounted Infantry advanced guard; fifty men 13th Mounted Infantry rearguard; twenty-five men Gough's Mounted Infantry on each flank.
Reveille at 5. Moved off at 7 towards Kroonstad. A most beautiful day; an uneventful march of six miles in charge of advanced guard. Reached camp at 12. No enemy. Gough in action on left flank with 150 Boers. No casualties. I went out on outpost with my men, and guarded south-west, west, northwest entrance to camp. All quiet. Jenner's force returned at 6 p.m., after having worked back (east) from last camp, then north, then south-west. They captured 400 oxen, and had a slight action with 80 or 100 Boers. One horse was shot and two Boers killed. Our casualties nil.
14th Mounted Infantry, 5th Corps, Kroonstad, August 13, 14, and 15.
The column remained halted here during these three days, with the usual camp duties and routine I got fifty remounts here for the battalion. Kroonstad is very little altered since I was last here a year ago. Nott of the King's Royal Rifles (Gough's Mounted Infantry) dined with us on the 14th.
August 16.—Reveille at 5. The column marched south-east towards Lindley as follows, at 7 a.m.: Two guns R.H.A., one company Gough's Mounted Infantry advanced guard; two guns R.H.A., one company Gough's Mounted Infantry rearguard; one company 13th Mounted Infantry right flank; one company 14th Mounted Infantry (No. 4) left flank. Elswick gun, 2nd Dorsets, two guns J Battery, F Section pom-pom, Gough's Mounted Infantry, 13th Mounted Infantry, 14th Mounted Infantry, Royal Engineers (searchlight), Royal Engineers, convoy and baggage, main body.
Again we are marching over old familiar ground. The advanced guard and 13th Mounted Infantry came in contact with some Boer patrols. Gough's Mounted Infantry had two men taken prisoners. We marched eight miles, then halted and camped at mid-day at Kranspruit. At 2 p.m. orders came out for a night march on Lindley (forty miles), the following force to go at 4.30 p.m.: 13th Mounted Infantry (Major Pratt); 14th Mounted Infantry (Major Bridgeford); Gough's Mounted Infantry (Major Gough); F. Section Pom Pom, two guns J Battery (Captain Bailey). All under Colonel Jenner.
Well, we started. No. 1 Company was advanced guard (MacLean scouting, myself in support). It was a lovely afternoon, and there was a glorious sunset. We alternately trotted and walked till dusk. Then came a long night march. It was very cold—freezing 1 At about midnight we went for a farm where lights were burning; the Boers had hastily evacuated it.
March to Lindley, August 17.—We marched on with very few halts. At 1 a.m. we passed through Doorn-kloof—a very awkward place, with hills on one side and river on the other—safe and sound. We marched about three and a half miles an hour. It was bitterly cold. At first dawn, 5 a.m., we reached the Lindley Hills. Gough went round and made a detour round the north side of Lindley. No. 3 Company 14th Mounted Infantry held hills west of Lindley. I held hills south of Lindley. To reach my destination I had to gallop through Lindley. I found no one there. A cold frosty morning with a glowing sunrise. The force marched forty miles in twelve and a half hours, a very fine performance for a nightmarch.
Received orders to join Brass in Lindley, leaving one section on hills south of the town. I did so. Lindley was then burnt and razed to the ground. Every house, every shed, church, gaol, town hall, private residences, all burnt.
At 11 a.m. all had orders to rejoin Jenner on the hills west of Lindley, where our main body was. Here we had our first welcome rest and fed our tired horses. At 12 the whole force moved, and encamped at west end of Quaggafontein Hills (north-west of Lindley). Gough's Mounted Infantry camped in the town, and completed Lindley's destruction. Although we caught no one (and we were after De Wet and Steyn), yet we did good work towards ending the war.
A welcome rest. A lovely hot day. Dinner at 7, under a starlit sky, and by a huge camp-fire.
August 18.—Quaggafontein, Lindley. Reveille at 6. Colonel Jenner's column moved at 2 p.m. to rejoin main column four miles off Paardeplaats. The main column did a long march yesterday of about twenty-two miles. We joined them at four o'clock. The whole force is camped here. MacLean and forty-eight men are on outpost, on hills west section of camp. Dinner at 7. In the middle of dinner we heard heavy firing from west, where MacLean was. We immediately rushed out and fell in with the company, then proceeded out towards MacLean. Firing was still going on, both Mausers and Lee-Metfords. Very dark, and stiff, broken country. On reaching MacLean the Boers had gone off. Singularly enough, MacLean heard horses' hoofs coming along, so he went up to the sentry, and the sentry challenged. The reply came back, ' Friend.' MacLean then saw about sixty or seventy men leading horses, only 120 yards to his right Immediately afterwards he called for the whole of his post to stand to and come up, and at the same time he came in for a heavy fire. He at once replied. No sooner had the sentry challenged than the men, who were undoubtedly a party of Boers, mounted and galloped off, whilst another party fired and covered them. It was evidently a surprise, and not a premeditated attack. Luckily nobody was hit, as it was a pretty dark night. I went off and visited the other posts, which reported all correct. MacLean's post was strengthened by eight more men. All then returned to camp. The night was so dark that it took one and a half hours to get in, owing to hills, dongas and spruits.
August 19.—Paardeplaats. Reveille at 6. The force remained halted to-day. In the afternoon I went for a swim, and afterwards had some shooting. Good sport.
August 20.—Reveille at 5. The force moved at 7 as follows: No. 2 Company 14th Mounted Infantry advanced guard to main column; No. 3 Company 14th Mounted Infantry right flank guard; No. 4 Company 14th Mounted Infantry left flank guard; No. 1 Company 14th Mounted Infantry rearguard, with two guns R.F. A; Gough's Mounted Infantry, two guns J Battery flying column on right flank; pom-pom, 13th Mounted Infantry, two guns J Battery flying column on left flank. I was in charge of rearguard scouts, MacLean supports. Gough's Mounted Infantry had a running fight all day with 300 Boers; 13th Mounted Infantry had small skirmishes, and got 3,000 sheep and oxen. The column had an uneventful march of about twelve miles east on the Reitz road. A hot, fine day. We had many halts, owing to several drifts; finally reached camp at 3 p.m.
August 21.—Lovedale, on tributary Valsch River. Reveille at 5. Moved off east towards Reitz at 7.15 a.m.: One company 13th Mounted Infantry and two guns R.H.A. advanced guard; one company 13th Mounted Infantry right flank guard; one company Gough's Mounted Infantry left flank guard; one company Gough's Mounted Infantry and two guns R.F.A. rearguard. A fine, bright day. Only marched five or six miles, owing to possible night operations, and halted and camped at 10. Orders were to march at 10.45 p.m. to a camp called Lamplaats. The following force went: Gough's Mounted Infantry (Major Gough); 13th Mounted Infantry (Major Pratt); 14th Mounted Infantry (Major Bridgeford) J Battery (four guns); F Section pom-pom. All under Colonel Jenner. It was a cold, fine, bright night. We marched in above order. The objective: to round up 200 or 300 Boers known to be in some hills south-east, and possibly a laager.
August 22.—Line of march. After a tedious march of fifteen miles we reached our destination at first dawn. Gough's Mounted Infantry pushed out along a succession of ridges to the west-south-west; the 13th Mounted Infantry pushed out to the east-south-east; and Nos. 3 and 4 Companies took a middle course. All the above actually came in contact with 200 or 300 Boers, who bolted as hard as they could go under a heavy fire from us. Their laager, unfortunately, had gone off two days ago. However, we got several of their led horses, oxen and sheep. My company and No. 2 were in reserve with two guns R.H.A., I myself holding the highest peak and ridge, viz. Louwkop. The country at this point is very high and broken, lying from four to five miles south of Reitz (Lindley road). Had a laager been here it would have undoubtedly been captured, as the general co-operation of all concerned was very good. At 10 a.m. all rendezvoused at a farm, and baited till the main column arrived. At 1.30 it arrived some three-quarters of a mile west of us, and all marched into camp, reaching same at 2.30 p.m. The camp is most picturesquely situated in a shallow depression on a plateau surrounded by rocky ridges. To the south one has a magnificent stretch of country, and one can see the distant mountains of Basutoland, Naauwpoort Nek, Retief Nek (where Prinsloo was so well cornered-up by Hunter), and the Biddelsberg by Senekal.
August 23.—Elandsfontein. Kaffir Kop. Reveille at 6. The main column moved due west as follows at 8.15 a.m.: One company 13th Mounted Infantry and two guns R.H.A. advanced guard; one company 14th Mounted Infantry (No. 4) right flank guard; one company Gough's Mounted Infantry left flank guard; one company Gough's Mounted Infantry and two guns rearguard. Two flying columns go out on each R.F.A. flank as follows, and start at 7 a.m.: Two companies Gough's Mounted Infantry on left flank; one company 13th Mounted Infantry and one company 14th Mounted Infantry (No. 1) right flank, under Captain Brass.
Well, we started at 7. MacLean was on the extreme right, and I was with our right flank (main body). We proceeded to Valsch River, south-east of Lindley, and burnt a farm belonging to De Wet's uncle. Dorrien-Smith, nephew to General Smith-Dorrien, came with us to assist, the Provost-Marshal bringing empty waggons and fifty black boys to round up stock. We brought in women and children, and I reconnoitred the banks of Valsch River, but found them all clear. I then went on reconnoitring, and sent in to Brass fifty horses with some sheep and oxen. I got some large supplies of mealies from the Kaffir kraals, which are very well supplied in this neighbourhood. It was a beautiful, warm day. I returned to camp at 4, having got one family, 300 oxen, 1,000 sheep, 170 horses, two loads of mealies. Gough also got supplies from left flank. The main column had an uneventful march of three miles only, as it had to cross Valsch River. There are signs of rain to-night.
August 24.—Klipfontein, eight miles south-south-east of Lindley. Reveille at 5. Moved at 7 as follows: One company Gough's Mounted Infantry and two guns RH.A. advanced guard; one company Gough's Mounted Infantry and two guns R.F.A rearguard; two companies 14th Mounted Infantry (Nos. 2 and 3) right flank guard; two companies 13th Mounted Infantry left flank guard. A cold, wet, rainy day. By the way, De Wet caught one of Gough's men the day before yesterday, and sent him back to the General with the following message: ' On account of your burning Lindley, I will in future shoot any officer or sergeant who falls as prisoner in my hands.'
We had an uneventful march of ten miles, and halted and camped at Kroon Spruit (Bloemberg). The 13th Mounted Infantry had a skirmish on the left flank, and captured one Boer, but had four horses shot. Wet and cold winds all day.
August 25.—Kroon Spruit, Bloemberg. Reveille at 5. A bitterly cold and wet morning. The force moved north-west at 7 as follows: One company 13th Mounted Infantry and two guns R.H.A. advanced guard; one company 14th Mounted Infantry (No. 1) right flank guard; two companies Gough's Mounted Infantry and pom-pom left flank guard; one company 14th Mounted Infantry and two guns R.F.A. rearguard. The weather became worse, and we had terrific thunderstorms, with rain and hail, and a bitterly cold wind. I was in charge of right flank scouts and supports. I had a running skirmish with a few sniping Boers. I am glad to say I rounded up 2,000 Boer sheep, which I sent in. I shot 30 oxen and 7 horses, and destroyed, at farms occupied by Boers this morning, foodstuffs, mealies, flour, etc. Very heavy rain and wonderful thunderstorms. The country is undulating, but very broken. The column marched about eight miles, and halted and camped at 2 on high ground. All were very wet and cold. The weather cleared up; we had a clear, cold, windy, moonlight night.
August 26.—Spitzkop. Reveille at 5. The force moved at 7.15 west-north-west as follows: One company Gough's Mounted Infantry and two guns R.H.A. advanced guard; one company Gough's Mounted Infantry and two guns R.H.A. rearguard; two companies Gough's Mounted Infantry and two guns R.H.A. left flank guard; 14th Mounted Infantry and two guns 74th Battery flying column on right flank, which is hilly, broken country. The main column on leaving Spitzkop came in for some heavy sniping.
We proceeded due north towards Valsch River. No. 1 Company was advanced guard to the right flanking column; MacLean was at first in charge of advanced scouts, then, when we changed direction a bit, I took out twenty-five men as scouts. I crossed the Valsch River at Kleinfontein, there being a big farm here with a stiff ridge beyond. We got sniped here, so galloped up and took possession of the highest point of the ridge. In the meantime our guns were shelling some twenty or thirty retiring Boers on the right, or east. As soon as I reached the top of the hill, I saw 500 or 600 head of cattle being trekked off by Boers 3,000 yards to my left front, also fifty or sixty Boers on my left and twenty or thirty on my right. I had too few men to go on, so fired on both sides for all I was worth, and sent in a report to Colonel Jenner. After waiting about an hour, supports came up. I marked the point where the cattle were sent. All then went forward, and I, with Colonel Jenner's permission, went after the cattle; general direction north-west towards Doornkloof. I galloped for three miles, and sighted some of the cattle. I then rounded them up (about 200 head), and had to put most of my men to cover them, as I was being badly sniped all round. I got them safe over a ridge, and then formed a position, and waited. About twenty or thirty Boers came up to within 1,200 yards, and I could see 200 or 300 two miles off on the right. I said to myself, ' Let them have it hot and strong!'
About ten minutes later Jenner and Bridgeford came up with supports. All then went forward towards Eland Spruit under cover, and I reconnoitred the country to our left The main column came upon 200 or 300 Boers here, and everybody, including guns, fired on them. The Boers, who were under Commandant Kabe, legged it towards Doornkloof, a strong position. The force remained where it was, to rest horses, and off-saddled.
Groenfontein. After halting one hour, Colonel Jenner's force proceeded back to the main body, which had halted and camped at Olievenfontein, about eight or nine miles south-south-west of us. The column went thirteen or fifteen miles, while right flank column went twenty to twenty five miles, and took in three families. I reached camp at 4 p.m., after capturing 400 or 500 head of cattle, sheep, horses, and collecting large quantities of mealies, flour and foodstuffs. One the whole, it may be called a successful day. Lovely warm weather. No. 1 Company are outpost. I went out with thirty-six men and covered, then to west section of camp. A cold, moonlight night. All clear.
August 27.—Olievenfontein. Reveille at 6. The force remains halted to-day. I stood to arms at 5 a.m.; all clear. Was relieved at 6.15 by vedettes, and then returned to camp. A foraging party went out at 10 to collect mealies and foodstuffs from neighbouring kraals and farms, returning at 1. A fine warm day.
August 28.—Reveille at 4. The force moved west-north-west towards Kroonstad as follows: Fifty men 14th Mounted Infantry (No. 2 Company) advanced guard; fifty men 13th Mounted Infantry and two guns R.H.A. rearguard; fifty men Gough's Mounted Infantry right flank guard; fifty men Gough's Mounted Infantry left flank guard.
The two following flying columns started at 6 a.m., and worked as follows: 13th Mounted Infantry and 14th Mounted Infantry on right flank searching banks of Valsch River; two guns R.H.A., under Colonel Jenner, D.S.O.; Gough's Mounted Infantry and two guns R.H.A. on left flank, under Major Gough.
We started and worked due north towards Valsch River. No. 3 Company was advanced guard. I was in charge of right flank guard and supports. Reached Valsch River at g after a long, uneventful march of twenty-five miles round to Wonderkop, where the main column halted. I sent in ninety horses and 100 sheep, with mealies and foodstuffs. I had slight skirmishes with thirty or fifty Boers, who kept a very respectful distance, and reached the main column at 4. Gough's Mounted Infantry on the left flank had a rather exciting day. They sighted a retreating Boer convoy five miles off. Captain Dick's Company (Irish Fusiliers) galloped after them at full tilt, Clifton Wallace leading. Five Boers suddenly got up and bolted. Unfortunately it was a trap. De Wet was apparently here, and had a ridge lined, as well as sixty Boers in a Kaffir kraal. Wallace went after the five Boers, but suddenly came in for a terrific fire at 500 yards. Poor Wallace was killed outright by an expanding bullet (big hole in back) and four saddles were cleared. Mildmay's company in support sent two groups out as scouts, and followed behind. All scuppered, and, besides, another fourteen saddles were cleared. Dick then came up, and the Boers legged it. Unfortunately nobody else came up, so the enemy were allowed to get off with waggons. Four Boers killed, eight to fourteen Boers wounded; Clifton Wallace killed, four men killed, fourteen men wounded (two since dead).
The corporal and eight men taken prisoners report that the Boer commandant said, had he been an officer, he would have shot him, and that ' he would teach us to send out our damned proclamations.' (Kitchener of Khartoum's proclamation: Any Boer found in arms after September 15 to be banished for life)
For some inexplicable reason Mahan—in charge of the two guns, J Battery—refused to shell the Boers in Kaffir kraal at 2,500 yards. He must have thought them our own men. It was most unfortunate. Gough's Mounted Infantry are a clinking good lot, under a splendid leader.
August 29. — Wonderkop. Reveille at 5. The column moved towards Kroonstad at 7 a.m. as follows: Two guns RH.A. and fifty men Gough's Mounted Infantry advanced guard; one company Gough's Mounted Infantry left flank guard; one company 13th Mounted Infantry right flank guard; two guns R.F.A and one company 14th Mounted Infantry (No. 2) rearguard. An uneventful march of fourteen miles to five miles east of Kroonstad, where we halted and camped at 3 p.m. The day both fine and warm.
August 30.—Keriba, near Kroonstad. Reveille at 6; breakfast at 8. Rode to Kroonstad for stores, etc. Rimington's column is here, which leaves to-night at 5.30 p.m. The Yeomanry left Rimington's column, some six or eight weeks ago, at Platrand. Rimington has done some good work; be has a very fine, mobile column, composed of 800 Bushmen, 360 Inniskillings, 100 Canadian Scouts, four guns R.H.A., pom-pom, four companies of the' Queen's.' No news. The war is wearing on. We trek the day after to-morrow. I lunched at the station with several fellows of both columns. Returned to camp. Only got two remounts per company to-day; more to-morrow. Lovely hot weather.
Captured by Brigadier-General Spens' column on march between Heidelberg and Kroonstad, July 29 to August 12, 1901: 52 prisoners, 2 surrendered Boers, 48 rifles, 1,460 rounds small-arms ammunition, 375 women and children, 752 horses, 4,716 cattle, 29,000 sheep, gi waggons, g7 ploughs, 123 Cape-carts, 26 mules, 153 tons mealies, 12½ tons forage.
Result of trek between August 16 and August 30, igoi, by Brigadier-General Spens' column: 1 prisoner, 6 surrendered Boers; 2,325 cattle, 30,000 sheep, 563 horses, 15 mules captured; 147 ploughs, 27 waggons destroyed.
Meriba, six miles south-east of Kroonstad.
August 31.—Reveille at 6. A fine, warm day. Usual camp duties.
