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1899 - From the diary of Major George Tatham, Natal Carbineers

Shelling commenced about A a.m., also random rifle fire from enemy. Several A.S.C. horses taken by enemy near Bester's Ruins. Heard very heavy artillery fire in the direction of Colenso and observed Boers moving about in various directions more than usual. Went up to General to enquire news, was told that Buller had been defeated at Colenso.

1899 - Diary of the siege of Mafeking by Edward Ross

Thursday, 14 December

This, I believe, is my birthday; I do not know how old I am, and it really does not matter very much. The enemy have again been kind to us all day and only sent in three or four big ones at about five in the afternoon, one of which unluckily dropped in the middle of the native village, cutting both legs off a native woman, and smashed up two or three huts.