January 19th, 1900:
Following telegram sent by Lord Strathcona to Minister Militia and Defence:-
"Following suggestions by Adjutant General about my force begins:-
3 Squadrons mounted rifles, organization specify Militia Order No. 265, 20th December; each 162 men, 165 horses with necessary regimental staff, men armed with .303 rifle and bayonet. Should bring all personal equipment, including arms, accoutrements, clothing, 2 blankets, waterproof sheet. Each regimental transport, all camp equipment, as tents, saddlery, stabling equipment and picketting gear. Water carts and ammunition cart. One machine gun, detachment with 2 machine guns to be on tripod mountings.
Each man should have 500 rounds .303 ammunition mark 2 (no other mark permissible) and 50,000 rounds each machine gun Mark 2 rounds.
These are suggestions only for your guidance, and may be departed from both as to squadrons and men.
I am quite prepared to increase force to 450 or 500 men, but only _ if they, and the horses, can go on one ship."
January 19th. 1900:
Telegram from Sir Frederick Borden:
"Feel honored in being privileged to co-operate. Please command me fullest extent. Shall return Ottawa Tuesday noon."
