1899 -
....Lorenzo Marques, Oct. 9.—The British steamer Guelph, from Southampton, September 2, via Teneriffe, September 8, has arrived here. As it was supposed she had ammunition on board consigned to the Transvaal authorities, the British third-class cruiser Philomel sailed to intercept her. The Guelph, on being signalled to stop and to state what ammunition she was carrying, replied that she had none. She was therefore allowed to proceed, the Philomel following her into the harbour.
....It appears that the ammunition was landed at Durban, Natal, as the owners learned that the cargo would be seized at Lorenzo Marques.
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....London, Oct. 9.—The despatch from Lorenzo Marques relating to the chasing of the steamer Guelph by the cruiser Philomel caused some stir, especially as it was announced that the Guelph had landed at Durban 400 cases of ammunition for the Boers. There is a pretty general feeling that ammunition ought not to be allowed to be forwarded.
....The Pall Mall Gazette, referring to the matter, says:—
....There is some hope that the ammunition will be seized at Durban, as Natal possesses a Ministry whose loyalty is unquestioned. Had not the Filipinos been given arms by Americans with which to fight Spain General Otis would long ago have been enjoying his ease at home. Similarly with the Boers; we may have to pay heavily in blood for the apathy of the Cape Government has exhibited in this matter.
Daily Mail and Empire [Toronto], Tuesday 10th October 1899
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1900 -
Maseru, Oct. 9.......
....It is reported that the Government intends garrisoning the smaller towns in the Orange River Colony and the Transvaal,with the object of putting a stop to the continual raids and preventing the Boers from obtaining supplies.
....A transport rider, who arrived here to-day, reports that close to Rouxville he passed about 50 Boers with a wagon containing two cases of ammunition, bnt flying the Red Cross flag. Each Boer had with him two horses. A native reports having seen a small commando at Brand's Dritt. It is believed that the Boers are running short of ammunition.
Derby Daily Telegraph, Wednesday 10th October 1900