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1st & 2nd. Battalion Canadian Mounted Rifles, South African War, Part I
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1st & 2nd. Battalion Canadian Mounted Rifles, South African War, Part I 10 years 6 months ago #20806

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Second Contingent; 1st & 2nd, Battalions of The Canadian Mounted Rifles, In the Second South African War, Part I.


CWM South African War:
Units Royal Canadian Dragoons:- The unit was originally named the 1st Battalion, Canadian Mounted Rifles, and comprised a total of 19 officers and 371 men and their horses, organized into two squadrons. The core of each squadron was provided by experienced regular officers and men from the Royal Canadian Dragoons, the cavalry unit of the Canadian Permanent Force. The battalion disembarked at Cape Town on 26 March 1900 and was soon on its way to the front to join the 1st Mounted Infantry Brigade. www.warmuseum.ca/cwm/exhibitions/boer/ro...diandragoons_e.shtml


“1st Battalion, Canadian Mounted Rifles.”
The battalion was originally named the 2nd Battalion, Canadian Mounted Rifles (CMR), but this was later changed to the 1st Battalion, CMR. The unit arrived at Cape Town on 27 February 1900, the day that the Boers surrendered at Paardeberg.
www.warmuseum.ca/cwm/exhibitions/boer/mo...lesbattalion_e.shtml


E.J. Chambers Account:
2nd Battalion Canadian Mounted Rifles (designated “The Canadian Mounted Rifles”). 275 officers and men, sailed January 27th 1900.
1st Battalion Canadian-Mounted Rifles (from August 1. 1900, designated the Royal Canadian Dragoons), 375 officers and men, sailed February 21st 1900.




Spañiard:
Second Contingent, CMR were authorised by MO No. 265/99, Part1, raised for active service on 20 Dec, 1899. Reorganized as two separate battalions, on Dec. 28 1899, designated the 1st Battalion, Canadian Mounted Rifles and the 2nd Battalion, the Canadian Mounted Rifles by, MO No. 271/99; and GO 9/1900 (Special GO dated Dec. 29. 1899. 1st Batt. CMR, was redesignated by GO 71/1900, ‘The Royal Canadian Dragoons (S.S.F.)’ on Aug., 1st 1900. By this GO, the unit was redesignated as “B” Squadron, in order to be in sequence with “A” Squadron from the PAM aka PF in Canada. 2nd Battalion CMR were now a whole unit, designated ‘The Canadian Mounted Rifles’, in perpetuation the NWMP. 1st Batt., CMR were ordered by MO No. 51/1900, to embark ss Milwaukee, on Feb. 21st, sailed to South Africa. According to;Brereton Greenhouse, Dragoon, The Centennial History of the Royal Canadian Dragoons, 1983: “They fought part of ‘1st Brigade, 1st Mounted Infantry Corps’ and Major-General Smith-Dorrien’s column until its departure on Dec. 13th, 1900.” Designated, “B” Squadron “The Royal Canadian Dragoons (S.S.F.),” disbanded on January 1901, by MO No. 17/01.

The remainder of, 2nd contingent embarked and sailed from Halifax, on the Milwaukee, February 21st, 1900.1st Battalion, the Canadian Mounted Rifles, Dragoons: 17 officers, 352 other ranks and 368 horses, embarked the ss Milwaukee, being 2 officers short of the authorized establishment. (Lieut.-Colonel Lessard and Major Forester who were in South Africa), also 7 horses. “The SS. Milwaukee arrived in Cape Town at 4 p.m. on the '21st March, 1900, but owing to the rough weather prevailing the disembarkation of the regiment did not take place until 10 a.m. on the 26th March, 1900. As soon as the regiment had disembarked it was ordered to camp at Green Point, Cape Town, and remained at the latter place until 1 p.m. on the 4th April, 1900.”

Second Cont.: 2nd Battalion Canadian Mounted Rifles, (NWMP) embarked and sailed on the ss Poneranian, to Cape Town on January 27, the marching out state of the battalion:—
Officers, 17; W.O., 1; sergeants, 22; trumpeters, 4; other ranks, 277; horses, 295.
Total all ranks, 321. Designated, “The Canadian Mounted Rifles, (SSF).” Note, 1st Battalion is not part of the name? Total 19 officers and 352 men = (371 all ranks).

Sailed from Halifax, arriving at Cape Town on February 26, however only disembarked (landed) on the 28th. 2nd Battalion remained in Cape Town for 9 days, issued equipment and drilled, before receiving their marching orders.




64 VICTORIA SESSIONAL PAPER No. 35a A. 1901, p.67.

The 2nd Contingent.
On November 2, 1899, His Excellency sent a cablegram to Mr. Chamberlain, conveying an officer of a second contingent from Canada. The offer was worded as follows:—

"Deep emotion has been caused in Canada by reports of reverses in South Africa, but a strong hope is felt everywhere that no cause exists for alarm. My Ministers are however, prepared to act on your previous despatch and send another Contingent at once if Her Majesty's Government deem it advisable."

An acknowledgment was sent the same day, which read:—
"I have communicated to the Secretary of State for War the generous and patriotic offer of your Government to send further Contingent. His reply will be telegraphed as soon as possible; in the meantime I desire to express my gratitude."

And on November 7 the offer was declined, the decision being conveyed in the following words:—
"Your Ministers' generous offer to send without delay second Contingent for service in South Africa has received the attentive consideration of Secretary of State for War and his military advisers, but they regret that under existing circumstances they are unable to accept it. The offer will, however, certainly be borne in mind, and Her Majesty's Government will have no hesitation in availing themselves of it should future events make it desirable to do so. Her Majesty's Government attach great importance to this fresh proof of Canadian sympathy and good will, and desire to express their grateful appreciation of it."


THE OFFER ACCEPTED.
On December 16 Mr. Chamberlain telegraphed His Excellency as follows: —
"Referring to my telegram of November 7 following telegram received from New South Wales begins: does Her Majesty's Government desire Colonies send more troops South Africa ends Following sent in reply begins: willing to entertain favourably further offer from Colonies. Should such offer be made they will probably give preference to mounted troops men should be trained and good shots and they should bring own horses, communicate this to your Ministers, for guidance with reference to their offer second contingent, which Her Majesty's Government now gladly accept."

This telegram was followed, on December 19, by another, from Mr. Chamberlain, which read:—
"With reference to expression 'trained men' in my telegram of December 16 Secretary of State for War explains that volunteers must be good shots and competent riders, but need not be members of any regularly drilled force."


On December 21 His Excellency replied to Mr. Chamberlain by telegram as follows:—
"Referring to your telegram of the 16th instant, for contingent, my Ministers propose following composition:—Three squadrons mounted rifles carefully chosen for shooting and riding, and a fourth squadron of specially selected scouts from the North-west Territories. Strength of squadrons, 160. Also field artillery, three batteries—approximately 1,230—all ranks, 18 guns and 1,124: horses. Could you inform me whether you approve above composition when it will be proceeded with at once
Provisional orders were issued, bearing date December 20, for the organization of a regiment of mounted rifles of three squadrons, in accordance with the army establishment for a cavalry regiment, 1898, of a total strength of 25 officers, 4l7 other ranks, and 536 horses, and a brigade division of field artillery of three batteries. Orders were also being prepared for the organization of a squadron of specially selected scouts.


On December 22, Mr. Chamberlain replied as follows:—
"Referring to your telegram of December 21, Her Majesty's Government very high' appreciate offer from your Ministers of further military assistance which they have great pleasure in accepting. They would, however, suggest for consideration of your Government whether substitution of more mounted troops of the same class as theNorthwest mounted troops for part of contingent of artillery proposed would not be improvement in composition of force in view of special requirements of the moment."

Mr. Chamberlain also telegraphed His Excellency on December 24, as follows:—
I.” Referring to my telegram of December 22, after due consideration H. M.
Government will be glad if your Ministers will send batteries as they proposed. They should be complete in every respect, with horses, 500 rounds of ammunition per gun if possible, and full transport.
II. " H M. Government would also be glad to accept offer of trained post office men received through High Commissioner, October 20.
III. " Mounted troops should be organized in units of 1 25 non-commissioned officers and men, one captain and four subalterns, with good proportion of farriers, shoeing smiths and saddlers. They should be fully equipped, bringing, if possible, 500 rounds 'mark two' service ammunition, personal and regimental equipment, including camp equipment, saddlery, stable and pi keeping gear, no bags, grooming kits, horse shoes for three months, farriers' tools and regimental and other transport.
IV. "Telegraph as soon as possible date of departure of contingent and probable date of arrival in South Africa with full details as to strength, composition of armament, quality of ammunition, and any unavoidable deficiency in equipment. Send nominal rolls also by earliest opportunity. H. M. Government cordially recognize great moral and material value of assistance so readily offered by your Ministers and patriotic enthusiasm of people of Canada."




On December 27, the Major General Commanding, to whom Mr. Chamberlain's telegram of the 24th had been referred, reported as follows:—

"With reference to the cablegram of the Secretary of State for the Colonies, dated
24th instant, a copy of which is attached and paragraphed, I have the honour to state
as follows :—
I. The Brigade Division. Field Artillery, consisting of 3 Batteries of 12-pr. B. L. guns is in process of organization. They shall be complete in every respect with horses, 500 rounds of ammunition per gun and full transport.
II. I understand that you have arranged for the Post Office officials.
III. The organization of a Regiment of Mounted Rifles had already been carried into effect with Establishment laid down for Regimental Staff, and three Service Squadrons in War Establishment, before the arrival of the cablegram in question. Arrangements had further been made to supplement this Regiment by a Corps of Scouts, in accordance with the request of the Secretary of State for the Colonies, dated 22nd, with the strength of a Service Squadron. "Owing to unforeseen difficulties as regards recruiting in the North-west Territories, the Mounted Force above mentioned has been organized into two distinct Battalions of Mounted Rifles, each consisting of Regimental Staff and 2 Squadrons. It would now cause great confusion and delay if this organization were altered again to meet the strength of the units indicated in the cablegram of the Secretary of State for the Colonies. I most strongly urge that representation be made that the present formation be accepted as final. Vide Schedule attached.—Schedule not printed herein—practically the same as establishment subsequently authorized. "The two Battalions of Mounted Rifles shall be fully equipped with 500 rounds Mark (II) S.A.A., personnel and regimental equipment, including camp equipment; saddlery, stable and picketing gear, nose bags, grooming kit, horse shoes for three months, farrier's tools, and regimental transport.
IV. The probable date of departure shall be communicated later. On December 28, a recommendation was submitted for the consideration of His Excellency in Council, in accordance with the foregoing, and on December 30 His Excellency approved it. The following is the report of the Committee of Council, approved by His Excellency:—

"The Committee of the Privy Council have had under consideration two telegraphic despatches, hereto annexed, dated December 22 and 24, 1899, respectively, from the Right Honourable Mr. Chamberlain, Secretary of State for the Colonies, relative to the formation of the 2nd military contingent for service in South Africa. "The Minister of Militia and Defence, to whom the said despatches were referred, submits that they have been carefully considered, and the opinion of the Major General Commanding obtained, as will be seen by the accompanying report from that officer, dated December 27, 1899, by which it is shown that the organization of the corps in question was nearly completed when the above mentioned cablegrams were received; and as the Minister agrees with the Major General Commanding upon the advisability of keeping the contingent in its present state, he the Minister, therefore recommends that Your Excellency may be pleased to cable the Home Authorities in order to have the present formation accepted as final.

"The Committee advise further that Your Excellency may also be moved to transmit a certified copy of this Minute, and the annexed report, to the Right Honourable Her Majesty's Principal Secretary of State for the Colonies. All which is respectfully submitted for Your Excellency's approval,"

(Sgd.) JOHN J. McGEE,
Clerk of the Privy Council.


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Sec Cont 1st & 2nd. Batt. Canadian Mounted Rifles, South African War, P.I. 10 years 6 months ago #20807

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On December 28, the provisional orders issued on the 20th were amended, to provide for a regiment of mounted rifles of two battalions, to be designated the lst., and 2nd Battalion, the Canadian Mounted Rifles. The squadrons of the 1st Battalion were designated 'A' and 'B', and those of the 2nd, 'C and 'D.'


CANADIAN MOUNTED RIFLES—ESTABLISHMENT.

Regimental Staff.













Officers.
The following is a list of the Officers appointed to Commissions, their appointment dating from December 20, 1899. The distributions of Officers below are those first made, which were subject to change by the Commanding Officers after embarkation.

1st BATTALION.
Commanding Officer: Lessard, F.L. (Lieut.-Col. Royal Canadian Dragoons.)
Major.(2nd in Com.) Evans, T.D.B., (Major and temporary Lieut.-Col. Royal Canadian Dragoons.)

"A'' SQUADRON.
Comd'g. Squadron: Forester, W., Capt. Royal Canadian Dragoons.
Captain: Pearse, C. St. A. (Capt. Royal Canadian Dragoons.)
Lieutenants:
1st Trp, Elmsley, J. H., (Lieut. Royal Canadian Dragoons.)
2nd Trp, Cockburn, H. Z. C, (Capt. G.G.B. Guards.)
3rd Trp, Van Luven, R. M., (Capt. 4th Hussars.)
4th Trp, King, A. H., (Major 1st Hussars.)

"B" SQUADRON.
Comd'g. Squadron: Williams, V. A. S., (Capt. Royal Canadian Dragoons.)
Captain: Greenwood, H. S., (Lieut.-Col. 3rd Dragoons.)
Lieutenants:
1st Trp, Van Straubenzee C. T. (Lieut. Royal Canadian Dragoons.)
2nd Trp, Young, F. V., (2nd Lieut. ^Manitoba Dragoons.)
3rd Trp, Turner, R. E. W., (Capt. Q. O. C. Hussars.)
4th Trp, Borden, H. L., (Major K. C. Hussars.)
Adjutant: Nelles, C. ISI. (Capt., Royal Canadian Dragoons.)
Quartermaster: Wynne, J. H. (Capt., 2nd Regiment C. A.)
Medical Officer: Duff, H. R. (Sur.-Maj., 4th Hussars.)
Transport Officer: Harrison, C. F. (Capt., 8th Hussars.)
Veterinary Officer: Hall, W. B. (Vet. Major, Royal Canadian Dragoons.)
Promotion since organization: Lieut. A. H. King, to be Captain, vice Pearse, deceased, from October 17, 1900.


2nd BATTALION.
Comd’g Officer: Herchmer, L. W. (Commissioner N.W.M.P.)
Major: (2nd in Com.) Steele, S. B, (Superintendent N.W.M.P.)

"C" SQUADRON.
Comd’g Squadron: Howe, J. (Superintendent N.W.M.P.)
Capitan: MacDonnell, A. C. (Inspector N.W.M.P.)
Lieutenants:
1st Trp, Moodie, J. D. (Inspector N.W.M.P.)
2nd Trp, Begin, J. V.
3rd Trp, Wroughton, T. A.
4th Trp, Inglis, W. M. late Capt. H.M. Berkshire Regiment.)

"D" SQUADRON.
Comd’g Squadron. Sanders, G. E. (Superintendent N.W.M.P.)
Captain: Cuthbert, A. E. R. (Inspector N.W.M.P.)
Lieutenants:
1st Trp, Davidson, H. J. A. (Inspector N.W.M.P.)
2nd Trp, Chalmers, T. W. (Lieut Reserve of Officers.)
3rd Trp, Taylor, J. (Lieut. Manitoba Dragoons.)
4th Trp, Cosby, F. L. (Inspector N.W.M.P.)
Adjutant: Baker, M. (Inspector N.W.M.P.)
Quartermaster: Allan, J. B. (Inspector N.W.M.P.)
Medical Officer: Devine, J. A. (Surgeon-Lieut. 90th Batt. )
Transport Officer: Eustace, R. W. B.
Veterinary Officer: Riddell, R.



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Sec Cont 1st & 2nd. Batt. Canadian Mounted Rifles, South African War, P.I. 10 years 6 months ago #20808

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Promotions and Appointments after Organization.

The following promotions and appointments were made after the formation of the Battalion:—

To command the Regiment—Lieut. -Colonel T. D. B. Evans, from the 1st Battalion
Canadian Mounted Rifles, vice Herchmer, retired, from August 1, 1900.
To the Second in Command—Major J. Howe, vice Steele, retired, from March 7, 1900.
To the Second in Command—Major G. E. Sanders, vice Howe, seconded, from May 20, 1900.
To the Majors—Captain A. E. R. Cuthbert, vice Howe, promoted, from March 7, 1900; Captain A. C. Macdonell, vice Samlers, promoted, from May 20, 1900.
To the Captains—Lieutenant T. AV. Chalmers, vice Cuthbert, promoted, from March 7, 1900: Lieutenant J. D. Moodie, vice A. C. Macdonell, promoted, from May 20, 1900: Lieutenant J. V. Begin, vice Chalmers, killed in action, from November 3, 1900. To he Lieutenant—Sergeant Charles Tryon, vice Begin, promoted, from November; 3, 1900.


2nd Battalion, The Canadian Mounted Rifles.
1 Sergeant, 11 men and 22 horses.
Attached Officers, Nurses and men.
1 Representative Red Cross Society—Surgeon Lieut--Colonel G. Stirling
Ryerson, Canadian Army Medical Staff.
1 Chaplain—Reverend W. J. Cox.
1 Extra Medical Officer —Lieut. F. Vaux, Canadian Army Medical Staff.
4 Nurses: Miss D. Hurcomb, Senior Nurse. M. Horne. M. Macdonald.
M. P. Richardson.
1 Officer for duty with Machine Gun Section of 2nd Batt., The Canadian Mounted Rifles, Lieut. A. L. Howard, Unattached List, with 2 horses.
1 Officer of Postal Corps—W. R. Ecclestone.
4 Men Postal Corps: Rowan Johnston. Kenneth A. Murray. Thomas , E. Bedell.
Joseph Lallier.
1 Private, Yeomanry Cavalry, Imperial Forces—Pte. Wainwright.
Total=14.



DEPARTURE OF ‘POMERANIAN.’
The Poneranian sailed for Cape Town on January 27 with the 2nd Battalion of the Mounted Rifles on board. Following is the marching out state of the battalion:—
Officers, 17; W.O., 1; sergeants, 22; trumpeters, 4; other ranks, 277; horses, 295.
Attached: —1 chaplain, the Reverend J. C. Sinnett. One officer, 2 sergeants, 34 other ranks and 58 horses remained in Halifax to be conveyed to South Africa by the next transport.


DEPARTURE OF 'MILWAUKEE.'
The remainder of the 2nd contingent embarked on the Milwaukee on February 21.
The following is the detail of the forces embarked:—
(a.) 1st Battalion, the Canadian Mounted Rifles: 17 officers, 352 other ranks and
368 horses, being 2 officers short of the authorized establishment (Lieut.-Colonel Lessard and Major Forester who were in South Africa), also 7 horses.
(b.) 'C' Battery, Canadian Brigade Division of Field Artillery: 4 officers, 168 other ranks and 137 horses, being short of establishment 1 officer (Captain Panet who was in South Africa), and 1 man.
(c.) Attached to 1st Battalion, the Canadian Mounted Rifles: Detachment of 2nd Battalion, C.M.R., unable to embark on SS. Pomeranian for want of accommodation; 1 officer, 37 other ranks and 58 horses.
(d.) For instructional purposes to replace officers of the Canadian Militia in South Africa and appointed to the Canadian Mounted Rifles or Brigade Division of Field Artillery: Lieut.-Colonel W. D. Gordon, D.O.C. No. 5 Military" District, Major T. L. Boulanger, commanding 1st ‘Quebec’ Field Battery, Lieut. J. E. Burch, 2nd Dragoons.
(e.) Lieut. J. A. MacDonald, 82nd Queen's County Infantry, to be attached to and absorbed into the 2nd (Special Service) Battalion, Royal Canadian Regiment.
(f.) Reverend W. G. Lane, as chaplain.
(g.) Seven saddlers, 11 shoeing-smiths and 5 wheelers for service with the Imperial Forces.
(h.) Attached to 'C' Battery, Canadian Brigade Division of Field Artillery: Detachments of 'D' and 'E' Batteries of the Canadian Brigade Division of Field Artillery, detained at Halifax owing to symptoms of pneumonia in the horses, 1 sergeant, 2-1 other ranks and 51 horses. Captain H. J. Mackie, 42nd Battalion, for duty with Field Artillery.





1st Battalion CMR, embarking SS Milwaukee at Halifax, Nova Scotia.
Reference no: Notman Studio NSARM accession no. 1983-310 No.7145 & 7146.



SESSIONAL PAPER No. 35a 1901, p.81.

(1st Battalion Canadian-Mounted Rifles were redesignated, Royal Canadian Dragoons).

REPORT C.
From Officer Commanding Royal Canadian Dragoons to Adjutant General, Ottawa.
Toronto, January 21, 1901.

Sir,—In accordance with your instructions, I have the honour to submit my report
concerning the regiment under my command while employed on active service in South
Africa.

ORGANIZATION.
When the regiment arrived at Cape Town, South Africa, it was styled the 1st Battalion Canadian Mounted Rifles and had been raised as a special service regiment for duty in South Africa, the Royal Canadian Dragoons forming a nucleus. It was therefore placed at a disadvantage to the Canadian Permanent Artillery and Infantry, both of whom ret lined distinctive Royal titles. It was felt by all that the changing of the name of the corps from that conferred by the Queen to that of 1st Battalion Canadian Mounted Rifles precluded the regiment from wearing in the held the distinctive badge given them by Her Majesty, and from attaching to the regiment the honours it would strive to earn in this campaign. The regiment desired to be allowed to feel that they were serving as members of a corps which Her Majesty had specially honoured, but which had for the first time an opportunity of showing its devotion to Her Person and Empire. I therefore applied that the Royal title be given back to the regiment, which I am pleased to say was granted by the authorities.

ARRIVAL OF SS. "MILWAUKEE."
The SS. Milwaukee arrived in Cape Town at 4 p.m. on the '21st March, 1900, but owing to the rough weather prevailing the disembarkation of the regiment did not take place until 10 a.m. on the 26th March, 1900. As soon as the regiment had disembarked it was ordered to camp at Green Point, Cape Town, and remained at the latter place until 1 p.m. on the 4th April, 1900.

INSPECTION, APRIL 1, 1900.
The regiment was inspected by Colonel Cooper, Base Commandant, for Lieut. General Sir Forestier Walker, K.C.B., C.M.G., on the 1st April, 1900, at Green Point Common. Colonel Cooper expressed the regret of General Forestier Walker at not being present, and stated that he was well satisfied with the efficiency and appearance of the men and horses.

MARCHING ORDERS.
The regiment received orders to march on the 4th April from Cape Town to Stellenbosch, a distance of 33 miles. The march was accomplished in one and one-half days, arriving at Stellenbosch at 5 p.m. on the 5th April.

STELLENBOSCIH.
The regiment remained in camp at Stellenbosch from the 5th to the 10th April. I received orders on the 8th April to entrain the regiment in three parts for Bloemfontein as follows:—

"B" Squadron on the 8th April. "A" Squadron on the 9th April. Details of the regiment on the 10th April. From the 10th until the 30th April the regiment was separated. "B" Squadron entrained for Bloemfontein on the 8th April, but received orders to detrain when it reached Norval’s Pont. The squadron arrived at the latter place on the 10th April and was ordered to proceed to Springfontein by route march, which was reached on the 12thApril. "A" squadron entrained on the 9th April and on arrival at Naauwpoort was ordered to Bethulie, there to detrain and proceed by route march to Springfontein. On arrival at Bethulie, orders were given the squadron to escort 700 mules and 50 transport wagons. The distance between Bethulie and Springfontein is 26 miles. This distance was covered in one day, reaching Springfontein on the 14th April. The details of the regiment entrained at Stellenbosch on the 10th and arrived at Springfontein on the 10th April, where they received orders to join the regiment.

On the 15th April, "B" squadron was ordered to escort a Howitzer ammunition column and a convoy for Bloemfontein. This squadron reached Bloemfontein at noon on the 21st April and was at once ordered to proceed without delay with the First Mounted Infantry Corps to Springfield, Leeuwkop and Waterworks. Here they were, in action on the 22nd, 23rd and 24th April, and one day were under very heavy fire, Lieutenant Van Straubenzee having his horse shot and a few more horses being wounded. The squadron then returned with the First Mounted Infantry Corps to Fisher's Farm. On the 16th April, "A" squadron and regimental staff were ordered to escort 2,000 mules and horses, a convoy and a battalion of the City Imperial Volunteers from Springfontein to Bloemfontein. The above column, which was under the command of Colonel MacKinnon, City Imperial Volunteers, arrived at Bloemfontein without incident at 5.30 p.m. on the 22nd April.

On arrival at Bloemfontein I received orders to camp at Lawton Farm, six miles south of Bloemfontein. The regiment remained in camp at the above farm for one day when we received orders to proceed to Fisher's Farm, situated six miles north of Bloemfontein, to relieve the Inniskillings for outpost duties.


INSPECTION.
"A" squadron and regimental staff were inspected on the 25th April by the Field Marshal Commander in Chief, Lord Robert, on which occasion he expressed himself as being well satisfied with the appearance of the squadron generally, and in addressing the men he referred to the behaviour of the Second (Special Service) Battalion, Royal Canadian Regiment, at Paardeberg, remarking that he felt sure the First Battalion Canadian Mounted Rifles would sustain the reputation Canadians had already won. On the 1st of May the regiment complete, with the 1st Mounted Infantry Corps, under the command of Lieut.-Colonel E. A. H. Alderson, left Fisher's Farm. The 1st Corps formed part of the 1st Mounted Infantry Brigade, under command of Major General E. T. H. Hutton, A.D.C., the establishment of which I append to this report. See appendix marked C 1, page 102.

IN ACTION AT BOSCHMAN's KOP.
The regiment came into action for the first time at 12.35 p.m. on the 3rd of May at Boschman's Kop under the following circumstances:—

The regiment was ordered to furnish the advance guard, and it was 'B' Squadron's turn to perform this duty. The advance party of the advance guard was under command of Lieut. C. T. Van Straubenzee and Lieut. F V. Young. The enemy allowed the advance party to come close up to their position and then opened a very heavy fire on our mpn, which forced the advance party to retire on the main body. The regiment was then ordered to dismount and get into position, the machine guns working on our right.

After an engagement of a couple of hours the enemy retired. Our (casualties on that day were few, only one man wounded, No. 104, Private F. Brown, slightly wounded through the kg; besides there were four horses wounded. The 1st Mounted Infantry Corps then resumed the advance, and bivouacked that night about five miles north of Boschman's Kop.


CONSTANTIA AND BEISEBUILT KOP.
On the 4th of May, at 12.30 p.m., we again came in contact with the enemy at Constantia, and for two hours the regiment was under both artillery and rifle fire. 'B' Squadron was ordered to hold a farm, while 'A' Squadron was ordered to dismount for action. The regiment on this occasion, the first time under shell tire, behaved as well as could be expected. The remarkable part of this engagement was that the regiment escaped without any casualties. The enemy retired leaving behind a considerable portion of their effects, which were burnt. We bivouacked at 5 p.m. two miles north of Beisebuilt Kop.





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Sec Cont 1st & 2nd. Batt. Canadian Mounted Rifles, South African War, P.I. 10 years 6 months ago #20810

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YETT RIVER.
The regiment came in action for the third time on the 5th of May, at 2 p.m., the enemy again occupying a strong position in and near the Yett River and the surrounding kopjes. 'A' Squadron was detailed to escort a battery, R.H.A., and 'B' Squadron acted dismounted. The latter squadron, under my command, received instructions to advance towards the river and encage the enemy. As soon as the advance party had shown itself within rifle tire the enemy at once opened fire on them, forcing them to retire. The enemy's fire could not easily be located, but we managed after a while to reach the river. On this occasion Lieutenants Borden and Turner, with five men, swam the river, and when on the opposite bank found some 40 or 50 of the enemy entrenched in a stone kraal. These men engaged the enemy, and while they were drawing their attention T ordered 'B' Squadron to mount: and, finding a narrow ford, we crossed the river under pretty sharp rifle fire. The crossing was effected in conjunction with the 1st Mounted Infantry on our right and left.

As soon as the enemy saw us in possession of their side of the river they retired. The casualties on our side were again few, only one horse shot and two or three wounded. For this engagement the 1st Mounted Infantry Corps received the congratulations of the Field Marshal Commander in Chief.


WELGELEGEN.
We arrived at Welgelegen at 1.30 p.m. on the 7th of May, when the General received intelligence that the enemy, about 8,000 strong, were only 8 miles further at Virginia Siding. We were at once ordered to saddle up and proceed to Zand River. Here the enemy were blowing up the railway line and bridge. We came in contact with the enemy at 4 p.m. They were occupying a strong position on the Zand River. As soon as they saw us they kept up a heavy artillery fire. Finding the enemy too strong and strongly entrenched, the General ordered a retirement on Welgelegen. We remained at Welgelegen for one and a half days waiting for the main body to arrive. On the 9th of May the l&t Mounted Infantry Corps advanced to Du Preez Laager where it bivouacked for the night. On the 10th May the Cavalry Division having arrived with General Fiench in command, the 1st Mounted Infantry Corps worked in concert with them. At 11.30 a.m., the same day, the cavalry came in touch with the enemy. Again the regiment was called upon to dismount and were under fire for several hours.

The enemy retired at about 3 p.m. There were no casualties in the regiment except a few horses grazed. On the 11th, 12th and 13th the 1st Mounted Infantry Corps marched continually until it reached Kroonstadt at about 5 p.m. the l3th May without opposition. The 14th, loth, 16th, 17th, 18th and 19th May the regiment, along with the 1st Mounted Infantry Corps, remained in Kroonstadt resting and awaiting supplies. On the 17th May, one hundred men of the 1st and 2nd Canadian Mounted Rifles took part in an expedition -about 35 to 40 miles north-west of Kroonstadt to arrest some of the enemy whose presence had been reported in that vicinity. They returned on the 19th May with one Boer commandant, nine Johannesburg police and twenty Boer prisoners. On the 19th of May the 1st Mounted Infantry Corps received orders to be ready to march the next day (Sunday) at 8 a.m. after church service.


DOORN SPRUIT.
At 8 a.m., the 20 of May, the 1st Mounted Infantry Corps paraded mounted for church service, ready to march off. The service was held by Capt. Lane, Chaplain to the 1st Battalion Canadian Mounted Rifles. At 9 a.m. the corps matched off in the direction of Dorn Spruit, where it halted at the junction of Dorn Spruit and Klorksdorp road and bivouacked for the night. No enemy in sight.


BOSCH KOPJES.
The corps marched off at 6 a.m., the 21st, and about 3 p.m. halted at Bosch kopjes to bivouac for the night. Yet no enemy in sight.


EXGLISCHE-KUIL ESSENBOSCH.
Marched off at 6 am., the 22nd, from Englische Kuil and arrived at Essenbosch at about 1 p.m., the 23rd May. The regiment bivouacked here.


PARIS-VILIOEN’s DRIFT.
Marched off at 4.30 a.m., the 24th May. On arriving at Paris, the cavalry division crossed the Vaal and the 1st and 3rd Mounted Infantry Corps marched to Vilioen's Drift which they reached late in the evening, having covered nearly thirty miles during the day. The cavalry division bivouacked on the north side of the Vaal at White Kopfontein and the mounted infantry on the south side of the Vaal.


RIET SPRUIT.
At 6 a.m., the 20th, the 1st and 3rd Mounted Infantry Corps began to cross the Vaal at Viljoen's. Here we came in contact with a force of the enemy who had evidently been taken by surprise and must have only arrived during the night. They had taken up a position on the kopjes to the north-west of Viljoen's Drift. A few shots were exchanged, but nothing serious to report. We successfully crossed the drift and arrived at Riet Spruit at 4 p.m. the same day.

WILDEBEEST-FONTEIN.
At 6 a.m., the 26th May, the 1st Mounted Infantry Corps left Riet Spruit and arrived at Wildebeest-Fontein at 5 p.m. The regiment bivouacked here for the nigh the 1st Mounted Infantry having been ordered to march some four miles further to relieve the cavalry who had successfully driven the enemy out and taken a position on the kopjes.


OLIPHANTS-VLEI (KLIP KIVER).
The 1st Mounted Infantry Corps marched off at 6 a.m., on the 27th and came in sight of Klip river at about 11 a.m. The G.O.C. had received intelligence that the enemy were in strength at the Berg, a-ad he ordered the Mounted Infantry to advance to some «mall kopjes which were under and commanded by the Berg. The 2nd Battalion Canadian Mounted Rities were ordered to advance first and the 1st Battalion C.M.R. to support them. We had first to cross a bridge at the river and then an open plain about one mile long No sooner had we crossed the bridge than the enemy opened a pretty brisk fire, first on the 2nd Battalion and then on the 1st Battalion. The firing came from heavy guns as well as the pom poms and long range rifle fire. The small kopjes which we were ordered to occupy and hold, were only about 1,500 yards from the enemy's position, and at the time of our advance were occupied by the enemy, but when they saw the persistent advance of the Canadian Mounted Rifles they retired on their main position. The intention was for the mounted infantry to hold these kopjes to enable the cavalry division to make a detour towards Doornkop and turn the enemy's tight, which was eventually done. Just before dark on the afternoon of the 27th May the 1st Battalion relieved the 2nd Battalion Canadian Mounted Rifles who were in the first line, and remained there till the next afternoon. During all this time the enemy kept a pretty steady shell tire on the position we occupied. The 2nd Battalion then took up another position to our left. On the afternoon of the 28th May, at about 1 p.m., the turning movement having been accomplished, the 1st Battalion Canadian Mounted Rifles was ordered to retire from its awkward position which we did under shell fire. This tiring on the part of the enemy evidently was their last effort before they fell back on Johannesburg. That night we bivouacked a little past Doornkop.


DRIEFONTEIN.
The 1st corps marched off at 6 a.m. on the 29th May and arrived at Driefontein at about 7 p m. the same day. About noon on that day our patrols reported a convoy of Boers to our right front. Our G.O.C. immediately asked permission to pursue them, which was granted by General French. The 1st and 3rd corps set at once in pursuit and successfully ended the day by the 1st corps captaining three wagons, one of which was loaded with ammunition and the other two full of looted clothing and other stores. The 3rd corps were more successful in capturing a gun. Here I must specially mention Lieutenant Borden, who with his troop acted as a flank guard to the 1st corps. They were first to come in touch with the rear of the enemy's convoy and it was they who captured the wagons. No. 431 Pte. F. S. Morrison, of ' B ' squadron, was with Lieut. Borden, and while the men were dismounted, some of the led horses got loose and he had enough pluck and coolness to collect these horses and biing them under cover. This was done under rifle fire. The same day we learned that Johannesburg was evacuated by the enemy.

KLlPFONTEIN.
At 8 a.m. the 2nd June the 1st and 3rd Mounted Infantry Corps removed their camp to Klipfontein, close to a dynamite factory.

KALK-REUVEL.
On the 3rd June we marched to Kalk-Reuvel, the 1st and 3rd corps refusing the cavalry division's right. At about 4 p.m. we heard some firing in front and we soon learned that the cavalry were hotly engaged. The G.O.C. sent for the 1st corps and we at once set a trot to join in the fray. On arrival at the spot we found that the enemy had allowed the cavalry advance party to enter well in between a range of kopjes and then opened a raging fire on them, killing and wounding nearly all of the men who had been so unfortunate as to form part of this advance party. The 1st and 2nd Battalions Canadian Mounted Rifles were at once ordered to make a detour and try to turn the enemy's right flank, which they eventually did. The 1st Battalion Canadian Mounted Rifles occupied for the night the kopje which commanded the pass.


BROEDER-STROOM.
The next day, 4th June, the 1st Battalion Canadian Mounted Rifles being in occupation of the main kopje, which covered the advance of the division, were ordered to form the rear guard and follow after all the troops and baggage had gone through the pass. The Mounted Infantry Brigade bivouacked on the night of the 4th at Broeder-Stroom, with the exception of the 1st Battalion Canadian Mounted Rifles, who had to bring up the rear and could not get up to the brigade camp, so had to remain another night in position, holding the kopjes commanding the pass. There were several hills and spruits to pass, and the baggage and ammunition column had a hard time to get through this place.

ZANDFONTEIN.
During the whole of the 5th June, the l<;t Battalion was again kept as a rear guard. The road which the division had now to follow was good and level, and as there was no enemy to check our advance, the trans-port got well up and the whole of the division bivouacked that night at Zandfontein, which was only three miles north-west of Pretoria. On arrival at Zandfontein we learned that we were in possession of Pretoria and that Lord Roberts had entered the town the same day.

KOUDOESPOORT.
On the 6th June the Mounted Infantry Brigade marched through the streets of Pretoria on it way to Koudoespoort, which is situated about seven miles east of the town. The 1st and 3rd Mounted Infantry corps remained in camp at Koudoespoort the 6th, 7th and 8th June.

KAMEEL-DRIKT.
On the 9th June, at 7 a.m., the brigade marched to Kameel-Drift, and remained there until the 11th June.

KAMEEL-FONTEIN.
At 6 a.m. on the 11th the cavalry division and Mounted Infantry Brigade advanced toward Kameel-Fontein. Intelligence had come in that the Boers under DeLarey and Grobler, were in strength holding kopjes N. N-E. and E. of Kameel-Drift. A general advance took place and the cavalry division with Mounted Infantry were to turn the enemy's right. The cavalry division with Mounted Infantry Brigade were so weak, having lost many horses during the rapid advance to Pretoria, that we failed to accomplish our purpose. We barely managed to hold our own for two consecutive days of hard fighting, in which the 1st and 2nd Battalions were engaged in holding important kopjes, which at times were only at from 500 to 800 yards from the enemy. The main body under Lord Roberts, were more successful, and forced the enemy to retire, thus relieving us from a very awkward position. The Mounted Infantry Brigade were ordered to advance to Brockenhoutskloop- Drift, where we bivouacked for the night.


DERDEPOORT.
On the 13th June, at 6.30 a.m. the Mounted Infantry Brigade returned to Derdepoort, which is situated about seven miles east of Pretoria. On the 16th June a column of mounted infantry and artillery and a battalion of infantry, under Major General E. T. H. Hutton, marched from Derdepoort to Rustenberg. One squadron, made up of the fit men and horses of the 1st Battalion Canadian Mounted Rifles, accompanied the above expedition. This detachment distinguished itself during the expedition, in that it captured two Boer guns. Major General 4utton in the course of a letter addressed to the Military Secretary, Headquarters, under par. 2, says:—" I desire to bring to the favourable notice of the Comanding-Chief, Lieutenant Young, Sergeant Ryan and Sergeant Purdon, and a detachment of the 1st Battalion Canadian Mounted Rifles (now Royal Canadian Dragoons), also Sergeant Vaughan and Private Murchie, Remington's Guides, for their pluck and enterprise in cleverly surprising the enemy, and bringing away the guns, under difficult circumstances." The above with other documents were mentioned in General Orders 84, October, 1900. The remainder of the brigade, including what was left of the 1st Battalion Canadian Mounted Rifles, remained in camp. I must here draw to our attention to the marvellous way in which we had escaped so far, having no casualties in killed and wounded. The regiment had been continually fighting with the 1st Mounted Infantry Corps, ever since it left Bloemfontein, and had often been exposed to very heavy firing, and yet the luck seemed to stay with us, as there were no casualties, except perhaps a few men grazed and a few horses killed or wounded. I must note especially the Zand River, Klip Riwer and Kame 1 Fontein fights, where every one who saw us in the middle of the fights thought our casualties would have been heavy, but were surprised on hearing that they were practically nil.


THE PYRAMIDS.
On the 30th June, at 4 p.m., a force as described below, and under my command, were ordered to occupy a position in the neighbourhood of the western end of the kopjes known as the Pyramids, at a distance of about seven miles west of the Pietersberg
Railway (near Waterval).

Regular Mounted Infantry, 100 men.
1st Battalion Canadian Mounted Rifles, 50 men.
New Zealand Mounted Rifles 50 men, total=200.

The object of the above force was to cover the approach to Pretoria from Hebron and north-west, and prevent the Boers inside Pretoria from communicating with the enemy without. Helio communication was established with Pretoria which was about eighteen miles distant. On the 3rd July this small force returned to Derdepoort, having accomplished the object for which it had been sent out.

RIETVLEIFONTEIN.
The regiment marched off with the 1st Mounted Infantry corps at 7 a.m., on the 4th July, and arrived at Rietvleifontein at 4 p.m. No enemy in sight. At 8.30 p.m., on the 5th July, the 1st Mounted Infantry Corps, who had by this time joined General Mahon's force, left Rietvleifontein and after having marched about 12 miles the column was halted. We bivouacked here, but the horses remained saddled and men slept with their arms and accoutrements.

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Sec Cont 1st & 2nd. Batt. Canadian Mounted Rifles, South African War, P.I. 10 years 6 months ago #20811

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RIETFONTEIN.
The column again resumed its march at daybreak and at about 5 p.m. arrived at Rietfontein. During the day 'A' Squadron C. M. R., were sent as an escort to two R. H. A. guns, which were ordered to shell a ridge where a small party of Boers had been seen and had fired on our flankers.

OLIPHANTSFONTEIN.
At 8 a.m., the 1st Mounted Infantry Corps marched towards Oliphantsfontein following the Standerton road, a Boer laager beins; reported at the latter place. The 1st C. M. R. were escort to the R. H A. guns. The enemy were found in force at Oliphantsfontein, and shelling commenced on both sides. The G. O. C. finding the enemy too strong, ordered a retirement on Rietfontein. The regiment had that day one officer, (Capt. Nelles) and seven men wounded and five horses killed and wounded. From the 6th until 11th July inclusive, the regiment remained with 1st Mounted Infantry Corps at Rietfontein, where we were practically surrounded and. worried by the enemy for six consecutive days. The regiment during that time was employed either on outpost duty or escort to guns. Lieut. F. V. Young was slightly wounded during one of these fights at Witklip.


WITTPOORT—KOFFYSPRUIT—OLIPHANTSFONTEIN—RIETVLEI.
At 2 p.m. on the 11th July a portion of the cavalry division under General French arrived, and at daybreak next day a general advance on the Boer position took place, which covered a range of hills called Wittpoort, Koffyspruit, Oliphantsfontein. The advance was most successful, and in a few hours the enemy were in full retreat. The same night. General French, with cavalry division, and General Mahon, with 3rd Mounted Infantry and I. L. H., returned to Pretoria. General Hutton established a camp for his brigade at Rietvlei and we remained at latter place until a general easterly advance on Nliddelberg, which took place on the 23rd July. In the meantime a line of outposts had to be kept, in which the 1st Battalion C.M. R. cook their turn of duty. On July 16, the enemy made a strong attack on our line of outposts at Wittpoort, Dorstfontein, Koflfyspruit and Oliphantsfontein. ‘B’ Squadron 1st C.M.R. were detailed to support the Mounted Infantry outposts and ‘A’ Squadron 1st C.M.R., formed part of a reserve of troops remaining in camp.

This reserve, under my command, was eventually sent to the left of the position (Wittpoort) to strengthen our left flank, held by New Zealanders, which had been turned by the enemy. The 2nd Battalion C.M.R., under Col. Evans, were detailed from the reserve for this special work which they successfully did, and the Boer attack was frustrated on that flank. "B" Squadron, 1st Battalion C.M.R., was sent to the ridge on the right of Wittpoort to support the Royal Irish Fusiliers who were holding the Poort. It was here that, on the advance being ordered, the following casualties occurred: Killed:- Lieut. H. L. Borden. .J. F. Burch. Wounded No. 61, Pte. A. W. Brown. No. 175, L. N. R. Mulloy.

With reference to the above, the following letter was received by me from the O.C.
Royal Irish Fusiliers:—

Rietvlei, July 17, 1900.
Dear Colonel Lessard,
In the few words I spoke to you to-night at the funeral of your two very gallant officers, I am afraid I failed to convey the deep gratitude my regiment owes to the 1st Canadian Mounted Rifles (now R.C. D.) for their gallantry in going so nobly and fearlessly to the succour of our beleaguered detachment at Wittpoort yesterday. The counter attack your regiment made occurred at a most critical moment, and it doubtless saved many of the lives of our detachment. We deplore greatly the losses you have sustained and shall ever bear in grateful memory the gallantry and self sacrifice of the 1st C. M. R. on this occasion.

I shall deem it a great favour if you will kindly convey to your officers, N.C officers
and men the purport of this letter.

Yours very faithfully,
(Sgd.) JOHN REEVES, Col.,
Conid’g. 2nd Battn. (Princess Victoria'a) Royal Irish Fusiliers.




Copy of telegram sent by Major General E. T. H, Hutton, to Military Secretary Army Headquarters, "Please inform Commander in Chief that Lieutenant H. L. Borden, one of the officers 1st C. M.R., killed in action Rietvlei yesterday was only son of the Honourable F. W. Borden, Minister of Militia, Canada. "Lieuts. Borden and Buich 1st CM. R., were killed yesterday while gallantly leading their Canadians in a counterattack upon the enemy's flank at a critical juncture of their assault upon our position at Wittpoort. I have twice brought the name of Lieutenant Borden to the Cominanuer in Chief's notice in my despatches for intrepid and gallant conduct. The funeral takes place to-night and both of these officers are buried near the farm at Riet Vlei."

On the 20th July the following telegram was received by General Hutton, commanding 1st Mounted Infantry Brigade, from Lord Roberts:—
"Secretary of State for War communicant’s to me Her Majesty's wish that before returning to their respective colonies, representative contingents from each colony should visit the mother country, probably to be reviewed personally by her and receive a banner to be presented to each contingent, to be held in future by the corps to which it belongs. Contingents from South Africa are naturally included in this invitation. Please communicate this to all officers commanding colonial contingents within your command, and telegraph me as speedily as possible the number of men who would wish to avail themselves of the offer, naming regiment. It will probably be necessary to limit the number, but I cannot decide on that until I know the number likely to accept.
Kindly acknowledge receipt.
"(Sd.) ROBERTS."



The parade ordered to find out the number likely to avail themselves of this officer, resulted in all who were present wishing to avail themselves of this opportunity.

BOSCHPOORT.
At T) a.m. on the 2:3rd July, the 1st Mounted Infantry Brigade left their old camp at Rietvlei and marched to Boschpoort, arriving at the latter place at 7 p.m., where we bivouacked for the night. During the advance the 1st Canadian Mounted Rifles formed the advance guard, to begin with, then afterwards were flank guard. We came in touch with the enemy at 12.30 p.m., and at 4 p.m., and both times the enemy retired. No casualties to report.


VLAKFONTEIN.
On the 24th July, the column moved off at 5.45 a.m., and marched to Vlakfontein where it halted for the night. The brigade on this day came in touch with the enemy's rear guard at 3 p.m. Nothing unusual to report; the enemy retiring all this time.

NAAUWPOORT.
At 5.45 a.m., on the 25th July, the brigade marched off and arrived at Naauwpoort at 7.30 p.m., and bivouacked here for the night. On this day "B'' Squadron, 1st Canadian Mounted Rifles, formed a rear guard to brigade transport and 5-inch guns.

GOOD HOPE FARM.
The brigade moved at 6 a.m. on the 26th July, and arrived at Good Hope Farm at 9 p.m. Bivouacked here. Nothing to report.

MIDDELBERG.
On the 27th July, the brigade marched off at daybreak and arrived at Middelberg at 3 p.m. From the 28th July until the 25th August, the regiment was kept on the lines of communication between Middelberg and Belfast, and was detailed to hold the following places at different times as follows:—

At Buffelskloof…. 31st July
Doornkop………. 1st August
Bankfontein… from 2nd to 6th Aug.
Pan Station…… 6th to 11th Aug.
Nooitgedacht….11th to 13th Aug.
Pan Station……13th to 15th Aug.
Leeuwfontein… 15th to 17th Aug.
Nooitgedacht… 1 7th to 23rd Aug.
Belfast……….. 25th

The regiment formed part of the reserve during the three days' fighting at Belfast-Bergundal.

From the 25th August until the 23rd November, the date on which the regiment left Belfast for Pretoria, en route for Cape Town, thence to Canada, we were employed on several detached duties, such as reconnaissance’s, patrolling, and also used as the mounted troops to General Smith Dorrien's Flying Column. As it would not be of interest to the public to relate the daily routine of the regiment, I shall give the more important events which occurred during the above mentioned dates.

On the 27th August, the following extract from Army Orders of the 21st August was published for information:—
In view of the representation that nearly all the officers and a large proportion of the men serving in the unit known as the 1st Battalion, Canadian Mounted Rifles, belong to the Royal Canadian Dragoons, that unit will in future be designated the 'Royal Canadian Dragoons.' (Authority W.O. letter, No. 58, 2,396, 24, 7, 700.)

On the 30th August a force, as under, was ordered to parade under command of Lieut.-Colonel Lessard:—
Royal Canadian Dragoons, 85 men.
Two companies Royal Irish, 120.
Two Royal Canadian Artillery guns.
Two machine guns.

The object of this force was to make a reconnaissance in the Steelport Valley between Spitzkop and Boschpoort. Wires had been sent by the G.O.C. to Wonderfontein and Nooitgedacht, where the Canadian Mounted Rifles were stationed, to connect with us at a stated hour. At the last moment orders were given that the Royal Canadian Dragoons, with two machine guns, were alone to undertake the reconnaissance from Belfast. At 7 am., the little force left Belfast, and at about 11 a.m. came in touch with the enemy. We fully expected that the forces at Wonderfontein and Nooitgedacht would have connected with us, but they failed to do so, not having received the telegrams sent by the General.

For about two hours we were in a very precarious position; our retreat was cut off and we were forced to fight our way and retreat towards Wonderfontein. On that day I had no casualties as to men, but had several horses wounded. On the 8th September, Lieutenant A. L. Howard, with five non-commissioned officers and men, and one machine gun (colt) from the Royal Canadian Dragoons, were attached temporarily to a flying column under General Hutton, who were to proceed to Devil's Kantur.

On the 23rd September, a small patrol of the Royal Canadian Dragoons left Wonderfontein for the Boschpoort valley, and soon after leaving came in touch with the enemy. After a short skirmish the following casualties occurred:
Killed—No. 168, Private A. M. Spence; No. 21, Private A. Radcliff'.
Wounded—No. 88, Private F. Thornton.

Some time previous to this, one machine gun with detachment from the Royal Canadian Dragoons had been lent to the Canadian Mounted Rifles stationed at Nooitgedacht, and on the 25th September I received the following letter, which speaks for itself :—

From Officer Commanding Troops, Nooitgedacht,
To Officer Commanding Royal Canadian Dragoons.

"Sir,—I have the honour to express to you ray appreciation of the prompt manner in which Private Harbottle of your machine gun section carried out his duties as camp sentry yesterday morning.
"His challenge, followed by prompt action, undoubtedly prevented the camp being surprised, and reflected great credit on himself and his corps.

" T have the honour to be, sir, Your obedient servant,
"(Sd.) T. D. B. EVANS, Lt.-Col.
Comaanding Troops at Nooitgedacht."



From information received about 1st October, it was known that several small parties of Boers, numbering from 5 to 15 men each, were hovering in and around Boschpoort. At the same time information was received that the railway line was threatened between Wonderfontein and Belfast. Besides tlie above information, two men of the Royal Canadian Dragoons had been killed and another wounded while patrolling in the Boschpoort valley. In consequence, 65 non-commissioned officers and men of the Royal Canadian Dragoons and two machine guns under my command paraded at 8 a.m. and proceeded to the north-west of Belfast. The advance was towards Spitzkop, down the Steelport valley. This small force soon got in touch with the enemy, who had taken up positions in two places at Boschpoort and Klipfontein. After a good deal of firing on both sides, the enemy evacuated their positions and retired to Spitzkop. At one time the enemy severe enforced by a party of twenty Boers coming from the direction of Nooitgedacht. The left flanking patrol were in the meantime fired on from a ridge on our left front and where the enemy could be seen. Sergeant Ryan, with a few men, were sent up to take a position on our left and worked along the ridge. Having attained the object of my reconnaissance, and also driven the enemy away from the immediate surroundings of Belfast, I ordered a retirement, which was carried out in a very satisfactory manner. I congratulated Sergt. Ryan, R.C.D., on that day for the manner in which carried out his instructions. Our casualties were two horses killed and one wounded.

On the 4th October, 1 took command of the troops at Belfast. On the 5th October, at 8 a.m., 60 noncommissioned others and men of the R. C. Dragoons and one gun of the Royal Canadian Artillery, under Lieut. Morrison, the whole under my command, paraded and marched in the direction of Suikerbosch Kop for a reconnaissance of the enemy north and north-west of Belfast. At 10 a.m)., the scouts of this little force got in touch with the enemy, who occupied positions at two or three places at Weltefreden, about 7 miles north of Belfast. The usual precautions were then taken, and a general advance took place. After a little fighting, the enemy retired and took successive positions behind rocks. The artillery came into action three or four times. The enemy were pushed back and evacuated several ridges until they reached Spitz kop.

At 2p.m. I was then satisfied as to the strength and position of the enemy, and I returned to Belfast. Our casualties on that day were: No. 113, Pte. P. McCarthy, wounded: five horses killed and three wounded.

On the 12th October, 30, men of the Royal Canadian Dragoons; one Colt, under Lieut. Howard; and one field gun, R.C.A., under Lieut Morrison, paraded under my command at 12.30 p.m. An intelligence man had brought in the news from the vicinity of Carolina that he had seen close to his farm about 300 Boers, and that they had shot at him. The above small force marched off at the time appointed, and at 2 p.m. it reached the heights south west of Belfast overlooking the farm where the Boers had been seen. Every farm was thoroughly searched, and after I had reports from the patrols sent in different directions, to the effect that no enemy were in sight, I gave orders to return to Belfast. With reference to above, it was learnt afterwards that the Boers had come to where the man had reported them to be, but retired before we arrival on the scene. On the 11th October, I received the following telegram from No. 6 Yeomany hospital, Pretoria: "Capt. Pearse is dangerously ill with tuberculosis."

During the fourteen days I had command of the troops at Belfast we had very exciting times. Information was being continually brought in by spies and reconnaissances, &c, that a Boer commando was concentrating N. of Belfast under Louis Botha and another S. of Belfast under Prinsloo. The former, about 400 to 500 strong, with one long torn, two field guns and one pom-pom, the latter 1,000 strong, with three field guns and one pom-pom.

General French with cavalry division left Machadodorp on the 13th October for Carolina, following the main road, while General Mahon went towards Geluk. As soon as General Mahon arrived close to Geluk, the enemy attacked him from three sides, and he had to retire towards Delmanutha.

General Lyttleton coming down in a south-westerly direction from Lydenber of arrived at Dullstroom on the 11th October. For two consecutive days General Lyttleton's command fought the enemy N. of Belfast. 1 am giving you these details to show in what a precarious position Belfast was in for a few days. It is well known now, from information received from 11 Boer prisoners, that the enemy intended making a dash for the railway line to raid supplies, also if possible to retake Belfast. Thanks to the excellent work done by my regiment on outpost duties, as well as in the reconnaissances, patrolling, etc., thereby giving correct information, the Boer plans were frustrated. Then the timely arrival of Generals French and Lyttleton put an end to our anxiety.

On the 17th October, the following extracts from Column Orders by Major General
E. T. H. Hutton, C.B., A.D.C., were published for general information.
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1st & 2nd. Battallion Canadian Mounted Rifles, South African War, Part I 10 years 6 months ago #20814

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GENEUAL HUTTON's FORCE BROKEN UP.
The force under the command of Major General E. T. H. Hutton, C.B., A. D. C, is broken up in consequence of the conclusion of operations in the Elands Valley, Eastern Transvaal and upon the conclusion of active hostilities in South Africa.


FAREWELL REMARKS BY MAJOR-GENERAL HUTTON, C.R., A.D.C.
II. ' Major-General Hutton upon relinquishing the command of the force placed under his orders, desires to convey to the officers, non connnissioned officers and men of the various units who have served under his command during the campaign, his sincere and hearty congratulations upon the success that, under Providence, has attended their efforts throughout the operations in which they have been engaged. The units of the imperial troops selected for service with the mounted infantry and those of that colonial mounted troops, representative of Canada, of the six colonies of Australia and of New Zealand have alike distinguished themselves by their steadiness under fire, by their gallantry in the field, and by their uniform good conduct in camp. The mutual sympathy, admiration and good will which have been so conspicuous between the imperial and colonial troops comprising his command must, in the Major General's opinion, be necessarily conducive to that unity and solidarity of feeling, which is so important and essential a factor in the success of the army of the British Empire.
•The Major General especially desires to record his appreciation and thanks for the excellent services rendered by all members of the staff connected with his force, both imperial and colonial, but especially to Lieut.-Colonel Martyr, D.S.O., Chief Staff Officer, and those of his Headquarter's Staff.


DEPARTURE OF MAJOR GENERAL HUTTON, C.B., A.D.C.
III. 'Major-General Hutton, accompanied by Lieut.-Colonel Onslow, N.S.W.M.I..
A.D.C, and Lieut, Fox, Q.M.I., extra A.D.C, proceed to-day to Cape Town en route to
England.
' True copy
'(Sgd.) J. miA.. Major D.A.A,G.
Acting C.S.O. General Hutton's Column.

Pretoria, October 8, 1900.
On the 19th October, a telegram from Pretoria was received by me report the death of Captain C St. A. Pearse on the evening of the 17th October of tuberculosis.

On the 26th October, formation was received through Intelligence Department that 300 Boers with one gun were to attack Delmanutha that morning. In consequence fifty N.C.O's. and men of the Royal Canadian Dragoons with one machine gun under Lieut. A. H. King, paraded at 3 a.m., and made a reconnaissance to the E. and S. E. of Belfast. They proceeded about 10 miles in the direction mentioned, and made a thorough search of all the surrounding farms, but failed to locate the enemy.

On the 28th October, a party of sixteen N. C. O's. and men of the Royal Canadian Dragoons under Lieut. A. H. King, paraded at 2 a.m., and surrounded a farm house situated about 5 miles south of Belfast, but found that the enemy had vacated the house.

On the 29th of October, I received the following letter from Major General E. T. H. Hutton, C.B., A.D.C.:—

Cape Town, October 14, 1900.
My Dear Colonel,—" I am leaving for England on the 17th, and although I shall hope to see you, your officers and your men in London before the end of the year, I cannot sail without sending you a few words of congratulation upon all the success which has attained your regiment while under my command in the late campaign. It must be with real feeling of satisfaction that your officers and yourself look back upon the result of the last seven months, and Canada has good reason to be proud of the manner in which your regiment has upheld the reputation of Canadian troops." "It has been the lot of your regiment, composed as it is of representative detachments from nearly all the cavalry regiments in the Canadian Militia, to illustrate what the type of Colonel Mounted Rifles can accomplish in conjunction with Imperial Mounted Infantry and when acting with regular cavalry." "Nothing can be more certain than the impossibility of raising militia cavalry to the standard of regular cavalry, but it has been demonstrated and clearly proved that organized as Mounted Rifles, our colonies can put into the held a force of men of them utmost value. I devoutly hope that this fact will be brought home, not only to every man in the Dominion Militia Cavalry, but also to the Canadian people and Canadian public opinion. "You have had the inestimable advantage of .serving under Colonel Alderson, and of learning what mounted troops, when handled with judgment, skill and dash, can do. It has been a constant pleasure to me to note how excellently your regiment has profited by its opportunities and what real good service it has performed. The loss in killed and wounded has been abnormally small considering the number of actions in which your regiment has been engaged, this fact under the circumstances is a guarantee in itself that the officers have done well, and the men their part as fighting men.

I shall be glad if you will convey to your officers and men my sincerest congratulations upon the success throughout the campaign, and my hope for their happy return to their homes. Please tell your officers that Mrs. Hutton will be so glad to welcome any of them who are in London, at our house, 34 Eaton Place, where I shall hope to see you.
Wishing you Godspeed.
' Believe me,
' Yours sincerely,
'(Sgd.) E. T. H. HUTTON, Major General.
' To Lieut. Colonel Lessard,
' Comd’g. Royal Canadian Dragoons
'(late 1st CM.R.)'


At 11 p.m., on the 30th October, forty N.C.O's and men, in two parties of twenty men each, paraded under Lieutenants King and Cockburn for the purpose of surrounding two farms which were situated some four or five miles S.E. of Belfast. The farms were surrounded and two armed Boers were captured. One of these was shot through the arm in attempting to escape.



VAN WYKS VLEI.
The regiment under my command marched out at 5.30 p.m., on the 1st November, proceeding to the place of rendezvous, the railway station, joining the column under Lt.-Col. Spens. This column forming part of the force under General Smith-Dorrien. The remainder of General Smith-Dorrien's force, under his personal command were to operate in a south-easterly direction, and our column (Col. Spens') in a south-westerly direction. The objective being Van Wyks Vlei, and if possible Wilkloof. It was very dark and raining when the column started, but shortly after, the most awful weather commenced, cold and a steady downpour, but as the columns were miles apart and working to support each other, neither could retire. Heavy rain, cold piercing wind, thick misty weather and frightfully dark, made the night march most difficult. At 1 a.m., on the "Jnd November, the column was ordered to halt, to wait for daybreak, and my regiment furnished the outposts. At this juncture T do not think there was a man in the whole column who was nob drenched though, and who little thought of beeing home again. For my part I must admit that I have never, nor could ever imagine it possible to pass such a miserable night. At daybreak the column resumed its march, but it was most dithcult for the men to take any interest in their work as they were so cold and miserable. I have seen men -who could not mount their horses they were so stiffened with cold. The regiment furnished the advance guard and flanking patrols to the column and our movements were a complete surprise to the enemy, but the thick weather favoured the latter. Before reaching Van Wyks Vlei, the enemy fired on the right of our advance guard, which fire seemed to come from a farm house about two miles distant. I despatched a troop under Lieutenant Turner to make good this house, which, when surrounded, proved to be empty. The enemy was occupying the ridge above and behind the house, but retired on the approach of our men. Both columns (General Smith-Dorrien's and Colonel Spens'), reached Van Wyks Vlei at 7 a.m., and although in touch with the enemy, the General decided to fall back on Belfast, which by this time was about eighteen miles off, owing to the inclemency of the weather and the frightful state the men and horses were in. The two columns then retired north, the Royal Canadian Dragoons forming a rear guard to Colonel Spens' column, which preceded that of General Smith-Dorrien. On reaching a spruit (creek) it was found that the Boers were pressing very closely on the Gordon Highlanders, who were a rear guard to Smith-Dorrien's column. At this time 1 officer and 12 men of the (Jordons were wounded. Anticipating that the Boers would likely seize the ridje commanding the spruit when the artillery were crossing in file, I despatched one troop and Colt gun, under Lieutenant King, to take up a position connnanding ridge and covering spruit. This move was most successful, and the enemy were kept at a respectable distance from the Highlanders.

I must emphasize here on the importance of the little Colt gun for such work. It is most deadly and can be kept tiring to the last minute, and finally can be retired at full gallop with little or no chance of being hit, as it officers practically no target. It is so small that only one horse is required to drag it. Both colorants arrived in camp at 4 p.m., utterly exhausted by cold and rain, a steady rear guard action having been fought all through.

CASUALTIES.
No. 203, Private A. McDonald, wounded.
Two horses killed and several wounded.

On the 3rd November about forty men of the Royal Canadian Dragoons paraded sick with heurnatism contracted during the night march of the 1st and 2nd November. Their hands, arms and legs were swollen and some of them were in a very bad state. On the 6th November, General Smith- Dorrien wishing to take up and complete the work which he had left unfinished three days previous, marched out at 3 a.m., the objective being Witkloof and the Komati river, with the following troops: —
insert graft

The following is a copy of the telegram published by the General Officer Commanding on the two days fighting on the 6th and 7th November, and I cannot improve on it:—

"Force has returned here this morning, having had two successful days of extremely hard fighting. Ojecbi was to destroy farms which Boers use as outposts and camps and from which they fought on the 2nd instant, as well as to clear their laagers from Witkloof (421) and Liliefontein (22). Force left Belfast at 3.30 a.m. on 6th, and Boers opposed us first at Eersteilingfontein at 7.40 a.m. Then they hung on our front, flanks and rear like Cossacks, but we steadily forced them back across Van Wyks Vlei (96) until they stood at an immensely strong position along the Komati, extending from Witkloof to Liliefontein. There they made a most determined stand, and it was 4 p.m. before a wide movement brought the Sutfolks and Canadian mounted troops (the Royal Canadian Dragoons)round their left flank and turned them out. We cleared Boers across the Komati and on all roads on far side convoy and men (Boers) moved away towards Carolina. All day in all directions signal fires were springing up. I have already reported casualties six killed, twenty wounded, mostly Shropshires, who fought splendidly.

On the 7th, instead of crossing Komati, which 1 had led Boers to expect by moving on, and camping at Liliefontein aftf r driving them away, we turned E. along N. bank. At once several hundred Boers galloped back to seize old positions on Komati, but too late, as with great dash Col. Evans with Canadian Mounted Rifles and two guns (84th) under Major Guiness, galloped two miles and got key of position and held some 30 J in river bed. The 5 inch guns at the same time did splendid practice at masses of Boers in open. As Boers were working down Komati, I pent orders to Col. Spans, commanding advanced guard, to seize high ground at Van Wyks Vlei, which he did with 5th Lanceis under Capt. Collis. "It was soon evident that the Boers had been largely reinforced .since yesterday, and Col. Lessard with Royal Canadian Dragoons and two Canadian guns, latter under Lieut.
Morrison, covered the rear, and I have no praise too high for the devoted gallantry they all showed in keeping enemy off infantry and convoy. At 2 p.m. an event unprecedented in this war occurred. Some 200 Boers suddenly charged mounted, rear guard and guns, firing wildly off their horses right up to 70 yards from our dismounted dragoons. The fact that our tal casualties in the day were only 14, shows how wild their fire was." I have several names to bring to the C. in C's. notice for devoted gallantry, some will be recommended for the V. C. The Boers behaved splendidly to the 16 Canadians, some of them wounded, who remained for a few hours in their hands when they were released. The latter report the Boer losses very heavy.

"After Canadians repulsed Boers there, latter worked wider round in very large numbers, but our guns did magnificent work often into masses of them, and they never again seriously molested us. We camped at Blyvoortzich (12) at 4 p.m, We fired 563 shells besides pom poms. Our casualties second day were, 2 killed, 12 wounded. We burned 12 farms, captured one prisoner, 14 cattle, 350 sheep, 19 horses and killed a lot of Boers. Copy of morning order by Major General Smith-Dorrien D. S. O., 9th November, 1900.
"The summary of news published with force orders of yesterday, was a copy of a telegram from the G. O. C. sent to the chief of staff on the recent two days fighting, and the following copy of telegram is the reply thereto."
"From Lord Roberts to General Smith-Dorrien, November 8th, No. C 6146. You seem to have had two most successful days with enemy, and I congratulate you and all your troops on the admirable manner in which the operations were carried out. Colonel Lessard, with his Canadians, had a difficult task in guarding the rear on your return march, and deserves great credit, as do all who were with him."

By order,
(Sgd.) R WELDON, Capt.
C.S.O. Smith-Dorrien's Force.


The casualties for the Royal Canadian Dragoons, I am sorry to say were heavy,
considering that I had less than one hundred men of all ranks with me. They were as
follows :—

KILLED.
No. 26, Corporal E A. Filson.
No. 102, Act. Lee. Corpl. W. J. Anderson.
DIED OF WOUNDS.
No. 105, Sergt. N. D. Builder.

SEVERELY WOUNDED.
Lieut. J. H. Elmsley.
Lieut. R. E. W. Turner.
Lieut. H. Z. C. Cockburn.
No. 30, Sergt. F. F. Metcalfe.
No. 42, Pte. H. H. Loosemore.
No. 157, Pte. W. Dougall.
No. 327, Pte. A. H. Roberts.
No. 185, Pte. W. A. Kinsley.

SLIGHTLY WOUNDED.
No. 312, Sergt. Far. C. E. Cope.
No. 370, Private F. Berg.
No. 225, Private G. Richardson.

Pte. A. H. Roberts begged of me to report him as only slightly wounded on account of his mother. On consideration of this request I did so. He was shot through both wrists. Lieut Cockburn is still in performance of his duty. I must also mention that we saved our two Canadian guns in the nick of time. The Boers, who charged with great dash, were at one time only about fifty yards from the guns. Had we not held out as long as we did, not only would the guns have been captured, but we would probably have lost the greater part of the baggage column, besides causing a great many casualties amongst the infantry who were retiring and consequently at a disadvantage with the enemy who were splendidly mounted. The regiment had a most difficult task to perform, but acted with the utmost gallantry, especially two troops left behind to cover the retreat of the guns, which comprised a portion of the 2nd troop ' A ' Squadron and 2nd troop ' B ' Squadron. Their behaviour was most gratifying to me, as it must have been to themselves. The following telegram was also received from General Alderson, our late Corps Commander.

From Gen. Alderson, to Col. Lessard.
Pretoria, Nov. 9, T 25—"To-day's summary of news received, my best congratulations. I hope the wounded are doing well." On November 9, orders were received from the G. O. C. to hold ourselves in readiness to proceed to Pretoria. The following special orders were published by Major General H. L. Smith-Dorrien D.S.O.

Commanding Pan to Dalraanutha.
Headquarters, Belfast, November 20, 1900.
"Major general Smith-Dorrien cannot allow the Royal Canadian Dragoons and the left section, ‘D’ Battery, Royal Canadian Artillery, and the Canadian Mounted Rifles, to leave his command en route for Canada, without thanking them for the grand work they have performed for him in the Belfast Flying Column. In eight of the last nineteen days they have been engaged with the Boers, and have proved themselves splendidly brave and mobile mounted troops, and it has afforded the Major General much pleasure to have been able to send through General the Honourable N. Lyttelton to the Field Marshal Commanding-in-Chief, detailed accounts of their splendid feats of arms and to have been able to bring to the special notice of the Commander-in-Chief five officers and seven non-commissioned officers and men for distinguished conduct in the field during these operations.

In wishing them all "good bye and good-luck" he has no words to express how great a loss they will be to the flying column. He can merely say that he would choose no other mounted troops in the world before them if he had his choice, and he sincerely hopes the day may come when he may have them again under his command."
By order,
(Sgd.) F. WELDON, Capt.


C.S.O. Smith-Dorrien's Force.
On December 6, the following letter was received by me from Br. General E. A. H. Alderson:
My Dear Lessard—"I have just come back from the station where T went to see your people off, but owing to the washing away of a bridge in the storm of last night they did not actually go, but it made me realize how soon they would do so, and I should like to write and tell you how very sincerely sorry I am that they will so soon cease to belong to the Mounted Infantry brigade."
"For just 7 months we have soldiered together, and each succeeding month my feeling has been ' the more I get to know the 1st C. M. R. (T must call them by the name I knew them best by) the better I like them. We in the regular army, are brought up with cut and dried ideas and red tape, and I should like to say how much I appreciate the ready way in which those of your people who have not been so brought up, have fallen in with my ways." I have only put in a very brief order in Brigade Orders about your going, as I do not think that orders are quite the place to express one's sincere feelings ; but I hope you will make what use you like of this letter and that you will let all your people know how very sincerely for myself and for the Brigade I regret their going (though I am glad for their sakes) and also how thoroughly I appreciate all the excellent work they have done.

I have always been proud to speak of them and write home of them as ' My
Canadians.'
Yours very sincerely
(Sgd.) E. A. H. ALDERSON, Br. General.
Commanding M. I. Brigade.



From the above narrative it will be seen that the regiment marched 1,700 miles and took part in the following engagements:—

April 22, 23, 24—Leeuw Kop (Waterworks), 3 days' fighting.
May 3—Brantfort, I days' fighting.
May 4—Constantia, 1 days' fighting.
May 5—Vett River, 1 days' fighting.
May 7—Virginia Siding, 1 days' fighting.
May 10—Verdris V^erdrag, 1 days' fighting.
May 25 —Viljeons Drift, 1 days' fighting
May 27, 28—Klip Riverburg, 2 days' fighting.
May 30—Near Driefontein, 1 days' fighting.
June 3—Kalkhenvel, 1 days' fighting.
June 11, 12—Diamond Hills, 2 days' fighting.
June 1 8—Loutspans Drift, 2 days' fighting.
July 6—Rietfontein (6), 1 days' fighting.
July 7—Olphansfontein, 1 days' fighting.
July 8, 9, 10—Reitfontein, 3 days' fighting.
July 12—Withoort-Koffyspruit, 1 day's fighting.
July 16—Witpojrt-Doostfontein, 1 "
July 23—Boschfontein, 1 days' fighting.
July 27—Bankfontein, 1 "
August 1—Buffelspruit , 1 "
August 3—Dornkop, 1 "
August 25, 26, 27—Belfast-Bergandal 3 days' fighting.
October 1—Booschpoort, 1 days' fighting.
October 5—Weltefreden, "
November 2—Witkloof, "
November 6—Van Wyks Vlei
—
Liliefontein, 2 days' fighting.
November 13, 14, 15—Witpoort
—
November 16, 17—Dulstroom, 5 days' fighting.



GENERAL REMARKS.
HORSES.
The Canadian horses were good ones and did very well considering all the hardships they had to undergo and the heavy weights they had to carry. A few of them were still in the regiment when we left the front for home.

DISPOSITION OF CANADIAN HORSES.
Died at sea in transit from Canada to South Africa….. 40
Died of exhaustion, killed in action, or destroyed…….194
Rendered unfit for duty and left behind at different stations…..123

Sold to Imperial authorities on leaving South Africa as follows:—
Handed over to O. C. 5th Lancers… 7
" " Remount Depot, Pretoria…. 11
375
Establishment R. C. D… 375

ARMS.
The regiment was armed with the long rifle, and although T fully recognize the importance of all mounted troops being armed with such a rifle in the campaign, yet I must report against the Lee-Enfield as being too heavy for a man to carry during a long hot day's work. The men complained to me about it and often asked to be allowed to carry the rifle, in the bucket, but this was against the G. O. C's. orders. General Hutton was of the opinion that if a man was allowed to carry his rifle in the bucket, he would after a while lean on it, and this giving an uneven bearing to the saddle on the horse's back, would give a sore back. Could we not have a rifle shorter and lighter than the Lee-Enfield which would answer the same purpose and yet not be a burden to the man?

REVOLVERS.
Revolvers were also issued to the regiment, but at no time during the campaign could they have used them. It was only an additional weight to the already overburdened man and horse, so I ordered them to be returned into store.

MACHINE GUNS.
Two machine guns were attached to the regiment, viz.:—One Colt gun and one
Maxim. The Colt gun proved to be the better of the two for the following reasons:—
1. It is light and only requires one horse to drag it.
2. It can be brought into action quickly, and quite close to the enemy.
3. It never clogs.
4. It does not require a water jacket, having a gas check.
5. If caught by the enemy at close quarters, the gun can be detached from the carriage quite easily and carried away on the saddle. This was done at least on two occasions in the regiment during the campaign.

Disadvantages of the Maxim in Comparison with the Colt gun.
1. Being too heavy and cumbersome, and it requires at least four horses to drag it.
2. On account of its weight, it cannot be brought up into action as quickly and as close as the Colt.
3. It often clogs.
4. The water jacket requires to be filled continually with water to keep the barrel cool.

Disadvantages of the Colt gun.
The Dundonald carriage and wheels are not strong enough.
This could be easily remedied by a stronger carriage and wheels.


TRANSPORT.
The transport wagons were good ones, and made of good material. They stood the hard work splendidly, and were far superior to the Imperial wagons. I should like to recommend that sideboards be placed on the sides of the wagons to facilitate loading, at the same time these sideboards would admit of taking larger loads. In my opinion mules are more adaptable for transport work than horses.


DRAFTS.
I would recommend that if mounted troops are ever sent on active service again, drafts should be got ready at home and sent to their respective units to fill up casualties, etc. The total strength of my regiment was supposed to be of all ranks, including transfers, lire, 381. Yet a skeleton state which I sent in to General Smith-Dorrien on November 12, may prove of interest to the public. Skeleton State, November 12, 1900: Officers, 3, other ranks, 83. The above figures show what was left of 21 officers, including two attached, and 381 of other ranks at the beginning of operations. There are several officers, non-commissioned officers and men whom I happen to know have been brought to the notice of the Commander-in-Chief, and I should also like to mention their names here:

Major W. Forester, commanding ' A ' Squadron.
V. A. S. Williams „ 'B'.
Capt. C. JNl. Nelles, Adjutant.
Lieut. H. L. Borden, ' B'
R. E. W. Turner
H. Z. C. Cockburn, 'A'
J. H. Elmsley, m m
F. V. Young, 'B'
J. E. Burch, S.S. Officer (attached).
A. L. Howard, in charge of machine eun.
No. 410—Sergt. R. H. Ryan.
151 „ E. L. Burden.
176 ,, E. J. Holland.
105 „ N. D. Builder.
185—Private W. A. Knisley.
In addition to the above, 1 wish to mention and bring before the notice of the
•General Officer Commanding the Canadian militia, the following officers:—
Surgeon Major H. R. Duff, for zeal and assiduousness in his work, as well as personal bravery, while attending to the wounded in the field. Lieut. Jas. H. Elmsley, for ability in carrying out my instructions at all times, and for conspicuous gallantry in the field on several occasions.

In conclusion, I would like to thank all the officers, non-commissioned officers and men of the regiment under my command for the excellent work they have performed and the assistance they have given me throughout the campaign. No words of praise from me can adequately express to you as I would wish, the untiring zeal and the determination of purpose to surmount obstacles, displayed by all, and the very evident intention of all ranks from the moment we took the field to meet the hardships and privations of this, the most severe campaign in modern history, without a murmur.

I have the honour to be, sir.
Your obedient servant,
F. L. LESSARD, Lt.-CoL,
Late Com. B. C. D.
(Special Service Force.)

.
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