"At a mile distant their thousand hooves were stuttering thunder, coming at a rate that frightened a man - they were an awe inspiring sight, galloping through the red haze - knee to knee and horse to horse - the dying sun glinting on bayonet points..." Trooper Ion Idriess
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Thursday, 13 February 2003
1st Tasmanian Imperial Bushmen, Nominal Roll Topic: BW - Tas - 1TIB
1st TIB
1st Tasmanian Imperial Bushmen
Nominal Roll
In 1911, Lieutenant-Colonel P. L. Murray, produced a marvellous Boer War reference detailing all the contingents sent from Australia to South Africa, giving a brief history of the formation and finally, listing all the soldiers who saw service in South Africa with that unit. The book was called, Official Records of the Australian Military Contingents to the War in South Africa. It is now the standard reference and starting place for any person interested in pursuing information about Australian involvement in the Boer War.
Murray, P. L., Official Records of the Australian Military Contingents to the War in South Africa, pp. 558 - 560.
Note: Each link leads to a photograph of the soldier contained in the:
Boer War, 1899 - 1902, Australian Forces, 1st Tasmanian Imperial Bushmen Topic: BW - Tas - 1TIB
Boer War, 1899 - 1902
Australian Forces
Roll of Honour
1st Tasmanian Imperial Bushmen
Poppies on the Roll of Honour, Australian War Memorial, Canberra
The Roll of Honour contains the names of all the men known to have served at one time with the 1st Tasmanian Imperial Bushmen and gave their lives in service of Australia, whether as part of the 1st Tasmanian Imperial Bushmen or another unit during the Boer War.
Our War Letters, Town and Country Journal, 23 December 1899 Topic: BW - Boer War
Our War Letters
The Town and Country Journal, 23 December 1899
The Imperial Light Horse detachment that fought at Elands Laagte.
[From: The Town and Country Journal, 23 December 1899, p. 21.]
The following piece is an extract from The Town and Country Journal, 23 December 1899, pp. 21 - 22.
OUR WAR LETTERS.
(FROM "'TOWN AND COUNTRY JOURNAL" SPECIAL ARTIST AND WAR CORRESPONDENT. )
LIFE AT THE FRONT.
NATAL'S NARROW ESCAPE.
STRICT CENSORSHIP.
HEAVY GUNS.
BOER WOMEN SPIES.
ESTCOURT, November 10. - After seventeen days of weary waiting, in absolute ignorance of the happenings In South Africa, we are at last at Durban - picturesque, easy-going Durban, with its semi-Oriental population, its rickshas, and its debilitating fever-laden heat. Not alongside, though, for all the wharfage accommodation is required for her Majesty's service, and nothing so commonplace as a merchantman or a mere passenger ship can obtain a berth for love or money.
In vain did our genial captain implore, cajole, fume, and storm in turn. Even the promise to evacuate the berth the moment it should be required by the Imperial authorities availed him nothing, for Durban is in the hands of naval and military potentates, and martial law is as immutable as the law of the Medes and Persians. It is no game of bluff this time. Riding at anchor, the Terrible, the Forte, the Thetis, and the Spartan, (the latter converted into a hospital ship) are pitching lazily in the open roadstead about a mile distant, and almost abreast of the Bluff lighthouse, their pennants streaming, and the good old flags flapping lazily astern. Plying to and from Capetown are others of H. M. ships conveying wounded and prisoners, and stores and forage for the troops that are sadly needed, and will arrive when that tardy machine - the British War Office - commences to work in earnest. We signal for a tug, but the ball is up at the semaphore at the Bluff, and our flags seem likely to blow to shreds before our request is complied with.
At last, after two hours' pitching and plunging, the Natal, a well-found Government tug, is seen crossing the bar, over which the white-crested breakers are tumbling in the sunlight. It is alongside, and we are dumped overboard in the basket that takes ten at a trip, and will comfortably hold about half that number. Her head is turned away from the good ship Wilcannia, which has carried us so comfortably, albeit so slowly, from Australia.
A ringing cheer for the captain and officers, and the few passengers left to continue the journey and we steam shorewards. "'Got to wait for the call," snaps the Natal's skipper when we mildly suggest that we are not on a yachting cruise – and wait for a call it is, the little craft gaily bobbing about the while off the Bluff like a bladder in an artesian bore. At last the call drops, and making a graceful curve to the south'ard, we run straight for the narrow opening between the wooden break-waters. A squish, a plunge, and an equilibrium-destroying bump, and we are inside and moored in a twinkling. After the elements, we have to settle with the Customs. Firearms have to be registered and stamped, cameras, saddles, etc., passed and paid for. Then hey for a gliding, exquisitely comfortable ricksha, and a cool, fresh shower before a tardy lunch. At the port are more signs of the despotic reign of the War Minister. Kaffir boys are howling and croning over iron-bound cases of ammunition, blue jackets are superintending the transit of stores, and everywhere, blended with the gay colouring of native dress, the horned and bewinged - ricksha "boys" and the white turbaned coolies, is seen the quiet-toned, business-like khaki uniforms of officers and men shouting orders and hurrying to and fro.
Thanks to that confounded call, we just missed a eight worth seeing, the significance of which will strike everyone, An hour before .we landed a company of 250 gunners and bluejackets from the battleships had rattled through the town, accompanied by no fewer than 35 guns, 18, 12-pounders, four 4.7 in 46-founders, one 9-pounder; one 9 pounder, two Nordenfeldts, and nine Maxims. There were four bullock - wagons with big guns and ammunition, and one waggon with the carriage of the biggest gun, which was carried in a trolley. These were followed by 13 trolleys of ammunition, with a gun trailing behind. The procession extended fully a mile, and marched to the inspiriting strains of the band from H.M.S. Terrible, which was stationed at the Town Hall. The guns were mounted on the hills at Berea, the fashionable suburb, and along the way to Umbilo, while others were sent by rail to Umgeni. In fact, Captain Scott, of the Terrible, who has succeeded Colonel Bethune as commandant of the port, has made arrangements to command the whole line from Tugela Drift downwards, a this would be the probable route of raiding Boers.
That the occupation of Natal was the enemy's original intention they now make no secret of. And had they started hostilities about a week before they did they would have done it. It was a fine strategic move, it would have carried the brunt of the fighting beyond their own territory, and to have dislodged them we should have been compelled to destroy Maritzburg. That they did not do so was no fault of ours.
On arrival at the hotel we received the first authentic account of the fighting that had taken place while we were on the water - how there had been some very hard fighting; how two whole British regiments had disappeared; how the force 22,000 had been driven from Glencoe, leaving numbers of horses and enough provisions for 20,000 men for months; and how the Gordons and the Imperial Light Horse wiped out Majuba at Elands Laagte; all of which, of course, you know.
Owing to she very strict censorship of all press messages, the people of Durban were perhaps kept in more complete ignorance of the details of the fighting than were the people in Australia. For every press message was subjected to the closest scrutiny, and even letters were opened if it were suspected that they contained details of the war. No cypher code was allowed to be used across the Natal telegraph lines, and even code addresses were prohibited. Everything was absolutely under Control of the military.
Natives were all expected to be out of the streets by 9, when all the public houses closed, and any European out after 11 who could not give a satisfactory account of himself got into serious trouble. The inspired cable messages were of the most meagre description, and the authorities were absolutely dumb. One thing, however, was certain. The Boers had completely surrounded Ladysmith, and had cut White's force off completely.
The nearest point to the fighting it was possible to get at present was Estcourt, and to Estcourt, as fast an the train would carry me, I accordingly went. Here was stationed a force of about 3,000 men, eagerly awaiting reinforcements to relieve Ladysmith, and General Gatacre was expected in about four days. Everything was quiet when I arrived, but shortly after a prolonged cannonading could be heard further up the line.
The voice of "Long Tom" could be distinctly heard, answered by the deeper boom of the 54-pounder from the Powerful, which, after fruitless attempts to mount it on sleepers, had at last been accommodated with a concrete bed. The firing was continuous for some hours, and it was estimated that a big artillery duel bard been fought.
A somewhat startling development was reported to have occurred the other day. A young lady, a, leader of fashion, in Maritzburg, and the daughter of a Boer millionaire, was said to have been arrested with dispatches for the enemy concealed about her. And it is whispered that during the season several Boer ladies had held open house in the Natal capital, which is a favourite holiday resort for the burghers, and had pumped our gallant officers to their hearts' content. This, however, is mere rumour. It is anticipated that little will be done before General Gatacre arrives, when one of the bloodiest battles ever seen in Africa will probably take place.
(Evidently at the last General Buller decided to go to Natal himself, instead of sending General Gatacre. Ed.)
1st Tasmanian Imperial Bushmen, Bufton Account, Part 1 Topic: BW - Tas - 1TIB
1st TIB
1st Tasmanian Imperial Bushmen
Bufton Account, Part 1
Captain Richard Charles LEWIS
The following account is extracted from the book written by John Bufton called, Tasmanians in the Transvaal War, which was printed and published in Launceston in 1905.
John Bufton, Tasmanians in the Transvaal War, Launceston, 1905, pp. 270 – 302.
Chapter X First Tasmanian Imperial Bushmen.
SYNOPSIS MAJOR R. C. LEWIS OFFICERS AND MEN - MORE BUSHMEN WANTED - EXTRACTS FROM "ON THE VELDT" - THE "MANHATTAN" - FREMANTLE AND PERTH - BIERA - PORTUGUESE FLAG INSULTED - PORT ELIZABETH KROONSTAD ESCORTING A CONVOY - THIRST, AND DREAMS OF A BREWERY - BAPTISM OF FIRE - WYLLY AND LITTLE JOHN IN DIFFICULTY - PRINSLOO'S SURRENDER - BISDEE'S DIARY - THE V.C. INCIDENT - SERGEANT STEPHENS' LETTER.
ONE of the most successful of our contingents was put under the command of a young Tasmanian with comparatively small military experience, though of ample military enthusiasm.
Major R. C. Lewis is the second son of the late Neil Lewis, and was born at Hobart in 1862. His elder brother, Sir Elliott Lewis, was Premier of Tasmania during the war. The future Major was educated at the old High School, Hobart, and followed commercial pursuits. He joined the Southern Tasmanian Artillery at the age of 22, and two years later, in 1886, he was promoted Lieutenant, and Captain in 1889. Eleven years later, in 1goo, he was given the command of the First Imperial Bushmen, a squadron of 129 officers and men. These he commanded through their South African experiences. While in hospital the command devolved upon the late Lieutenant Sale (afterwards promoted Captain). He was promoted Major in 1902, and was awarded the D. S. O. The Major received a medal and four clasps.
There had been much disappointment among volunteers when the 52 Tasmanian Bushmen were selected, so great was the desire to go to the front. Consequently, when Mr. Chamberlain signified his willingness to accept and equip a further contingent of 2500 Bushmen from the Commonwealth, there was great joy amongst our Tasmanian youth. This contingent was to be maintained at the Imperial cost, and the various States lost no time in giving effect to the wishes of the Imperial authorities.
"Definite preparations were commenced at Hobart about March 15. " From Major Lewis' valuable little book "On the Veldt, " it appears that 900 men volunteered for places, where only about 116 could be accepted.
The men were selected by the Commandant, assisted by Colonel: Bernard and Colonel Evans. On April 12th Captain Lewis was appointed to the command. The men were camped at New Town, and the general arrangements were in the hands of Colonel Legge, and the Chief Staff Officer, Captain Perceval, up to time of Captain Lewis' appointment.
The other officers appointed were. - Lieutenants-R. Perkins, Bellerive; G. G. Wylly, Hobart. Second Lieutenants-A. A. Sale, St. Leonards; C. H. Walter, Strahan. Quartermaster-Sergeant-P. J. Townley, Bellerive. Troop Sergeant-Major-W. L. Shegog, Launceston. Sergeants-E. W. Stephens, Hobart; G. Shaw, Launceston; W. Cracknell, Zeehan, M. A. Summers, Queenstown; A. W. Nettlefold, Parattah. Farrier-Sergeant-J. Shaw, Deloraine. Corporals-J. Stepnell, Beaconsfield; E. S. Brown, Penguin; L. S. Page, Hobart; H. R. Reynolds, Rosevears; H. J. Lester, Parattah; R. J. Williams, Devonport. Buglers-W. H. Ward, Victoria; C. A. Turner, Hobart. Troopers-G. White, Lottah; J. Dunfield, Forth; W. M'Clelland, Bradshaw's Creek; J. Bisdee, New Town; W. K. Barwise, Sheffield; E. F. Harridine, Queenstown; W. J. Simpson, Strahan; J. Cooper, Gormanston; C. R. Storey, Colebrook; H. Skinner, Huonville; A. T. Bull, Strahan; S. Willoughby, Lymington; L. F. Lette, Scottsdale; A. V. Chester, Stanley; J. Gerrand, Hobart; W. Kenworthy, Waratah; C. W. Westbrook, Launceston; C. A. Jackson, Hobart; W. Lawford; Tasmania; W. P. Wheelan, Burnie; S. R. O'May, Bellerive; W. M'Intosh, Bridley, Burnie; G. H. Brown, Penguin; T. Walton, Huon; H. W. Hamilton, Tasmania; A. M`Quillan, Horsham; J. P. Egan, Tasmania; T. E. Mace, Spring Bay; E. B. Crosby, Hobart; D. W. Bostock, Tasmania; D. Luttrell, Zeehan; W. F. Hodgkinson, Sheffield; A. R. Adams, Zeehan; C. Heyne, Waratah; J. Griffin, Whitefoord Hills; H. G. Itchins, Cressy; E. A. Bellette, Sorell; A. A. M'Leod, Burnie; F. A. Groom, Penguin; W. G. Pilsbury, Moonah; E. J. Rye, Zeehan; N. B. Smith, Hobart; P. Clark, Hobart; L. H. Laughton, New Town; A. Wright, Evandale; A. A. Firth, Kingston; C. Simpson, Beaconsfield; A. F. Litchfield, Zeehan; H. M. Williams, Hobart; G. E. Taylor, Zeehan; W. J. Campbell, Deloraine; F. D'Alton, Queenstown; O. E. Lawrence, Launceston; L. A. Herbert, Cressy; G. A. Douglas, Hobart; R. C. Crawford, Hobart; G. H. Weber, Zeehan; J. W. Whitmore, Beaconsfield; A. M. Brown, New Norfolk; A. E. Viney, Fingal; R. Muckle, Queenstown; H. F. Davis, Deloraine; P. J. Fleming, Queenstown; L. B. Brumby, Cressy; W. L. Eddy, Beaconsfield; E. A. Garrett, Launceston; R. O. Wyatt, Dunorlan; W. J. Dawes, Forth; A. W. Simpson, Queenstown; L. D. Burbury, Oatlands; A. E. Hayes, Forth; P. Keogh, Beaconsfield; L. H. Geeves, Huon; K. Ward, Hobart; W. J. Brewer, Lilydale; M. J. Littlejohn, Launceston; W. A. M'Guire, Stanley; P. M'Laren, Oatlands; W. I. Wadley, Bishopsbourne; L. G. Butcher, Stanley; R. W. Guest, Carrick; R. Green, Waratah; D. Gleeson, Deloraine; L. Hutton, Sheffield; R. J. Humphreys, St. Leonards; A. E. Costello, Sorell; J. Cliff, Queenstown; C. A. Johnstone, Sheffield; W. W. Davis, Blackbrush; W. Berneck, Mount Nicholas; R. Green, Waratah; A. J. Gardiner, St. Helen's; J. R. Shields, Burnie; E. L. Brownell, Moonah; A. Haiz, Queenstown; G. A. Walters, Scottsdale; H. Blackaby, St Leonards; B. T. Ferguson, Hobart; A. Stocker; C. G. King, Huonville r A. A. Johnstone, Deloraine; T. Shore, Launceston.
The Troopship SS "Manhattan” embarking from Hobart
The Bushmen embarked, April 26, in the "Manhattan.” The ship was bound for Beira, and while the Bushmen were in port there, an incident termed "insulting the Portuguese flag" took place. A hawker had come aboard, and one of the troopers tendered him a sovereign in payment for some trifle, but he contended that it was only a shilling, so the troopers helped themselves to his stock to make up the balance of trade, and on his retiring to his boat, pelted him with rotten potatoes. Shortly the injured man came back in a police-boat flying the Portuguese flag, with an official aboard. Him also they pelted, which was certainly an aggravating circumstance. The police officer fumed in Portuguese, and, apart from his evident sense of something dreadful, displayed in his manner, nobody was any the wiser as to the gravity of the complication. Finally, however, the Captain and Colonel Rowell went ashore to appease the irate and injured officials. They were told that the killing of half-a-dozen bumboat men would not have mattered much, but an insult to the flag was a "casus belli.” The matter was finally settled by paying some trifling expenses, and a profound apology being made. And so the ship was permitted to proceed on her way to Durban. Having experienced great delays before setting out, they at length landed at Durban, where they went into camp for a few days, and were then ordered aboard again on the 15th June. They got away next day for Port Elizabeth, landing on the 18th. From Port Elizabeth the Bushmen proceeded by train to Kroonstad. The sameness of the journey was somewhat soothed by the joy of the prospect of going to the front. Lord Roberts had entered Pretoria, and there was a general conviction that the war picnic was over. So it was with considerable delight that the Tasmanians were started inland. The distance from the coast to Kroonstad was 577 miles. Here part of the Regiment, who were ahead of the Tasmanians, annexed some of the horses belonging to the latter. Things were much mixed, and considerable resentment was engendered all fruitless enough in such circumstances. About loo me n of the Regiment were left fuming behind at Kroonstad. Says Major Lewis, "We left Hobart on the 26th April: we moved out of Kroonstad on the 24th June. Thus we have been practically two months in going to the front, men and horses travelling all the time."
They were going out to escort a convoy to Lindley. Their mounts were sadly over-burdened with impedimenta. In addition to men, accoutrements, and ammunition, they were loaded with "blankets, greatcoats, saddle bags, heel-ropes, mess utensils; in fact we looked more like travelling tinkers than anything else under heaven."
They were joined by a battery of four guns of the C. I. V., under Major M'Eacharn. There were 70 each of Tasmanians, W.A.'s, and S.A.'s. The country was the rolling veldt without any kopjes. Here is the position the first night:" Truth to tell our position was not the most comfortable in the world; and again our verdant innocence was to blame. There was not a drop of water to be had in that part of the veldt; and the drink that was not to be had we all very badly wanted. In our haste at getting away in the morning we had come away without water-carts: the fact will furnish crying comment on our greenness to any old campaigner. That kind of foolishness carries its own penalty, and you soon cease to be foolish in any such damaging way... If you want anything in South Africa you must just hustle for it. The regular forces know that, and, as I say, we learned it pretty soon. Meantime we squatted with parched throats, and had various tantalising dreams: we of Hobart, of a great mountain side u here a clear rivulet meanders through the eucalyptus to a very pretty brewery at the bottom. ("On the Veldt").
Next day they had their baptism of fire in a small skirmish with some three hundred Boers. The Tasmanians had the honour of escorting the C.I.V. guns into action; and afterwards Wylly led a small party to drive off some Boers who had crawled round to the right. Soon the Boers retired, and the British - there were some Yorkshires and Munsters with them - advanced upon their position. They found the Boer Commandant dead and two others wounded.
At 6 o'clock next morning they continued their march, and soon heard firing ahead. They were in a country abounding in small streams now, and many of the "drifts" were difficult to cross, especially for the traction engines and trucks. Soon signs of the enemy appeared, but they were unable to stay the advance of the column, as the garrison at Lindley held the hills near by, and co-operated with the escort. A Boer prisoner informed them afterwards that there were about 4000 men attacking the convoy of a little over a thousand. "About noon the boom of a distant gun was taken by the Boers as a signal for a determined artillery attack on the rear and left flank of the convoy. The Boers were making a very savage attack now, and pushing it home determinedly."
The Tasmanians were the rear screen, and in retiring the last time were sped on the way to a bit of cover by a hail of bullets from a range of three hundred yards. "In that short half-mile gallop eight of the Tasmanian horses were either killed or wounded." "On a fair estimate of possibilities, it seemed that we should all be bowled over, but we had yet to learn that rifle fire is really extraordinarily harmless, all things considered."
In this scramble Wylly's horse fell, throwing him heavily, and got away. Lewis, and Reagan, endeavoured to help Wylly, but his ex-hunter was unmanageable, and went with the crowd. Wylly regained his horse by the help of some of the men whose horses had been shot. Trooper Littlejohn's horse fell heavily, pinning his rider to the ground, and Farrier Sergeant Jim Shaw came up dismounted, and extricated him, and "placed him on his own horse, and then with great coolness and judgment, combined with a very smart piece of horsemanship, brought him safely in under that heavy fire." Major Lewis says, this act - one among many similar on the part of others - seems to him to be worthy of special notice. "Trooper Bisdee and Trooper Firth went out to try and bring Lieutenant Wylly in; but they missed him, and got back safely " Major Lewis, reviewing this fight after the campaign was over, writes: "Notwithstanding the mad rush and gallop, the men were perfectly calm and cool, and halted steadily when we took a position to stop the Boer advance." In their next half-mile retirement Trooper Firth, was very badly wounded, and was brought in by Trooper Angus Adams. Major Lewis' charger had received a wound and gradually sank. The Boers retired to laager, and the Tasmanians' first sharp fight was over. Lindley was reached as the bugle was sounding the last post. But as the Boers had shelled the town for six weeks at daybreak, the Tasmanians did not sleep till sunrise, though "dog-tired.”
After a few days' stay at Lindley, the Australians left as advance guard to a convoy at Bethlehem, but for the present the Tasmanians remained behind, and a portion went out to meet a small convoy bringing ammunition, with which was Lieutenant Perkins, having 100 of the I. B. C. , and 30 Tasmanians with him. "We were glad to be all together again.” Here two Tasmanians did a smart piece of work (elsewhere noted) in getting a despatch through to General Clements, ten miles away, during the night.
The Tasmanians picked up the convoy at noon next day. It was a day of small fighting, and several Australians were wounded; including Major Rose of the W.A.'s. "During the afternoon the Boers crept up a mealie field and poured a galling fire into the 38th Battery, being afterwards vet vv smartly dislodged by a party of South Australians and West Australians of the I. B. C. " Nearer Bethlehem General Clements was engaging the Boers. Later he junctioned with the Australians, and a big gun of the Boers had to be located, which was done by a demonstration in force. Next morning at daybreak the Boers sent shells whistling about the convoy. The Yorkshires lost heavily that day in storming the kopje where the gun was. The Tasmanians were now acting as rearguard.
In Bethlehem there were about 15,000 men camped, who had to be fed by convoy. Here Major Lewis met an old High School boy, Bobby Gordon, who was serving with the Gordon Highlanders, with the rank of Captain.
A week was spent about Bethlehem, and on the 13th July they went out to escort a telegraph convoy some fifteen miles in the direction of Lindley. Here Major Lewis had an illustration of the accurate range of the Boers-in many cases previously measured. "On arriving at the ridge I saw a Tommy squatting placidly behind a rock. He squinted up at me and said, ‘Don't look over there; they've got the range.' Of course my curiosity immediately led me to look over, and in very quick time a couple of bullets swished past so close that I could almost feel the wind of them. I dropped down at once, and went a few yards further round. Here the range had not been measured, and I could get my glasses to work with more safety."
Between Bethlehem and Twin Hills a heavy artillery duel took place, it, which the Poet guns had the great advantage of being well masked. The Tasmanians escorted the guns into action. Major Lewis records that in retiring to a better position he saw a Tommy knocked over by a shell. It was the wind from the close-passing shell that did it. "He got up again none the worse, making remarks appropriate from his point of view. This happened 20 yards or so from me; the shell passed, I suppose, four inches or so from Tommy."
The next move of the Tasmanians was to escort an empty convoy to Winberg. They were the only mounted men, and had to do all the scouting. They started with insufficient supplies, and on arriving at Senekal were able to purchase a few stores. Nothing of interest happened till they reached Winberg on Saturday. On Sunday it rained heavily, and on Monday they started on the return with a full convoy, wet and dispirited. No drink could be bought in Winberg, though Colonel Barter offered five pounds per bottle for whiskey. The precious stuff could not be procured. The men, however, got an issue of rum that morning.
On the 28th July they heard guns in the distance. On Monday they arrived at Slabbert's Nek. The Yorkshires and Munsters had forced the passage of the Nek, and had driven the Boers back. In these movements Prinsloo had got surrounded, and had surrendered to General Hunter, with 5000 Boers, the largest capture of the war. Of the prisoners 2500 went away with Clements in the direction of Kroonstad. General Paget had the remaining 2500 to take to Winberg. This surrender was on July 31, 1900. Major Lewis was taken with the Tasmanians to help General Paget with his prisoners into Winberg. On arrival there he got some of the Boer horses. The prisoners were handed over to the garrison for entrainment to Capetown. The Tasmanians then went by train to Smaldul, Elandsfontein, and Pretoria, where they marched past Lord Roberts.
This march past the Commander-in-Chief was one of the most memorable incidents in the experiences of the contingent. There had been some delay in reaching Pretoria, and speedily on arrival a staff-officer informed Major Lewis that they must hurry up, as Lord Roberts was waiting. They were in poor form as regards appearance for such a review, being unwashed, and were well begrimed from travelling in the open trucks of a troop train. They scrambled into shape by the appointed time. "We went 300 yards or so, and then halted for a minute while Lord` Roberts was informed that we were on our way. The great General, accompanied by his wife and daughter, and his staff, came down to the gate of his grounds, and at the word ‘Walk march!' my men were off as one man. The Tasmanians had no reason to fear the rivalry of any troops in South Africa; but their dress and appearance gave unmistakeable evidence that they had been on the veldt. They were not in form for church parade. There was a variety of rig as to, hats and helmets. Where a man had lost one hat he had got another, and among us we had by this time a very odd collection. Some of the men had handkerchiefs tied round their trousers to keep the useful garments together. Then our bridles were defective. In the majority of cases, the spare rein had been converted into a sling for the rifle, as proper slings were never issued to, us. In many ways we were a most discreditable lot of nondescripts."
Major Lewis further remarks: "I took up my position on Lord Roberts's right hand, and saw the men go by. I have reason to be proud of that march; every line perfect. The General questioned me briefly as to the men's health - asking where we had been, and so on. Next he admired the horses, and asked if they were the mounts we had brought out. I said, no: they were nearly all Boer horses. On this he complimented me on the soldierly appearance and steadiness of the men. I took that compliment at its value.
Of my brief interview with Lord Roberts, nothing remains to be recorded. Just as he had been described to us, we found him, a very alert and wiry little man, bearing the marks of his vast responsibility. His manner had in it everything that was admirable; you saw that his gentle courtesy and kindliness were inbred. You have only to see Lord Roberts once in order to understand the wealth of the soldier's affection for him."
In this march past of the Tasmanians the men were followed by the two waggons. After that came the Major's Cape cart, "driven by a black boy who, for the moment, fully believed himself to be the person of most consequence in South Africa."
Passing over several months, the experiences of which are recorded elsewhere, I come to Major Lewis's notice of the "Warmbad affair." "On September 1st 20 of our men, under Lieutenant Wylly, assisted by 20 men of the Army Service Corps, with Captain Brooke in charge, were out after cattle. They got into a tight corner in very difficult country out in the direction in which we Tasmanians had been two or three days previously. The guide of the party, a Hollander named Cooper, was shot through the body and taken prisoner. We got him back nine months after at Pietersburg apparently not much the worse, although he had a pretty rough time. Unfortunately, the losses we sustained did not end with Cooper. Trooper Walker had his horse shot dead under him, was pinned to the ground as the beast fell, and so became a prisoner of the Boers. At the same time, Trooper Jeff Brown was mortally wounded, and his brother, Corporal Brown, sustained severe injuries. Captain Brooke, Lieutenant Wylly, Sergeant Shaw, and Trooper Willoughby were also wounded. Troopers Blackaby and Campbell had their horses shot. Campbell had an extraordinarily narrow escape. A Boer bullet struck him on the bandolier, exploding a cartridge. This served to turn the Boer bullet, and Campbell suffered no hurt. Trooper Clark gave up his horse to Willoughby, and took his own chance on foot with Blackaby. They got safely into camp under cover of the darkness. Meanwhile Trooper Bisdee, of Tasmania-afterwards a Lieutenant of the Fifth Contingent-succeeded in bringing in Captain Brooke under an exceptionally heavy fire. Bisdee's personal risk was extreme, and the act won him his VC. Lieutenant Wylly also gained a VC in that nasty little affair. Wylly was himself wounded, but he stayed in that fire till he got Corporal Brown into a place of safety. Wylly subsequently covered the retreat of the patrol by using his rifle, and was in turn helped out by Trooper Groom, who came back for him. "Groom, one is glad to know, afterwards received the DCM.
"There were sad faces that night around our camp fire, and much speculation as to the hope of seeing some of the missing ones again, but they struggled in one by one. Clark, who had so generously given his horse up, wandered in presently plucking a fowl, which operation he continued while he chatted with his comrades. Clark had stayed around to gather in that bird on the way home, and he ate her with every evidence of satisfaction a little later.
"Trooper Walker was still among the missing, and we scarcely expected to see him again for some time to come, but he appeared as the night wore on. The Boers had stripped him of whatever they considered valuable, and now sent him with a messenger inviting us to send over an ambulance for poor Jeff Brown. We sent the ambulance; but it was stopped half way by a Boer officer, who would not allow it to proceed. As to Brown's fate we were left in uncertainty until we met the guide, Cooper, at Pietersburg in April of the following year. Then we learned that Brown died of his wounds the night of the capture. He was a great favourite, and his loss was deeply regretted by every man of us."
The main events of the First "Tibs" are recorded in Trooper Bisdee's notes which follow, and in letters, so that it is not necessary to make further extracts from Major Lewis's interesting narrative.
"The events which follow I believe you have, and should begin with our arrival and detraining at Kroonstad. The chief item of interest there was the fact that we had to go straight `on trek' to guard a convoy taking supplies to Lindley, although our horses had only just landed after eight weeks' voyage, and four days in the train. The consequence was inevitable, that in a very short time we had practically none of our Tasmanian horses left, and were mounted on Boer ponies captured from Prinsloo's surrender."
Diary continued from June 22, 1900. –
"We eventually arrived at Kroonstad after four days' journey, arriving late at night, and remained in the train until daybreak next morning, when we had to get our tents and baggage out and carry about a quarter of a mile to where our camp was to be pitched. This long gap in the record has been caused by my inability to get another book, and must be filled up in detail by the letters written home, in which I have described everything up to date. [It should be mentioned here that this diary was written for the sake of private and family interest, and the above explanation was not intended for the compiler of this record. I have, however, thought it best to quote it. - J. B.]
"It is now six weeks since we camped at Kroonstad, but we were not allowed to stay there long. Indeed most of the SA's started off the same day to escort a convoy, and we were obliged to boot and saddle up at daybreak on the next day (Sunday), and started away with only a cup of coffee, and rode one mile out of the town, and there halted for about five hours, expecting every minute to be ordered to start, and having had no breakfast we were hungry. There was a great rush for horses, as only half of them had been sent up, and consequently one troop had to remain.
Lieutenant Perkins being unwell, this lot fell to No. 1 troop. My horse did not come up from Port Elizabeth on account of a running at the nose, and several others of the best were kept also. Lieutenant Walter laid me on to a cream pony which was wandering about the lines, and had come from an adjoining camp (Roberts' Light Horse). I secured him, and he has since turned out "trumps," being one of the few that have stood the racket. There are very few of our own horses left now, and what there are wrecks. They had no chance, coming straight from off the ship on to the train, and straight off the train on to a long march. They only get oats when on the march, and sometimes not much of that. There is plenty of grass about here, but it is dried up, and the horses do not care to eat it. As soon as there is a spring they will do well with it. Our chief occupation since our arrival at Kroonstad has been escorting convoys of provisions from the various Government depots to where the troops are stationed, and also empty convoys, thence to the depots and back. Our first convoy was from Kroonstad to Lindley, and turned out the most eventful that we have experienced yet. De Wet was hovering about Lindley, and was determined to stop it. On the third day out we were attacked at the front, our advance guard being fired upon, but not hurt. Our squadron was told off to escort the guns, and we were soon under fire. Almost the first thing that happened was a bullet striking Corporal Stocker's hand just in front of me, and grazing the wrist passed on through the jaw of the next horse, and was cut out of his cheek. This, and the loss of a horse, were the only casualties as far as we were concerned, and there was one SA wounded, and I think a gunner. We soon drove them back, or rather the guns did, for we only looked on and watched on the flank. The CIV infantry did some firing under cover of the guns. The Boers lost four or five men. We were not attacked again until the next day, about midday, when they attacked us in the rear, and made a most determined attack. We were rearguard on this occasion, and got the full brunt of it, being very soon supported by the SA's and WA's. We managed to keep them off, and get our convoy to Lindley safe, but had a very hot time of it on several occasions. Once a shower of bullets hailed all round us as we retired, and Mr. Wylly being missing, Lieutenant Sale and I turned back to see if we could find him, his batman, Firth, following with a spare horse. Wylly, however, had managed to get away all right, although he had a fall, and we got it hot as we galloped back. It is astonishing that we were not perforated. Firth got a bullet through his ribs, and was only just able to get away, and has been away from us ever since, although he soon got over the wound, which, however, was a near thing just touching his heart. We arrived at Lindley on a Monday, as usual, and stopped there several days, escorting the empty waggons back. The remainder of the squadron, except 27, joined us before we left Lindley. Our first experience of fighting was not at all what I expected. One does not see any enemy at all, as a rule, and the artillery does most of it. We generally have to skirmish about, or draw the enemies' fire so as to show their whereabouts. The Tommies get their full share, however, very often marching straight through the firing line. Our first experience of camping out in the open was not at all pleasant, as for the first few days we did a starve, not being up to scouting about for ourselves, and our Quartermaster-Sergeant being new to his work. The frosts, too, were very severe, and the early hours of the morning were by no means warm. It did not take us long, however, to find out how to keep off Jack Frost, and we nearly always have a bit of mealie on hand, and make a fire of cow dung when wood is not available, and manage to do fairly well. We also now have another QMS. who knows his business well.
From Lindley we went on to Bethlehem after the rest of the squadron had joined us, driving the Boers back as we went. There was fighting every day, but we did not get a great deal of it, being chiefly in the rearguard. There were several sharp engagements, and on one occasion our guns were nearly taken owing to the escort being too far away under cover. The CIV, however, averted this, but we lost several gunners. The day before we arrived at Bethlehem we joined a force under General Clements, who proceeded to take the town while we drew the fire elsewhere. All the Australians, with a strong force of Yeomanry and other cavalry, made a detour round the right flank, and got properly shelled, and retired without casualty. It was a splendid sight to see all the horsemen (about 1000) altogether. We remained for about a week at Bethlehem doing little except foraging for wood and tucker, then started off one day to find where the telegraph line had been cut. About Io miles out we were greeted with bullets from a kopje standing out on the plain. The Boers were completely hidden by large stones, and although we shelled and fired at them, we were unable to shift them, and were obliged to return home without having done anything. The next day a larger force went out after them, but the wily Boers expecting this had cleared. After this a general movement was made against the Boers. The first day saw a fair amount of fighting, but with no decisive result. Some of our men were under very heavy shell fire, several shells falling within a few feet of them, but they were quite unharmed. It seemed as if we were specially guarded. The fighting was continued afterwards, and the Boers were eventually surrounded near Friesburg, but we were sent to Wynburg with an empty convoy, and back with a full one under Colonel Barter, and by the time we had returned, the Boers had been given 12 hours in which to surrender, and wisely surrendered, 5200 of them, with 200 waggons and 11 guns. De Wet and Scheepers. however, had cleared as usual. The journey to Wynburg and back was an eventful one. We were chiefly in the advance guard, and in that capacity were often able to secure a little wood, bread, and mealie, which conduces very much to a soldier's well-being on the road. There were farm houses all along the road, and I noticed one especially, Clark's farm, which was beautifully planted out in trees, chiefly gums and wattles, which were in a very flourishing condition, the latter almost bursting with blossom. In this country a few good trees are a welcome change from the everlasting plains.
August 15. - We stayed at Slabbert's Nek until Sunday, 5th, when we again started for Wynburg, this time to help escort the prisoners to the train, whence they were going to Capetown, and thence to Ceylon. They were very quiet all the way, except for singing songs every evening, and sometimes also during the march, so that there was nothing exciting to liven the march, which was as slow as a funeral, following one after the -other in single file on each flank. We arrived at Senekal on Tuesday, and at Wynburg on Thursday, when Stocker and I paid another visit to the widow who supplied eggs and bacon. We found ten others there, and we fairly ate her out. On Tuesday we again set out for Smaldeel, arriving there on Saturday afternoon in a terrible dust-storm, which nearly blinded us. Sunday, however, turned out a beautiful day, and we had a good rest doing mending, etc. Monday, the 13th. - Left Smaldul at about 4 p.m., after waiting about all day since 6 a.m., putting the horses and our stores on the train, which went about 30 miles, and then stopped for the night. Here we found water ready and boiling, which was very welcome, and is a regular institution at the stopping places along the line. Trains do not run at night north of this place yet. An early start was made next morning, after a night spent in being squeezed like sardines in the Quartermaster's tent, and we got very little sleep that night. We arrived at Kroonstad in good time, and stopped there for the rest of the day. From here I forwarded a piece of empty shell to the Cape for transmission home - I wonder if it will ever reach there - and also got a lot of OFS stamps to send home. Kroonstad is in a state of emptiness of everything except army stores, of which there are stacks. No jam, or anything of this description, no matches, and very little sugar. I managed to get a little at 1s per lb. We were transferred to an open truck to sleep and travel in, and the night being warm, it was not at all bad. We started soon after 6 a.m. on Wednesday, and had a lovely day for our open-air travelling, getting a good view of the surrounding country which, however, was of the usual O. F. S. stamp. We arrived, Wednesday, August 15, at the Vaal River just before 6 o'clock, and went on to Elandsfontein, which we reached about 9, and stayed there the night. We camped as usual in the trucks, but at 3 a.m. we were rudely awakened and turned out of ours, as it was the front truck, and was being taken to Krugersdorp, while the rest of the train was bound for Pretoria. We were very nearly taken off in it, leaving the rest of the squadron behind. It is not half so bad sleeping in open trucks as one would imagine, or else we have become hardened to such trifles. We slept well, and were very loath to turn out. It would be different, however, if a cold wind were blowing.
At Elandsfontein one begins to see the effect of the mines, things being in a more up-to-date style. The station is well fitted up, and lighted with electric light all through. At 3. 30, being turned out of our bed, we made some early morning tea, finding some coppers with hot water. The water, however, took some time to boil, and we had to make a rush for the train at last, although it really did not start until after 5 o'clock. This was said to be about 40 miles from Pretoria, although miles are very variable here.
Friday, August 17. -Pretoria-And now we've marched into Pretoria. We arrived here at about 9 a.m., not sorry to be at our journey's end, Pretoria is certainly a beautiful town. People seem to have tried to make up for the bareness of the plains by planting trees all over the town. Pines, gums, and wattles, the latter in bloom, line the streets and gardens. There are also thickets of trees planted in about 5o acre blocks, chiefly gums, planted at about two feet apart. They are apparently nurseries, but unfortunately they have omitted to transplant them, and so they have grown up slender and long (like our lime kiln). I expect some of the Uitlanders are responsible for the trees.
Almost the first person I ran against here was A.H., of the First Contingent. He has fallen into a good billet on account of being a good telegraph operator. He starts with £15 a month, and as soon as he gets under way he will get £20 per month. We were soon lined up from the station, having got everything together, and marched through the town and past Lord Roberts. I fear we did not present a very smart appearance, but what could be expected when we had just finished a four days' journey on open trucks. I, for one, was black. The town, like nearly all the others, is quite empty of luxuries of life, and is just kept going by the army supplies. We camped for a few hours just outside the town, and then started off on horse back to a camp about 3 miles out. We were in the rear with Mr. Wylly, and, unfortunately, missed the others, and wandered about armed until about 8 o'clock at night, and at last camped near where we had started, and the others came back to us all thoroughly tired.
Saturday, August 18, 1900. - All went out skirmishing yesterday looking through houses, etc., several of which were burnt down on account of containing something suspicious. Nothing else occurred until about 3 pm, when we on the right heard shots on the left. It appears that a party of Boers came within range of some of our left hand rear, and they had a bit of a duel. The pom-pom guns, however, soon sent them to the rightabout. To-day we started out from camp at 8 am, expecting a bit of a scrap, and it was not long before we got it. I, unfortunately, am horse holder, having got into a No. 3, but I can hear them hard at it on the hill in front of us, and several Boer shells have come over the hill and lobbed not far from us. We are now N. E. of Pretoria, near the railway to Pietersburg.
Sunday, August 19. - We have been continuing our march about the line. To-day we went out skirmishing to the right, and had a few shots, but nothing much. We are now camped at a place called Waterfall [Waterval ?] where the Boers kept their prisoners. Most elaborate arrangements had been made to prevent escape. The enclosure was fenced with a network of barbed wire, interlaced in a most wonderful way about seven feet high and four feet wide. Electric light was also laid on all over the place, so that there was no darkness to aid an escape. Arriving in camp the first sight that greeted our eyes was the mail. Letters! Letters! Who can realise the value of letters until he has been cut off from all news of home? It is the next best thing to the home-coming itself. I got a very fair proportion, in fact I believe the largest, and read on late into the night, drinking in the news like some one starving with thirst. They were all very interesting, especially R's. and H's. Hope to get letters more regularly now.
Monday, 20th. - Roused out early this morning, 2.30, and made a night march, still following the line. We come into contact every day with the Boers, but they always retire after a few shots. Sometimes they manage to get at us at short ranges, and do some damage, but not often. One of our men (Cooper) was badly wounded to-day. We had a bit of a scrap, but with no casualties, except that my pony ran a nail into his foot, and is very lame. I had to follow the waggon for the rest of the day. We arrived in camp late.
Tuesday, 21st. - We made only a short stage to-day, and, our men being in the right rear, did not get any fighting. I was obliged to follow the waggons again, my horse being very lame. Very steep drifts to cross over Pinto River, or some such name, in which most of the waggons got stuck, and had to be pulled out by a lot of Tommies pulling on two long ropes. This caused some delay, and I took the opportunity to have a good bathe, washing my underclothes at the same time. I was obliged to put them on before dry, having no others with me, but being a very hot day there was no evil result. Got a fine feed for my horse out of a "green stuff" paddock, and also caught two guinea fowl. Camped at Eland's River. I forgot to mention that Baden-Powell, with a lot of Colonial Mounted Troopers, passed us yesterday, but he had no Tasmanians. The Tasmanian Bushmen are somewhere about Zeerust, having had a very bad time of it at Eland's River (not the place where we camped, but further up the river).
Wednesday. - Still following the waggon until midday, when we arrived at a bridge on the line which had been broken down by the Boers (called Pienar's Bridge). Here there was the remains of a fairly large store and hotel, which had been looted by the Boers and thoroughly gutted. Here we heard that all the mounted men had to push forward and join Baden-Powell's column, which is following up the Boers, and expected to press them hard, their horses and cattle having been reported as nearly knocked up. Hearing that, I determined to make a desperate effort, and be in the swim, so borrowed a horse, and with Lette started off in pursuit of our squadron at about 4.30 p.m. We had to go a long way, and fortunately picked up a scout before dark, and he accompanied us to the camp, which we did not reach till very late. He was a most interesting companion, telling us how be did the scouting. He knows every inch of the country, and speaks all the languages perfectly. His work is most exciting at times, and often dangerous. Our men were camped at a place called Warmbad, which is famous for its hot springs, and we revelled in delicious hot baths to our heart's content, and for once in a way became clean. Our squadron arrived just an hour or two too late, B. P. having driven the Boers out of the place and away through the passes, capturing some of their waggons, and releasing a lot of their prisoners.
Thursday, 23rd. -Did nothing much to-day except outpost duty.
Friday. - All mounted men away again after the Boers in hot pursuit. I was not able to get a mount, and my pony was still very lame, so had to remain behind with the waggons, consoled by the thoughts of good baths daily.
1st Tasmanian Imperial Bushmen Parade at Hobart
Saturday, 25th. - Put in charge of the waggons while here, and having an easy time of it. Splendid bath this morning, and did a good read and some writing. I took my horse for a good feed on some Boer' s greenstuff. Land irrigated about here, and beautiful gardens in consequence. Sublime lime or citron trees, not sure which - wish they were oranges! The latter have all been taken.
Sunday. - Had a quiet day, and followed our morning service as far as possible in the Prayer Book, which makes one feel in touch with those at home. Had a long talk with Quarter-master-Sergeant Williams on things in general and psychology in particular. He has evidently thought a lot about it and on matters of religion. It is pleasant to be able to have a talk with someone who talks sense and not obscenity. [I heartily -concur in the sentiment and in the expression of it. J.B.]
Tuesday, 28th. Our squadron returned last night, and we got orders to inspan and go to meet them, which we did, but had to roam about until after two o'clock before we found a camping place.
Wednesday, August 29. Another lazy day which, however, was full of rumours of De Wet surrendering, and Grober also, and that Steyn had surrendered at Pretoria. These rumours generally bring forth a cheer, but always lacked confirmation, so that we have given up believing them. General Baden-Powell left by train this afternoon on his way home to England. He received an immense ovation as he went away, and told his men that the war was nearly over, and Kruger was expected to surrender within 48 hours. I hope he may, but doubt it. A good alteration was made in the mess arrangements. We were formed into seven messes of 10 to 12 men each to do their own cooking, etc. It will work very well.
Thursday, 30th. –Thirty-six of us went out patrolling the district. We came across over 60 Kaffirs armed with Martinis. They all met at a kraal, and had a great confab with the guide, which was very amusing, and evidently so to them, for there was great hilarity over it. They are going to bring in their rifles, and a lot of cattle and corn. No breakfast until we came in at 4 p.m. Fairly hungry.
Saturday, August 31st. Roused at 3 a.m., and sent out on a wild goose chase. Like the famous Duke of York' s men, we marched up to the top of the hill and marched back again. It appears that some Boers were known to be in a certain house, and we were going to surprise them. Daylight, however, came too soon and spoilt our little game.
Sunday, September 1st. - Warned last night that we should be called at 2 a.m. to repeat the day before's movement, but this was countermanded during the night. I expect Boers were lying in ambush for us. Twenty of us sent on patrol in the afternoon under Captain Brooke and Lieutenant Wylly to secure some cattle. Had a terrible experience, which I shall never forget. We were led through a narrow neck into a veritable death trap. I cannot understand how the officers did not realise the danger. This neck led into a sort of basin with steep rocky hills rising in front. They opened fire on our five advance guardsmen at short range, and then upon all of us, and how we got away at all is most wonderful. As it was we hail four wounded, Wylly slightly, and Sergeant G. Shaw and Willoughby and Corporal Brown rather worse, and J. S. Brown very seriously, and the guide also severely wounded. The two latter fell into the hands of the Boers, and we fear they are in a critical state. The others are being attended to by the ambulance. The bullets came round us as thick as hail, and exploded with loud report as they struck. Captain Brooke was unhorsed.
I gave him mine, running alongside myself, as he also received a slight wound in the leg. Corporal Brown's horse was shot, and Wylly gave him his horse, as he was wounded badly in the foot. Groom then picked up Wylly on his horse, and we rode for our lives. Two men, Clark and Blackaby lost their horses (Clark gave his to Willoughby), but managed to evade the Boers, and arrived in camp late. Walter ' s horse was shot, and he, stopping with J. S. Brown, was captured by the Boers, who let him go to report upon Brown 's case, and send an ambulance in. Altogether it has been a terrible experience, and seems so utterly foolhardy to go into such a place without scouts well out in front and good supports behind. All for the sake of a few cattle!
Monday, September 2nd. - Heard to-day that the Commandant was irate at Walter's being let go, and does not intend to give up the other two, men. Good news in one way, as they would hardly want to keep dying men. Some of our men and the Yorkshire Yeomanry, and all Hickson's Horse went out to-day reconnoitring, and found the Boers in large force, but did not engage them.
Tuesday, 3rd. - Roused at 4 a.m. All available mounted men to turn out. We just reached the General's quarters when the Boers sent us greeting with several shells into the camp, rousing up the lazy ones in double quick time. This is a new experience. They did no damage except kill a bullock for us, which, being "meaty," was promptly skinned for the supply department. The Boers appear to be nearly all round us. We dismounted amongst the scrub for some time, waiting for developments, and about 9 a.m. we were sent down the line to escort the engines and railway men, the line having been torn up, and the telegraph cut about six miles out. The train last night was derailed, engine topsy-turvy. I believe no one was hurt. We arrived on the scene of the accident without opposition, and are now guarding it whilst it is being repaired.
Wednesday, 5th. - Rest to day. Prepared for Boers, but they were kept in check and driven back by our friends, the guns.
Thursday, 6th. – Reveille at 4 a.m. Started patrol round by Bush Kop at 5 a.m., arrived home at about 9.30, and rested for the remainder of the day. Got orders to saddle up and prepare to move camp, bag and baggage at 6 p.m., and started for an all night march.
Friday, 7th. - Marched all last night, with an hour ' s rest at about midnight, and arrived at Pienar's River at 6 a.m. Were glad of a rest for the day. Very hot. Read letters received on Thursday, brought up by Lieutenant Perkins and the rest of the men from Pretoria. They no sooner arrived at Warmbath than they had to return straight back. Burbury and Brown, and all those we left behind at Kroonstad, joined us again. Started again at 5 p.m. for another night march.
Saturday, 8th. - Marched till 1 o'clock this morning, then had a rest for three hours, when we were sent off again patrolling after some Boers supposed to be in the vicinity. Some of our men came across two of them and gave them a hot time, but they got away, leaving bandoliers and meat bag. We stopped most of the afternoon at Saltpan, a large salt factory close by a salt lake, which lay in a deep basin. It looked like a lake frozen over. Started again at 5.30, and marched on to Waterval, which we reached at about midnight, very tired.
Sunday, 9th. - Very glad of a rest to-day. Shifted camp to a cleaner place, and pitched our tents. We scarcely knew ourselves in tents, and in fact the first night slept outside. Too much joy at once may be dangerous. There is a great idea about that this move is the beginning of the end, and that the war is practically over. I hope it may be so.
Monday, 10th. Another day of rest. Had a splendid bathe.
Tuesday, 11th. Reveille at 5 a. m. A party of 20 went out on patrol to burn a house. My pony' s back is inclined to be sore, so stayed in camp. Orders came for a corporal and six men to go with waggon for wood to make a bonfire. No reason given, but it looks like some joyful event to come off. Is it peace? No, it did not mean peace, but only a concert!
S. S. "Waiwera, " November 30, 1900. - Many things have happened since the above was written. I am now on my way home, where I hope to arrive in about a fortnight, but will try to remember what have been our movements in the meantime. After a day or two at Waterval, during which we enjoyed the luxuries of tents, we started on the march again, leaving Brumby in charge of the tents and spare baggage. This time we proceeded N. W. of Pretoria, and in three days arrived at Crocodile or Limpopo River, a fine stream in which we daily had a most delightful bathe, in spite of warnings against crocodiles, one of which was said to have been seen while we were there. The weather, however, being hot, the water could not be resisted. On our way to the Crocodile River we stopped at a native village called Hebron, a most interesting little place-little mud houses, all built in rows, and very neat little walled-in gardens in front of each, with small gaps just large enough for anyone to get in. Some of those yards have very neat designs painted on the walls with a red and white mud. There was also a little church, with a good cabinet organ which I used to go and play, glad to get a little music. The Mission House was close by; but the Missionary, whose sons were fighting with the Boers, had disappeared, leaving his wife and children. There was a Bible in the church in the Kaffir language, which was very peculiar. We also passed another native village (Jericho), but this was not built in streets; although, to my fancy, much more picturesque with the round huts, the thatch roof extending beyond the walls, making a low verandah. I noticed here a man washing a baby while the woman crushed the mealie.
We stayed at Crocodile River for a couple of days, being chiefly occupied in burning houses on account of some Australians having been fired upon in the vicinity. This is a horrible phase of the war, but seems to be necessary, although I should be inclined to think it would exasperate the Boers rather than bring them to their senses. We were then ordered to return to Waterval, but not to stay more than a couple of days. We then marched in open order towards Hammaan' s Kraal, and camped just beyond, meeting with no opposition. On the following day we turned to the right, and scoured the country NE of Pretoria, but without firing a shot. We secured a lot of sheep and cattle, and after a very long march were very glad of a fat lamb for tea, which I had commandeered from the sheep. The following day we again went scouring the country, going north, and drove some Boers before us into the hills, but still no shots were fired, and eventually we returned to a place called Simon's Kraal, or Abraham's Kraal, and stopped there for about ten days while General Paget "parleyed" with Erasmus with a view to getting him to surrender. Some arrangements were come to between them that neither army was to move in certain directions for six days, while the Boers sent delegates to Delagoa Bay to see if Kruger had really cleared out, and if Komati Poort was really in our hands. This move gave them plenty of time to have a rest and then clear out, and, of course, upon Erasmus ' s return he had not any intention of giving in. The time we spent here was very slow, and I did not feel at all well-too listless to do anything. The heat and inaction did not suit me.
Some sports were got up, in which the Tassies came off with flying colours. Captain Lewis won the Steeplechase on Brewer's chestnut (one of the SA horses); Guy Wylly won the tandem, with the captain second. The latter should have won easily, but was pulled off by his leader swerving just at the winning-post. Barwise and Peter Clarke ran first and second in the 100 yards flat race, and J. Hutton, Barwise, and Clarke first, second, and third in the 440 yards. The day's sport, altogether, went off very well.
I was very glad when we got orders to boot and saddle and proceed on the march again. We went from here to a place called Rhenoster Kop, a most picturesque little settlement, with the country around somewhat broken to relieve the monotony, and apparently very fertile. Here we stayed for two days, sending out the usual patrol parties to be fired on by Boers in ambush. On one occasion two of our men were wounded - Fleming and Smith. The latter was caught by the Boers while watering his horse. After they had slightly wounded him in the arm, firing at him at close quarters, they robbed and buffeted him and let him go. His nerves have since been quite upset. From thence we proceeded to within six miles of Pretoria, halting for one night at a most dismal place on our way. We did not arrive there until dark, and it was almost impossible to find wood or water. However, we weathered this, and were very glad to camp again next day in good time.
All this time we had been under Colonel Hickman, with the 49th Yeomanry, with General Paget in command, who had also Plumer's column - chiefly Australians and South African colonials-under him. We often wished that we were under Plumer instead of Hickman. General Paget had also with him on foot the Munster Fusiliers, a splendid regiment, who had to be carted about in mealie waggons, as we were a flying squadron, and went too fast for infantry. During the last march I got a nasty shaking up. Wishing to give my pony a spell, I rode an Argentine which was not being used. The brute fell into the first hole he came across, and rolled over me, and then galloped with my foot in the stirrup and head on the ground between his legs. He was kicking about in all directions, but fortunately missed me, and plenty of help was at hand to lift me up and extricate my foot. It was a very nasty experience, and I felt the effects of it for some days. Having arrived near Pretoria, I rested a day. The captain got orders to march again, but I was such a wreck by this time that he sent me, together with several wounded or lame men, viz., Burbury, Smith, and Garrett, to Pretoria to go out and stop at Waterval with Brumby and Joe Lester until they should come back there. On the way to Pretoria we passed the First Tasmanian Contingent's camp, and called in to see them. I soon found the two Chalmers, who looked very well, and had some "afternoon tea" with them, which was most acceptable. I also looked up the two Collins, and had a chat with them. Lord Roberts was coming out to them on the following day to try and get them to stay on a bit longer, their time being up; but they are all too eager to get home, and thought they had done their share. I little thought I should be following them up so closely. We got to Pretoria in good time, and sent our horses back by some of the men who were in town, and then managed to get a bit of tea, and laid our weary limbs on the hard metal at the railway station and slept well, no train going to Watenval before 5 o'clock next morning. Smith, Burbury, and Garrett went by this, but I stayed to help Groom, who was to get some goods from the Army Store and take to Waterval. He and I roamed about the town all the morning, getting a good breakfast for 2s 6d, and then set to work at what turned out to be a fairly big job, as we had to pack all the things in boxes and get them ready for the train next day. We eventually got to Waterval safely with all our things. Here we proceeded to make ourselves comfortable in a tent; but the next day, having a bad cough on my chest, I went to see the doctor, who promptly sent me-back to Pretoria, and I was soon installed in No. 2 Model School Hospital. Here I remained in bed for nearly three weeks, most of the time on milk diet, and I became a skeleton. However, everyone was most kind, especially the Sister, and I was quite sorry to leave when the doctor suddenly announced to me that I was to be sent down to the Cape, en route for England. He had previously told me that I should not be able to join active service again, and that I should be sent home, and at first I really did not know which I would rather do, but came to the conclusion that it would never do to miss a chance of going to England like this. On arrival at the Cape, however, I found there was no intention of sending any of us to England, or, in fact, anywhere just at once. The hospital officials there pay no heed whatever to the recommendations from Pretoria, and one of our men (Taylor), who is with us now, did not in the least wish to come out here, as all his people are in England. We are hoping to be sent home in May.
Our journey down in the train took us nearly six days owing to delays on the way. We were fortunate in not being attacked by the Boers, as they had been very active along the line of late, and we quite expected to have to stand to arms at any time. Of course there were no arms, as it was purely a hospital train, and so should be free from attack at any time, but there is no trusting some of these Boers. We were all well looked after on the way down, and the tea we got was excellent-the best I have tasted since leaving home. Everywhere else it has been horrid, with the exception of some I made from tea and milk sent by E. The scenery on the way down was varied. The plains on the ORC. were looking very pretty and green a great change from when I last saw them; but further south they still kept the same brown look, having evidently not got the rain which they had in the north. The northern part of Cape Colony was very barren and useless-looking country, and remained so until we came through the mountain passes, which were lovely. The mountains rose on each side of the line in a most precipitous manner to the height of about 3000 ft., and the sight was a glorious one, as we passed for miles through a regular gorge. After passing these the country gradually improved in appearance, until about zoo miles or so from the Cape we saw cultivated fields, with crops already cut, waiting to be carted in. They seemed to be very fair crops.
We arrived at Salt River in the evening, and were sent back to Wynburg, where we spent the night in the train, and in the morning were hurried off to the Wynburg Hospital, which was nicely situated in a sort of park, with a beautiful avenue of tremendous gum trees leading to it. The only patient from No. 2 Model School Hospital who came down with me was an English Artilleryman named Cross, who had been in the hospital just three days longer than I with rheumatic fever. The poor fellow's agonies at first were dreadful to behold, but he mended wonderfully quickly, and was out of bed before I was. I did not expect to be in bed long, but it seems that besides the cold which had got on my lungs I had a fever, which kept my temperature going up and down in a most wonderful way, and also kept me in bed. I always thought that three weeks in bed would be a terrible thing, but I felt the third and fourth day more than any, and after that I got quite used to it. This man Cross and I became quite chummy, and made all sorts of arrangements as to what we would do in England; but we were divided at Wynburg, all Australians being sent to Woodstock, near Capetown, and we are not likely to meet again as things have turned out.
At Woodstock we soon found that we might have to wait for weeks before getting away. We were fairly well looked after, especially myself, as I was still looking very thin, and had all sorts of extras. We had a splendid lot of men in our ward. I especially admired a Canadian Sergeant, who had a great stock of "yarns,” and kept us alive with his stories. I met at Woodstock two of our men who had been sent down some time before-Taylor and Corp. Brown, the latter having been wounded in the ambush at Warmbad, but has quite recovered now. He rushed into my ward-room one evening in great excitement, and pointed out to me a paragraph in the "Cape Argus"-
"A GALLANT BUSHMAN.
"The V. C. has been awarded to Private Bisdee, of the Tasmanian Bushmen, for rescuing officers at Warmbath."
[Lieutenant Bisdee did not intend this entry for publication; but my apology to him for using it, and his observations thereon, is that fame must endure its penalty, and it would be a wrong to my readers to deprive them of one of the most interesting items in this whole history. - J.B.]
I was utterly dumbfounded, and could not believe my eyes, but there it was sure enough, and I can scarcely realise yet what it means. I knew, of course, that Captain Brooke had recommended me to General Paget, but I only expected to be mentioned in despatches. I could not sleep for thinking of it. What excitement it will cause at home ! I shall be almost afraid to land, but I expect all enthusiasm will have been exhausted on the arrival of the First Contingent a few days before. I hope I shall not have to make any speeches. [You just will, then. ]
On Sunday, November 18, all Tasmanians and New Zealanders were ordered to get their kits and be ready to start on Monday by the “Waiwera," which was due that day. So we considered ourselves fortunate, but she did not arrive then, nor yet on Tuesday until late at night. I got leave to go into Capetown on Tuesday to get something I wanted, such as deck shoes, etc. Capetown is not a bad city for the capital, but the streets are very narrow and crowded. Nearly everything is very dear; but, nevertheless, we got as much lunch as we could eat for 9d, which was certainly not expensive. The place is crowded with refugees from Johannesburg, who are very anxious to get back, and also with immigrants from everywhere, especially Australia, who want to get up to the mines, but will have to wait some time yet.
Monday, December 3. We all got on board on Wednesday afternoon, and started at 6 p. m. The "Waiwera" is not a very large boat, but is a splendid sea boat, as steady as possible; so much so that I have never yet missed a meal ! I was only sick once. To-day she is pitching more than she has all through, and f confess to a rather uncomfortable feeling. We were all lined up to-day, and asked if there was anything we wanted in the shape of money, etc. , as the paymaster was on board; but when reminded that it was usual for each man to receive a gratuity of (5 upon leaving they acknowledged that, but said that they had no money to pay it on board! I wonder why the paymaster was there? Each of the hospital patients received an Absent-Minded Beggar parcel, which was very acceptable, containing a suit of pyjamas, a shirt, vest and pants, handkerchief and cap, and pair of socks. We were then escorted to the steerage, and shown our cabins. The cabin accommodation seemed to be rather close, but has turned out very fair -a Paradise to what we had on the "Manhattan" - but that was an inferno. The food is also very fair, and the passengers a much better class than I expected; in fact, there are many ladies and gentlemen who were unable to go first class on account of its being full, This is not a passenger boat, and has only seven or eight first-class berths, and all the rest are steerage. Taylor and I enquired if we could not pay the difference and go first; but, as mentioned, it was full. So far we have had very good weather, and have averaged 28o knots. The last day or two, we had a strong wind behind us, which drove us along well, and raised a tremendous sea, which, however, did not seem to affect the boat much, and was a magnificent sight. Such waves, curling over with splendid crests of spray! We have now a strong head wind, which is quite a different matter, and she is rolling and pitching a good deal, so will finish up for the present.
S. S. "Waiwera,” Monday, December 10. - We are now getting nearer home, and expect to arrive on Wednesday. We have so far had a very smooth passage, as far as the pitching and rolling is concerned, but most unpleasant weather all the same, always cold and rainy. We have been fortunate, however, in seeing several icebergs, which looked very majestic and grand, but would have been more so if the sun had shone upon them. The most noteworthy thing that has happened to me is the breaking of my Swan Fountain pen, which has been a great friend all through the campaign. It is a most unfortunate occurrence.
We have a very good lot of passengers on the whole, especially for the steerage, many ladies and gentlemen amongst them. The "khaki" members of the passengers are mostly first-class men, but there are a few from each who make fools of themselves, and keep other people awake at nights. It is a favourite pastime of this set to throw empty tins about the saloon by way of music. There are two newly-married couples and one young lady, who, I believe, is coming out to be married, and stacks of children, who kick up a great row at times, but, on the whole, are very good; and one very large family of Poles, mostly very pretty children.
Our chief amusements are reading, for which I procured some of Dickens's and Thackeray's works, and also Kingsley's "Yeast" and "Hypatia," and Mrs. H. Ward's "Marcella;" whist, chess, deck billiards, and glee-singing in the evening. I find the books I got more than enough to keep me going. Most of them required a good deal of reading. Some sports were also got up, and have not yet been quite finished. A tug-of war between the military "invalids" and civilians was won easily by the former, who ran away with their opponents. Cock-fighting, pillow-fighting, and potato races, egg and spoon, etc, etc, were all run yesterday. Every Sunday a Mr. Heyn, from the first saloon, reads the service, which consists of the prayers and hymns, as he does not rise to a sermon. We have some very fair songsters, but no stars. The Mr. Heyn mentioned above is coming out to inspect a large order from the Admiralty for blue gum piles, which a firm in Tasmania has undertaken. He says that if this contract is satisfactory there is a very large business to be done with the Admiralty. So I hope that the timber merchants in Hobart will rise to the occasion and only offer the best timber.
Sunday, March 10, 1901. I have now been home just three months, and feel as if I had never been away, except for a sort of dream. We arrived at about 3.30 on Wednesday, December 12. The passage up the river was most delightful, more especially to us who were returning home. The geraniums at Lower Sandy Bay were the admiration of everyone. One could imagine that we had been away for five or six years by the eagerness with which we recognised various places. As Hobart drew in sight we looked to see if anyone was on the wharf to meet us; but Mr. Richardson (Commissioner of Police) came on board with the harbourmaster to see if his son was with us, and informed us that no one had any idea that we were coming. Young Richardson was on board, and told his father who the rest of us were. He told us the glad news of Guy Wylly's having also got the VC, at which I was more than delighted, and we also heard how the First Contingent had just arrived about four days before us, and what a great reception they got. I was rather relieved to hear that we were not expected, as I did not quite know what was going to happen.
As we came alongside a small knot of people gathered to see who was there. Among them were Jimmy Counsel, Alfred Holmwood, and young Crosby, and I was soon recognised, and found myself the centre of observation. Those on the wharf gave three cheers, and I was urged to make a speech. I did not, however, rise to the occasion, and, fortunately, we soon had to bundle off with our luggage. When we got off everyone wanted to shake hands at once, and I began to feel uncommonly glad that there were not more people there.
We were then lined up and marched to the Town Hall, leaving our baggage to the mercy of a parcel delivery van, and when I got mine again it was minus some beautiful ostrich feathers and deck shoes which I had got at the Cape. In the Town Hall we were entertained with light refreshments and a welcome from the Mayor, and, to my horror, I was asked to return thanks. This was the beginning of my troubles! I got up and said something-goodness knows what! I was not sorry when it was cut short by the order to line up again and proceed to the Coffee Palace. I was not, however, to be let off thus lightly, as the news had spread over Hobart, and a crowd had collected in front of the Town Hall, and as soon as I came out more cheering started, and, of course, this time there was no getting out of it; so I had to stand up on the steps and harangue the multitude. It is a most queer sensation to find oneself suddenly famous, and I must own to an uncanny sort of feeling when I saw everyone eyeing me, and a lot of inquisitive individuals following me everywhere. [They did the same, my dear fellow, with Scipio Africanus at Rome.]
I met several relatives and people I knew, who were very astounded to see me. Mr and Miss EL I found looking for me at the Coffee Palace, and I at once took refuge at "Ellerslie," after having seen a number of those who had returned of our contingent at the Coffee Palace. Needless to say, I received a most hearty welcome on all hands. E. and B. and L. and Z. had been in town to see the First Contingent arrive, and had just returned home. The two first immediately came back and met me at Ashfield. The other returned men were taken to the theatre on Wednesday night, and saw a biograph representation of scenes at the war. I stopped in town all Thursday to see Colonel Legge, and get through any other departmental business, and went off home by the 10.30 train on Friday, E. and B. going with me.
We here take our leave of the gallant trooper with a keen sense of the truth of the maxim that bravery is always modest. These notes, especially those written after his return, were intended to complete a private record for family reference; yet, considering the distinguished honour which he brought to Tasmania, there is no word that suggests an undue estimate thereof, or that renders them unsuitable for publication, My readers will, I am sure, be delighted to read something of our hero's sensations under a sudden exposure to the light and huzzas of fame. When I begged to be allowed a free hand with his diaries he very modestly expressed his "alarm" at the use I proposed to make of them.
Edward Williams STEPHENS
EXTRACTS FROM A LETTER
Received from Sergeant E. W. Stephens, of the First Tasmanian Imperial Contingent.
"Rhenoster, December 2, 1901. - Hobart is probably reading to-day the news of a big engagement we (Paget's Brigade) have just had here. I fancy it will be called the Battle of Rietfontein. Soon after the date of my last letter we came through Pretoria to the east, and joined the Fourth Regiment again; that is, the South and West Australians, with whom we came out. We had been out here before, through Sybrand's Kraal, and on to Rhenoster. This time we met Erasmus and Viljoen close to Sybrand's, and have had three days' hard fighting, finishing up with a desperate "go.” We left camp at 2 a.m. on Friday, and had a long slope clear of trees to mount, and over the top into the Rietfontein Valley, which is also clear of trees, but full of rocky knolls and small kopjes. We got a few stray shots from the Boer 9lb. gun as we were going up the rise, and then there was a lull. We dismounted about 400 yards from the top of the hill, and advanced on foot, and when we got on to the sky line - whiz! bang! - we did get it hot. We all had to drop down flat, and there we were for fourteen hours, firing and getting fired at. If you raised your head you would get a volley into you. The Boers had a Maxim, which they turned on the West Riding Tommies, and cut them down wholesale, killing their Colonel. The Boers had a grand position behind these rocks at 200 yards distance, and we could not shift them until late at night. We retired a few hundred yards at dusk to get something to eat and drink, and then out again, and were hard at work digging trenches until 3 o'clock next morning. However, at daylight we found the enemy had retired into the valley. We have been having a bit of sniping since Friday, but nothing to speak of. Our casualties on Friday numbered about 100, and 25 killed among them. Out of that number New Zealand 6, South Australians (lying alongside of us) 2, Queensland 1, Victoria 1.
So you see our luck was in again. Most of the fatalities were caused by the fellows getting up to see better where the Boers were, which was foolhardy under the circumstances. The Boers certainly made a fine stand against our fire, which must have been deadly at times, as we picked up and buried 30 of them. Letters seem to come all right now, as the postal authorities know our whereabouts better than they did. I got ten letters and various papers. I am fairly well, though a bit run down. "
1st Tasmanian Imperial Bushmen, Bufton Account, Part 2 Topic: BW - Tas - 1TIB
1st TIB
1st Tasmanian Imperial Bushmen
Bufton Account, Part 2
SS Coogee
The following account is extracted from the book written by John Bufton called, Tasmanians in the Transvaal War, which was printed and published in Launceston in 1905.
John Bufton, Tasmanians in the Transvaal War, Launceston, 1905, pp. 303 – 330.
Chapter XI Letters Diaries and Press Reports.
SYNOPSIS. BROWNELL'S 15 DAYS' DIARY - Q.-M.-S. WILLIAMS ON FIGHTING - TROOPER EDDY ON GENERAL PAGET - TROOPER GLEESON - EMPLOYMENT IN SOUTH AFRICA - CAPTAIN SALE'S LETTERS - CORPORAL REYNOLDS'S LETTERS - TROOPER WHITMORE ON "SOLDIERING" – A NASTY ACCIDENT - (GUEST) BOER CHARACTERISTICS - TROOPER WADLEY'S LETTER - TROOPER JOHNSTONE'S NOTES – RETURN OF THE "TIBS" – MEASLES - CASUALTIES: SALE AND WALTER.
Eric Lindsay Douglas BROWNELL
NOTES from Trooper Douglas Brownell's Diary for 15 days in July, 1900.-July 15-Left Pretoria at 6 a.m. with Colonel Hickman's Horse under General Mahon, reached Nitrel's Pass at 9.9 a.m., and got through unopposed. Found body of Gardiner, one of our comrades, who was shot previous night.
Queenslanders determined to avenge his death. On seeing our column safely over the ridge, the Boers made off in a northerly direction, making their retreat safe by setting the veldt on fire. There was a strong wind blowing at the time, and the flames spread so rapidly through the long grass that we had some difficulty in saving part of our transport; as it was, one ambulance waggon had to be outspanned and left to the mercy of the flames. In lending a hand with the waggons, I was soon left behind by our column, and when going off at a full gallop to regain my former position, the horse trod in a rabbit burrow, fell heavily, and rolled on top of me. However, I was on again in an instant, but got a severe shaking. At noon our course turned due east, and we reached Waterval at 6 p.m., where we camped for the night. Only five weeks previous to this nearly 4000 of our men were held in captivity here by the enemy. Ere this you have read many descriptions of the place from the various war correspondents. The enclosure contains several acres, hemmed in by innumerable electric wires, which made it utterly impossible for any to escape. There were also extensive galvanised iron buildings in the enclosure, used for sleeping accommodation. A neat little store and hotel stood near. This was looted, in spite of screams from the Boer women. Just before dark General Ian Hamilton joined us, bringing with him the Seaforth, Argyle and Sutherland Highlanders, also four batteries of artillery, besides Maxims and Gatlings. It was a fine sight seeing them go by in full marching order, bagpipes playing, etc.
July 16.-Reveille at 5 a.m. and off at 6. In the advance guard we march north, and at 12 noon came suddenly on the enemy's rear guard. Bang, bang, ping, whiz their volleys; they are all at us, but owing to the thick scrub we cannot locate the enemy, and in the confusion the order comes, Retire!" We do so, but not until Sergeant Maxwell and a trooper, both Queenslanders, are shot dead, besides, two being wounded. We then wait for the infantry to come up, who very soon start a flank movement, and the enemy make off as fast as their horses will carry them.
"Prepare to mount." "Mount." "Walk, march," are the three monotone orders, which come in quick succession, and we are once more on the move. Reach Haman’s Kraal, where we camp for the night. The enemy had been in laager here for some weeks, and their fires are still smouldering. Some had evidently intended making themselves snug for the night, as we found a number of straw beds, one of which I was fortunate enough to secure.
July 17. - Reduced to three quarter rations. Move off at 7 a.m. For several miles we retrace our steps in a southerly direction, then heading for Middelburg. Reach Silverdal at nightfall, after travelling 19 miles. I covered the distance on foot, carrying full kit, my horse having a sore back. Nothing worthy of note taking place during day. Scouts report a strong Boer commando moving parallel with us on left flank.
July 18. - Reveille at 5 a.m.; off at 6.30. Very warm during the day great scarcity of water. Still leading my horse. Come to the conclusion that walking is a "mug's game." At 1 p.m. enemy start sniping from kopje on left flank, but distance is too great for their fire to have any effect on us. We hear to-day that Botha is on left flank with strong force, and may have general engagement any hour. Arrived at waggon drift at 4 p.m., after a tramp of 17 miles. Reduced from three-quarters to half rations. This evening the names of those willing to go to England are taken; go per cent. of the Queenslanders sign, myself included.
July 19. - Move off at 7 a.m. Still walking. Pass through some very scrubby country. Reach Orange Grove a little after noon, where we camp the night. A very pretty little place, surrounded by high kopjes.
July 20. - Reveille at 5 a.m.; off at 6.30. As my horse is very unfit for use, he is moved to the rear, there to receive a charge of lead. I am placed in charge of Staff Officer’s waggon. We had not moved out of camp five minutes when the loud report of a big gun rang out from a hill overlooking our camp, and before we could get our heads round we heard the peculiar sound of a shell as it sped on its deadly errand. All eyes were turned upward; then a deafening sound, and with it a cloud of smoke and dust arose some 400 yards beyond us. That is only a "sighter," I said to my mate, and sure enough three successive shots came right in the midst of us. A nigger who was walking within ten paces of me had half his head blown off. It was a sickening sight. To explain matters, I should mention here that the infantry and most of the heavy artillery had moved out of camp half an hour previous to this, and as the picket on the hills came in without being relieved, the enemy took their advantage by running up half a battery of artillery and two pom-poms on a kopje overlooking our camp. It was a splendid position, the range being 4700 yards. For the next half-hour the enemy worked their guns with considerable effect on our transport. The waggon in the rear of mine had one mule fairly cut in two and three others mangled, whilst another, still farther in the rear, carrying stores, had to be abandoned, and set on fire. However, the enemy were not going to have it all their own way for long. Fortunately the fine Elswick Battery, consisting of six 3-inch naval guns, were to bring up our rear, and as yet had not moved out of camp. Amidst curses and oaths, the drivers switched horses on to the guns, and in a few minutes were off at a gallop to take up a position under shelter of a kopje in the rear. Whilst doing so the enemy brought up a pom-pom, and for a time made things very unpleasant for them. In the meantime our transport was getting a good shelling, and, unfortunately, my two Kaffirs ran the staff waggon hard and fast against a tree. The other transport soon pushed ahead, and left me to my fate. Then came what I most dreaded. The Boers singled me out, and shell after shell came over and around me in rapid succession, one grazing the top of the waggon and passing my head within an arm's length. Besides, many others were falling within a radius of 20 yards from where I stood. My two drivers were terrified, and wanted to clear off, but after threatening them with a bullet they decided to stay, and grin and bear their uncomfortable position. During this fusillade, which lasted half an hour, I had outspanned the whole. team, and hitched some on to rear of waggon, and in this way managed to get clear. About five minutes before we got away our two 4.7, which were about the first to leave the camp, had headed back, and when veering within 150 yards of us put about a dozen of shrapnel into the Boer Artillery, which soon made them retire. At the same time the Elswick Battery, which was the first to get into action, had been doing some splendid work, the second shot throwing a Boer gun out of action. The noise of artillery for a time was terrific. This was varied at times by some tearing rifle fire and pom-poms. The latter have a most demoralising effect on friend and foe alike. As soon as our transport got out of range of the enemy's guns they did not wait to try conclusions with our superior artillery, but rushed their guns six miles further on, and again started banging at us, but it soon turned to an artillery duel. Our siege gun and two 4.7 guns took up a position on the open plain. The Boer guns were situated on a kopje six thousand yards on the left flank. For a couple of hours, there was some very heavy firing on both sides. All this time I was about a quarter of a mile from our guns, and could see the whole thing to advantage. The enemy's shells were very accurately placed, and had they been the same stamp as ours our loss would have been considerable. As it was we had 29 casualties. I certainly owe my life to the poor quality of the Boer ammunition. It was a splendid sight watching our lyddite and shrapnel bursting on a kopje. The enemy lost heavily here, and after seeing their chance was a hopeless one retired. We then moved four miles further on, and made our camp in the timber. I omitted to mention that during the day two Boer waggons, which were sent out to gather in the spoil from our abandoned transport, fell into our hands, being captured by us.
July 21. - Reveille at 5 a.m.; move off at 6.30; on half rations. During the day we have an uninterrupted march of 14 miles through open country. Fourteen Boers taken prisoners. Camp for the night at Dwan's Drift.
July 22. - Camp the whole day, clean rifles, etc. Sergeant commandeers a horse for me from the Imperial Light Horse lines. All the morning Boers have been sniping at our pickets. At 12.30 one of our field batteries went out, and made an attempt to get one of the enemy's Long Toms, which was stuck in a drift six miles from here; but the attempt proved fruitless. However, on returning, they shelled a Boer house to pieces, where Boer snipers had taken refuge.
July 23. - Reveille at 5 a.m., moved off at 6.30; rear guard shelled when leaving camp. Royal Horse Artillery soon dispersed enemy. At 2 p.m. we reached Bronkhurstspruit, a name venerated by the Boers. Close beside where we are camping are the graves of over 300 Britishers of the 94th, who fell with Colonel Anstruther in 1880. When bringing in supplies for Pretoria, just before entering the village, we came upon the house of Field-Cornet Erasmus, now General; in less than 20 minutes the place was a perfect wreck. Some of the troops were even hacking a grand piano to pieces for their camp fires. Some of the I.S.H. found a quantity of jewellery and other curios. The Delagoa Bay Railway runs through here. About a quarter of a mile from the station we found a fine iron span railway bridge blown to pieces, the Boers doing this to prevent our forward movement. A convoy arrived this evening, which means full rations to-morrow.
July 24. - Left Bronkhurstspruit at 7.30. In rear-guard, very warm during the day. After an uneventful march of 17 miles we reach a small village, where we start to camp for the night. When half-way through our tea orders came to pack up at once, and march six miles further on to Balmoral. However, we had no sooner moved off when the rain came down in torrents, and the night became as dark as pitch. Before covering the first mile there came on one of the heaviest thunderstorms I had seen; sheet and forked lightning came in rapid succession, lighting up the kopjes and showing our column for miles. Very soon our road became a river bed, and one by one the waggons were blocked. At 11 p.m. it was quite evident that our transports could not get through, so a large number of troops were sent back on guard. My position was in the middle of a drift, where I stood knee-deep until the small hours of the morning; it was a time I shall not soon forget. Our big 6in. gun, drawn by 20 oxen, became hard and fast in the mud, and for a couple of hours a whole company of men were straining every muscle to get it free. Fortunately, I was not the last to stay in this unenviable position, as I had a despatch to carry into camp. It was with the greatest difficulty I found my way in. Every mile or so I kept coming on to the sentries. "Halt !" "Who goes there ?" "Friend," I would shout in reply. "Advance, friend, and give the countersign." I would then make my way to a thin, light streak, which I always found to be the bayonets; find sentries standing at the charge. "Poland," I would give as the countersign. "Pass on, friend." On reaching the camp I found the troops in a pitiable plight; very few had ventured to sleep in their wet blankets, most of them preferring to stand round the fires in pouring rain. However, I turned in, in spite of everything, and next morning could scarcely move for stiffness. All through the night a large number of our chaps had been trying in vain to bring in the transport. Our losses from exposure and overwork were very heavy. One officer and three Highlanders found dead next morning; besides these, many more had to be carried away to the hospital, 250 mules, 140 bullocks, and nearly zoo horses also died. Just before reaching Balmoral the Boers had cleared out in a couple of trains towards Lydenburg.
July 25. - The storm which had worked such havoc during the night has abated, and once more the sun is out. We camp half the day, and spend time in drying blankets, clothes, etc., whilst the Royal Engineers are still digging waggons out of the drifts, making roads passable, and getting dead mules, horses, and oxen off the track. At 1 p.m. the order comes, “Strike camp and right about turn." We then retrace our steps, only covering six miles in the afternoon, the first three miles being literally strewn with the dead transport animals lost during the night. Two more men died to-day from the effects of the exposure. We hear in orders to-night that, disastrous as our forced march was, it had the effect of driving the enemy on to French, who cut them up severely, capturing a number of their guns. Quite a treat to have a dry blanket to jump into.
July 26. - Reveille at 5 a.m., off at 6; by a short cut, make Bronkhurstspruit in 14 miles. We find a garrison in the town, also a party of Royal Engineers repairing railway bridge and mending culverts, which had been blown up for miles. Camped here for the night.
July 27. - Off again at 7.30, in direction of Pretoria; about dinner-time the Boers stubbornly resisted our forward movement. Firing was kept up for a considerable time; but after flanking them they made off under cover of some kopjes. After travelling 13 miles reached Diamond Hill, where we camp for the night. General Prinsloo's homestead is situated here. This we looted and burned to the ground. I had the duty of falling a large gum tree across the dwelling-house. Passed through some fine country during the day.
July 28. - Reveille at 6.30, moved off at 8 a.m. in advance guard; on the go all day, passing through some very hilly and well-watered country, our track in parts being extremely rough and difficult. Very little opposition from enemy. Camp in a gully surrounded by hills.
July 29. - Away at 7.30. Still passing through hilly country; no enemy in sight during the day. Passed the spot of some recent engagement, and nearly stifled by the odour of dead horses. Reached Silverdalvery late in the night, where we make our camp.
July 30. - March off to Pretoria, reaching there at 3 p.m.; camp three miles outside town. No chance of writing a letter. A few additional notes, which may be of interest. If you want to picture me on the veldt you must not imagine that I have the spick-and-span rig as when I left Tasmania. Just before coming in from the front the last time we looked more like tramps than soldiers. My attire consisted of the following:-
An old khaki helmet, pair of light tweed pants smothered in gore, with half a leg torn off, exposing a sun-burnt leg (no putties), white bandolier In day time rarely wear a coat, but sling bandolier over a brown singlet.
The General said as long as a man carried a rifle and 140 rounds of ammunition that was all he wished for. You would be very much amused to see a party of us coming in about dusk. Say, one company, 100 men, all whistling, and each carrying a log of wood across his saddle, and, perhaps, a few fowls dangling from his stirrup-irons. On an extra, good day, goats, pigs, geese, turkeys, etc., on nearly every saddle. We have no cooks; each man lights his own fire and cooks for himself.
These notes were written in the Field Hospital, Johannesburg, where Trooper Brownell is lying with both knees crushed, the result of his horse falling with, and on, him; otherwise he is in excellent health and spirits.
SOME STIFF FIGHTING.
The following letter, tinder date December 5, has been received from Quarter-Master-Sergeant R. J. Williams, of the Tasmanian Imperial Bushmen Contingent, serving in South Africa:-"As I have to chance posting any letters I send it is impossible for me to put the name of the town in, and as we are continually on the go marching and fighting, I get very few opportunities of sending you any news as to our movements. The war as a war has been over some time, but there are several commandoes of Boers, who are moving about the country, and they take a lot of catching. However, slowly but surely we are wiping them out, and may expect to leave the country in another couple of months. The rainy season has set in earnest, and you can imagine travelling and fighting without shelter, and often enough wet through all day and night. This exposure, combined with the effects of sickness, wounds, and death, has reduced our squadron sadly, and instead of the fine body of 120 men who left Tasmania we can barely muster 68, and we have every prospect of further diminishing our numbers as the rainy season has set in, and enteric and malarial fever are very prevalent, and troops sicker every day, wet and exposure doing their work. I have just received word that two bags of mails were destroyed by Boers, and I have every reason to believe that a long report of mine to you was in one of the bags, so I must just go over the ground again. We have been marching round and round, burning and destroying, and dispersing commandoes of Boers, and at present we are halted at Este Fabreiken, 10 miles east of Pretoria on the Delagoa Bay line. You will, no doubt, remember my describing the fight we had with the Boers at Warmbad on September 1. Well, it gives me great pleasure to be able to tell you and Tasmania that Trooper John Bisdee, of the Tasmanian Imperial Bushmen, has gained that coveted honour the V.C., and in the opinion of us, his comrades, he deserved it fully, and we are proud men this day to think that out of the Imperial Bushmen comes the first V.C. to Tasmania, and I would like to thank Captain Brooke, of the Army Service Corps, publicly for his strenuous efforts to get Trooper Bisdee's valour recognised in the proper quarter, and it is due in a great measure to the captain's persistent efforts that due recognition followed. To enumerate all the little towns we have visited would take too long, and would be uninteresting, as they all resemble one another, and with the exception of our forced march from Jericho to Rustenburg to cut off De la Rey from joining De Wet we have not had any real hard fighting for the past six weeks. On October 23 we marched from Matapau to Jericho, and our advance under General Plumer captured a small party of Boers, with some waggons and stock, and from them we learnt that there were several parties of Boers in the vicinity, with two or three guns. About 3 p.m. we came into action with their rearguard at about 500 yards, and a brisk rifle fire took place. We finally drove them out of position, and hotly pursued, but we were recalled, as the General did not deem it prudent to leave his convoy unprotected. It had been raining very heavily the night before, so the waggons on the march made no dust, and were completely hidden in the bush, which enabled us to surprise our wily enemy, and succeeded in capturing five of them asleep on the banks of the creek. In conversation with the prisoners we discovered the fact that most of the Boers were kept in ignorance of the British annexation of the country, and when they were told that the British had occupied Pretoria early in June, would not believe it, their Generals having told them that Germany was coming to help them, and that Ladysmith, Mafeking, and Kimberley had all fallen into their hands, and we were being defeated all along the line. It is hard to credit such colossal ignorance, but when you see the class of men one can easily understand it: a more ignorant race of men and women it would be impossible to come across (for whites). We went into camp at a place called Jericho, and General Plumer took out his division on the right flank, taking all guns but two of the Canadian Battery, which he left for the protection of the camp. Early next morning at daylight we had ample proof that our enemy had guns, as they started shelling the camp at daylight, and, to add insult to injury, they were firing 12lb. British shells at us. Their shooting, taken on the whole, was bad, as we only had two casualties, whilst after a brisk cannonade our two guns silenced theirs, and General Plumer came galloping back with his battery and all our crowd (Australians), with the result that the enemy beat a hasty retreat. However, we followed them up, and succeeded in capturing their two guns and go men.
William Lawrence EDDY
IN THE FIGHT AT RHENOSTER KOP.
Trooper W. L. Eddy, of the Tasmanian draft of the Imperial Bushmen, writes to his parents at Lefroy from Rhenoster Kop tinder date December 2 as follows:-
"I will give you a little about the fight we had the other day. It was a terrible go in, lasting 14 hours. Our casualties numbered 116. The following is the address read to us by the General:-
'The Major-General wishes to record his high appreciation of the gallant conduct of the troops under his command during the recent engagement. The enemy were in a strong natural defensive position, which they were forced to evacuate by the intrepid advance of our men under an exceptionally heavy fire. He considers it unwise to select any special regiment for particular mention. He also wishes to express his sympathy with the First West Riding Regiment in the loss of their commanding officer, also with the New Zealand Mounted Rifles for the very heavy loss they have suffered both in officers and men. He also wishes to point out to his troops that the moral effect of this engagement on the Boers must be very great. He thanks all ranks for the way they have behaved, and wishes to express admiration for their bravery and devotion to duty. Major-General Paget."
"In publishing the above to the mounted troops in his force Brigadier-General Plumer wishes to say how proud he was to have in his command troops who behaved in action as the two brigades did on November 29 at Rhenoster Kop. Brigadier-General Plumer."
Denis GLEESON
LETTER FROM TROOPER GLEESON.
Mrs. N. Gleeson, of Chudleigh junction, has received the following letter from her son, Trooper D. Gleeson, of the Tasmanian Imperial Contingent, about whose condition various rumours were some time ago privately circulated, but which his friends will be pleased to see were without foundation. The letter is dated Observation Hill, Pretoria, January i8, and runs as follows :-
"Just a few lines to say I am still alive and well. We have been camped here for the last few days, having a spell, which we wanted, as we have done some long marching lately, and the days are very hot now, though the nights are always cool, and some of them have been wet lately, which makes things very disagreeable.
"Last time we left here we made a forced march to hold a pass north of Rustenburg. We were up at 2.30 for several mornings, and marched all day. Our waggons with the tents and bedding could not keep up with us, so we only had what we could carry on our horses. We got to the pass all right, and then it commenced to rain, and during the few days we were there it was raining more or less all the time, so we had not a pleasant time of it. We expected the Boers would come through while we were there, but we were disappointed, as they did not put in an appearance. We could have given them a lively time if they had come, as we had plenty of cover in the rocks.
"After leaving there we came back to Pretoria again. We called at a Kaffir village on the way, and took a German missionary parson and several of his relations prisoners for giving the Boers information. We camped at Commando Nek for a day, and then went to hold a pass at another place. The road ran up a big valley and from the hill on our left the Boers kept sniping at us all day, but they could not do us much harm. We got plenty of grapes and peaches from the gardens at the farms as we went along, and they were a great treat. We arrived at the pass at 4 o clock in the afternoon, and all the guns were run in position. We had to build breastworks of stone, and we had to lie behind them all night, and as it rained heavily we had rather a bad night of it. Our waggons tried to come up to us with rations next day, but the Boers attacked them, and they had to retire again. We had only one day's `tucker' with us, so next night, as soon as it was dark, we left and made back to where the waggons were. We expected to be attacked, but we were not, and at 3 next morning we got to the waggons. We were all very tired, as we had very little sleep for two nights, so we lay down and slept well for three or four hours. After that we went in pursuit of some Boers towards Johannesburg. We captured some waggons, but as we ran out of `tucker' we came in here. I hear we are to leave again in the morning. I don't think we are likely to get home for another six months."
Arthur Arnold SALE
The following extracts from letters by the late Captain Sale, of Launceston, have been placed at my disposal. They will be read with deep interest, especially as the gallant Captain is now among the immortals.
[Lieutenant Sale was at this time in charge of No. 3 troop of the Imperial Bushmen.]
"Wynberg, July 21, 1900. To Mr. T. J. Sale, St. Leonards.-We left Bethlehem on Sunday with a convoy to this place. On Friday following we went with a party about 10 miles out to mind a telegraph line, and struck a party of Boers on a range of hills, and shot a lot at one another, but at long range; they had no guns. The wire was mended, and we would have got away all right only a party of Yeomanry somehow got in too close without supports, with the result that eleven of them were missing when they came back. Next morning a party went out and found three dead. The rest, I suppose, were wounded and taken off by the Boers. The next day I went out with my troop to get some horses. We saw a few Boers, and had a few shots at them, and from them, while bringing in the horses, but no one was hurt on our side, nor, I think on theirs either. I think they are `artists' in their style of firing. We only brought in a few horses that were any good. The second day out from Bethlehem to here we came across a large body, supposed to be 1500, with four guns. For some time there was only rifle fire in front; then our gains started shelling where the main body of Boers were supposed to be. Soon their guns started putting shells back, and their fire was very accurate. They had one gun, which evidently outranged ours, and our fellows could not even locate it. Their shells, however, very seldom burst, which was a good job for us. We were put as escort for the guns, and had to lie down near them doing nothing. Since then we have not done anything very exciting. We are going to start back again on Monday. I think they are trying to surround De Wet, but he is very slippery. Nearly all our horses are more or less knocked up; not from overwork so much as from only getting a few oats to eat, and the grass being only like dry chips, they will eat very little of it."
"Wynburg, August 9, 1900. - We have just arrived here again from Slobber's Nek. We arrived there too late to take any part in the fighting; we heard the guns shelling the place the day before we got there. The Boers did not make much of a stand. I believe De Wet managed to get away with about 1500, but the rest surrendered, I think, with six guns and between 4000 and 5000 men. We came here to escort about 2000 prisoners. They did not give us any bother, and I think they are sick of the war. They sing hymns every night. Some of them are very fat old fellows. I was in their lines having a yarn with them the other day. A few of them can speak English, and from what I can gather they think they have a fair show of winning. Their losses have not, I think, been very great. One old fellow told me he belonged to the Archberg Commando, and they had been pretty well right through the war, and numbered about 500 strong, out of which they had only about 25 killed and 25 wounded. I enclose one of their proclamations, which I got from him. I believe it to be the last Mr. Steyn issued, and may be interesting to keep.
"Warm Baths, August 27, 1900. - We arrived at Pretoria on the 17th, and had a march past Lord Roberts's quarters, where he inspected us. They say he inspects all troops that come through. We have left the South and West Australians, and are on our own for some time now. It is much better. We only stopped near Pretoria about four hours. I got into the town, and had a warm bath, which I wanted badly. There are some fine buildings in the centre of the town. All the Dutch towns have a sort of square within, with the principal buildings around it. We thought we were going to have a spell of a few days, but we were sent out in the afternoon, and went about four miles and camped. The next day we went out with a small column, got in touch with the Boers, had a bit of shooting, and went into camp again. Next day we started out with a larger force, and occupied a pass on the railway to Pietersburg, about nine miles out. We had got there about an hour with the mounted men and a porn-1 a.m., when the Boers showed up. They shot five or six of the Yeomanry patrol, who ought to have come in before, and we put the pom-pom on them, so they retired behind the hill at a gallop. We had a rifle fire going on for the rest of the day. The Boers had a big gun, but it did us no damage. We were reinforced by the infantry, and there was no sign of the Boers next morning. We moved on next day to try to overtake them, and exchanged a few shots. The next day we went on after them, but they got on the railway above us, and, I believe, went up the railway. They have an engine running. The Boers cut about the country in a remarkable manner. I think they generally move at night without any convoy, and have a strong rearguard of mounted men behind. The next day we got in touch with De Wet (the other lot was under Grobler), and drove him up past this place. We arrived here first about four days ago. We had one of our men (Cooper) wounded coming in. We ha, e not heard since how he is getting on. We were on the left flank, and he was shot before he had time to dismount. This place has a number of hot-water baths in it and one big hotel. The water comes from a hot spring. It is evidently a new place. The next day after we arrived we went with a mounted force, including Baden-Powell's, to try to get round the Boers to the north. We seldom mount more than 50 men all told now, so many have got no horses or have been left behind at different places. We had a man wounded the first afternoon out. He was hit in the leg; his name is Butcher. Baden-Powell took possession of a township called Nylstroom on the 26th. We acted as his escort and then his guard to the town. I got a beautiful Mauser carbine, which I am going to use instead of a rifle. We came back here again yesterday. I believe the position was not thought a very safe one. This country has far more timber than the Free State, and we have no trouble to get firewood."
The following extract appeared in the "North-West Advocate." It was received by Mr. A. C. Curtis, of Ulverstone, from Lieutenant Sale, who wrote under date November 23, 1900, from North Pretoria:-
"We have been camped here for the last three days. It is about ten miles from Pretoria, close alongside the big Transvaal whisky manufactory. You can't get any of the produce there now, but we don't want it, as we got a good stock when we came through Pretoria. We have been going to leave here every morning at 5 o'clock, but it has always rained for three or four hours, and it has been put off. Some of the First Bushmen have been agitating to be let go home; so we were all paraded yesterday before General Paget, who gave us to understand that there was no chance of any more troops being sent back for some months to come, and I expect there will be a good deal more fighting in a small way yet. I don't know yet which way we are going when we start, but expect it will be some time before we get back."
"Since writing, so far, I have been carrying this in my pocket. We are now at Roynestor's Kop [Rhenoster ?]. We struck some Boers on the second day out. I was acting as galloper for Hickman and Plumer, and saw everything that was going on; but it knocked my horse out, the ground being very stony. There was a lot of firing, but not many casualties, as we did not come to close quarters.
"The next day we only went about three miles. The artillery got some shells beautifully on to some Boers - about 200 - who were, I think, lying in wait for an advance (which happened to be us); but it did not come off as they wanted, for we found out that they were down there and they got the shells in getting away. It was a fine bit of sport seeing them go. Of course, they were all mounted, and it was a long range; but I think some of them got knocked over. The next day (November 28) we went about eight miles, when there was a bit of shelling between the Boer guns and ours. I suppose they wanted to find out what sort of guns we had got. We heard they meant to make a big stand next day, and it turned out to be correct. The ball opened when we had gone about three miles. At 8 o'clock the New Zealanders were in advance, and had 20 men knocked down in about half an hour. We occupied a long front - about six miles - which made the firing line very thin, as there were only about 1300 of us for duty. The Boers occupied a very commanding position (which I wish I could draw for you, but can't). They were all along a rocky ridge, which was just below the grassy plain on which we were, and they were out of sight. They were about 500 yards from our skyline, and were so situated that our big guns could not be sighted on to them at all. We had to lie flat down all day till it was dark. The firing was very heavy on both sides. We had 95 casualties, and I think the Boers had more. They cleared out during the night. Our own little lot, which consisted of Lewis, myself, and 30 men (the others are all left behind at different places) only had one man slightly hit, and he did not have to go to hospital.
"I am afraid this letter is very Boerfied, but there is nothing else to write about. I think it was young Adams who was doing a `skite' about me. He really gave me credit for what he did himself. He is a plucky little fellow, and one of the best we have got."
Soon after this Major Lewis took fever, and the command devolved upon Lieutenant Sale, who was now promoted Captain. Major Lewis writes in "On the Veldt":-
"When I left the squadron at Rhenoster Lieutenant Sale took up the command.... Sale was a reliable and popular officer. His qualities were soldierly in the highest degree. His constitution was apparently unwearable. In short, he was thoroughly well qualified for the position he now assumed. He received promotion to the rank of Captain for good work rendered.”
Here follow some extracts from his letters while in command:-
"Observation Hill, near Pretoria, January16, 1901. – Since Christmas we have been over a good lot of country. We have been going in lately for rather quicker movements, taking a day's food on the horses, and two, days' more on the Cape carts for the squadron. It means that only one blanket each can be taken, so if it rains we have rather a wet time of it. The men are kept pretty well on the go, and this constant trekking soon reduces our numbers, and we pick up fresh men from the detail camps. A lot of men have been getting enteric. I was in some of the hospitals in Pretoria yesterday, and saw some of our men, also Captain Lewis."
"Hopetoun, Cape Colony, 24th February. - Came by train on the 3rd from Balmoral to Naaupoort, and left there on the 9th on trek to block De Wet, who has crossed into this colony. We had been going very hard since we started, and I think he has got the biggest shaking up he ever had. We got all his convoy, his two guns, and a lot of ammunition. The last day before reaching here we went about 40 miles. He, of course, has a great advantage over us. All the farmers seem to be Dutch, and he commandeers their horses, and so has pretty fresh remounts. We passed some hundreds of horses they had ridden to a standstill. On the last day we left camp at 5 a.m. Our lot was out on the left flank, and the country was very rough and rocky. We were covering the ground between the Orange River and the convoy. About 3 o'clock we had a bit of sniping, but the Boers would not stand, and we went on till 8.30. I only brought six men of our lot into camp; all the rest of the horses being knocked up. Of course we had no transport or food, so just lay down with our horses alongside till morning.
"The Victorian Bushmen had a great piece of luck, being on the right. They had level ground and easy going. They got a bit ahead, and just before camping came on to a Boer laager with their guns outspanned, and the Boers cleared off and left them. We got about 80 prisoners during the day. They seemed almost as much knocked up as we were, and I have never seen them show so little fight. We go out again tomorrow. I ought to say I have not missed a day so far. I applied to the General for a fortnight's spell for the men. They have, I believe, been more constantly on the move than any other troops that have been here, and I think they need it, and will get it when this trek is over."
"Brandford, 12th March, 1901.- I wrote last from Hopetoun. We came from railway station near that town (Orange River station) through De Aar, on the branch line to Naauwport, and up to Springfontein. We started from there towards Philopolis. In the first six days out we went 156 miles. We came through the town of Fauresmith, which was almost deserted, and had some rather nice houses in it. We camped near it for a couple of hours at midday. Our horses and mules were pretty well done up. On last day's trek into here we were rearguard, and counted 30 dead horses and 50 mules that had died. We were to leave here this morning, but it rained hard through the night, and we have not gone yet. About 10 o'clock we got orders to come into town, and the men are now camped in the school-house. It is very crowded, but it is better than sleeping on the veldt.... I have about 50 men now, and have managed to get them all horses and two to spare."
Hubert Ross REYNOLDS
The following letter from Corporal H. R. Reynolds, of Deloraine, appeared in the "Examiner" of August 20, 1900:-
"The Tassies under Captain Lewis, Lieuts. Wylly and Sale, had the honour of leading the guns into action. We received our baptism of fire with no disgrace. Corporal Stocker was slightly wounded in the hand. After holding our position for some time No. 3 troop, under Lieut. Sale, was ordered further to the right, to drive back with the help of some Yeomanry a party of Boers on a kopje, who were pouring a cross fire into our gunners. We advanced with rushes, firing each time, until we were within 400 yards of them, when we fixed bayonets and waited, under cover of a small kopje, to gain breath for our final rush across a piece of clear veldt to the foot of a stronghold. Our boys showed great spirit in advancing on the kopje, and they charged into the stone enclosure in fine style, but while we were getting ready the Boers had made off. Three of the Tassies, including the writer and some of the Yeomanry, were the first on top of the rise, and great was the disappointment when they had to unfix bayonets. The Boers retired on all sides, leaving two dead, one dying, two badly wounded, and one or two slightly hurt. Our boys took two or three prisoners. On continuing our march we fell in with them again, and several shells came our way, which made us duck our heads and then laugh at one another, the sensation being very peculiar. Our guns then got to work on them, and then retired under cover of our rifles. Then our warmest moments came, and we had to retire under a cross fire from close range without any protection whatever. Things got quite lively, and horses went down on all sides, seven being shot, and others falling on the rough ground. Jim Shaw, from Deloraine way, distinguished himself by returning under the worst of the fire and taking up Trooper Littlejohn, whose horse was shot dead. Lieut. Wylly was unfortunate in having his horse trip and fall. He had to run for shelter for a couple of hundred yards under a severe fire. Trooper Bisdee, Captain Lewis, Sergeant-Major Shegog, and Sergeant Stephens, under cover of our fire, caught his horse and returned to meet him. As soon as we found that Lieut. Wylly was not with us Troopers Bisdee and Firth started back for him, and the latter was wounded as soon as he showed himself above the bank. Ile was shot through the shoulder, and the bullet went through his chest, just grazing his lung, but he is now doing well. The Tommies did splendid work all day. We reached Lindley at 9.30 p.m. that day with the convoy, much to the surprise of the garrison. They were on short rations, and did not expect us. The next day we went out after three trucks, but did not see much of the Boers. A few fired on our scouts from a farmhouse, but did no damage. Then our guns got to work on the farm, and 20 Tassies were sent to take it, but the birds had flown. We hunted the house, but did not have time to get away with any stock or remounts, as a party of Boers were seen advancing towards us. We got back to Lindley all safe with about 2000 sheep and a lot of cattle. On Saturday we went with the convoy on its way back to Kroonstad, about 16 miles, arriving about 5 p.m. At 11 p.m. we saddled up and returned to Lindley, arriving at 5 a.m. on Sunday. General Paget, from Lindley, and General Clements, attacked the Boers and drove them back from this place. All the Australian Imperial Horse were out except us, and as our horses had done an extra amount of scouting we did not go. On Monday a general advance was made from Lindley towards Bethlehem, General Clements advancing in the same direction, away on our right. Heavy fighting took place all day, driving the Boers slowly before us. On Tuesday they made a stand, and gave our boys plenty of work. A captain and lieutenant of the Artillery were killed, and two gunners wounded. Two guns were lost for some moments, but the C.I.R. Artillery got the range, and did very good work in preventing the Boers using the gun. The Australians, Remington Scouts, and Imperial Yeomanry gallantly recaptured them."
John William WHITMORE
Writing from Pretoria (says the "Examiner" of October 10, 1901), Trooper John Whitmore, of Derby, a member of the Bushmen's Contingent, reports himself well. He got over a mild attack of enteric, and since then has seen some heavy fighting, and undergone some severe hardships. "On leaving the hospital," he writes, "I was nine days on patrol duty, sleeping on the ground at night with only one blanket, and the regulation overcoat-not much covering to keep out the terrible night frosts we have here. Not a spark of fire was allowed to be lighted.
This and an empty stomach, or nearly so, for the allowance of two biscuits a day can hardly be called a ‘blow out,' is no fun. During this time I experienced the unpleasant sensation of being fired at, and two shots came that close that I had to feel round myself to see if I was hit or not.... We have just rolled ourselves into our blankets when the order is roared out, ‘Stand to your horses!' Then ‘Saddle,' and away we have to go, and likely enough march until 9 the next night, and little to eat to keep the strength up. Lucky we are, too, if we get water. For weeks at a time I have not had enough to wash my face. We look sometimes so ragged and dirty our mothers would not own us."
Following this bright letter, in the same column of the "Examiner," are these two items of interest:-
Robert William GUEST
A NASTY ACCIDENT.
"Trooper R. Guest, of Evandale, reports having met with an accident while the Bushmen were on their way to relieve Baden Powell at Rustenburg. Guest, with some others, was galloping to cut off four Boers, when his horse fell in a rocky creek, and came down on top of him. The horse had to be shot, and Guest was carried to the ambulance, and subsequently taken to No. 2 hospital, at Pretoria, whence he wrote on August 26. He speaks in high terms of the treatment in hospital. Guest, describing a tight corner he was in with another Tasmanian and 18 New Zealanders, says that out of five who were lying together he was the only one to escape unwounded, and he had a narrow squeak, getting a slight cut under the eye with a bullet, just deep enough to fetch blood."
Louis Francis John LETTE
BOER CHARACTERISTICS.
Trooper Louis Lette, of the Tasmanian Bushmen's Contingent, thus describes the Boers who were captured by General Hunter on the Basutoland border, and of whom he was one of the guards :-"We were five days travelling with them. They are a queer lot. I saw a good bit of them, and was in their camp nearly every night. They start singing towards evening, and sing nearly all night. We are mounted now on their horses and saddles. They are splendid hacks. Most of them will amble eight miles an hour, and are used to the climate."
William Isaac WADLEY
The following letter from W. Wadley, who did noble work at the death of Sale and Walter, and afterwards died of enteric fever, is of considerable interest from its quaint simplicity. I have printed it as written. To correct the spelling and grammar would take away its charm:-
"Lindley, Friday, 29th March, 1900. - My dear Mother and Father, I am not very well at present. I have a very bad cold, but still I hope you are all well at home. I have herd nothing about Tassy since I left, but there is no place like it. Mother, I don't think it is any use writing back to me, because I might never get them. None of us as received any letters from Tassy yet, but we might get them all in a heap before long. Father, I enjoyed myself were the battles has been. We land at Port-Elizabeth, and was in the train for 3 days and 4 nights, and the nights were very cold without any bedding, and in a cattle truck at that, about 40 of us. I was one of the first to go with the horses. We stoped about 4 times to feed all the way through, we fed at Cradock twice feed Springfontein, and Blomfontein, and then we went through to Kronstad were we got off all about the line was nothing but graves and dead horses were the battle as been fort the British has got a wooden cross to there graves. Mother We left Kronstad on Sunday the 24th for the front that was to get a convoy into Lindley which we did after a good fight. We marched all Sunday till about 12 o'clock at night without anything to eat or drink.
I was one of the scouts that day and I came across about i5o dead horses in one heap and they was a little ripe to. We did not go far the next day Monday we started about 4 o'clock in the morning and marched till about r in the afternoon and prepared ourselves for battle because one of the scouts got fired at a few miles in front of us. We got up about 3 in the morning and Tuesday and before the frost was off the grass they was firing at us we cut in all directions because we was all in a heap the bullets going very close pass me but they did not hit me. I was alongside of a man when he got his horse shot in the shoulder and another one of our horses got shot through the jaws but the big guns was soon fixed and very soon sent them ticking they was all around us, but we very soon drove them away, there was about 20 boars in a stone yard pouring the bullets into about 30 of us and we was doing the same at them but they had the best shooting because we was on the flat and them on a hill all the cover we had was crawing from one ant hill to another we sneaked up to about 400 yards of them and they was still firing at us and then we got orders to fix bayonets and when they saw them they was soon on there horses and away I saved the buts of the first bulet I fired at them. The big guns nocked a few over we was fighting pretty well all day on a drink of water and a hard biscuts, there is about 3000 of us all together. We camped again about 8 o'clock that night and up again about 4 Oc The Tassy's was the rearguard of the Convoy on Wednesday and after we was on the march for about 4 or 5 hours the boars come up on the left side of us and in to us but we very soon scouted for shelter for our horses and then doubled back and in to them we sent them back again after a few shots. And after we got on our horses again and got going nicely again there was a good big force come up at the back of us and my word they sent the bulets at us very thick and quick, they was coming that close to me I was bobing my head we was in a good place for them we had to gallop for about half a mile for shelter and they was flying after us all the way they only shot 4 horses and wounded one man they carnt shut a little bit. The Sergeant I was batman for had his horse shot dead and the captain's horse was wounded and died the next night which made the fifth. I was not the last into cover I kided myself (? pretended) I was racing, so I let my horse out to his prettyest, we dismounted and doubled back at them but we did not fire many shots before we had to fly to our horses again and get a better possion at them so it was another gallop up a hill and they made good of us while they could see us firing all the time they was cuting the dust up all around us but hit nothing going up the hill. We got in a fine place at them and we got at them pretty strong and they was still letting go at us but when the big gun went off they were soon shut up. They are very good with the big guns they can drop the shells were they like the (y) make a big dust after they burst. We got in to Lindley that night about to Oc. We had to go back the next day and gather some stock we had another bit of a fight but the big gun wound them up there was a lot of cattle brought in and sheep we got orders to kill a sheep or two for our selves and I was not long before I had a piece on the pan. We have not been out at all to-day and the days - rest has been very well excepted because my cold was winding me - up I got some stuff for it to-day and it is getting better. Tell Hardman that I have no more paper to write to him but you can tell him that it is splendid glazing land the grass in places is over my knees. It would be terribly lonely over here on a farm. Father I hope you are getting on all right with your work. give my love to Biddy and tell her the latest or let her read this letter and Ada the same. I think we are off again to-morrow, remember me to all about. I feel satisfied now I have had a scap and it is the same as the other men used to say that it hant all beer and skittles but a drop of beer would be well excepted. Excuse bad writing and mistakes as I am not in very good form. So I will finish in wishing you are all well. I remain your Son W. Wadley."
Clarence Albert James JOHNSTONE
Trooper C. A. Johnstone's Notes.
Pretoria told of a city in distress when one sees the wrecked buildings and the troops everywhere one looks. Pretoria has some very nice buildings in it, but the town itself has a very rusty appearance, like all the other Dutch towns. Here we marched past Lord Roberts. The great General, accompanied by his wife and daughter and his staff, came down to the gate of his grounds, and at the word "Walk, march" we all marched past, and on about a mile. We saw the rest of General Paget's Brigade, all making active preparations to move out. The General said we had to move off with him straightaway, which we accordingly did, out to Wonderboompoort that night, and I remember well it was a bitter, cold night, and as hard a frost as ever I saw in Tasmania. This was our first night in the Transvaal. It was a little different to the open veldt, which we became accustomed to in the Orange River Colony. It is a much broken country, with ranges of hills and valleys. Next morning we had reveille, 4 a.m., and we Tassies had to take advance guard out to Waterval. After going five miles we came on to the enemy. They had taken up a position - on the top of a kopje. I suppose there were about two hundred of them. They retired when they saw us advancing. We went up to the hill. They and could see them on another hill about three thousand yards off. Our captain sent a rider back to General Paget to report Boers ahead, and he sent the guns up to cover our retreat. While we advanced to them they opened fire on us when we got about one thousand yards off them, and we dismounted and gave our horses over to the horse-holders. Then we advanced on foot for a little way, and took what cover we could, and fired at them, when they opened fire with a Long Tom on us, and then our guns started on them, and soon drove them off. Then we advanced again, only to get into it hotter still. The bullets were whistling round my head, and I fully expected to be hit every second, but we kept returning the fire as fast as we could, when our guns again opened on them. Then there was an artillery duel for about two hours, when the Boers cleared, and we got on to Waterval and camped. Our casualties were four wounded, they being Yeomanry. I thanked my lucky stars that night. Here we received our first mail of letters since landing in South Africa. They were sent out after us with the convoy which followed after us from Pretoria, and we were all very pleased to hear from home, as we had been in South Africa then four months.
August 21. - Reveille 2 a.m.; so we had very little rest that night. We marched in the darkness from Waterval nine miles, then halted and waited for daylight. As soon as it became light we could see Boers ahead, and we Tassies were put in advance, and after going two miles further towards a Kaffir kraal the Boers opened fire on us, and we had no cover, with the exception of a few rocks here and there, behind which we took cover as well as we could, and opened fire on them. Then the pom-pom galloped up and opened fire, and the Boers brought their guns into action, and fired at us, and then we were fairly at it for eight hours. After we had driven the Boers off General Baden-Powell, with his Brigade, joined our column.
Then he took the advance with his men. They were mostly Australians, who had won favour with that General at Elands River battle after the relief of Mafeking. We trekked on till dusk that evening; then camped. We were now soon strong with the two columns.
August 22. - On again. We were advance this day, and the country was flat, with very few hills. This starts what is called the Bushveldt. It is all thorny bushes, something like a gooseberry bush, only the thorns are much longer and thicker. We had a terrible job to get our horses through this place, as they did not like the thorns at all, and when we got through the thickest our horses' legs were all over blood. We now arrive at Pienaars River, on the Pietersburg line. The railway bridge over the river was blown to pieces by the Boers, thus stopping the supply train from crossing until the bridge was reconstructed. Here we halted for half an hour, then on again six miles, and camped. We had only two hard biscuits each served out that night, and that had to do us until the next night. I ate one that night, and kept the other till next morning; then ate it, and had to go till night before I could get any more, and when I did get some the next night it was only half a one, as they only had one biscuit between two men, and could get no more until the supply train caught us up.
August 25. - On again 25 miles march to Warm Baths. Here we had another scrap with the Boers, and captured a part of their train just leaving Warm Baths and some prisoners. Here Cooper was badly wounded in the thigh. Here we found on the captured train four tons of flour, and we all took some, and that night we had a good fill. I made some jepaties with flour and water. They were not the best, but they went down all right, and I had a good sleep that night. We stayed here two days, then went on to Nylestroom with General B.-P. On our way to this place Lew Butcher was wounded. We were away two days, then returned to Warm Baths on the 28th August. That night we had to dig trenches, as we were expecting an attack, but it never came off until September 4, which I will tell you later on.
September 1. - Out on patrol, 20 of us Tasmanians, under Lieutenant Wylly, and 20 of the Army Service Corps under Captain Brookes. We went through one of the passes into the Warm Baths ranges, and after going through the pass we went about two miles. There were four Tasmanians sent in advance, and the guide, Eddie Cooper. I was one of the other 15 just behind the four in advance, and the other 20 men in our rear, about 500 yards. We came to a donga, and I then saw a small piece of wood smoking just on the bank of the donga. I said to Sergeant Shaw, "The Boers are close here. Look at that piece of wood there a smoking." I said, "Those four ahead couldn't have seen it." Just then the crack of a rifle, and 50 more perhaps, when Sergeant Shaw said, "Dismount, men, and take cover." Just then Captain Brookes's horse came galloping back, and Lieut. Wylly said, "Get out of this, men; they are heavily entrenched on both sides of us." Just then Captain Brookes came running as well as he could. He was badly wounded through the right shoulder. We mounted our horses with the speed of lightning and galloped out. Here Bisdee jumped off his horse, and Captain Brookes got on by Bisdee's help; then Bisdee jumped up behind him, and galloped out of the rifle range with the rest of us. The bullets were cutting up the dust just like a hailstorm. In getting out Trooper Willoughby was wounded in the left thigh, and fell from his horse. Lieut. Wylly jumped off and picked him up, and put him on in front of him, and Lieut. Wylly himself was slightly wounded in the left arm, also Sergeant Shaw was slightly wounded, and Corporal Brown was wounded through the right ankle, and his brother, Jeff Brown, was wounded and taken prisoner by the Boers. After we had galloped out of rifle range we pulled up to help the wounded, and after tying something on their wounds as best we could we made off as fast as we could to get out of the pass before the Boers could cut us off, and just as we passed through the pass the Boers mounted the hill and fired at us, but we had got well out of rifle range then, and we made all haste to camp. I often think of that day (September 1, 1900). It was a narrow squeak with all of us. The bullets seemed to crack like whips; they were nearly all explosives they were using that day. Back to camp, the news soon spread all round, and we had many enquiring as to our day's adventure. This was where the two V.C.'s were earned by Lieut. Wylly and J. H. Bisdee, both members of the First Tasmanian Imperial Bushmen.
September 2. - We had a rest, and' September 3 we Tassies were sent out reconnoitring, and, not seeing anything startling. We returned to camp at 2 p.m., and at 3 p.m, the Boers opened on our camp with their guns, and gave us a lively time for about two hours. We had to stand to arms all night. Next morning at daybreak the Boers put their shells again into our camp, and this state lasted all day. They put between 8o and go shells into the camp, with very little damage, only killing two men. That night the enemy retreated, and next day we stayed in camp till 6 p.m.; then trekked all night back towards Pretoria, and reached Pienaar's River at 6 a.m. next morning. Halted here to feed horses and mules; then on again at 8 p.m., trekked all night to a place called Kaffir's Kraal, which place we reached at daybreak next morning. Stayed there for one hour's rest, then on again to Waterval, and pitched camp to have a rest, which we all needed badly enough. We stayed here for five days, then left Waterval en route for Heilbron. Reached Heilbron that day, and next day on again to Crocodile River, and went out burning farmhouses down, and had a little fighting with the enemy; then returned to Waterval on September 19. Stayed there two days, and we were all refitted out with whatever we wanted in the line of saddlery. Then on again to Waggon Drift and Silverton, at which place we met General Paget's Brigade. Here we captured 40 prisoners with waggons, cattle, and sheep after a little fighting. We stayed here one night, and next morning we Tassies were sent out on patrol. The Boers opened fire on us, killing one horse-Trooper Mace's. The same day we followed them up to Sybrandt's Kraal. This is where Erasmus's home stead is, one of the Boer Generals. Here we found 20 waggons loaded with Boer women, whom the Boers left behind them in their flight. We halted here a little while. Here Erasmus came in under the white flag to see the General as to terms of surrender, and General Paget gave him five days' armistice to ascertain if President Kruger had left the country, and during the five days we had to stand fast; that is to say, we were not to move out of certain bounds during that time. We had a programme of sports of different kinds, and passed the time away in that manner. After the five days we had heard nothing of Erasmus, so had orders to move on the 6th by moonlight to Sibera's Craal [Sybrandt's Kraal ?]. After trekking eight miles came on to Boers' outpost, and drove them off, and went on to Craal. Halted till daylight; then on, and overtook the Boers just as they got into the Warm Bath ranges. This part of the country was too rough to follow them in. We then returned due south to Reitsfontein. Here we encountered the enemy again, and had two more of our men wounded -Troopers Smith and Flemming. We followed them up, fighting them every day for four days. We then ran out of provisions, and had to return towards Pretoria, and camped eight miles outside Pretoria, and while here we heard that the first Tasmanian Contingent, under Major Cameron, were camped in Pretoria. I got permission off Captain Lewis, with several others, to go in to see them. They looked a lot of wrecks. They were then about to leave for home. After getting supplies on our convoy we trekked about the North-Western Transvaal, for six or seven weeks, having skirmishes with the enemy nearly every other day up to the 29th November, 1900, when we had a general engagement with the Boers at Rheinoster Kop. We mustered about 4500 men, and the Boers' strength was supposed to be 7000. The advance was made at 5 a.m., and at 6 a.m. the Boers opened fire on us. We held a firing line of seven miles, and we were in the open veldt with no cover at all, only the long veldt grass, while the Boers were heavily entrenched and behind rocks. This fight lasted 17 hours without ceasing, and we failed to move their positions, and about 11 o'clock at night their firing stopped, although we lined for about seven miles along the Boers' left during the night. British casualties amounted to 280 killed and wounded. Next morning at daybreak we were sent out skirmishing around till 2 p.m.; then returned to the main body and camped for the night. Next day we were out again, and had a little fighting, and returned to camp. It now became the Tassies' turn to have a little rest; so we stayed in camp for three days. On December 5 we Tassies were sent out on patrol in the morning, and we found the Boers were trying for an attack, so we returned to camp and, reported to General Plumer.
December 6. - All hands digging trenches ready for an attack by enemy.
December 7. – We had to stand to arms from 4a.m. till 8p.m., and in trenches all that night. Next day the same thing, but no attack was made.
December 9. - Moved off at 4 a.m. 12 miles further east towards Oliphant's River. Here we had a little fighting for six hours; then the Boers retreated, and at 5 p.m. we Tassies were sent out on outpost all night.
December 10. - We were out on patrol, and had a little fighting; then back to camp at 4 p.m. Had orders to move at 12 o'clock, moon rise. The Boers were supposed to shell our camp at daybreak, so we moved back to Rietsfontein and camped there. Here we stayed for a few days to stop the Boers from crossing back towards Pretoria.
December 16. - I was sent out with 50 Queenslanders to capture Boers' outpost. When the Boers found we were coming on to them they, mounted their horses and galloped away, I being one of four men on the extreme right, which the Boers had to pass. We dismounted as they galloped by us at a distance of about 800 yards, and fired at them, killing one horse and wounding one of the Boers; then we mounted our horses, and took after the other four. We captured three of them, but the fourth man had a very fast horse, and we could not catch him, so had to return with the other three and the wounded Boer to camp, and handed them over to General Paget. We stayed at Reitsfontein for four days, when I took that most dreaded enteric fever.
December 21, 1900. - I was taken into field hospital at Reitsfontein. Had eight days there; then I was sent in ox waggon to Bronkerspruit station, a distance of 80 miles. I was then put into the train with 70 more sick men, and sent to Pretoria, where we were admitted into No. 2 General. Hospital. I was put into the enteric wards, and did not know any more for six days. When I came to my senses again, I began to realise my position. They were burying the dead at the rate of 20 men daily, all dying with enteric fever, and I made up my mind to kick against it as well as I could, and I am glad to say that I pulled through all right. After being in hospital 14 weeks, the doctors let me go out of hospital into the Australian detail camp at Dasport, just outside Pretoria. Here I found out where my contingent were; they were then at Pietersburg; and I, with some more Australians, was sent up to join them, and when we arrived at Pietersburg there were no horses to mount us on, so we could not join our men there. It was at this place where Lieutenant Walters and Captain Sale were killed. We were then sent back by train to Pretoria, where we stayed doing garrison duty till May 28th, 1901, when we left Pretoria by train to Standerton, arrived at Standerton, May 29th, and went into camp next day. We were fitted out with horses and saddles, and on June 1, 1901, we left Standerton with General Plumer's column to trek back to Pietretief. Arrived at Pietretief on June 9. We were fighting all the way along. Left General Plumer's column here, and we Australians of the First Imperial Bushmen were now under orders for home. So we had to trek with empty convoy to Utrecht, and after travelling for nine hours came to Piet River. This is the place where the Zulus cut the British up during the Zulu War. We camped here for the night; then on again next morning, through the Drakensburg Mountains, and arrived at Utrecht on June 18. This place is a small village, with about three hundred inhabitants. On this trek we had fighting every day, more or less. We stayed at Utrecht two days.
June 21. - On again to New Castle, crossing the Buffalo River. This river is the border between the Transvaal and Natal. Arrived at New Castle June 22. Here we handed over our horses and equipment.
June23. - We left New Castle by train for East London; passed Ingogo, just under Majuba Hill, and through the tunnel under Laing's Nek, where there was some heavy fighting in the early part of the war. Arrived at Stormberg, where General Gatacre had his reverse, and lost so heavily. Here we mobilised on the 29th June, and left again for East London July 4th. Arrived at East London July 5th, and boarded the transport "Britannic," and steamed out for Australia, July 6th, 1901. We had a very rough trip all the way to Albany, and after stopping there two days continued on to Tasmania. We arrived home in the early part of -August, 1901. For myself, I shall never regret my experiences on the veldt.
RECEPTION AT MELBOURNE. TASMANIANS DUE AT LAUNCESTON THIS MORNING.
Melbourne, Tuesday.-The troops were landed from the "Britannic" this morning in bright, pleasant weather, and carried by train to Spencer street. They marched from there via Collins and Swanston streets to the Victoria Barracks, where they Were entertained at lunch and warmly welcomed. The Tasmanian section sailed during the afternoon by the "Coogee" for Launceston.
THE RECEPTION ARRANGEMENTS.
Hobart, Tuesday-Captain Collins, the Victorian Secretary of Defence, has wired to the Premier that the Tasmanian troops left by the "Coogee" to-day. When they reach Launceston arrangements similar to those made when the last troops arrived will be followed. The troops will leave Launceston on Thursday morning shortly after 9 o'clock for Hobart.
WELCOMING THE TROOPS TO LAUNCESTON. TO-DAY'S ARRANGEMENTS.
The Tasmanian soldiers who arrived in Melbourne by the S.S. "Britannic," in company with a large body of troops belonging to the various states returning from the South African campaign, are expected to come across from the seat of the Federal Government in the "Coogee" this morning, landing at about noon.
The Tasmanian officers on the "Britannic" were Captain Lewis, Lieutenants Page, Reynolds, and Williams. The list of the non-commissioned officers and men comprised:
Sergeant Majors Cracknell and Shegog, Sergeants Townley, Stephens, Summers, Gerrand, H. T. Davis, Brewer, Farrier Sergeant Hutton, Corporals Barwise, Ward, Brownell, Rye, Farrier Bellette.
Troopers Blackaby, A. M. Brown, Berenck, Bridley, Burbury, Cliff, Crawford, Costello, Cooper, Crosby, Dudfield, Eddy, Ferguson, Firth, Geeves, Gardiner, Garrott, Guest, Green, Gleeson, Hayes, Heyne, Humphreys, Hodgkinson, C. A. J. Johnstone, A. A. Johnstone, Jackson, Keogh, Kenworthy, King, Litchfield, Littlejohn, M'Leod, M'Guire, O'May, Shields, Skinner, Storey, Walker, Williams, Whitmore, Willoughby, Whelan, Westbrook.
Lance-Corporal Harrison and Trooper Hood (Tasmanian Bushmen), and Trooper Hart (of the last Imperial Contingent) were also on board. The Mayor (Alderman F. K. Fairthorne) late yesterday afternoon received a telegram from the Chief Secretary (Mr. G. T. Collins), advising him of the expected arrival and sojourn of the troops in Launceston until to-morrow, when, if necessary, a special train would be provided for their transportation to Hobart. The shortness of the notice, however, and a number of prior engagements, precluded the Mayor from making the arrangements which he would have liked for the reception of the troops, and he wired to this effect to the Minister. At the same time, he promised to give Captain Lewis and his company as hearty a welcome as possible under the circumstances. It is understood that the Mayor and aldermen will board the "Coogee" on her arrival, and, on behalf of the citizens, welcome the soldiers back to Tasmania. Afterwards, if it can be conveniently arranged, the troops will be invited to meet the Mayor and aldermen at the Town Hall. In the afternoon the soldiers will be entertained at the concert for the Barnardo Homes.
John Hutton BISDEE
RETURNING SOLDIERS. WELCOMED AT HOBART.
Hobart, Thursday. - A special train, with the returned members of the Tasmanian Imperial Bushmen Contingent, arrived from Launceston this afternoon. The troops were warmly welcomed at the station by the Administrator (Sir John Dodds), Ministers, and friends. Greetings over, the men fell in, and, headed by the Garrison Band, marched through the principal streets to the Town Hall, being cheered en route by thousands of spectators, who occupied every possible position from which a good view could be obtained. Going down Macquarie-street, Captain Lewis was seized by some of his old comrades, who hoisted him shoulder high, and conveyed him in that position to the Town Hall, which was crowded beyond its standing capacity.
The Acting Mayor (Alderman Smith) presided, and in a few well chosen words welcomed Captain Lewis and his men back to Tasmania, at the same time eulogising the good work performed by them.
The Premier (Mr. NE Lewis) who was received with cheers, said that, on behalf on the Government and the people of Tasmania, he desired to offer to Captain Lewis and his gallant band a most hearty welcome home to Tasmania. She sent them away some 14 months ago, wishing them God-speed, and now they were glad to have them back again. They had secured high honours, obtaining two Victoria Crosses, and several D.S.O's. Lieutenant Wvlly had been decorated at the hands of the King, and Lieutenant Bisdee had returned to South Africa to try and add vet another clasp to his honours. (Cheers.) On occasions like that, however, their sympathies should naturally go out to the fathers and mothers of those who had gone down while discharging their duty. That Contingent alone had lost six, but those who had now returned had raised the prestige of Tasmania. (Prolonged cheers.)
Mr. G. T. Collins said, as one who had been closely allied with the Defence Force for many years, he desired to endorse what had been said by previous speakers. The contingent had more work to do than any other that had left Tasmania. (Cheers.) Captain Lewis and his men had followed the good example that had been set them by Major Cameron - (loud cheers) - with the result that there was not a black mark against any man sent away. (Cheers.) He joined with the Premier in sympathising with the fathers and mothers of those who would not return. The men had returned covered with glory, and he hoped they might be long spared to enjoy good health and prosperity.
Colonel Legge (Commandant), also, on behalf of the Defence Force, welcomed Captain Lewis and his men back to Tasmania. The members of the Contingent would always be remembered because of the good work done by them. He trusted the men would be able to get back to their usual avocations, and suffer no evil effects from their experiences in South Africa.
Mrs. Benson sang "Home, Sweet Home," with organ accompaniments by Mr. Haywood.
Captain Lewis, on rising to respond, was received with deafening cheers, and when order was restored he said the song just rendered he heard sung on the veldt under most trying circumstances, causing tears to flow copiously from many a manly eye. The welcome accorded to himself and men he highly appreciated. It was worth going to South Africa in order to receive such welcome on their return home, although one did not always think so. He thanked the men under him for the readiness with which their services were rendered on all occasions. He also thanked those responsible for the selection of such a capable body of men.
The proceedings concluded by the singing of the National Anthem, after which the majority of the men attended a thanksgiving service at St. David's Cathedral, and during the evening were entertained at a social at the Town Hall. - (August 1, 1901.)
Guy George Egerton WYLLY
SEVERAL OF THE SOLDIERS SUFFERING FROM MEASLES.
Hobart, Friday.-Captain Lewis, who only returned to-day from South Africa with the Tasmanian Imperial Contingent, has developed measles, and is now confined to bed. Charles Jackson, of Hamilton, another member, is similarly attacked, and suffering from a chill, has been removed to the hospital. It is feared other members will be likewise stricken.
AUSTRALIAN CASUALTIES. TWO TASMANIANS KILLED.
London, Friday morning. - Lieutenant F. G. Hum, of the West Australian Bushmen, and J. C. Rose, of the New Zealand Rough Riders, have been discharged from hospital, and resumed duty.
Corporal W. C. Lawlie, of the New Zealand Mounted Infantry, has been severely wounded, and Private William Fraser, of the Tasmanian Bushmen, has been killed at Pietersburg.
Lieutenant A. Sale, who was severely wounded at Pietersburg, has succumbed to his injuries.
OFFICIAL INTIMATION OF THE SAD NEWS.
Hobart, Friday. - The Administrator (Sir John Dodds) has received the following cable from the Governor of Cape Town :-"April 11, Lieutenant C. H. Walter killed near Pietersburg on April 8; Lieutenant Arnold Sale, died from wounds received near Pietersburg, April 9."
The Chief Secretary (Mr. G. T. Collins, M.L.C.) sent a telegram to a friend of the late Lieutenant Walter, asking him to break the news to Mr. Walter of his son's death, and also to Mr. Sale, intimating the sad news, and expressing the sympathy of Ministers at the unfortunate occurrence.
Both lieutenants went to South Africa with the Tasmanian section of the Imperial Australian Bushmen, which left Hobart under the command of Captain R. C. Lewis, on April 26, 1900.
Lieutenant Arnold Arthur Sale, who was 3o years of age, was a son of Mr. J. Townsend Sale, of St. Leonards, who was for many years manager of the Union Bank of Australia at Launceston. He was a fine, manly young fellow, and greatly esteemed by a large circle of friends. The deceased received the fatal wounds in an engagement at Pietersburg, when Colonel Plumer made a rapid advance on the town.
Lieutenant Walter's parents reside at Caulfield, near Melbourne. He was 24 years of age, and well and favourably known in shipping circles; and when he enlisted as a trooper in the contingent he was engaged as purser on the S.S. "Wareatea," trading between Launceston and Strahan. Being a good horseman, a fine shot, and having a natural aptitude for military duties, he quickly passed through the ranks, and was appointed to a lieutenancy shortly before the departure of the contingent.
The cable message also states that Private William Fraser, of the Tasmanian Bushmen, was also killed, but no such name appears in the lists of the contingents.
A GUN FOR TASMANIA.
Hobart, Wednesday.-Captain Lewis, D.S.O., prior to leaving South Africa wrote to the Chief of Staff, Pretoria, for a Maximgun to be given to Tasmania, the capture of which was due to the following Tasmanians:-
Lieutenant Stocker (then acting-sergeant), Corporal Kenny Ward, Troopers Burbury, O'May, Firth, Skinner, Crawford, Hamilton, King, and A. Hayes.
The following answer has been received by Captain Lewis:-"The General commanding-in-chief regrets he is unable to comply with this request at present, as the gun is serviceable, and is consequently required for use. A note will, however, be made of this application, and, if possible, this particular gun will be presented to Tasmania at the conclusion of hostilities. By order (signed), John Heaslam, D.A.A.G., for the Colonel on the staff."
POM-POM FOR TASMANIA.
The Hon. the Premier has received a despatch from the Agent General, notifying him that a pom-pom gun has been awarded Tasmania as a trophy of the South African war, and in commemoration of the part played by Tasmanians in the capture of a gun at Olifant's River in April, 1901. The Agent-General has also informed the Premier that 15 guns and 2500 rifles and carbines are available for distribution among the colonies that sent contingents to the South African war, but at the time of his writing no decision had been arrived at as to the allotment of the same. The Agent-General will undertake the transmission of the pompom. - 4/3/04.
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