Supposing that Warren has by this time compelled the retreat of the Boers from the plateau for which he has been fighting, what can the Boers do to resist Buller’s further advance?  They must try to hold a second position.  Two such positions appear to be open to them, if we may judge by the not very full maps available.  The line of hills from Bulbarrow Hill on the north to the hill near Arnot Hill Farm on the south might give good opportunities for defence; it blocks the road to Ladysmith, for the Boers occupying the line would be right across these roads.  Another plan would be for the Boers to retreat to the north-east on to the east and west ridge, which commands from the north the Acton Homes—­Dewdrop road.  If the Boers took this position the roads to Ladysmith, or to the rear of the investing lines, would be open.  But Sir Redvers Buller could not advance along them with the Boer forces menacing his flank, and he would be obliged either to attack them or to contain them by extending a force along their front to hold its ground against them while he pushed the rest of his force towards Ladysmith.  Whether this would be a prudent plan for the Boers depends upon their numbers, and if they are strong enough they might combine both plans.

It is, however, by no means certain that Lord Dundonald is unable to prevent the Boers from crossing the Blaauwbank Spruit.  He has not been heard of for a week, and has had plenty of time to have his force in position to the north of Clydesdale Farm, unless, indeed, he has been kept in hand behind Warren’s left flank ready for pursuit after the capture of the great plateau.

The situation continues to be critical, and must be so until the fate of Ladysmith is decided.  Our own men are justifying to the full the confidence reposed in them; what men can do they will accomplish.  But the Boers are fighting stubbornly, and may be able to wear out Sir Redvers Buller’s force before their own resistance collapses.  We at home must wait patiently, hoping for the best but prepared for fresh efforts.  At least we ought all now to realise that the splendid behaviour of our soldiers in the field lays upon us as citizens the duty of securing for the future the best possible treatment of those who are so generous of their lives.

THE ELEVENTH HOUR

February 1st, 1900

If on Tuesday the Bank of England had announced that it could not meet its obligations I imagine that there would have been a certain amount of uneasiness in the City and elsewhere, and that some at least of the rich men to be found in London would have put their heads together to see what could be done to meet a grave emergency.