=Christian Workers at Sterkstroom.=

But these long pauses between actual engagements gave the opportunity for Christian work, and General Gatacre’s camp at Sterkstroom was besieged by a large number of Christian workers.  In addition to the recognised chaplains the Soldiers’ Christian Association, represented by Messrs. Stewart and Denman, had their large green tent, and pursued their usual work with much success.  The Salvation Army was also in evidence, and their captain and lieutenant rendered capital service, especially in the open air.  Mr. and Mrs. Osborne Howe, well known in South Africa for their devoted work, had another tent, splendidly fitted up, and known as the ‘Soldiers’ Home.’  Mr. Anderson, an Army Scripture Reader from Glasgow, was also very useful.  The Anglican and Wesleyan chaplains both had tents, in which they carried on their work incessantly.  Captain England started a branch of the A.T.A., and worked it till he died.  And so, what with the workers living in camp and others paying flying visits to it, the call to repentance was loud and long, and no soldier at Sterkstroom was left without spiritual ministration.

=Comforts for the Troops.=

And not only did the spiritual interests of the soldier receive attention—­the workers bore in mind that he had a body as well as a soul.  All Christian South Africa bore that in mind.  From far and near came presents for the soldiers.  Churches gave collections for that purpose; ladies’ sewing circles sewed to buy them comforts; business firms sent donations of goods; comforts, aye, and even luxuries, poured into the camp, and while in other parts of the field our men were on half or quarter rations, in the camp at Sterkstroom there were fruit distributions night by night.  Fresh butter and eggs came from the ladies of Lady Frere and other places.  Stationery, almost ad libitum, was supplied.  So that, notwithstanding rain and wind and many other discomforts, on the whole the troops at Sterkstroom managed to pass a cheerful time.  Hardships were before them, death was both behind and before.  Enteric fever was already dogging their steps, but still, compared with many of their comrades, they might indeed ’rest and be thankful.’

=The Soldiers’ Home at Sterkstroom.=

Let us first of all glance at Mr. and Mrs. Osborne Howe in the midst of their work.  It is the opening of their Soldiers’ Home.  The date is Thursday, February 15.  About two thousand men are present at the opening ceremony, and the general and his staff are also there.  The assemblage is thoroughly representative.  There are the war correspondents of the different papers; the chaplains of the Division; the Rev. Thomas Perry, Baptist minister from King Williamstown; ‘Captain’ Anderson and ‘Lieutenant’ Warwicker of the Salvation Army; the workers of the Soldiers’ Christian Association, as well as of the Soldiers’ Home; and last, but not least, the ladies of the nursing staff from the Hospital and Soldiers’ Home.  The band of the Northumberland Fusiliers is also present to delight the company with its music.  All sorts of good things are provided by the generous host and hostess to delight the most fastidious appetite—­if there is such an appetite upon the veldt.