to a point six miles beyond the confluence of the Vaal and Orange Rivers.  Here we found a small boat, and began at once to transport the dismounts.  We knew that these, once across the river, would be in a safer position.  Day and night we were engaged in taking these over; but the work progressed very slowly, for the boat could only take ten or twelve men at a time, and, besides, was so leaky that two had constantly to throw out the water.  After 250 men had been ferried across the stream the approach of the enemy was announced, and so near were they that some of us had to depart in an almost half-naked state.  About 80 burghers had to hide in the river until the storm was over.  Almost all the vehicles were left behind while the main force retreated up the river.

“Fortune favoured me; I was among the lucky ones who found a seat in the boat as she was returning for the last time.  Willie Louw and myself were appointed to supervise the boat, less the transport of the men be retarded in some way or other.  For some time we worked together, and then Willie left me to manage alone.  Though I was anxious to cross myself, I could not then leave the boat.  When the report of the enemy reached us the burghers, eager to get through, stormed the boat from all directions.  They forgot that if all want to get into the boat nobody will get across the river.  What must be done?  As there was no time for much deliberation I jumped in and expostulated with an excited crowd.  None heeded, each pressed forward to get a place in the boat.  I was finally compelled to threaten them with my revolver, but all in vain.  No one was afraid.  I believe they knew too well that I would not pull the trigger.  One looked me straight in the face as I pointed the instrument to him and said, ’My dear fellow, you may shoot if you wish—­I am not afraid; but I want to get through.’  He completely disarmed me.  I had no more threats.

“With an overcrowded boat we were at last on the stream, and finally reached the opposite bank, just as the enemy was beginning to shell De Wet’s forces on the other side.  It was indeed a relief to me, but we had to march another fifteen miles without water, exposed to scorching heat.  At length we found some muddy water.  Lying next to our horses we sipped up water so thick and muddy that we could hardly swallow it.

“As to De Wet’s further movements I can hardly give you full particulars.  He was followed up by the enemy, and had to abandon his guns the following day.  Trying one drift after the other he succeeded at last in fording the river between Norval’s Pont and Zanddrift; and so after seventeen days he was back in the Free State.

“Here you have a sketch of our attempt to invade British dominions.  I have omitted many things of less interest.  I wonder what you will think of all this.  Looking back upon our adventures, it is, of course, easy to point out all the errors and blunders we have committed.