Your telegram No. 3 of January 6.  I need now only say that I have just received a message from Reform Committee resolving to comply with demand of South African Republic to lay down their arms; the people placing themselves (? and) their interests unreservedly in my hands in the fullest confidence that I will see justice done to them.  I have received also the following from British agent, dated 7th January:

Begins: I have sent the following telegram to His Honour the President: 

I have met the Reform Committee.  Am gratified with the spirit shown in the discussion of the all-important present position.  The Committee handed me the following resolution—­Begins: The Reform Committee in Johannesburg, having seriously considered the ultimatum of the Government of the South African Republic communicated to them through Her Majesty’s Agent at Pretoria, in a telegram dated 6th instant, to the effect that Johannesburg must lay down its arms as a condition precedent to a discussion and consideration of grievances, have unanimously decided to comply with this demand, and have given instructions to the citizens employed by this Committee for maintaining good order to lay down their arms.  In coming to this determination, the Committee rely upon the Government that it will maintain law and order, and protect life and property in this town at this critical juncture.  The Committee have been actuated by a paramount desire to do everything possible to ensure the safety of Dr. Jameson and his men, to advance the amicable discussion of terms of settlement with the Government, and to support the High Commissioner in his efforts in this respect.  The Committee would draw the attention of the Government of the Republic to the presence of armed burgher forces in the immediate vicinity of this town, and would earnestly desire that these forces be removed in order to avoid all risk of any disturbance of the public peace. Resolution ends.  I wish to add to my above remarks that I feel convinced there will be no further difficulty in connection with the laying down of their arms.  I would suggest that the Government co-operate with the Reform Committee for a day or two for the purpose of restoring the town to its normal state.  This will only take a day or two, and those who are excited among the people will by that time have calmed down, and the police can resume their ordinary duties.  The Committee will co-operate in this matter.  This course will very much facilitate the task of your Government if it meets with your approval. Ends.

The High Commissioner concluded the above telegram with the following significant sentence: 

I hope now to be able to confer with President of the South African Republic and Executive Council as to prisoners and the redress of Johannesburg grievances.

On the 8th he again telegraphed: