In 1884 Messrs. Kruger and Smit proceeded to Europe to endeavour to raise funds, which were badly needed, and also to obtain some modifications of the Convention.  The attempt to raise funds through the parties in Holland to whom the railway concession had just been granted failed, but the delegates were more fortunate in their other negotiations.  They negotiated the London Convention which fixed certain hitherto undefined boundaries; and in that document no reference was made to the suzerainty of Great Britain.  They also secured the consent of the British Government to the alteration of the title of the country.  Instead of Transvaal State it became once more the ’South African Republic.’{07} During this visit there occurred an incident which provides the answer to Mr. Kruger’s oft—­too oft—­repeated remark that ’the Uitlanders were never asked to settle in the Transvaal, and are not wanted there.’  Messrs. Kruger and Smit were staying at the Albemarle Hotel, where they found themselves, after some weeks’ delay, in the uncomfortable position of being unable to pay their hotel bill.  In their extremity they applied to one Baron Grant, at that time a bright particular star in the Stock Exchange firmament.  Baron Grant was largely interested in the gold concessions of Lydenburg, and he was willing to assist, but on terms.  And the quid pro quo which he asked was some public assurance of goodwill, protection, and encouragement to British settlers in the Transvaal.  Mr. Kruger responded on behalf of the Republic by publishing in the London press the cordial invitation and welcome and the promise of rights and protection to all who would come, so frequently quoted against him of late.

By this time Moodies had attracted a fair number of people, and the prospects of the country began, for the first time with some show of reason, to look brighter.  No results were felt, however, and the condition of the Government officials was deplorable.  Smuggling was carried on systematically; in many cases officials ‘stood in’ with smugglers.  They were obliged either to do that or to enforce the laws properly and get what they could by seizing contraband goods.  There were two objections to the latter course, however.  One was that the country was large and detection difficult with men who were both daring and resourceful; and the other was that the officials were not sure of receiving their share of the spoil from a Government so hard pressed as this one was, and whose higher officials also had difficulties about payment of salaries.  In many cases salaries were six months in arrear; and other cases could be quoted of officials whose house-rent alone amounted to more than their nominal remuneration.  Yet they continued to live, and it was not difficult to surmise how.  Another significant fact was that goods subject to heavy duties—­such as spirits, hams, etc.—­could be bought at any store at a price which was less than original cost plus carriage and duty.  Smuggling was a very palpable fact, and—­quoth the public and the officials—­a very convenient and even necessary evil.