situated at the eastern end of Convent Hill. This post was relieved
weekly, and as the men were concealed and in a healthier position the
change was much appreciated.

On the morning of January 27th a native runner brought in news. His
account was:--

"Boers lost heavily from artillery fire on Wednesday, and say that the
British artillery is too much for them. I saw six field cornets dead on
one wagon. Some English were taken prisoners, and they were from the
left flank attack. The English attacked Spion Kop and surrounded the
base of the hill, and the Boers lost heavily from the English shrapnel
fire. When the English got to the top of the hill the Boers ran down the
other side. The Boers are much disheartened by their losses."

Judging from the above, the native must have then run away and not have
waited to see the finish, for in the evening the following news came
in:--

"Buller attacked Spion Kop, seized and occupied it, but was driven off
again the next night. Our loss is estimated at 200 killed and 300
wounded."

With the knowledge that history has given the world about the battle of
Spion Kop, further comment is needless. The news above is given as it
was received by the garrison of Ladysmith, who of course knew nothing
but what was sent in in scraps by Sir Redvers Buller, and what came in
to the Intelligence Department by native runners.

On the 30th the daily ration was further cut down to 1/2 lb. of meat, 2