one of our meetings at the Modder River station, and what proof he
afterwards gave of the sincerity of his profession. Look at his
face. What a sweet, peaceful expression--what a contrast to his
surroundings! Death swift and sudden, in the horrid din of battle
stript of all its terrors. As earth's light faded he must have got
a glimpse of the glory beyond, for it's reflected in his face.
That's what Christ can do, and came to do, for a man.

'Sergeant, get some of the handiest of the men to break up these
empty ammunition-boxes and construct a rude cross for the trench.
It's the most appropriate "memorial." It signifies self-sacrifice,
and did they not, "obedient unto death," give their lives for
others; it indicates the cheering hope in which we lay them to
rest. By-and-by, we will erect something more permanent, and place
a fence around, for 'tis holy ground, consecrated by tearful prayer
and by the very fact that the remains of brave men mingle there.
Scotland to-day is poorer in men, but richer in heroes?

"Saviour, in Thy gracious keeping,
Leave we now our loved ones sleeping."'

[Footnote 5: _St. Andrew_, June 7, 1900.]




Chapter VII

THOMAS ATKINS ON THE VELDT