and began to fall out rapidly. We were still four miles from the ridge
when the English began to occupy the eastern extremity of it. We moved
on to the western extremity, and reached it in time.

The enemy, however, had the advantage of the best positions, but was
fortunately cut off from the water. We were resolved to hem them in
completely, for we knew that, if no relieving forces arrived, they would
be compelled by thirst alone, if nothing else, to surrender.

Before commencing the fight, De Wet, anxious as usual to avoid
unnecessary bloodshed, sent the following note to the commanding
officer:--

"SIR,--I am here with 500 men, and am every moment expecting
reinforcements with three Krupps, against which you will not be
able to hold out. I therefore advise you, in order to prevent
bloodshed, to surrender."

The messenger returned under a storm of bullets, for no sooner had he
left the English lines than they opened fire on him. How he was missed
seemed inexplicable. The answer he brought back was: "I am d----d if I
surrender." On receiving this reply firing at once commenced. Positions
nearer to the enemy were gradually occupied.

Towards sunset our guns arrived, and were brought to bear upon the
enemy. But darkness soon set in, and firing ceased on both sides. To
make sure that the enemy would not escape during the night, we occupied
positions all round them, and in the darkness of the night silently
stole as near to their positions as was possible.