he following
day we were not only behind the enemy, but had outstripped them by
nine miles. To gain more on them we kept up the march almost
unbroken the whole day. And what a day it was! We had to walk from
twelve to fifteen miles without a drop of water. Once we came to a
forsaken well. The water was of a greenish hue, bitter and
stagnant--a real Marah--but we drank to quench our thirst and
moisten our parched lips.

"On the 22nd we had proceeded to a point six miles beyond the
confluence of the Vaal and Orange Rivers. Here we found a small
boat, and began at once to transport the dismounts. We knew that
these, once across the river, would be in a safer position. Day and
night we were engaged in taking these over; but the work progressed
very slowly, for the boat could only take ten or twelve men at a
time, and, besides, was so leaky that two had constantly to throw
out the water. After 250 men had been ferried across the stream the
approach of the enemy was announced, and so near were they that
some of us had to depart in an almost half-naked state. About 80
burghers had to hide in the river until the storm was over. Almost
all the vehicles were left behind while the main force retreated up
the river.

"Fortune favoured me; I was among the lucky ones who found a seat
in the boat as she was returning for the last time. Willie Louw and
myself were appointed to supervise the boat, less the transport of
the men be retarded in some way or other. For some time we worked
together, and then Willie left me to manage alone. Though I was
anxious to cross myself, I could not then leave the boat. When the
report of the enemy reached us the burghers, eager to get through,
stormed the boat from all directions. They forgot that if all want
to get into the boat nobody will get across the river. What must be
done? As there was no time for much deliberation I jumped in and
expostulated with an excited crowd. None heeded, each pressed
forward to get a place in the boat. I was finally compelled to
threaten them with my revolver, but all in vain. No one was afraid.
I believe they knew too well that I would not pull the trigger. One
looked me straight in the face as I pointed the instrument to him
and said, 'My dear fellow, you may shoot if you wish--I am not