be felled and the bush
cleared, in order to open a fine field for firing, the garrison to a man
exerting themselves so as to give a warm reception to the enemy directly
he should show a head above the kopje. On the 12th of October Mr. Cecil
Rhodes arrived. His entry was somewhat melodramatic, as his train was
delayed and spies were actually on the platform lying in wait for him.
Fortunately he was not recognised. The magnetism of his presence added
fresh zest to the proceedings in the town, while the calm confidence of
his bearing became absolutely infectious. In fact, he soon delighted
every one by stating that he considered Kimberley to be every bit "as
safe as Piccadilly." At this time the town was well provisioned and the
mines were kept working. Most of the garrison occupied the brigade
grounds, while the detachment of regulars and the Kimberley regiments
were stationed at the Sanatorium. The Town-Guard soon numbered 2000.

Skirmishing took place on Friday, the 14th of October, and on the
following day there were more encounters. One squadron in an armoured
train was held up by the Boers, and their attack was supported by a
second force. The second squadron of the Protectorate regiment grandly
repelled the attack. The train, in which were several Imperial officers,
was uninjured. The Boer artillery gave way at last, and the forces
withdrew, but not before having sustained heavy loss.

On the 15th a proclamation was made establishing martial law in
Griqualand West and Bechuanaland. Persons not members of the defending
forces were ordered to register their firearms, and no one was allowed
to leave their houses between nine at night and six in the morning. The
canteens without permits were opened only for a few hours during the
day. Death was to be the punishment for acts contrary to civilised
warfare. Fourteen Streams and Vryburg were now evacuated, the police
detachments retiring from them on Kimberley.

In order to maintain internal order, Colonel Kekewich divided the town
into four sub-districts, and the people were cautioned against holding
communication with the Queen's enemies. The consumption of meat was
regulated, each man being allowed 1 lb. daily, while the exports of
foodstuffs and forage were prohibited. Roads were closed, and no one
without authority or a permit was allowed to pass in or out. The
defences everywhere were strengthened.

On the 21st of October, an armoured train that went out to reconno