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still further, that is, beyond the Keisi and Chumi rivers, by which 3000
more square miles were added to the colonial territory. This was
exacted, in order that there might be a neutral ground to separate the
Caffres and the Dutch boors, and put an end to further robberies on
either side. The strangest part of the story is, that this territory
was not taken away from the Caffre chiefs, against whom we had made war,
but from Gaika, our ally, to support whom we had entered into the war."

"Well, it was even-handed--not justice, but injustice, at all events."

"Exactly so; and so thought Gaika, for when speaking of the protection
he received from the colonial government, he said, `But when I look upon
the large extent of fine country which has been taken from me, I am
compelled to say, that, although protected, I am _rather oppressed_ by
my _protectors_.'"

"Unjust as was the mode of obtaining the neutral ground, I must say that
it appears to me to have been a good policy to put one between the
parties."

"I grant it; but what was the conduct of the colonial government? This
neutral ground was afterwards given away in large tracts to the Dutch
boors, so as again to bring them into contact with the Caffres."

"Is it possible?"

"Yes; to men who had always been opposed to the English government, who
had twice risen in rebellion against them, and who had tried to bring in
the Caffres to destroy the colony. Neither are the commandoes, or
excursions against the Caffres, put an end to: Makomo, the son of Gaika,
our late ally, has, I hear, been the party now attacked. I trust,
however, that we may soon have affairs going on in a more favourable and
reputable manner; indeed, I am sure that, now the government at home
have been put in possession of the facts, such will be the case.

"I have now given you a very brief insight into the history of the Cape
up to the present time. There are many points which I have passed over,
not wishing to diverge from a straightforward narrative; but upon any
questions you may wish to ask, I shall be most happy to give you all the
information in my power. I cannot, however, dismiss the subject without
making one remark, which is, that it is principally, if not wholly, to
the missionaries, to their exertions and to their representations, that
what good has been done is to be attributed. They are entitled to the
greatest credit and the warmest praise; and great as has been the
misr