t
wagons. The two hind wheels are large, the fore somewhat smaller. They
are attached to very heavy wooden cross-beams bearing the axles, and the
two beams are connected by a longitudinal bar, continuous with the
duessel boom or pole. This latter bar is in two sections, the connection
of which allows considerable play in the long axis and serves to break
the jolts occurring when either pair of wheels passes over uneven spots
on the ground. When some sacks of oats or hay were spread over the
floor the wounded men travelled comparatively comfortably in these
wagons, the great distance between the fore and hind wheels tending to
minimise the jolting. The principal objection to them was the slow pace
of the oxen, and the fact that to obtain the greatest amount of work
from these animals a major part of the journey must be performed during
the night. The ox-wagon carries, with comfort, four lying-down cases on
stretchers, or six without stretchers; or twenty sitting-up cases.

[Illustration: FIG. 8.--South African Wagon, loaded with patients, and
mule transport. (Photo by Mr. C. S. Wallace)]

The mule- or buck-wagon, which is of the same class but smaller, can
only accommodate two stretchers, four lying-down men without stretchers,
or 12-14 sitting-up cases. As a rule, the wagons were loaded with
recumbent cases in the centre, while more slightly wounded men sat
around, and were able to give help to those lying down when needed. The
wagons can be covered with canvas throughout.

The steady even pace of the oxen is a great advantage, and I was often
surprised to see how well men bore transport in these wagons, who seemed
utterly unfit to be moved had it not been an absolute necessity. A very
large number of the wounded from Paardeberg Drift were transported to
Modder River in them.

One other advantage of these wagons, the possibility of converting them
into an excellent laager, is not to be underrated. Any one who saw the
comfortable encampment which a naval contingent on the march made by
massing the wagons with intervals covered by macintosh sheets, could at
once appreciate their capabilities for a long trek.

Traction engines were, as far as I know, never employed as a means of
transporting the sick. The tendency of these heavy machines to stick in
the mud and to break down bridges is so well known that it hardly needs
mention. Putting these disadvantages on one side, with a supply of fuel
ensured, and such roads as