ow that we have not suffered alone, we have, then, at least one
comfort.

"Brak River was the last nail in our coffin. If we only could have
forded that, we would not have been ousted. On the other side of
the river we would have found not only grass for our tired horses,
but would also have been able to find remounts. Hertzog's commando
was not far off, and they were strongly mounted, and could have
rendered us great assistance.

"The president, who accompanied us, remained cheerful to the last,
and, just as a common burgher, partook in all our troubles. Such a
man we may well be proud of, and, I need hardly say, that we love
and honour him all the more.

"As to the conduct of the burghers we need only remark that it was
beyond praise. One never heard them grumble or murmur either
against De Wet or any other officer. No rebellious complaints or
threats were flung at the heads of those in authority. This,
indeed, is typical of the Boer. He endures suffering and hardship
with a submissive spirit and with a dignity which is remarkable. We
do not marvel at this, for are they not formed of that stuff of
which martyrs have been made in bygone years? And does not the
blood of the French Huguenot course through the veins of many a
one, while others are animated by the dauntless spirit of that
little nation that combated the once mighty Spain for eighty years,
and so achieved that honour and distinction which has secured for
them an abiding place in the history of nations? Such men, who are
willing to suffer and sacrifice all for freedom's sake, surely
deserve to succeed at last.--Yours fondly,

"R.D. MCDONALD."

CHAPTER VI.

WOUNDED.

During the first days of August, 1901, the enemy seemed more determined
than ever to effect my capture, or sweep me out of the Cape Colony, Very
large forces concentrated on my commando, and pressed us so hard that
our only safety lay in retreating to the Orange Free State. So hot was
the pursuit that for forty-eight hours our horses were not once
off-saddled.

On the 14th we arrived on the banks of the Orange River, near to
Venterstad. We found the drift guarded by a small garrison of Hottentots
that offered slight resistance. After a short skirmish they surrendered,
and we waded safely through the stream. We were again on Free State
soil, in o