pathetic ring in
the little pleasantry. In reality, valiant Ladysmith was beginning to
droop with the suspense of hope deferred that maketh the heart sick. The
heat was getting terrific, and cases of fever were beginning to appear.
The Boer firing was becoming more accurate, and their commandoes seemed
to remain at their full strength, some 10,000. The besieged lost about
seventy head of cattle--a terrible mishap at this crisis--and these
could not, unfortunately, be recovered. A party went in pursuit of the
valuables, but had to return worsted! The total casualties up to this
date were eight killed and twenty-three wounded. Searchlight for
night-signalling began to be in continual use, and Sir George White,
being fully acquainted with the plan of campaign, was preparing himself
to co-operate whenever the great hour and moment should arrive. The
third big cannon, which had been christened "Franchise," now began to
open fire on the tunnels in which the British were said to be concealed,
and assisted actively in the already murderous chorus. On the 29th, much
to the joy of the community, a message from the Prince of Wales was
received, thanking officers and men for the birthday congratulations
they had succeeded in forwarding to him. Hopes of speedy relief revived.
It was known that General Clery had by this time some 23,000 men
(including Natal Volunteers) coming to the rescue, and these, together
with Sir George White's 9500 in Ladysmith, would, when the time for
junction should arrive, make a not insignificant total with which to
meet the Boers. But the troops were beginning to grow somewhat restless
and impatient for the hour when they should be let loose to settle their
little account with those outside. At this juncture Commandant
Schalk-Burger grew "slimmer" than ever. In order still further to
cramp Sir George White, the Dutch general sent to him a crowd of some
400 coolies, on the score that they were British subjects whom he could
not feed. As it was impossible to receive any addition to the numerous
mouths already inside the place, Sir George suggested their being sent
on to Estcourt; so the little ruse was defeated.

[Illustration: FIX BAYONETS! REPELLING AN ATTACK FROM THE TRENCHES
AROUND LADYSMITH.

Drawing by R. Caton Woodville.]

ESTCOURT AND FRERE

Tugela Drift was next attacked by the enemy. Some 300 Boers advancing
from Helpmakaar were met by Umvoti Mounted Rifles under