officers and men of the Imperial Forces,--I have heard the
details of last night's work from Major-General Hunter, who so
ably planned the undertaking and carried it out. He has asked
me to express to you his appreciation--and deep
appreciation--of the admirable manner in which you supported
him in it throughout. It is a great pleasure to me that I am
here, not only to acknowledge the fine work you did last night
and your valuable services, but also as I was longing for an
opportunity of acknowledging the value of your services since
this campaign commenced. I am glad to think that the very
important service rendered last night was got through with so
few casualties. It will be a great pleasure to me to report to
General Sir Redvers Buller, whom we all hope to see in a few
days, the good behaviour and great help we have had from the
Natal Volunteers, who, I may say without any inflated or
exaggerated language, are a credit, not only to their own
Colony, but to the Empire. We I daresay, have a lot of severe
fighting before us, and it is a great gratification to me to
know I have the help of such men as I see before me. I know you
had a bad night last night and are needing rest, but I thought
you would not, perhaps, mind my turning you out to tell you how
all the officers of this force appreciate your behaviour, and I
hope you will keep it up to the end. Colonel Royston, I won't
keep the parade any longer."

Hearty cheers were given for General White, Major-General Hunter, and
the Queen.

General White also addressed the Royal Engineers and Artillery, stating
that all praise was due to the officer in charge for the able manner in
which he had performed his duty, and to the men for the steadiness with
which they had assisted individually.

General White visited the I.L.H. camp, inspecting the corps on parade,
and expressed himself in similar terms to those used to the Volunteers.

Doubtless the success of the last midnight sortie roused a spirit of
emulation in the breast of the gallant besieged, for another daring
manoeuvre was secretly planned. It was decided that an effort should
now be made to destroy an inconveniently active 4.7-inch howitzer which
was posted on a height appropriately termed Surprise Hill. When the
shades of night began to fall, five companies of the Rifle Brigade, with
an Engi