n issued:--

"The relief of Ladysmith unites two forces which have striven with
conspicuous gallantry and splendid determination to maintain the
honour of their Queen and country. The garrison of Ladysmith for four
months held the position against every attack with complete success
and endured its privations with admirable fortitude. The relieving
force had to make its way through unknown country, across unfordable
rivers, and over almost inaccessible heights in the face of a
fully-prepared, well-armed tenacious enemy. By the exhibition of the
truest courage, which burns steadily besides flashing brilliantly, it
accomplished its object, and added a glorious page to our history.
Sailors, soldiers, Colonials, and the home-bred have done this, united
by one desire, and inspired by one patriotism.

"The General Commanding congratulates both forces on their martial
qualities, and thanks them for their determined efforts. He desires to
offer his sincere sympathy to the relatives and friends of the good
soldiers and gallant comrades who have fallen in the fight.

"BULLER."

* * * * *

_From Captain Jones, R.N., Naval Brigade._

Ladysmith,
_March 10th, 1900._

[_Extract._]

I enclose reports sent in to me by Lieutenants Ogilvy and Burne, who
were mostly detached from me.

* * * * *

_Enclosure from Lieutenant Burne, R.N._

Colenso,
_March 7th, 1900._

Since my last letter dated from Springfield Bridge, I have the honour
to report that I left Springfield on February 23rd, marching with the
York and Lancaster Regiment to rejoin the main column. We reached
Chieveley Camp on the 24th, and I pitched camp on Gun Hill, where I
found Lieutenant Drummond and the 6" gun. We remained here till a
telegram and written orders were handed me on the night of the 26th,
from Lieutenant Drummond, to march at daybreak with the York and
Lancaster Regiment to join the 10th Brigade. We marched at 6 a.m. on
the 27th, with the Regiment, by Hussar Hill round Hlangwane. Here we
found the Commander-in-Chief, who told me, on my reporting the guns,
that the 10th Brigade were in Colenso; he added that it was no fault
of mine that we had come out of the way, as the orders had not been
cle