Chapter II: Mafeking (2)

"Burghers,--I address you in this manner because I have only
recently learned how you have been intentionally kept in the
dark by your officers, the Government, and the newspapers as to
what is happening in other parts of South Africa. As the
officer commanding Her Majesty's troops on this border, I think
it right to point out clearly the inevitable result of your
remaining longer under arms against Great Britain. You are
aware that the present war was caused by the invasion of
British territory by your forces without justifiable reasons.
Your leaders do not tell you that so far your forces have only
met the advanced guard of the British forces. The circumstances
have changed within the last week. The main body of the British
are now daily arriving by thousands from England, Canada,
India, and Australia, and are about to advance through the
country. In a short time the Republic will be in the hands of
the English, and no sacrifice of life on your part can stop it.
The question now that you have to put to yourselves before it
is too late is:--Is it worth while losing your lives in a vain
attempt to stop the invasion or take a town beyond your
borders, which, if taken, will be of no use to you?

"I may tell you that Mafeking cannot be taken by sitting down
and looking at it, for we have ample supplies for several
months. The Staats artillery has done very little damage, and
we are now protected both by troops and mines. Your presence
here and elsewhere under arms cannot stop the British advancing
through your country. Your leaders and newspapers are also
trying to make you believe that some foreign combination or
Power is likely to intervene in your behalf against England. It
is not in keeping with their pretence that your side is going
to be victorious, nor in accordance with facts. The Republics
having declared war and taken the offensive, cannot claim
intervention on their behalf. The German Emperor is at present
in England, and fully sympathises with us. The American
Government has warned others of its intention to side with
England should any Power intervene. France has large interests
in the goldfields, identical with those of England. Italy is
entirely in accord with us. Russia has no cause to interfere.
The war is of one Government against another, and not of a
people against another people. The duty assigned to my troops
is to sit still here until the proper time arrives, and then to
fight and kill until you give in. You, on the other hand, have
other interests to think of, your families, farms, and their
safety. Your leaders have caused the destruction of farms, and
have fired on women and children. Our men are becoming hard to
restrain in consequence. They have also caused the invasion of
Kaffir territory, looting their cattle, and have thus induced
them to rise and invade your country and kill your Burghers. As
one white man to another, I warned General Cronje on November
14 that this would occur. Yesterday I heard that more Kaffirs
were rising. I have warned General Snyman accordingly. Great
bloodshed and destruction of farms threaten you on all sides.

"I wish to offer you a chance of avoiding it. My advice to you
is to return to your homes without delay and remain peaceful
till the war is over. Those who do this before the 13th will,
as far as possible, be protected, as regards yourselves, your
families, and property, from confiscation, looting, and other
penalties, to which those remaining under arms will be
subjected when the invasion takes place. Secret agents will
communicate to me the names of those who do. Those who do not
avail themselves of the terms now offered may be sure that
their property will be confiscated when the troops arrive. Each
man must be prepared to hand over a rifle and 150 rounds of
ammunition. The above terms do not apply to officers and
members of the Staats artillery, who may surrender as prisoners
of war at any time, nor to rebels on British territory.

"It is probable that my force will shortly take the offensive.
To those who after this warning defer their submission till too
late, I can offer no promise. They will have only themselves to
blame for injury to and loss of property they and their
families may afterwards suffer."--(Signed) R. S. S.
BADEN-POWELL, Colonel, Mafeking, December 10."

If this warning did nothing else, it certainly had the effect of touching General Snyman in a soft spot, for he at once wrote to his Burghers in fiery language, expressing his disapproval that such a communication should have been addressed direct to them. The idea that "sitting and looking at a place is not the way to take it" seems to have gone home to him, for he promptly challenged the besieged to come out and drive him away!

On the same day as his address to the Burghers the Colonel wrote home to a relative in England, and sent the missive folded in a quill, which was in its turn rammed into the pipe of a Kaffir:--

"MAFEKING, _Dec._ 12, 1899.

"All going well with me. To-day I have been trying to find any old Carthusians in the place to have a Carthusian dinner together, as it is Founder's Day; but so far, for a wonder, I believe I am the only one among the odd thousand people here.

"This is our sixtieth day of the siege, and I do believe we're beginning to get a little tired of it; but I suppose, like other things, it will come to an end some day. I have got such an interesting collection of mementoes of it to bring home. I wonder if Baden[1] is in the country? What fun if he should come up to relieve me!

"I don't know if this letter will get through the Boer outposts, but if it does, I hope it will find you very well and flourishing."

KIMBERLEY

At Kimberley on November 4 things were still cheerful, though short commons had begun to be enforced. The Transvaalers advanced on Kenilworth, and Major Peakman with a squadron of the Kimberley Light Horse, emerging suddenly from the bush, gave them a warm reception. Colonel Scott-Turner reinforced Major Peakman, and two guns were sent to support him against the enemy's guns, which at that juncture ceased firing. The enemy's fire with one piece of artillery was on the whole poor, and fortunately little serious damage was done. Later in the afternoon came another encounter with the enemy, an encounter which was kept up till dusk, and in which the enemy sustained considerable loss. Unfortunately Major Ayliff of the Cape Police, a brave and efficient officer, was wounded in the neck. The Boers occupied the Kampersdam mine, some five miles distant, and shelled the Otto Kopje mine, while the manager, Mr. Chapman, like a Spartan, watched the destruction of his property and kept Colonel Kekewich informed as to the damage done. This was luckily small. On November 6 General Cronje sent a message to Colonel Kekewich calling on him to surrender, otherwise the town would be bombarded, and on the following day a force of Free State artillery, supported by a large commando, began further offensive operations. Captain Brown, who rode out a short distance to Alexandersfontein, was captured, and stripped by the Boers because he would reveal nothing regarding the state of the town.

Photo by Gregory & Co., London.]

According to rough calculation, the opposing forces at Kimberley early in November stood thus:--

Four companies of the Loyal North Lancashire Regiment;
battery of Royal Garrison Artillery, consisting of six
7-pounder mountain guns; a large party of Royal
Engineers; detachment of the Army Medical Corps 2500

In addition to these were the following irregular troops:--

One battery Diamond Fields Artillery with six 7-pounder
field guns, 3 officers and 90 non-commissioned officers
and men; Diamond Fields Horse, 6 officers and 142 non-
commissioned officers and men; Kimberley Regiment, 14
officers and 285 non-commissioned officers and men 540

Free Staters, and probably some Transvaal Boers, with four
field-guns, 3500; on Orange River, 2000; reinforcements
from Mafeking, 1000 6500

The disparity was not enlivening, but, though provisions were beginning to run low, pluck was inexhaustible. And with pluck, as with faith, one may move mountains.

On the 11th of November the bombardment of the town was commenced with great vigour, the Boers firing from three positions. Little serious damage was done, owing to the fact that many of the shells did not burst. In spite of the incessant brawling of artillery, the perpetual appearance of fog, and a stinging pall of smoke in which they lived, the inhabitants of the place kept up an air of cheery unconcern, which naturally they were far from feeling. They also determined to disquiet the enemy by continual threats of attack from unexpected quarters. With the spirit of philosophers they at times made small divertisements for themselves. Once when a cooking-pot was struck the debris were put up to auction, and some fun was got out of the brisk competition for the historic relics. Some of the choicest of these were knocked down--this time not by guns--for the sum of L2 a piece. The price of a complete shell was about L5, and portions of one could be purchased at proportionate rates. Bits and fragments fetched sums varying from half a crown to half a sovereign!

Nothing further happened, save that a cabdriver was captured, interrogated, threatened, and finally set free. Commandant Wessels, who sounded him regarding the dynamite mines round Kimberley, concluded with the message--a typical specimen of Boer braggadocio--"Tell Rhodes I shall take Wesselton mine next Tuesday, and then he must stand whiskies!"

On the 12th Lord Methuen, on whom all had pinned their faith, arrived with his staff at the Orange River. This was a red-letter day. The news of British relief so close at hand was most inspiriting, and those whose patience was inclined to languish began to take heart. In Kimberley itself the weather was fine and warm, and as yet little ill consequence from the shelling was suffered. A peacock was killed, some buildings damaged, some nervous persons terrified. The military authorities issued a proclamation ordering that all people not engaged with the defensive forces should give up arms and ammunition, a decision that was found necessary to prevent irresponsible persons from infringing the laws of civilised warfare.

On the 17th of November a force composed of detachments of the Diamond Fields Horse, Kimberley Light Horse, and Cape Police, under Colonel Scott Turner, went out with a field-gun and two Maxims to ascertain the strength of the enemy's position at Lazaretto Ridge. The enemy, who were posted on a rocky mound between Carter's Farm and the reservoir, opened fire on the advancing men, who, though some vigorous volleys were returned, were obliged to retire. Meanwhile the Beaconsfield Town Guard had a tussle with the foe, and, after much firing on either side, he eventually retired. As usual, he hid behind rocks and stones, and made himself generally inaccessible. On the following day some smart engagements ensued, and so brisk was the volleying from rifles and the booming of field-guns, that the townspeople believed that some decisive battle must be taking place. There were, however, few casualties.

All eyes were now fixed on the doings of the Kimberley relief force that was concentrating at Orange River. A few more weeks, nay, a few more days, and those patient, cheery prisoners would march out free to have their reckoning with the Boers. Lord Methuen, once joined by the Coldstream Guards, Grenadiers, and Naval Brigade, would be able to push on, and then the first big move in the war would be made. So they hoped, and with reason, for an electric searchlight, worked by the Naval Brigade under Colonel Ernest Rhodes, was signalling to Kimberley, whose searchlights were plainly visible to the advancing army.

To the dreary imprisoned inhabitants this mode of communication was vastly exciting. Every day the relief column was approaching nearer and nearer, and the patient though longing besieged began to feel as if they were already almost liberated. They commenced preparing an enthusiastic welcome for the incoming troops, and ironical farewell salutations were now levied at the Boers in acknowledgment of shells and of their general artillery prowess. At that time, coming events--the disasters of Majesfontein and Colenso--had not cast their shadows before! Mr. Rhodes was particularly cheery, and took most whimsically to the information conveyed through Kaffir sources that the enemy was keenly desirous of exhibiting him in a cage at Bloemfontein prior to despatching him to Pretoria! The brutal manners and customs of the Boers, however, were no subject for joke, as shown by their treatment of four "boys" who were found and captured while searching for stray cattle. After killing a couple of them, the enemy ordered the remaining two, having first flogged them, to bury the bodies of their comrades, and then go back to Kimberley and tell their friends how they had been treated.

Photo, Hancox, Kimberley]

Boer tricks continued to be practised with little success. They served instead to sharpen the wits of the beleaguered Kimburlians--if one may be allowed to coin a word which seems to suit them. A few rifle-shots were fired in the direction of Wright's Farm for the purpose of pretending that the long-looked-for relieving force was approaching, and thus draw out the Diamond Fields Horse; but the manoeuvre was a failure. The Boers consoled themselves by blowing up two large culverts near the rifle-butts on the line towards Spyfontein, where the bulk of the Boer forces were then supposed to be. An official estimate at that date (Nov. 25) placed the number of shells fired by the Boers during the bombardment at 1000, while the number of shells fired by the British was 600. Owing to the fact that the hostile shells had so often fallen in sandy ground, their effect had been neutralised. Experiments were made with "home-made" shells, or rather De Beers-made shells, which exploded to the general satisfaction of their manufacturers. Some of these were said to be labelled "With J. C. Rhodes's compliments," but this was doubtless a cheery quip for the entertainment of the lugubrious, as Colonel Kekewich and the "Colossus" were too good men of business to waste their ammunition on pleasantries. These two marvellous people were now working hand in hand, the great business brain of the one lending support to the military skill of the other. Mr. Rhodes placed at the disposal of the Colonel--one should say of his country--the whole resources of De Beers, and worked without cessation for the welfare of the people, spending without stint, intellect, energy, and funds on their behalf. When the mines ceased to work, he still paid full wages to the 2000 white men employed on them, and laid out large vegetable gardens in the midst of Kenilworth for the purpose of supplying the inhabitants with green foods. He organised a mounted force of 600 men, supplying them himself with horses; and later on he instituted a service of native runners and scouts, which served to keep the garrison alert as to the whereabouts of the enemy. Indeed, space does not allow of a faithful recital of the doings of this public benefactor, who, without display, made his influence felt in every quarter of the town.

Kimberley, as said, was now in communication by searchlight with Colonel Rhodes, and was racking its brains how an attempt might be made from the east side to march out and assist the troops coming from Belmont. "So near and yet so far" was the general feeling in regard to these troops, and a burning desire for the handclasp of the gallant rescuers filled all the brave yet anxious hearts that for so long had been cut off from the outer world.

On the 25th of November there was unusual activity. The mounted troops at dawn made a strong reconnaissance in force under Lieut.-Colonel Scott Turner. The guns were under the charge of Colonel Chamier of the Royal Artillery. Hostilities commenced with a hot fire from the Diamond Fields Artillery's guns under Captain May, in the direction of Carter's Farm, Colonel Scott Turner with his troops marching towards Lazaretto Ridge, where the enemy was strongly entrenched. This took place at about 4.30 A.M. in the dusk of the early dawn. By good chance the pickets were found to be asleep, and Colonel Scott Turner and his forces crept along the ridge and with marvellous energy rushed the Boer redoubts. On the instant rifles bristled--shots blazed out. But all was to no purpose; the Boers had to surrender. They did this in their usual treacherous fashion, hoisting the white flag while they took stray pot-shots at their conquerors. This charge was one worthy of record, for few of the men who engaged in it had ever used a bayonet in their lives. So little did they know of the weapon, that they were unable to fix it in the socket, and consequently rushed upon the enemy, rifle in one hand and naked blade in the other!

As ill-luck would have it, there was a lack of ammunition, and the British attack could not be pressed home. Meanwhile the Royal Engineers on Otto Kopje were protecting the flanks, and a strong body of infantry with a mounted force, field-guns and Maxims, were checking the advance of the enemy from Spyfontein. An armoured train, also, under Lieutenant Webster (North Lancashire Regiment), was reconnoitring north and south. The train (which was supported by three half companies of the Beaconsfield Town Guard under Major Fraser) proceeded south of Kimberley, and held the enemy's reinforcements in check as they advanced from Wimbledon. Subsequently, owing to the brisk firing of the Boer guns, it was decided to return to Kimberley, where Colonel Scott Turner, in consequence of his inability to hold the position he had stormed, was forced also to retire. But during the hot cannonade in which our artillery was engaged with that of the enemy in all directions save Kenilworth, this gallant officer was wounded. First his horse was shot under him, then a bullet pierced the muscle of his shoulder. But he continued to perform his duties regardless of the inconvenience caused by his wound. The Boers, as usual, paid no respect to the ambulance waggon, despite the obvious Red Cross flag which fluttered over it. They fired at it when they chose, and, as some reported, used explosive bullets. Eight prisoners were captured, in addition to two wounded Boers.

The day's work on the whole was satisfactory, as it ably demonstrated that there was life in the garrison yet. And this glorious activity was subsequently recognised in the following order:--

"The officer commanding desires to thank all ranks who took
part in to-day's engagement for their excellent behaviour. The
garrison of Kimberley have this day shown that they can not
only defend their positions, but can sally out and drive the
enemy from their entrenched positions. He deplores the loss of
the brave comrades who have so honourably fallen in the
performance of their duty."

A second sortie of the same kind was attempted on the 28th of November, but with more disastrous results. The troops took the same direction as before--attacked the Boers, beat them back, and captured their laager and three works. But, on attempting to take the fourth work, the enemy fought desperately, and Lieut.-Colonel Scott Turner was killed. When Colonel Scott Turner fell, Lieutenant Clifford, North Lancashire Regiment, who had more than once distinguished himself, assumed command of the Imperial Mounted Infantry, and, though wounded in the scalp, pluckily remained on duty till all was over.[2]

There was terrible grief in the garrison at the loss of this splendid officer, the principal organiser of the Town Guards and the successful leader of so many skirmishes and sorties throughout the siege. The following special order was issued:--

"The officer commanding has again to congratulate the troops of
the garrison who engaged the enemy yesterday on their excellent
behaviour and on the capture of the enemy's laager, with his
supplies, ammunition, &c. It was in every respect a most
creditable performance. He has also again to deplore the loss
of many brave men who have fallen at the call of duty. It was
with profound sorrow he learnt that Lieut.-Colonel Scott Turner
was killed while gallantly leading his men against the last
stronghold of the enemy's defences. In Lieut.-Colonel Scott
Turner the garrison of Kimberley loses a brave and most
distinguished comrade, and the officer commanding feels sure
the whole population of Kimberley will join with them in
mourning the loss of this true British officer, to whose skill
and activity in the field is so largely due the complete
success of our efforts to keep the enemy at a safe distance
from this town."

Major M. C. Peakman, an excellent and most dauntless officer, succeeded to the command of the Kimberley Light Horse in consequence of Colonel Scott Turner's death.

Lieutenant Wright of the Kimberley Light Horse was killed, and among the wounded were Lieutenant W. K. Clifford (1st Battalion Loyal North Lancashire Regiment), Captain Walleck (Diamond Fields Horse), and Lieutenant Watson (Kimberley Light Horse).

On the afternoon of the 29th of November, amid feelings of universal regret, the remains of Colonel Scott Turner and others who fell in Tuesday's sortie were interred. The ceremony, so common in those days, was yet full of deep pathos. Round the graves stood Mr. Cecil Rhodes, Dr. Smart, the Mayor of Kimberley, Mr. and the Hon. Mrs. Rochfort Maguire, and indeed the whole mournful community of the place. Six volleys were fired over the graves, six blasts blown on the bugle, and then a last prayer being said, they left them "alone in their glory."

FOOTNOTES:

[1] Captain Baden-Powell, of the Scots Guards.

[2] Henry Scott Turner entered the Black Watch at the age of twenty in 1887. After taking part in the operations in Matabeleland in 1893-94, he was, in the latter year, placed on the "Special Extra Regimental Employment List," and in 1896 served with the Matabeleland Relief Force as adjutant and paymaster. For this service he was mentioned in despatches and received a brevet majority. After serving with the British South African Police, Major Scott Turner was, last July, reappointed as a "Special Service Officer," and in that capacity had done excellent service in Kimberley under Colonel Kekewich.