ROUGH OUTLINES OF THE LIFE OF A

BRITISH SETTLER OF 1820

 

 

“There is a tide in the affairs of men,

Which, taken at flood, leads on to fortune.”

 

I

 

There is a deal of truth in the above oft-repeated quotation from Shakespeare. Such tides I have experienced more than once in my life, and by some unaccountable fatality, have allowed them, when just at the flood, to ebb from me; so that I am left, at this day, in a less favorable position than when I started, with a fine flowing stream, forty-six years ago. At that time I was entering upon all the vigour and energy of healthy and sanguine manhood. Full of hope for the future; prompt at all times to do a good turn to others; ready for any enterprise that might be presented, and in the sequel it will be seen that I have had my share of adventure. Now ‘Father Time’ is fast taking hold of me, reminding me that decline and age are rapidly advancing; but I am thankful for the health and vigour I still retain, and have faith that the protecting arm of Omnipotence will shield me to the last.

 

                                                                                            

In the outline I intend to trace it will be found that my colonial life has been a very chequered one, and that about twenty-seven years of it has been engaged in public service, in which I did not make very much progress, and then I suddenly disappeared from it altogether, causing an impression, on some minds, not altogether favorable on my reputation. But, however much it may appear that I have wanted decision of character, and however much it shall be seen that I have neglected to take advantage of several propitious positions I have been placed in; yet, it is with much satisfaction I can prove, that in the various portions of South Africa it has been my lot to be placed, I have been respected by the inhabitants, and have had their good wishes. It was even so with me in my boyish days, and during my course of education in England. At Chatham House Academy I obtained a silver medal, still in my possession, having my name engraved on one side of it, and on the opposite, the ‘Reward of Merit.’

 

I was born on the 1st of November 1803, at Ramsgate, in the Isle of Thanet, Kent, England. My father’s father was an enterprising and an eminently successful man there. His projects and means added much to the improvement and advancement of the place. His sister was married to Capt. Strivens, harbour-master of Ramsgate. My grandfather’s family consisted of four sons and a daughter. My father was the eldest child, and my mother was the daughter of a farmer in Kent, named Lily. After my grandfather had given his sons a fair start in life ---- two engaged in business, one sailing-master in the navy, and another in Commissariat Department --- and saw his daughter settled in marriage to a sea Captain, he retired with a good competency to a pretty villa in St Thomas’s Hill, in the vicinity of Canterbury. He also rented a portion of the estate of the late Lord Rokeby, in Kent.

 

Years passed on; and in the interval many splendid achievements were attained by British troops on the Peninsula, and then followed the Battle of Waterloo, which we now know resulted in the success of the Allied Powers and the downfall of Bonaparte. Soon after a general peace was proclaimed, followed by many reductions in the war department. This caused a considerable stagnation in several branches of business, and at Ramsgate, being a seaport town, it was much felt, even by my own kindred.

 

In 1819 Government proposed a scheme for emigration to the Cape of Good Hope. It was eagerly embraced by the public, and so numerous were the applications --- far beyond what was anticipated --- that numbers were disappointed. Those who did succeed had to obtain the recommendation of influential individuals for a favourable result; and in our case, we procured the interest of the Hon. Mr. Lushington, a member of parliament for Kent, and Sir William Curtis. The result of the emigration movement was, twenty-six vessels successfully sailed for the Cape, having emigrants on board, including women and children, to the number of about four thousand. The Isle of Thanet party, of which I was one, consisted of seventy-two, old and young. Mr. George Dyason was the acknowledged head of it, but there were five others ----- namely, Messrs. Isaac, Joseph, and Robert Dyason, Hougham Hudson, and Samuel Bennett --- who had, by agreement, equal power. In December 1819, (and some of the party, with other emigrants, in the early part of January, 1820,) we embarked on board the fine tight little ship Zoroaster, about 400 tons, Capt. Thompson, lying in the Thames. The parties on board besides our own were Messrs Thornhill’s, Weight’s, and Barker’s, altogether numbering between three and four hundred, exclusive of the ship’s crew. It was a very severe winter, and the vessels in the river were frozen fast for weeks, but as soon as a thaw had set in, several of them, including the Zoroaster, our ship, and the La Belle Alliance, the ship appointed to sail in our company, dropped down to Blackwall, and after a short detention, all arrangements for the voyage were completed. We next made the Downs, where we cast anchor, and were detained a day or two by contrary winds. At last the breeze was propitious; we got ship under weigh; sailed down Channel in fine style; experienced it a little rough in the Bay of Biscay; called at Palmer, one of the Canary Islands; and after a pleasant passage of about four months, anchored in Simon’s Bay on the 30th April 1820. Our ship was a fine vessel, --- high between decks, --- good accommodation, --- a pleasant gentlemanly captain, with civil subordinate officers and crew; so that most of us were very comfortable on board, and I was a favourite with the captain. But there was an inconvenience connected with this ship, and that was, as she belonged to the East Africa free trade service, she was charted to take us no further than Simon’s Bay. The emigrant ships Brilliant and Albury were then at anchor in the bay, and arrangements were made to transfer us, with our stores, to them. Our party was appointed to the Brilliant, a ship nothing equal to the Zoroaster for accommodation. I remember I was impressed at the time with the feeling that it must have been a source of great inconvenience and annoyance to all on board the ships to which we had been transferred, to have an addition of some four hundred persons crowded upon them; but happily they took it with a tolerably good will. On getting on board the Brilliant, I was informed that my berth was to be with Messrs Pringle’s , or Scotch party, and by whom I was received with kindness. Dr Caldercott and family were also on board this vessel. Our ship and the Albury being ready for sea, we ser sail in company, in May, and in about thirteen days arrived in Algoa Bay, and were safely landed at Port Elizabeth. We found, besides the fort, only a few huts there. Captain Evatt was the commandant of the fort. From thence we were, with our baggage and stores, conveyed in ox-wagons to the spot allotted as our location, and where we arrived early in June 1820. We pitched our tents, and had to live under canvas for months. In the meantime we were busy, when not engaged in farming avocations, erecting dwellings of a more substantial nature. The bushy country in our vicinity was full of wild animals, especially wolves, which made sad havoc at times amongst our sheep. Tigers and elephants would occasionally pay us a visit. We were located in a valley, having a stream running through it called Braak-river, the Kowie bush forming one of its borders. It is situated about four miles from Bathurst, and twenty from Grahamstown, and to which we gave the name of Lushington Valley. I remained there for about three years, and had a hand in all the branches, fatigues and privations, of a Settler’s life in the wilderness. I witnessed the successive failure of the crops by rust; the heavy and destructive flood; the occasional plunder of our stock by Kafirs, and, to crown all, a settler or two had already been murdered by them. This decided the Government to raise a levy from amongst the settlers, of five hundred infantry and one hundred cavalry, as a protective force. The whole levy was commanded by Harry Rivers, Esq., Landdrost of Albany, who was termed Colonel; and the different divisions by half-pay officers, who came from old England with the body of British Settlers, as well as pensioned non commissioned officers. The latter performed the duty of drill-sergeant, and Mr. George Dyason was the adjutant. I had the honour of being a private in the Bathurst troop of horse. The commanding officer of our troop was Lieut. Charles Crause, formally of the Marines, on half-pay. He was a fine, good-natured, merry fellow. Divisions of the Levy use to assemble monthly in various parts of Lower Albany, for drill, presenting a most ludicrous appearance in dress and accoutrements. The place of muster for my troop was at Mount Donkin, not far from the locations of Messrs Cawood and Bowker, both of whom had some fine promising sons. This levy was, however, by no means in favour with the people; and with several of the heads of families it was detested, as they could not conceive why their sons should be required  (as was done) to take the Oath of Allegiance, the same as in the regular army, and thus in a manner become a soldier. The musters did not long continue well attended, and the force therefore did not arrive to anything like perfection, nor long exist.

 

 

 

II

 

In the early days of the settlement it was considered that Bathurst would be the capital of the district of Albany. Grahamstown was, however, ultimately fixed upon. At the time Bathurst had only just sprung into existence, and Grahamstown could only boast of some half-a-dozen houses, with a few military huts. This year, 1866, gives evidence of the progress of the settlers.

 

On arrival of the British settlers at the Cape, Sir Rufane Shaw Donkin was the Acting Governor, during the absence of Lord Charles Somerset to England. He did all in his power to have the settlers located satisfactorily. Lord Charles returned in December 1821, and resumed his government. The Dutch law was then in force, and all the appointments of government were conducted therewith. This state of things was very distasteful to the settlers, who had been brought up under the laws and glorious free institutions of their native land; and although, as a body, truly loyal, yet no great time had elapsed, before it was determined that a move should be made, in a constitutional way, for a remedy. Meetings were convened, and petitions were drawn up which were numerously singed, and forwarded to the Imperial Government, representing their wants and grievances. This resulted in the arrival of His Majesty’s Commissioners of Inquiry in 1824, who, after due investigation, recommended in their able report, that the Civil and Judicial Establishments of the Colony be remodelled and framed somewhat in accordance with the British Constitution. The report was mainly adopted, and hence we now have Judges, Civil Commissioners, Magistrates etc.

 

The first few years of the settler’s life, were those of continued trial, disappointment, and failure; but with that intrepid spirit, so famous in the Anglo-Saxon race, nothing could daunt them in their exertion and faith in ultimate success, and if unsuccessful in one sphere, a trial would be made in another. Many of the settlers determined to follow up their agricultural and grazing pursuits at all hazards, and others, such as business men, mechanics and clerks resorted to towns and villages in the Colony to seek for employment, but Grahamstown was the chief point of attraction, it being the headquarters of the few troops then stationed on the frontier.

 

The mechanics soon obtained employment of started on their own account, and several of the other classes accepted situations of the most humble description, either under government or with private individuals, and a few became Kafir traders.

 

I find I am entering too much upon generalities, and have lost sight of my own adventure. Were I to describe all the incidences, with which I am aquatinted, connected with the settlers, it would fill three or four volumes. This is foreign to my purpose, and, beside, has been done by others, and amongst whom there is not one stands more prominent than Mr. Robert Godlonton, who so long and so ably edited the Grahamstown Journal. This gentleman was always on the alert for the defence of the settlers, whenever their acts or character were wrongly assailed. Mr. J C Chase was another able defender of the settlers.

 

Prior to the arrival of the Commissioners of Inquiry, the mails were conveyed to and from Capetown to the Post Offices in the interior, once a week, by land-holders, residing at convenient distances, on the post route, and were by government terms Post-holders. They were required to have trustworthy riders to take charge of the mail-bags, which were then conveyed on horse-back, and sufficient horses for the due performance of the duty, and they were moreover directed to perform it, whether agreeable to themselves or not. The amount of remuneration was fixed by the government, but such a low figure, but it barely defrayed the outlay required, and in the seasons of the horse-distemper, when so many died, it was found to be a losing game, and by a deficiency of horses, the post was frequently conveyed very irregularly.

 

In 1820, and for some time thereafter, the post was conveyed from Grahamstown to Bathurst by the military, but on the opening of the Kowie, a Post-office being established there, I was appointed Post-holder from thence to Bathurst and to Grahamstown; and, mark, this was my first appointment under government. Most of the Post-holders employed native servants, or slaves, to convey the post, but, as I was without anything of the kind, I had to perform the duty myself for upwards of a year, and, although it a little touched my pride, yet, it was not very repulsive to my feelings. I was fond of change, light of weight, young and active, and upon the whole, (although I say it myself) made a smart post-boy. Besides riding the post, I had to convey all extra posts and expresses on the route, and sometimes expresses to different parts of lower Albany. I have been on the road day and night for weeks, in darkness, storm, and rain, and many are the narrow escapes I have had by my horse falling with me, and ‘by flood and field’, as well as when the day has been drawing to a close, by avoiding marauding Kafirs, making for the road I had to pass. I believe that the post was conveyed by me satisfactorily, but I should want in candour if I omitted to record one sad mishap that I had. The post-bag was out of repair, and I had started from Port Francis in the evening, with the mail secured in a strong cotton handkerchief, which I slung over my shoulder. The horse I rode was young and fiery, and not well broken in. I reached Bathurst alright, received the post there, and placed it in the aforesaid handkerchief, and took my departure for Grahamstown. It was a starlight night. I had passed Lushington Valley; reached the ‘Blue Flag,’ Wilson’s party, which I did not hail; crossed Dyason’s Flat; got through Blauw Krantz; and was riding at a smart pace on the heights beyond, approaching the Zigzag, when my horse suddenly started at full gallop, to the left of the road, down to a Kloof, and I came in contact with some thorn trees, which tore me from my saddle, and brought me to the ground with great force. I was not only considerably hurt and bruised, but was stunned for a time. On recovering myself in some measure, I found I had fortunately kept the bridle-rein in my hand, and my horse was standing by me. I again mounted, got into the road, and had ridden some distance, when I placed my hand behind my back, to feel if my packets were alright, but, to my consternation, found they were gone, having burst through the handkerchief with the force of my fall. I retraced my steps, and searched diligently for a long time for them, but without success. Early morn was drawing near and as I must be in town by a certain time, before the mail was despatched from thence to Cape Town, I had no other alternative but to proceed, and report my mishap to the Postmaster of Grahamstown. It is satisfactory for me to be able to state that the packets were soon afterwards recovered, all safe. Had I faith in the doctrine of fatalism, I should say that there was an evil fatality attached to the horse that caused my accident. The same horse, some time afterwards became the property of Thomas Lawson, Esq., Magistrate for Albany. He was one day riding it at Fort England when he was thrown from its back, and sustained so much injury from the fall, that the unfortunate gentleman died a few hours afterwards.

 

It was part of the years 1823 to 1824 that I personally conveyed the post. Afterwards it was conveyed by others under my supervision. My residence was in Lushington Valley, but when in Grahamstown waiting for the arrival of the Capetown post, I was put up at the Postmaster’s and when at Port Frances, at the Postmaster’s, Lieut. Cowderoy, formally of the 21st Light Dragoons. This gentleman was somewhat eccentric, but I experienced from him the greatest kindness and hospitality. Lieut. Bisset, R.N. was the postmaster at Bathurst. I held the appointment of Post-holder to the end of 1826, when, upon the new order of things coming into force, consequent upon the report of the Commissioners of Inquiry, I received a circular from the Postmaster-General, of which the following is a copy:-

 

{CIRCULAR}                                                 Post Office, Cape Town,

                                                                                                15th December, 1826.

Mr. I Dyason, Post-holder, Grahamstown.

            Sir,  I have to acquaint you that you are to convey the Mails to and from the Interior at your present allowance of pay, and three months notice will be given to you at any intended change in its transmission.

                                                I am, Sir,

                                                  Your obedient servant,

                                                     (signed) R Crozier,

                                                            Postmaster-General.

I had previously become aware that it was in contemplation to call for tenders and to enter into contract for the transmission of mail throughout the colony; therefore the above quoted letter only indicated what was about to take place, which did immediately result notwithstanding that it stipulated that three months notice would be given of any intended change, as tenders were directly called for, and I sent one for the Kowie route for the year 1827, which was accepted, and so were my tenders for the same route till 31st December, at the expiry of which another party sent a lower tender for 1832, which was accepted, and the duty fell into other hands.

 

Having described my career as a Post-holder and Post- contractor, I find it necessary to advert to the year 1824, at which period I entered upon a new epoch in my life, by taking up my residence in Grahamstown. My uncle, Mr. George Dyason was Postmaster and Field-cornet there then, and the duties of Field-cornet required him frequently from town, it was arranged that I should assist him in the Post-office. Grahamstown was rapidly increasing in inhabitants, and buildings were being erected in all quarters of it. Harry Rivers, Esq., the Landdrost, who afterwards became Treasurer-General, was relived by Major Dundas, R.A. – D.J.Cloete, Esq., was the secretary; Mr. Wills was the Vendue-Master. There were besides several subordinate appointments. I continued as an assistant in the Post-office till 6th March, 1828, when urgent private affairs required my uncle’s presence in England; he obtained leave of absence, and I was appointed Acting Postmaster, and so continued till 2nd July, 1830. I have testimonials to prove that I performed the duty to the satisfaction of the Postmaster-General, and it would seem that the public were satisfied with me from the circumstance of my having had some time after the Postmaster resumed his duty, a handsome and valuable snuff-box presented to me, with the following words engraved on the lid:-

            Presented to Mr. Isaac Dyason, by a few of the inhabitants of Grahamstown, as a mark of their approbation of his conduct while acting Postmaster.

            December 12th, 1830

 

 

III

 

In the sketch I have so far portrayed, it is seen I had entered into the tenth year of my colonial life, and as, at that period, and prior to it, some events occurred that much influenced my future career, as well as one that created considerable public interest, I shall take some notice of them. The first and most important event was the introduction of the Printing Press into Grahamstown in the year 1830, by Mr. L H Meurant, from Graaf-Reinet, where he had previously conducted it, in printing Government notices and forms for the use of the departments in the interior districts. This press (and a primitive looking concern it was) was the only one then in existence in South Africa, beyond the precin[c]ts of Capetown. It was not long before a periodical was started, conducted at first by casual contributors. Mr. Godlonton, was, at the time, in the Government service, as chief clerk to Captain Campbell, Civil Commissioner of Albany, and he had, by assiduity, risen rapidly in the service; but he, however, resigned his appointment, and entered into partnership with Mr. Meurant, and became editor of the Grahamstown Journal. Success crowned their efforts, and it has been seen that the Journal establishment has not only nurtured men that have become respectable editors, but has been the means of the extension of the printing press into several parts of the Eastern province, in Kaffraria, and even beyond the Orange river. Grahamstown continued on the march of improvement and increases of inhabitants. Besides many additional private, there were several public buildings erected as well as edifices for the assemblage of the various religious denominations for public worship, and, upon the whole, the morale tone of society was not so bad, considering the great diversity  of character to be found in a place so recently founded. Doubtless the main body were using all the means in their power to improve their condition, and some calculating the chance, not unmixed with ambition, that they might, at a future day, rise to eminence in the country of their adoption. It must be admitted that such feelings are commendable in all rising communities. But there was a class – most of whom have ‘gone to their long home’ – of what may be termed fast men. Yes! They were fast in various ways, and too fast to ensure the success that attended their more steady, preserving, and calculating coadjutors; nevertheless, there were some well-meaning souls amongst them, who abhorred anything like hypocrisy or deceit. It was with these free and easy fellows I would occasionally mix, and at times we would resolve to have a night of it. Now, I had always an antipathy of doing things by halves, and when I did join one of these parties, which was but seldom, I would be sure to enter upon it with zest, and would be one of the foremost in maintaining the sentiment of the song, that

 

            ‘We won’t go home till morning,

             Till daylight does appear.’

 

It may well be imagined that on these occasions excess was the result, but then, when reflection came, resolves were made to shun extremes in future, and to attend to the advice of the sober and serious, who prognosticated no good from such a course. Indeed, happy is it for those who are able to keep within the bounds in all things; but there are those who are not so constituted.

 

Mr. George Dyason, with myself, were, at the time I am alluding to, the only adult Dyasons on the frontier, as the others who came out with the party had left long previously either for Cape Town or England. Now comes another event in my history, and which had an amazing and discouraging influence on my advancing course, and however painful it may be to allude it, and it may be considered by some ill-judged, and by others a want of delicacy of feeling to refer to it, yet, as a true delineator of events, I cannot withhold it. It was then that Venus took possession of my fantasy, by presenting to my view a beautiful woman with piercing eyes, and of respectable family. It may well be supposed I suddenly became most desperately in love, and, with my sanguine temperament, no time was lost. I wooed and conquered, and soon led the object of my adoration to the hymeneal alter; but, alas! The bliss attained was but short-lived, as it was soon found that there was no return for love so truly and fondly lavished, no reciprocity of sentiment; indeed matters became worse – best buried in oblivion – and after some years of misery and unhappiness, a dissolution of the bonds of marriage was carried. Thus for ever was cast to the wind prospects and hopes once so fondly cherished, and in bidding adieu to the object that formed them, I have only to say with Byron –

 

            “Fare thee well: and if forever –

              Still for ever, fare thee well.”

 

Soon after handing over the post-office, I was appointed clerk in the magistrate’s office, Grahamstown. William Waddle, Esq., was the magistrate. I held the appointment but a short period, as will be seen by the following copy of a letter from Colonel Bell, Secretary to Government:

 

Colonial Office

Cape Town, 5th May, 1831

Sir, - I an directed by His Excellency the Governor to acquaint you that in consequence of Mr. McRosty’s appointment as Clerk of the Peace, Mr. Stingfellow is to revert to his former situation in the Magistrate’s Office, in Grahamstown, now held by you.”

 

This intelligence made me a gentleman at large for some time, but I felt pretty confident that something would soon offer. At all events I was determined not to be disappointed for want of application and energy on my part, knowing that I stood well with Government and the public. The time was not, however, very propitious, as by the changes and reductions introduced by the measures of His Majesty’s Commissioners, the services of some thirty or forty clerks, had recently been dispensed with, and who, like myself, had claims for employment in the event of any opening presenting itself. Sir Galbraith Lowry Cole was then Governor of the Colony, and I resolved to take a trip to Capetown, and have an interview with him. On my arrival there, and on presenting myself at the Colonial Office, I was kindly received by His Excellency, and promised an appointment to the first suitable vacancy that occurred. I returned to the frontier, and had been but a few days in Grahamstown, when Charles Palmer, Esq., Deputy Commissary-General, sent for me, and kindly offered me a situation at Hermanus Kraal, now called fort Brown. I thanked him and accepted it. The tide of events was now flowing fast in my favour. Before I had entered upon my new duty, the Civil Commissioner of Albany informed me that I could get the situation of Fieldcornet of Grahamstown, but I was obliged to decline it, as I had so recently bound myself to another engagement. I had only been some four months at Hermanus Kraal when inquiry was made for me from the Colonial Office, and Capt. Campbell sent a letter stating that he was authorised to

 

 

The intelligence made me a gentleman at large for some time, but I felt pretty confident that something would soon offer. At all events I was determined not to be disappointed for want of application and energy on my part, knowing that I stood well with Government and the public. The time was not, however, very propitious, as by the changes and reductions introduced by the measures of His Majesty’s Commissioners, the services of some thirty or forty clerks, had recently been dispensed with, and who, like myself, had claims for employment in the event of any opening presenting itself. Sir Galbraith Lowry Cole was then Governor of the Colony, and I resolved to take a trip to Cape Town, and have my interview with him. On my arrival there, and on presenting myself at the Colonial Office, I was kindly received by His Excellency, and promised an appointment to the first suitable vacancy that occurred. I returned to the frontier, and had been but a few days in Grahamstown, when Charles Palmer, Esq., Deputy Commissioner-General, sent for me, and kindly offered me a situation a Hermanus Kraal, now called Fort Brown. I thanked him and accepted it. The tide of events was now flowing fast in my favour.  Before I entered upon my new duty, the Civil Commissioner of Albany informed me that I could get the situation of Fieldcornet of Grahamstown, but I was obliged to decline it, as I had so recently bound myself to another engagement. I had only been some four months at Hermanus Kraal when inquiry was made for me from the Colonial Office, and Capt. Campbell sent a letter stating that he was authorised to inform me, by the Governor, that the appointment of Clerk to the Clerk of the Peace at Beaufort West was at my service. This I immediately accepted, as the appointment came from headquarters, and the chances of promotion were evidently greater than if I had remained in the military service, and in an interview I had with Mr.. Palmer, he held the same view of the case. I accordingly wound up my affairs at the Kraal, and proceeded to Grahamstown, to make arrangements for the journey to my new post, Beaufort West, by way of Somerset and Graff-Reinet, is situated 300 miles from Grahamstown. My appointment is dated 28th June 1833, with orders to proceed to my place of destination forthwith, and understood that I was to pay my own travelling expenses. So little was known about Beaufort West by the good people of Grahamstown, that I had considerable difficulty in getting a conveyance. After much inquiry, I induced a Mr. Trollip to hire his wagon, and he also agreed to accompany me, and drive the wagon himself. All being ready, we started on our journey, and on proceeding a day or two, I was much amused to find that Mr.. Trollip did not understand the line of road to the country to which we were bound, although I had, previous to starting, two or three times explained to him that I wished to go to a village called Beaufort West, situated on the Karoo plains, some one hundred and thirty miles from Graaff-Reinet, on the main road to Cape Town; but, by some means, he was all along an erroneous impression, but nothing could drive from his mind that it was the recently established village of Colesberg I was wishing to proceed, and we had actually travelled several miles on that route when I discovered he was out of his course, and insisted on his changing it for the one I had indicated. This led to some considerable altercation, and he wished to return home again, saying that he could not think of going to such an out of the way place as Beaufort West, but I insisted that he should proceed, and reminded him that the distance to it was not so very much further than to Colesberg. We at last came to terms, by my agreeing to purchase fresh oxen, should he require them, during the journey. We again started, and after three weeks tedious travelling, reached Beaufort West all safe.

 

The division of Beaufort is situated in the Western Province, and during the Dutch Government was part of the extensive district of Graaff-Reinet, and subsequently became a Sub-Drostdy, until it was formed into a separate division, and it is by no means a small one, as the area it embraces is very extensive, and it is bounded by the Untenhage, George, Worcester, and Graaff-Reinet divisions. It is noted as a fine sheep country. The village or town of Beaufort is the seat of government of the division. It is situated on the border of the Karoo plains, not far from the Nieuwveld mountain, and is chiefly supplied with water from a reservoir formed at the Gamka river. On my arrival I found, besides the Public Offices, a commodious Dutch Reformed Church, a number of fair stores, and several passable private dwellings. The chief part of the inhabitants were of Dutch extraction. J.J.Meintjes, Esq., was the Civil Commissioner and Magistrate, William Kinnear, Esq., Clerk of Peace, Chas. Pope, Esq., Deputy Sheriff, Dr. Christie, medical Practitioner, and J. G. Devenish, Esq., at present Civil Commissioner, was the Government Teacher. On entering upon my new duties I found the Clerk of Peace had also attached to his office that of Registrar of Slaves and Distributor of Stamps. I had the pleasure to find my superior a clever, gentlemanly man, and well up as a lawyer. He had not been very long at Beaufort. He came to the colony with Judge Menzies, and was his Registrar on Circuit for a short time. I held my appointment as Clerk to the Clerk of the Peace for fourteen years; but as a plurality of situations was allowed in those days, I became Postmaster, and on the town being formed into a Municipality, I was also appointed Town Clerk. During this period I was several times Acting Clerk of the Peace, and I conducted the criminal cases, as Public Prosecutor, at two of the Circuit Courts holden at Beaufort. During my long residence at Beaufort, several events occurred of an exiting nature, but nothing equalled those of the Kaffir war of 1834, and the Act for the Manumission of the Slaves, which came in force on the 1st of December of the same year. Sir Benjamin D’Urban was at this time Governor, and it is universally admitted that a better, more able, or humane one never ruled in this country. For some time before the war broke out the accounts of the state of the Kafirs were very conflicting. A party in Cape Town “represented them as peaceably inclined, and ready to enter into any arrangements, based on the principles of justice and fairness,” while “the leading practical men about the frontier, and the public press at Grahamstown, represented the frontier as in a very alarming and precarious position,” and had no doubt of the hostile feeling of the Kafirs. Alas! It was soon found that the feeling of the frontier party was correct. The Kafirs had, however, laid their plans with the greatest secrecy and fidelity to themselves, and unfortunately the frontier inhabitants were totally unprepared for the event, not expecting that it would come with such sudden and swift destruction upon them. The outbreak took place on Christmas Day of 1834, when upwards of twelve thousand kafirs invaded the whole frontier, murdering many of the inhabitants, burning and destroying a number of farmhouses, and taking away an amazing number of horses, horned cattle, and sheep. As soon as the news of the war reached Beaufort, the Fieldcornets of each ward of the division were instructed to order all the able-bodied men to make ready to proceed on commando without loss of time, and the result was a strong body, well armed, did start for the scene of commotion, and many were absent from their homes for nearly a year. During the time they were away they had to undergo much privation and hardship, even at times suffering from hunger. When they were relieved from duty, they returned to their homed in straggling parties, presenting a wretched and ragged appearance. Some even had to walk a long distance barefooted, their horses having either died or knocked up. The treatment they experienced was perhaps unavoidable, in consequence of the unsettled state of the frontier, and the difficulty of procuring supplies; but it strengthened the ill-feeling they had towards the British Government, and to crown all, measures were at the moment in force to deprive them of their slaves. For a considerable time previous to this, a feeling of discontent had been evinced amongst the Dutch farmers, by, what they considered, unreasonable favour shown to their coloured servants, whether bond or free, by the acts promulgated by the Government; so that, what with the slave question and the Kafir war, things had arrived at a climax bordering on rebellion with a large portion of our Dutch subjects. In the division of Beaufort, it afterwards transpired that secret meetings were held in different parts of it, resulting in the determination of a numerous body to abandon their homes and farms at any sacrifice, and to proceed to the wilds of Africa, beyond the jurisdiction of the British Government. This decision was actually carried out, not only in the Beaufort division, but in most of the other divisions of the colony, and hence we have at this day, which we ought never to have had, the Free State and Transvaal Republics in South Africa.

 

In relating the events that took place in the division of Beaufort on the breaking out of the war, I must not omit to observe that all the able-bodied British-born subjects in the division, that could go, proceeded to it. In the number was Mr. Frances Goodwin, a fine young man. He was Clerk to the Resident Magistrate at Beaufort, and had previously been employed in the Colonial Office, and was the son of Mr. Goodwin, of Goodwin’s Kloof, in the vicinity of Grahamstown, and related to Colonel Somerset by the marriage of his sister to the Colonel’s brother-in-law, Lieut. Heathcote, of Cape Corps. Mr. Goodwin was without exception a very promising man, and possessed of first-rate abilities; but he was somewhat arrogant, and too self-willed. He obtained leave of absence and proceeded to the war as a volunteer; but, alas! poor fellow, his career was very short. Intelligence was received at Beaufort, conveyed to me in a hastily written letter from Grahamstown, that Mr. Goodwin had just arrived there, and immediately after accompanied a party on offensive operations, when, on nearing a bushy kloof, he and another separated from the main body, and entered it, where a number of the wily enemy lay concealed, and as they entered, they were immediately attacked, and both shot dead or assegaied.

 

 

1V

 

Having brought my Outlines to the close of the Kafir war of 1834-35, and having given the reason that induced a large number of Boers to migrate from the colony, I may now observe that the affairs of the country became somewhat settled, and the inhabitants were going on in the “even tenour of their way”. Many of the farms vacated by the Dutch, in our district, came into other hands, some of whom occupied them personally, and others purchased them in speculation. Among the newcomers were Messrs. Molteno, Tennant, and Naylor, from Cape Town, and Lieutenants Mason, Smith and Pritchard, from St Helena, late of the Honourable Company’s service there. Farming affairs, and the affairs of the district, were universally improving from year to year, and so continued till the year 1846, when the country was again thrown into a state of commotion by the intelligence of another Kafir war, and which, by accounts, bid fair to be more formidable than the former one. Sir Peregrine Maitland was at the time Governor, who proceeded from Capetown (the seat of Government, 600 miles distant) to the frontier. With many the war was by no means unexpected. They felt the vacillating and weak conduct of the Government in their measures with the Kafirs would be sure to bring it on. As usual on such occasions, men were again commanded in all parts of the colony, to proceed to the front; but in out division there was great difficulty to induce the Dutch burghers to go, and several would not at any risk, remembering what was suffered in the former war. A body was at last collected, and left Beaufort under the command of Commandant Andries Du Toit, a very active and able man. Every post that arrived brought us news of the daring and formidable state of the enemy, and there was every appearance that the war would be a protracted one – indeed, despatches were received calling for help. I used, and others used, all the influence in our power to induce those who were able, to go to the assistance of our frontier friends. Lieut. Pritchard was very active in the cause. He succeeded in raising a body of upwards of a hundred volunteers, under his command, with which he proceeded to the war. A large force of regular troops and burghers was in the field for a long time, undergoing much privation and fatigue, and there was found great difficulty in bringing the Kafirs under anything like subjection. However, after a deal of bungling, a hollow peace was proclaimed, and the burghers received permission to return to their homes, in, perhaps, a more discontented state than at the former war. I have been induced to dwell thus long on the Kafir wars of 1835 and 1846, in order to show how they tended to disarrange the affairs of even a Midland division like Beaufort West, leaving out of the question the divisions immediately on or near the border. But having disposed of this subject, it is time I had something to say of my own movements.

 

 

I had been in Beaufort neatly fourteen years, and had, I believe, performed my duties with satisfaction to the public, and had gained very many friends, both Dutch and English; but, notwithstanding I was less satisfied with myself, as I know I had had my shortcomings, and was weak enough to allow an affair that had transpired to have too much dominion over me, though I succeeded in bringing it to a close. It may seem strange that I had been so long in Beaufort without having attained a higher position in the Government service. To be sure, I took no steps to induce it. Indeed, Beaufort might be said to be noted for the long-standing of its officials, for with the exception of two or three changes of the Magistrate’s clerks, all the other officers held their respective appointments prior to and during all the time I remained there. There was, however, soon to be a move in reference to myself. A letter from John Montagu, Esq., Secretary to the Government, dated 4th February 1847, brought me information, that it having been determined to abolish the office of clerk to the Clerk of the Peace, in this colony, he was directed to inform me that I must consider my services, ion my present situation, dispensed with, but that the Governor (Sir H Pottinger) had instructed hime to offer to me the situation of clerk to the Resident Magistrate of Graaff-Reinet, and in the event of my accepting the offer, I must proceed to that place without delay. As I had been so long in the service, and looking at the prospect of a pension at a future day, I was induced to accept it although I gained no pecuniary advantage by the change. Before taking my departure from Beaufort, I had the gratification to receive the following invitation:-

 

            Mr. Pritchard, in the name of several gentleman in the village, presents his compliments to Mr. Dyason, and requests the favour of his company to a “Farewell Dinner”’ at Mrs Pringle’s, on Monday, the 1st proximo, at 7pm.

           

Beaufort, 27th February 1847

I of course intimated that IO should be present at the time appointed. At the dinner, J J Meintjes, Esq., Civil Commissioner, presided, and W Kiennear, Esq., Clerk of the Peace, was vice-president. The following gentleman were also present, viz: Dr Christie, Messrs, C Pritchard, J J de Villiers, J G Devenish, J B Auret,T Tennant, J Baird, jun., A P Meiring, P McNaughton, J Pringle, and other friends. The evening was passed in a most congenial manner. Several speeches were made, bearing upon my removal from amongst them, whishing me all manner of success and happiness in my future career, to which I did my best to make a suitable reply.

 

A few days after found me on my way to Graaff Reinet, travelling with an ox-wagon, and after something more than a week, reached my destination without any casualty worth mentioning.

 

The town of Graaff Reinet is situated some 140 miles from Beaufort West, to the N. E. A stranger on entering it is much pleased with the general appearance of the place, and his attention is attracted to the well-devised plan of the town, with the number of good trees planted in rows on each side of the streets, and with its fine gardens, vineyards, and orchards, visible in all directions. It is also well supplied with water from the Sunday River, running not far distant. The late Sir Andries Stockenstroom was formerly Landdrost of Graaff Reinet, and during his time paid much attention to its improvement, and it is doubtless appropriately termed “the gem in the desert”

 

When I entered on my new duties, W C van Ryneveld, Esq., was the Civil Commissioner and Magistrate; A. Berrange, Esq., Clerk of the Peace; and C.B. Ziervogel, Esq., J. P. and clerk to the Civil Commissioner.

Attached to my office as clerk to the Magistrate, was that of Distributor of Stamps for the division, and I was required by Government to find sureties, in some hundreds of pounds sterling, for the due and faithful performance of the duty. This caused me a little perplexity, as I was nearly a stranger in Graaff Reinet; but fortunately my friend of early days, Mr. Richard Southey, now the Honourable R. Southey, Secretary to Government, was residing in the Town, and on my applying to him, and another gentleman (Mr. Dusing), they, without hesitation, became my sureties. I got on exceedingly well in my new appointment; had a fine roomy office; was introduced to the first society in the place; met with much kindness, and upon the whole was what may be termed very comfortable.

 

I had scarcely been a year in Graaff Reinet when Sir Harry Smith arrived in the colony as Governor and High Commissioner, and with all his eccentricities, there is no doubt there was a deal of good-nature attached to him. At least he did not forget old friends. At the time he was Colonel Smith, Mr. Southey had been of great service to him during the Kafir war, in which he was so active and conspicuous. Therefore, on his arrival as Governor, he sent for Mr. Southey, who, on making his appearance, he appointed his secretary, as High Commissioner. On His Excellency assuring the government of the Cape Colony, it is certain he did so with the best intentions, and anticipated by the measures he should introduce, that they would insure his being a popular governor. Sir Harry had given proof, witness Aliwal, that he was a good soldier, and a first-rate fighting general; but subsequent events showed that he was not much of a politician and was lamentably deficient in all ramifications of civil government. It would seem that he had an impression that his influence was so great with the Dutch farmers and the Kafirs, from there knowledge of him when Colonel, that he would have no difficulty in introducing them to embrace his views’ but in this he was sorely disappointed, and which was so fully demonstrated by another Kafir war, and the Battle of Boem Plaats.

 

I have in so marked a manner noticed the arrival in the Cape of Sir Harry Smith, as it will presently be seen, that it had much to do with the future of myself. It is known His Excellency made an overland journey to Natal, passing over the country beyond the Orange River, accompanied by a large number of Dutch farmers, and with the most influential of whom he had an interview, as well as with Andries Pretorius, at Natal. The result was proclaiming the country from to the Orange to the Vaal River, and thence to near the border of Natal, under British jurisdiction, giving it the name of the Sovereignty, and then followed the noted Manifesto. The Sovereignty consisted of the districts of Smithfield, Bloemfontein, and Windberg. The last named district was by far the most extensive of the three, and from which the district of Harrismith was ultimately formed. Civil Commissioners and other officers were appointed to the respective districts, and as I thought I might be of some service, in assisting to settle matters in this hitherto distracted country, and being so generally and so favourably known to Dutch farmers, I applied for a situation in it, through the secretary to the High Commissioner, who kindly obtained me the appointment of clerk to the Civil Commissioner for the district of Windberg, Thomas Jervis Biddulph Esq.

 

When I intimated the step I was about to take, to the officials, and my other friends in Graaff Reinet, they endeavoured to dissuade me from it, and intimated that I was seeking to be placed in a situation where it was almost certain I should have to undergo much hardship, care, and uncertainty, but all to no purpose, I had determined to go. A Berrange Esq., the Clerk of the Peace, even [paid me the high compliment to say, “Mr. Dyason, you, of course, will use your own judgement in taking the step you anticipate, and if you think your interest will be promoted by it, do so, but, for my part, I had much rather you remained with us, and I know this to be the feeling of Mr. van Ryneveld, the Magistrate, as we have not had one with us, who held your present appointment, we felt so well satisfied with as yourself.” Naturally, I could not but feel gratified that my services were so favourably appreciated, and that with all my imperfections there was found to be some good in me.

 

 

V

 

My appointment to Winberg, in the Sovereignty, is dated 5th April 1848. I arrived there two or three weeks after. The route I took was from Graaff Reinet to Colesberg, thence to Botha’s Drift, at the Orange River, on crossing which, to Boemfontein, and from thence to Winberg; being a distance of three hundred miles and upwards. On the journey I heard reports from reliable sources, that the country was in a very unsettled state; and many of the inhabitants were opposed to being subjected to British rule, and that by far the largest party to oppose resided in the district of Winberg. That this state of things was true I found fully verified on reaching Bloemfontein, as Major Warden, the British Resident, deemed it advisable to accompany the Winberg officials to that place, under escort of a body of the Cape Mounted Riflemen. When we arrived at Taaibos Spruit, within a few miles of Winberg, we halted for the night, and the Major sent a messenger to Winberg to inform the inhabitants that we should be there next day, and that on our arrival he should hold a meeting, and trusted that the inhabitants of the village and its neighbourhood would be present at it, as it was his intention to explain the motives and views of the Governor, and, at the same time, to introduce their future Magistrate and his assistant (your humble servant) to them. Mr. Rex, the Surveyor, also accompanied the British Resident. When we arrived at Winberg the meeting was held, and passed off well enough; but very few attended it. The next day, the Major, Mr. Rex, and military, returned to Bloemfontein, and we were left to our fate.

 

There were but few officials appointed to each district in the Sovereignty at first. Those for Winberg were the Civil Commissioner and Magistrate, his clerk, and two constables. Field-cornets and other officers were afterwards appointed. I had a multiplicity of duties to perform. I was Clerk of the Peace, Clerk to the Civil Commissioner and Magistrate, Postmaster, and on our forming a Land Commission, I was constituted a member of it, as well as its Secretary. Dear me! I was somebody then. The two constables were fine, smart, active, and obedient men, named Gillian and Brestmeyer. They had lately been discharged from the 7th Dragoon Guards. I must now say something about Mr. Thomas Jervis Biddulph, the Magistrate. If I remember right, I was introduced to him at Colesberg; and, at first sight, I was wicked enough to form an unfavourable impression of him. I really did not like the look of his physiognomy. It seemed to me to want openness, and to carry cunning and malignity about it; and, if need be, I thought I could trace that sycophancy could be brought into play. I have heard say that first impressions are generally correct. I would that I had been deceived in mine, especially as there was some sort of relationship between Biddulph and myself, by some branches of his family having married to branches of mine. There was another cause that perhaps added to my aversion, and that was, there was a report in circulation that did not redeem much to the credit of his courage. It was said that he, with the party he commanded, in the Kaffir war of 1846, were near the spot where the lamented Mr. Charles Bailey, with the men under his command, were attacked, overpowered, and lost their lives by the enemy; but Biddulph, nor his men, did not go to their assistance, although considered to be within hearing of the discharge of their fire-arms, and it is even said that it was agreed that they were to meet. Mr. Biddulph’s parents, with some brothers and sisters, came out with the Settlers of 1820; but he arrived in the Colony several years after. He had in England been employed as a lawyer’s clerk; I should say to some pettifogger, from the little knowledge he appeared to have about the law, or the duties of a law officer. Let this suffice. Two nephews accompanied him to Winberg, and the residue of his establishment consisted of a housekeeper and maid of all work. Of the former I could say something; but forebear.

 

As soon as we had settled ourselves down in Winberg, we entered upon our respective duties, and in justice, I must admit that Mr. Biddulph brought his most fascinating powers into play, in order to ingratiate himself with the inhabitants, and I followed in his wake. We established a market, and framed rules for the guidance of the same. We likewise suggested improvements in the water supply; besides hearing and attending to the wants and complaints of the inhabitants of the district generally. Thus was I soon enabled to form an opinion of the disposition and qualifications of Her Majesty’s Representative for the district of Winberg.

 

In executing the duties of our respective appointments, we were instructed by the British Resident to fulfil them in conformity with those in force in the Cape Colony, and to adopt the like forms appertaining to the routine of office business, whether Civil or Judicial. In these matters, it was natural to suppose, I was pretty well up, after my long service, especially in those of a judicial character. It might also have been expected that Mr. Biddulph had some knowledge of these things, as he had previously, for a year or more, held the appointment of Magistrate of the Kat River Settlement. He, however, like the conceited man that he was, formed a system of his own, in defiance of all orders and precedent, which turned out wrong, and I was expected to follow it. It was here that we disagreed. I admit I became indifferent, and was not so steady as I ought to have been, and we could never agree afterwards.

 

We had not been long in Winberg when our attention was attracted to affairs of far greater importance than disagreement about office forms and rules. Reports were brought to us that the majority of the inhabitants of the district were very discontented, and that inimical meetings were held at Zand River and in the Wittebergen, and that there was every probability of something transpiring soon. What did Mr. Biddulph do, as the British Representative of the district, in this dilemma? Did he proceed to the focuses of discontent, and by his presence endeavour to persuade them that they were doing wrong, and acting illegally? No! he did no such thing; but remained quietly at home, because he was afraid to go. That there was something in agitation was proved soon after by an occurrence that took place. A deserter came to the village, and informed us that an armed party from the Wittebergen would be with us in the morning, and he thought with some hostile intention. Mr. Biddulph and myself held a long consultation as to what should be done on the occasion. He was of opinion that it would be advisable for him at once to start to Bloemfontein, and represent the state of affairs there, and solicit the aid of the military. I differed with him, and advised him to remain where he was, and see the result of the movement of the hostile party, should it really prove to be such, as from what I know of the Boers, I was sure they would do us no harm. After a deal of pro and con, midnight arrived, and he decided to remain. I retired to my quarters for a little rest; but early dawn I was aroused by Constable Gillan, who informed me that the bird had flown – meaning the Mr. Biddulph had started some time before, on horseback, at full speed, for Bloemfontein. The information we had received proved true. As the morning advanced, a body of men, mounted and armed, numbering some seventy, were observed approaching Windberg from the direction of the Wittebergen. On their arrival they halted, and off-saddled at a building which had been used in the Republican time for conducting public business. I ascertained that their intention was to do so on the present occasion; and they did so. The party was headed by a Mr. Jacobs. Towards evening they took their departure without having anything to say to me, then the head of the British party. By this demonstration it was apparent that it was intended to show that they did not submit to British rule. This was the first act of open defiance since we had been in Windburg.

 

Mr. Biddulph returned a few days after, without accomplishing anything at Bloemfontein. It was evident we were in the midst of a troubled atmosphere, and that things were fast approaching a crisis; but, as what did occur has been already brought before the public through the press, it is only necessary for me to touch on some points bearing on myself.

 

But a few weeks had elapsed after the visit of the party from the Wittebergen, when it was ascertained that Andries Pretorius, from Natal, with a large body of men from all quarters of the Sovereignty and beyond, had assembled at Sand River, only some thirty miles from Windberg, with the intention of making a hostile movement against “the powers that be”. Strange to say that when the British Resident and other leading authorities were made acquainted with this fact, they pretended to treat it with contempt, and intimated that the Boers would not dare openly to defy British authority. Even Mr. Biddulph was of the same opinion. He certainly should have known better, as he was frequently warned, and had many reports brought to him of what was going on; but no attempt was made to appease or prevent the coming storm. The spell was, however, soon broken; information was received from some of the few Dutch who remained true to the British, that the body of men (nearly a thousand) at Sand River, headed by Pretorius, would march on Winburg in a day or two. Mr. Biddulph, on hearing this, became alarmed, and again galloped off to Bloemfontein, leaving me, with the two constables and his household, to face the enemy.

 

A day or two after the Magistrate had taken his departure, all the Dutch inhabitants removed from the village to the farm of one of the loyal boers, where they had formed a laager. At this period, about midnight, I was awoke by an unusual noise. I hastily dressed, looked out, and perceived fires burning, with men standing around them talking loudly; indeed the village seemed in a state of commotion. I proceeded to the Magistrates house, some five hundred yards from mine, and found the inmates all on the alert, having heard the approach of a body of horsemen. I endeavoured to quiet their apprehension, saying we should know what was meant when daylight appeared. I again retired to my cottage, and had not proceeded more than half way, when three men, with their long guns, sprang from a rising ground upon me, seized hold of me, and said, “You are our prisoner.” They escorted me to the commander of the party, Adriaan Standers, who, it appeared, had proceeded the main body with fifty men, and who claimed to himself the honour of taking Winburg in the name of the Republic. I further ascertained that Pretorius, with his whole force, would be with us next day. This information proved correct, as, about noon, a large body of mounted men were seen approaching, and soon after its arrival a council of war was held, and I was brought before it. Pretorius was President of it, and all his loading men were seated near him, with a large number of bystanders. After some discussion, the President addressed himself to me, and gave me to understand that he knew I was in the employ of the British Government, and that the step he and his countrymen had taken had been forced upon them by the innumerable wrongs they had sustained from the Government, and that they did not wish again to come under its yoke; that with reference to myself and party, he would advise us to get over the Orange River as soon as possible, otherwise, he would not answer for the consequence. I replied, if I recollect right, such as follows: It was evident that myself and small party were now in their power; but I must say I exceedingly regretted that they had taken up arms before having an interview with the British Resident or some other leading authority, when it would have been explained to them that the Governor, Sir Harry Smith, was fully sensible of the trials and grievances they had sustained while resident in the Colony, and that the measures he now thought proper to adopt were intended entirely for their good, and that what had so tried them on former occasions should never occur again. I see there are several here present who have known me a long time in the Beaufort District, and I challenge them now to say if they ever found anything in my humble services, or intercourse with them, that was not intended for their welfare, and of the most friendly nature. This was not denied, and Pretorius, addressing me again, said, in these troubled times you must get out of the country with all speed. I had, therefore, no other alternative but to make my way for Bloemfontein, which I did with one wagon, having a little baggage and Mr. Biddulph’s household on it, the two constables and myself following on foot, a distance of nearly seventy miles. We were, for want of conveyance, obliged to leave a deal of property behind. Pretorius and his force advanced pretty close after us. It is known Major Warden thought it advisable to abdicate Bloemfontein with his few troops, and the British assembled there with all parts of the Sovereignty. After a fatiguing march of several days, we reached the Orange River, passed through it, and there awaited reinforcements. In the meantime, however, some of us proceeded to Colesberg. Troops from the different outposts and Kafirland continued to arrive, and soon after the General, Sir Harry Smith, made his appearance, with his staff and his Secretary, Richard Southey, Esq. No time was lost in making all necessary arrangements for an aggressive movement. There appeared a strong body of boers on the opposite side of the river, watching our movements, and as it was flooded, some delay was occasioned in crossing it. The troops, wagons, ordnance and commissariat stores were floated over on rafts, a pontoon and a boat, and while this was going on the enemy did not molest us, but retreated on the first body of riflemen being landed. On crossing the river we passed the night on its banks, with orders to march early next morning. A day or so after we received information that the enemy was in strong force at Kromelbough, adjoining Boomplaats. When this intelligence was brought, we were ant Kalverfontein, at breakfast, and it was calculated that we should reach Boomplaats about midday, and as it is a day to be remembered, I note it was the 29th August 1848. The information we received was treated lightly by the General and his Staff, being under the impression that the boers would not attack the troops. It was found they had fixed upon an excellent position to make a stand, having manned a succession of high rocky hills, which flanked each side of the road we had to pass. As we neared the locality a fire was suddenly opened on our advanced scouts, and the action soon became general. This gave me the opportunity of seeing what British troops could do. The artillery was brought into play. The Cape Mounted Rifled were engaged in one part of the field, and the Infantry charged the hills driving the enemy from hill to hill, until at last it was seen in hasty retreat, and we were afterwards told that some did not halt until they had crossed the Vaal River. Several of the enemy were shot, and the loss on our side was somewhat severe, having some thirteen shot dead, and upwards of forty wounded, the Winberg’s Magistrate being amongst the number of the latter. This over, our next order was to march to Bloemfotein.

 

 

 

V1

 

In depicting the outline of events that transpired in the Sovereignty, I must avoid as much as possible getting prosy, as I feel it will be tedious and uninteresting, besides so much is already known in reference to it, that it will be unnecessary. I shall, therefore, glance at several events, trusting I may be borne with if I am somewhat prolix in describing my own adventures.

 

In my last, I brought affairs to the close of the Battle of Boomplaats, which was seen ended in full success to the British arms. I also intimated that we had received orders to march to Bloemfontein. The wounded were left at Boomplaats, with the necessary medical attendance, and a body of military as a guard. On the march to Bloemfontein we took two prisoners, one a Dutchman, and the other a deserter from the regiments of infantry. The former named Dryer and the latter, Quigly. On arriving at Bloemfontein, the Sovereignty of the Queen of England was again proclaimed over the country bny Sir Harry, and twenty-one rounds of cannon was discharged to testify the event, and the same proceeding was soon after enacted at Winburg. During our short stay in Bloemfontein, Quigly and Dryer were tried by court-martial. It happened that I knew a deal about the movements of Quigly, and I was, therefore, examined at considerable length before the court. In giving my evidence, I did not withhold a single iota I thought would tend to favour the prisoner: but, I regret to say, without effect, as they were both found guilty, and sentenced to be shot on the following morning, which was done. This sad scene over, and a detachment of troops left to garrison Bloemfontein, the bugle sounded the order to march, and we were immediately, with the main body, on the way to Winburg. It was thought possible that the boers might be infatuated enough to attempt another stand at or near Winburg, as the country thereabouts is admirably adapted for the purpose; but, on arriving there, it was found they had no such intention, having no doubt received a good lesson at Bloomplaats. The district of Winburg having been the focus of the rebellion, the High Commissioner was determined to make considerable display in proclaiming that part again under British authority. The troops were immediately on arrival formed into a square. The loyal Dutch farmers and several disloyal were present. The cannons were discharged and His Excellency delivered a lengthy and Characteristic address, interpreted by Mr. Rex, desiring them to be all good boys in future. While this was going on, a German, Mr. Frederick Schnehagen, was brought forward. It had been reported that he had aided much in the movements of the rebellion; and it was evident Sir Harry intended to make a very serious example of him; but on hearing what he had to say in extenuation, he was let free by paying a heavy fine. Sir Harry remained two or three days in Winburg, and during his stay had interviews with a considerable number of Dutch inhabitants as well as with neighbouring native chiefs, including Sykonyella, Moshesh, Moroko and Gert Taaibosch. With all he explained his views, and entreated them to live at peace for the future. He then took his departure, leaving his Secretary, Mr. Southey, and a troop of the Cape Mounted Riflemen, with some Artillery, behind for a time. Of course, I remained and as Mr. Biddulph was left at Boomplaats, having received a flesh wound in the arm, Mr. F Rex, a Surveyor, was appointed to assist me, until Mr. Biddulph was convalescent, and able to resume his duty. A War Commission was formed, of which Mr. Southey was President, and I one of its members. The duty of it was to investigate into the cause of the rebellion, and to punish those by fine of higher or less degree, according to the part they had taken in furtherance of the outbreak, the amount of which was to be appropriated in liquidation of the expenses incurred by the war; and all who had taken part in the rebellion were required ti take the Oath of Allegiance. The sum collected was considerable, and matters were so well adjusted, that there appeared every prospect of affairs going on smoothly in the future. Before Mr. Southey took his departure from Winburg, He proceeded over the Vaal River to Potchefstroom, and I accompanied him, in order to have an interview with Mr. Hendrik Potgieter, a leader of a party of Dutch emigrants, who had been sent for from Zoutpansberg, somewhere in the direction of Delgoa Bay. The meeting ended satisfactorily. Mr. Southey also visited the chiefs Moshesh and Sykonyella at their respective mountains. All this was done to endeavour to secure the peace of the Sovereignty, and when all was completed, he took his departure for the colony; the military leaving the same time for Bloemfontein. About a month had elapsed when Mr. Biddulph made his appearance at Winburg, having nearly recovered from the wound he had received. The affairs of the district were again resumed, and everything was carried on as right well for a time. The Land Commission was formed; that for the district of Winburg consisted of the Magistrate, Mr. Rex, myself, and the Fieldcornet of the ward in which the inspection took place. We inspected upwards 300 farms, and were in the field upwards of twelve months, with the exception of occasionally visiting Winburg to transact other business. I may say, that while engaged on the Winburg Land Commission, I found it one of the most agreeable periods I passed in the Sovereignty, as it was the means of introducing me to most of the inhabitants of the district and thus was able to form some idea of their character, and of their wants and wishes. Some few evinced a feeling of discontent, and were very sore at the amount of fine they had been awarded to pay for the part they had taken in the late outbreak, and evinced an inclination to be discourteous to the Commission. With these exceptions, the greatest civility and hospitality was evinced, and they were generally satisfied with the boundaries of their farms, and with the amount of Quitrent fixed on them.

 

After the affairs of the Sovereignty had been brought into something like order, there was another matter that required immediate attention, and that was the state of the native tribes in our neighbourhood. Moshesh and Sykonyella had been sometime at war about boundaries, and there were many complaints from our border farmers of thefts and depredations committed on them by the Basutos along the whole line; some of them under Moletsani, even occupied positions in the Wittebergen, in the midst of the Dutch farmers. It was evident that this state of things could not be tolerated. The British Resident, therefore, convened a meeting of all the native chiefs residing near the border of the Sovereignty, at the Retreat, a trading station of Mr. William Prynn’s, in Sykonyella’s country. I accompanied Mr. Biddulph to it. On arriving there, we met the chiefs Sykonyella, Moshesh, Moroko, Carolus Baatje,Gert Taaibosch, and Adam Kok, with two or three thousand followers, and also m\Mr. Hartley, Sykonyella’s Missionary, some of the French Missionaries, and last though not least, Major Warden with his clerk, Mr. Allison. The meeting lasted two or three days. Moshesh and Sykonyella made friends. They all promised to respect the line of the Sovereignty when it was properly defined, and Moshesh declared that he would order his people to quit the Wittebergen, and would do all in his power to suppress thefts being made by his people on the stock and property of the farmers. At the meeting, Moshesh and Sykonyella were the most prominent characters in reference to the business on which we had met. Sykonyella was chief of the Matatees. He was a fine looking man, with prominent features and copper-coloured. He had been a great warrior in his time, and was said to have been, in some of his hostile expeditions, guilty of great cruelty and barbarity. Mr. Hartley, during his residence with him, by percept and example, had much subdued his savaged spirit, and our Government found him faithful to it, and he and his people were always at its service when required; and they did, during my time, do good service on more than one occasion. At the meeting, when questions were put to him, he was brief and to the purpose. We found Moshesh quite a different style of man. He is above the middle height, very dark in colour, and somewhat pleasing in features. Unlike Sykonyella, he was very fluent in speech, and when he launched out upon any topic he became quite eloquent, and in a manner that would shame some of our Cape Colonial Members of Parliament. He would dwell for an hour together upon his subject, and would not quit it until he had sifted it thoroughly in all its bearings. Several of Moshesh’s sons were also at the meeting. It would have been well if all of the professions made at the meeting had been kept; but they were not. Not many months after, we heard the Moshesh and Sykonyella were again at war; indeed, it was evident Moshesh looked on Sykonyella  with a considerable amount of jealousy, finding that he was in favour with the British authorities in the Sovereignty, and Moshesh, being by far most powerful in the number of his adherents, was determined to conquer him and drive him and his tribe from his mountain and country. I a year or two, after this was actually accomplished, an engagement took place in which Sykonyella was worsted, and he and the remainder of his tribe became refugees in the colony, and where he soon after died.

 

Moshesh always professed to have the greatest respect for the British Government, and I am glad to be able to record that the French Missionaries did all in their power to cause him to act right, and induce that feeling in him; and although he fulfilled but few of the stipulations agreed upon at the meeting, and was not satisfied with the boundary line when it was pointed out to him, and did not insist on his people quitting the Wittebergen, yet he was not altogether to blame, as he was much influenced in his conduct by some of his sons, and particularly by his eldest, Letsea, who was always for war. Besides, he had about him, at Thaba Bosigo, some desperate characters of European origin, who much influenced him on his side of error. One of the leading men of this description with him, at the period I am alluding to, was a German, named Van der Kolf, who had so much ingratiated himself into the favour of Moshesh, that he made him General of his Mounted Force, which consisted of several thousand. It was known Van der Kolf was bitter against British authority; and well he might be, as, if he could have been caught, he would have been made to have felt its power, and offended justice would have had retribution. Some years before, he was known to me in the Beaufort district, where he had been guilty of the crime of forgery to some extent, and I was the means of him being apprehended on that charge; but he escaped from prison, made his way over the Orange River, and afterwards, as we find, became a subject of Moshesh.

 

 

V11

 

I concluded my last by observing that Moshesh had some desperate characters on his mountain. It was known some of them were English and some Dutch. The most prominent character among them was Van der Korf [?]. It was, besides, well ascertained that several of the disaffected inhabitants in the Sovereignty had intercourse with Moshesh, and encouraged him in his acts of disobedience against the British government, even intimating that their assistance could be obtained should it be required. It was likewise supposed that some of his sons, as well as some of his chiefs, influenced him in his conduce for evil. There was no doubt about his eldest son Letsea, who was always a man for war. At all events, Moshesh did not fulfil the conditions agreed to at the meeting held in Sykonyella’s country, although all other chiefs did so. This line of conduct on the part of Moshesh tended to retard the peaceable adjustment of affairs in the Sovereignty, especially on that part of the border near his territory.

 

During the years 1849-50, the farmers in the Wittebergen were loud in their complaints with reference to the loss of property and trespasses committed by the Basutus residing in their midst, and far within the line that had been pointed out to Moshesh, and called urgently upon government to adopt some measure for a remedy. The Magistrate and myself proceeded two or three times to those Basutus who occupied certain spots in the Wittebergen, and warned them to quit. They made promises to do so, but still remained. Thefts and depredations became more frequent, and were committed with a sort of daring that amounted to open defiance.

 

The station of Moletsane, one of Moshesh’s chiefs, was not more than some forty miles from Winburg, and it was his people that created the disturbance in the Wittebergen. It also soon became evident that he and his people generally were in the habit of making marauding expeditions into the Sovereignty, and we were unfortunately, at the time, unprepared to oppose them. They became so daring at last, led on by Van der Korf, that the inhabitants on and near the border formed themselves into laagers,(in English, encampments) awaiting the assistance of Government. The British Resident wished, if possible, to avoid war, yet, affairs had arrived at that crisis, he was fully impressed that some move must be made, and that speedily. He felt that the troops he had at command (some 300 of all arms) were insufficient to make an aggressive movement against the enemy, and that he could not depend on the assistance of any great body of Dutch inhabitants. In this dilemma he decided to dispatch an express to Natal, urging the Governor there to send his assistance. It was conveyed from Bloemfontein, to Winburg by a small party of Cape Mounted Riflemen, with orders that the Fieldcornet should forward it from thence to the next Fieldcornet, and so on, till it reached its destination. It so happened that the morning the express arrived in Winburg, Dr Fraser, on the staff, Bloemfontein, entered it from the opposite direction, on his return from Natal. He stated that his two wagons, the evening before, had been attacked and fired upon by a party of Basutus, about half way between Zand River and Winburg, and that they were only induced to make off upon the fire being sharply returned by himself and attendants. He also brought information that a larger had been attacked the day before, situate some distance beyond the Zand River, and although the Basutus were repulsed, they managed to sweep off a considerable number of cattle and horses. On these occurrences becoming known, no one could be induced to convey the express further, and as it was all-important it should be dispatched without delay, in the then disturbed state of the country, I volunteered to carry it to the Fieldcornet in the Wittebergen, Mr. John Fick, a distance of sixty or seventy miles. Mr. Fick is the same gentleman we have seen shine as General Fick in the late Basutu war, and I know him to be a brave man. It was not from vainglory, or any feeling of boasting, or for remuneration, which I never asked, that I prefered [sic] my services to convey the express, but it was the importance of the occasion that induced it. I felt there was considerable risk attached to it, but I had faith in Providence, that I should, in so good a cause, be carried through safe. I wished to be supplied with two good horses, but this, at the moment, could not be complied with. I therefore had no alternative but to take two of my own, which were fortunately at hand, and with whose qualities I was well acquainted. In about an hour after the express had arrived I was on the way with it to the Wittebergen, having first secreted the dispatches about my person. It was 10 a.m. when I started. I left one of my horses with Mr. Du Plooy, near Zand River. Off-saddled there for a short time, again proceeded; passed through the river, and on my left observed a laager, which I knew contained a number of disaffected men. Presently a man started from it, on horseback, at full gallop, approaching me. When he came up with me, he was very curios to know where I was going, and what business I was upon, but I through very little light on the subject, and we parted. Riding some distance further I came to another laager, and here I again off-saddled for a short time. The good people were much surprised to find me riding alone in such troubled times, and on ascertaining where I was going to, apprehended I should not reach it in safety, as they had that day seen bodies of Basutus roaming about. I again started; drew near the Wittebergen; evening was closing in, and at a long distance off in the direction I wished to proceed, I could descry fires burning, which I concluded to be the encampment of Fick. On arriving there about an hour after dark, I found that I was right, and I was very glad that I had got to the end of my journey safe, after about nine hours smart riding, and without meeting any of the enemy. The encampment was a large one, containing several hundred people, and a great quantity of stock. In the dark it was some time before I could find Fick, but when I did, and told him my business, he was exceedingly rejoiced that there was a probability of assistance, and said I might consider myself fortunate that I had reached them, as the chances were, that I might have been captured or shot. I was glad to hear from him that he would see that the despatches were forwarded on next morning, by trusty hands, and that they would be in Natal territory by the next day. Having accomplished my object in conveying the express so far safe, I, the next day, returned to Winburg, without meeting the enemy. We were there all anxious about its result. It was not very long before we ascertained that it was all right, and that all the troops that could be spared from Natal, with some two thousand Zulus, under command of Mr. Thompson, were on their way to the Sovereignty. On their arrival they did good service, aided by what force could be got together on our side. The Wittebergen was cleared of the Basutus; the farmers broke up their encampments and returned to their homes, and order was in some measure restored, but peace was by no means firmly settled. Matters, however, went on tolerably well for a considerable time, and we were able to attend to our own immediate concerns, but many of the Dutch farmers were still far from being contented. In this state of affairs, Major Hogg and Mr. Owen were sent to the Sovereignty, by Government, as was suppose to put things on a more secure and satisfactory footing. They arrived at Winburg, and the farmers were requested to come from far and near to state their complaints. A great number did come. I was employed for a short time as interpreter, but when it was found I gave the truth, took the part of the farmers, and advanced my opinions (perhaps somewhat presumptuously) I was told my services were no longer required. Before these gentlemen left a meeting was convened at Zand River, attended chiefly by the Dutch from the Transvaal country, and resolutions were adopted which declared their independence, and a Republican government in that quarter was accordingly sanctioned. This opened our eyes in the Sovereignty, and induced us to think what would occur next. Some said, Was this the forerunner of what was intended for the Sovereignty? Subsequent events proved these conjectures true. Affairs, after all that had occurred, were going on pretty smoothly, and would have gone on better, had not the Basutus continued to give us trouble. I consequence, Major Warden, the British Resident, had made up his mind to bring them to their senses, at least to endeavour to do so by severe chastisement. This he thought he would be able to do, as he calculated on the Boers being on his side, they having been great sufferers by the depredations committed on them. He accordingly, through Fieldcornets, called on all able-bodied men of the Sovereignty to come forward and assist him in this object. I was with the Winburg Commando at Klipplaat Drift, between Moletsani’s country and Winburg, waiting for the arrival of Major Warden, with his forces, before attempting an aggressive movement. We had been there some weeks when we were informed that the major would attempt nothing until rain fell, and that we could return to our homes. With these orders the district of Winburg people were much dissatisfied; and when we arrived at Winburg on our return, we were urgently requested to attend a meeting in order to adopt some measures to open a conciliatory negotiation with the Basutus. On this being represented to the British Resident it was disapproved, which called forth the following letter addressed to the editor of the Friend, but was not published, it being considered, at that time. Couched in language too strong:-

 

To the Editor of the “Friend of the Sovereignty”.

                                                Winburg, October 11th, 1851.

 

            SIR, - Finding that your paper is devoted to the interests of the Sovereignty, and the sentiments expressed in it liberal, I think you will find a place in your columns for the following particulars.

 

In the Friend of the 22nd last month is published a notice of the British Resident, followed by a memorandum addressed to the inhabitants of this district, founded on a letter from the Civil Commissioner, Thomas Jervis Biddulph, Esq. In reference to a meeting held in Winburg on the 6th August last, declaring that the course adopted at that meeting “was, to say the least, altogether illegal;” and that “it does not appear that anyone came forward at that meeting to dissuade you (those assembled) from taking a disloyal step, “ namely by deciding to have “negotiation with the enemy.”

 

It is evident the memorandum addressed by the British Resident to “those who are called the loyal people of Winburg,” is intended as a severe castigation on them, and charges them with having behaved very disloyally, but the truth must be told, and then it will be seen how wrongly they have been accused, and on whose shoulders the blame ought to have been laid. The public will be no little suprised to find that it was the doings of Mr. Biddulph, the Magistrate himself, acting, as was supposed, on behalf of the Government.

 

The Winburg commando was lying at Klipplaat Drift, waiting for orders to join Major Warden, when instructions were received that nothing could be done until rain fell, and that all could return to their homes until further notice. Many were dissatisfied at this, knowing that they could not safely do so in the insecure state of the country, the natives stealing horses and cattle daily. On the 6th August the laager was broken up and retired on Winburg, where they arrived in the afternoon. The party had scarcely dismounted when they were requested by Mr. Biddulph to attend a meeting at the church. There were about 50 people assembled, and among them Mr. Biddulph, Mr. Burnet, his clerk, Commandant Wessels, Fieldcornets Wessels, Greyling and van Rooyen, and the Rev. Mr. van der Velden, the Dutch minister. The latter gentleman was particularly requested to attend by Mr. Biddulph, to interpret and assist.

 

No one present appeared willing to take the chair: it was, however, decided that Mr. Biddulph should preside. A few speeches were made, and after some further unconnected conversation the meeting dispersed, nothing definitely being decided on. How, then, was it possible Mr. Biddulph could take upon himself to represent the British Resident that it was determined at the meeting to adopt the following course, v.i.z.: “Seeing the Government could not support them in the hour of need, there was no course left than to take the matter into their own hands, and endeavour to open a conciliatory negotiation with the chief Molitsani,” – unless those conclusions were drawn from observations which fell at the meeting. It is really too bad that the inhabitants of the district of Winburg should be blamed when they are not guilty, and for responding to the call of their Magistrate. If convening that meeting was illegal: if there was anything to condemn: or if there was anything disloyal: let the Magistrate of Winburg answer for it, for he – and he alone – is to blame.

Mr. Biddulph has again deserted us for Bloemfontein, where I am of opinion he ought to have remained to the last. Now our ship’s in danger, the captain leaves the crew to navigate for themselves.

I am,

AN INHABITANT

 

When rain did fall, a commando or two went out against the enemy, but did not do much execution: and so things remained until the noted battle of Berea took place in December, 1852, under the command of our Governor, the Honourable Sir George Cathcart, who had with him one of by far the strongest British forces ever before, or since, over the Orange River, and who, by unskilful management, managed to have cut off and to lose so many of the 12th Lancers. Moshesh, however, pretended to have been humbled, and peace was proclaimed, but it is said that Sir George was so disgusted with the issue of the event, that he strongly recommended to the Imperial Government the abandonment of the Sovereignty, asserting that in his opinion it could not be maintained without a strong force and consequently a great outlay to Government. In this view of the case, humble individual that I am, I entirely differ with him, and maintain that some five hundred troops of all arms would have been amply sufficient to have kept the country in order under any circumstances.

 

 

V111

 

In glancing at the state of the native tribes in the vicinity of the Sovereignty, I brought events down to the battle of Berea in December 1852; but I find it necessary to retrace back a period of time, in order to bring forward an important but retrogressive event in my own history. Hitherto, and upholding the motto I have adopted at the head of these sketches, it has been seen, notwithstanding several drawbacks, that the tide of events continued to flow gently on in my favour, and would, there is but little doubt, had reached it’s flood, and led to fortune, had it been guided by some degree of firmness, caution, and discretion, but for want of these adjuncts, an ebb in, which increased with such rapidity, that the old ship, after having weathered the “battle of the breeze” for twenty-seven years, was grounded and left high and dry on the rocks, with her hull much shattered, and although again made seaworthy, never recovered the shock she had sustained.

           

            In the preceding paragraph, I have made a poor attempt at the figurative. Let me now be plain. I have before observed that I could not agree with Mr. Biddulph, the Magistrate. In some things I know I was to blame. Had I studied my own interest, my course ought to have been, when I found my own situation unpleasant, to have endeavoured to have borne with it, and to have gone on steadily and perseveringly with my duties to the best of my ability. Instead of which, I became callous and unsteady. Yes! I imbibed at times too much of the mountain dew and the Cape smoke, and had I not been blessed with an iron constitution, should, long ere this, have been numbered among the departed. At last things had arrived at that climax, that I made up my mind to resign my situation, but not before I was promised if I did do so, that I should be strongly recommended, even by Mr. Biddulph himself, to have a pension awarded, in consideration of my length of service. I, accordingly, on 15th February 1850, addressed a letter to Mr. Biddulph stating, that as I had suffered much for sometime past from ill-health, so that I was unable to discharge the duties devolving upon me as I could wish, I would thank him to submit my request to Major Warden, British Resident, to be allowed to resign my situation at the end of the present quarter; at the same time, fully trusted that the Colonial Government would grant me a suitable retiring allowance for my twenty-severn years faithful services. In six weeks after this I received a letter from the British Resident, of which the following is a copy:-

 

Bloemfontein, March 31st, 1850.

SIR,--- I have to acquaint you that the High Commissioner has been pleased to accept your resignation as Clerk to the Civil Commissioner of Winberg  but His Excellency cannot see that your services entitle you to a retiring allowance. You will cease receiving pay from this date. –

I have, &c.

(Signed) HD.WARDEN.

British Resident.

 

 

 

(Note by) Mr.. Dyason, Winburg,

I felt quite certain that my resignation would be accepted, but I was much disappointed to find that I was not considered entitled to a retiring allowance. I was, therefore, induced to make a further move in the matter. l replied to the British Resident's official communication, and, at the same time, addressed a private letter to him as follows:--

 

Winburg, 6th April, 1850.

My Dear Major, -- I trust you will excuse the liberty I take in addressing this to

you, but my present situation induces me to do so, and which I do the more readily as I always considered you to have been favourably inclined towards me during my residence in the Sovereignty. There is one thing I know, and I declare it, that I have been equal to all in my wishes and exertions for the peace and prosperity of this country' lt is, I am aware, a delicate task to speak of one's self, but from circumstances that have occurred, I am, for my own vindication, competent to do it. I therefore feel somewhat gratified in being able it say, that where I am known I am generally respected. Throughout the Sovereignty, and in this district especially, with few exceptions, all would come forward and do me a service if in their power.

You find I have resigned, and which has been accepted, but I am very sorry to learn that His Excellency does not consider me entitled to a retiring allowance. I do think it hard, after having served the public for twenty-seven years upon a small salary, scarcely enough to support me respectably; that I should be cast away in poverty and want during my declining years. I could write a deal more, but it is unnecessary, as I feel sensible, if required, you will forward my views upon the above subject.

I have, &c.,

(Signed). I. DYASON.

 

To this I received the following reply.-

 

Major Warden,

Bloemfontein, April, 10, 1850.

My Dear Sir, -- I have received your two letters of the 6th inst., and with reference

to the subject of a retiring allowance, I must say, although you may have but small claims on the Sovereignty, they are on a different scale as regards the colony, and I do trust that your long services will be considered. I would recommend you to procure a medical certificate, which Doctor Fraser, or some other medical man could conscientiously give, and send this with a memorial to His Excellency the Governor, through the Colonial Secretary. Should reference be made to me, I am bound to do all in my power to forward an old Government servant, and one so long highly respected, both in the colony and in the Sovereignty. - I have, &c.

(Signed). H.D.WARDEN.

 

 

 

I. DYASON, Esq., Winburg.

 

It is with much pleasure I received such a favourable reply from the British Resident; but I was guilty of neglect that I did not promptly act up to the advice contained in it. I never took steps to procure the medical certificate, nor did I address any communication to the Governor before the following October; thus allowing a period of six months to elapse, and engender a dormancy in my cause that could never be revived. The fact is, I felt hurt at the discouraging manner in which my claim had been treated, and was inclined to let the matter rest. I, however, came to the conclusion, that it would be well to make another trial by writing to Sir Harry Smith, personally, on the subject. I did so, and to which I received the following reply:

 

Grahamstown, 14th November, 1850.

 

SIR, -- I am directed by the Governor to acknowledge his receipt of your letter of the

24th ult. His Excellency desires me to say that he knows you to have been a zealous and

spirited public servant, and he would willingly serve you if he could do so. But you

voluntarily resigned your appointment, and he sees no means of affording you

assistance. I am directed to add that indemnification for your losses to which you

allude, is out of the question -- I have, &c.

(Signed) JOHN GARVOCH, Lieut. - Col,

Secretary.

 

I. DYASON, Esq.,

Winburg.

 

Thus was it decided that there was no hope of my ever receiving a pension, nor any compensation for loss of property to a considerable amount, by the outbreak of the Boers; but I have had the satisfaction, by the introduction of the above letter, to prove, that I retired from the service without any stain on my character. I am still of opinion that I was as much entitled to a retiring allowance as many others who have succeeded in obtaining it with much less length of service. Not long after, when the Sovereignty was abandoned, all the civil servants in it that could not be otherwise provided for, were awarded half-pay for life. Mr.. Biddulph was one of the number. His retiring allowance is either two hundred or two hundred and fifty pounds per annum. He had only been employed some six years in the civil service. He is now in England; and, as we are taught by the scriptures " to love our enemies," all the harm that I wish him is, that he may live long to enjoy his good fortune. How different my lot! The best days of my life have been devoted to the public service, and from the smallness of the remuneration received, I was unable to make any provision for my declining years. Thus had I, when fast approaching my fiftieth year, no other course left but to commence life afresh, with the comfortable reflection that the whole of my past career had been thrown away

without any profitable return.

 

 

IX.

 

It was seen by my last outline, that I had retired with credit from the Government service. The next step open, was to enter upon another course for existence. Fortunately I was not entirely destitute. I had still in my possession two of the six farms I had purchased, upon good terms, in the troubled times. Four of them were superior farms, two situated in the Wittebergen, two near Zand River, and two on the banks of the Vet River, near where it empties itself into the Vaal. The remaining two I soon after parted with upon very good terms to the purchaser. Thus was I in possession of means to carry on in the Sovereignty for some years after; even for a short period after it was so impoliticly abandoned by the British Government. I saw, at a later date, that I had parted with my farms too soon. Had I kept them for a few years longer, I should have got for them, in all probability, some eight hundred or one thousand pounds each, whereas I only received about fifty pounds for each.

 

At his period I became acquainted with a gentleman by the name of Peach. I found him a very warm-hearted man, and with the means I had, entered into arrangements to reside with him, his wife, and son, on a farm they had recently had granted to them, named Dankbaar Fontein, situate some eight miles from Winburg. This was entirely a new grant, and had never been permanently occupied before. Thus did I commence a second time a settler's life in Africa. Until we could get a house erected, we had to pass some months under canvas. It was the winter season, and the weather was very severe at times. We had all been used to roughing it, and therefore, we managed tolerably well. We made a nice garden; planted trees, and got several acres under cultivation, which we fenced in, and had besides several horses, a good number of horned cattle, a small flock of sheep, and also that all-essential thing to an African farmer, a good wagon. The stock improved and increased on the place, and the crops

turned out very fair. Thus had we every prospect of getting on well after a time. This agreeable state of affairs was, however, not to last long. We had not been more than a year on the farm, when the Basutos became very troublesome and daring, by their continued inroads and depredations until the British Resident found it necessary to issue orders to the respective Fieldcornets, to call upon all the able-bodied men to prepare for commando.

 

When this was known, Mr.. Peach and family would not remain longer on the farm, but retired to the residence of his son-in-law, Mr. Meintjes, near the Vaal River, taking with them the stock and my boxes. I parted with them, and proceeded on commando, and did not see them again for a year or more. Mr. Peach was, in many ways, quite a character. He would always have at hand his poinard, and never retire to rest without a brace of loaded pistols close by. His father was an Englishman, and held an appointment in the East India Company's Service, and his mother was a Portuguese lady. He had seen a good many ups and downs in life, and was a seaman by profession. The vessel he commanded was cast away years ago in Table Bay, and from that time he remained in South Africa. He married a Cape maiden of Dutch lineage, and at the time I knew him, had two sons and two daughters, all of whom had arrived at years of maturity. In talking over our different adventures, it came out that an uncle of his died some years before, bequeathing to him some One thousand, seven hundred pounds, but not knowing at the time his whereabouts, and from some informality, the matter had got into Chancery. He produced to me all the documents he had in his possession about it, and all that I conceived was wanting, was identity of person. He wished me to take further steps in the matter for him. I engaged to do so.

 

The necessary document of identity was prepared and sworn to before a Magistrate, which I forwarded to the Messrs. Maynards, at Grahamstown, requesting them to have the goodness to forward it and other instructions to England, to employ counsel there, and finally to bring the case before the Court of Chancery, fully trusting that the result would be favourable. After the lapse of a year or so, we had the satisfaction to learn that the case was gained, and Mr. Peach was directed to proceed to Grahamstown and receive the amount, deducting expenses. This was accordingly done, and the business was satisfactorily settled, reflecting great credit for the kind and active part the Messrs. Maynards had taken in it.

 

While all that is above related was going on, two or three years had passed away, and it has been seen what I was doing part of the time, but not all. When I parted with Mr. Peach, I joined the commando at Klipplaat Drift, the result of which, for want of rain, was described in my Chapter of Outlines No.7. At another time I was on commando, which did considerable execution. The British Resident had decided to attack the Basuto chief Molitsani in his stronghold, at his residence in the mountain, called Mekwatling. We had received information that he had received considerable addition to his force by the arrival of a body of Korannas, with several wagons, from near the Vaal River. Our force consisted of what troops could be spared from Bloemfontein, with some artillery, and two six-pounders, all under command of Capt.Bate of the 45th. There were also the District of Winburg Burghers, and our faithful ally Sykonyella, with several hundreds of his followers. The attack was made a

little before dawn of day. Sykonyella was the first engaged, and it became so hot for him, that he sent a messenger, urging us to hasten with assistance; we were soon after in action, but the artillery had not yet arrived.

 

At this moment, the British Resident ordered me to gallop through a cross fire and bring up the artillery with all speed. This was soon done, and the guns were brought into play. The enemy lost heart; and commenced a hasty retreat. There were some wounded on our side; but the loss to the enemy was much more severe. We passed several who were shot dead, and there were many wounded. The further result of the expedition was that we captured about three thousand head of cattle, a large quantity of grain, and ten wagons. On this occasion our troops and Sykonyella, with his men, were the chief parties engaged. The burghers, with few exceptions, were mere spectators, and in the exception, I must mention my friend, Fieldcornet John Fick, who was very daring and active throughout the whole stage of the action. We brought the cattle, wagons and grain to Bloemfontein, which were disposed of at public auction. The amount accruing therefrom was appropriated to cover the expense of the expedition, and the remainder was distributed amongst the farmers, as part indemnification for the losses they had sustained by the Basutos.

 

For some time after this encounter with the Basutos, they behaved themselves tolerably well, and for months I was either at Winburg or Bloemfontein, or riding about amongst my friends in the Sovereignty, until I thought it was time to pay a visit to my old friend Peach, and ascertain how he was getting on. I found he had not returned to the farm, nor did he intend to do so, in, as he considered, the present insecure state of the country. I had been with him some days, when we made up our minds to undertake a journey beyond Vaal River. We started with an ox wagon, having in our company his wife, and his eldest son, Carl, with two servants. We passed through the Vaal at one of the drifts, and arrived at Mooi River Dorp, called Potchefstroom, all safe. Passing a day or two  there, and getting supplies, we left, travelling in the direction of the Marico, which brought us again on the banks of the Vaal, along which we continued our journey for several days, meeting occasionally with a farm house, in calling at which we were most hospitably received. We then branched off into the interior, having at times to pass through miles of dense bush, through which an imperfect road had been cleared, until we reached the country called Marico.

 

It was, indeed, a beautiful country to look upon; herbage profuse; trees in abundance, and well supplied with water in all directions, interspersed with hills of no great height. A deadly sickness, however, some time prevailed in the country, something similar to yellow-fever in the West Indies. It had carried off more than a hundred of the inhabitants, and we found several confined to their beds with it, but we ourselves fortunately escaped. So infectious was the disease, that out of families of eight or ten, only some two or three would be left to tell the sad tale of the departed, and so alarmed were a large number of the survivors that they left the country, and thus was the Marico in a great measure abandoned. We had been three or four months travelling about different parts of the country, when we made up our minds to change our course homewards, and after six months absence, we, thanks to the Almighty, reached

Mr.Meintjes' farm in the Sovereignty, all well, with the exception of Mrs.Peach, who had been confined for some time to the wagon by sickness.

 

I have now early brought my adventures in the Sovereignty and beyond, in the interior, to a close. But I must not omit to observe, that when engaged on the duties of the Land Commission in the district of Winburg, we came upon certain hilly spots in it, covered with the remains of hundreds of huts, I might say thousands, built of stone, forming large towns, and which had been occupied by thousands of the natives, but who had been driven from them, and many murdered by their own interesting feuds some thirty years ago.

 

Large game is very abundant in the Sovereignty, especially in the districts of Winburg and Harrismith, &c. I have come upon spots where I have seen large numbers of various sorts feeding not far distant from each other, including the eiland, quagga, wildebeast, blesbucks, and springbocks, and the small tiger of the country is occasionally met with. Elephants are plentifid in and beyond the Marico; and all along the banks of the Vet and Vaal rivers, will be found, at night, hundreds of the wild peacock, roosted in the trees and bushes that line the said rivers.

 

 

X.

 

The mail steamer having brought intelligence of a European war, and the Colonial

Parliament having commenced its sitting, I thought it advisable to refrain, for a time, from intruding my outlines on the notice of the public. Considering, at the same time, that the space kindly allotted to me in the columns of the Anglo-African would be much more agreeably filled with matter of greater momentary interest. As we have, however, received tidings that leads to the supposition that the war will not long continue, -- and there being but little hope, from past precedent, that the Parliament will it its wisdom, which is much doubted - be productive of any great amount of good for the country, I have thought it well to resume the portraiture of my humble sketches. I may indeed well call them humble, as I am fully sensible of the want of any thing like elegance of diction or raciness of style in them; but, with all their imperfections, it is gratifying to me to find that they have so far been perused by many with interest in the colony, in the Free State, and in the Transvaal country. A friend of mine in the Free State has lately sent me a few numbers of the Friend, from which I glean the following favourable notices of my sketches:

 

We (the Editor of the Friend) have perused, with considerable interest the "Rough outlines of the life of a British Settler of 1820", evidently from the pen of our old friend Mr. Isaac Dyason, now appearing from week to week in the columns of the Anglo-African. Mr. Dyason does not give a very flattering picture of his first impressions or subsequent experience of his old baas, Mr. Thomas Jervis Biddulph, but, to say the truth, he (Mr.Dyason), is not we think, very wide of the mark. One thing only Mr. Biddulph did well, and that was his Land Commission work. For this he is deserving of praise.

 

The above notice brings forth the following remarks from a correspondent to the Friend, of the 10th August last, residing at Winburg:

 

Thomas Jervis Biddulph, ex Landrost of Winburg.

 

I coincide with your opinion of Mr. Dyason’s first impression of his "old baas." I know

the "man with the red stripe," as we used to call him in the '36 war. Well, and from what I know of his antecedents, especially in the affair of poor Lieut. Bailey, on the Debe Flats, and his hasty retreat from Winburg, in the time of the Boer rebellion, much cannot be said in his favour, either as an official or a man. 'Tis true his Land Commission reports have been accurately and neatly made; but thanks for this are due to his fellow commissioners and clerks.'

 

In a subsequent number of the Friend, the same correspondent writes as follows:-

 

Dyason's sketches are truthful and very interesting. Thomas Jervis Biddulph is drawn to the life, and as the soft impeachment of their being "lively imagined cannot be laid at the door of the inditer, the writer will no doubt, find favour in the eyes of the price of reviewers, the editor of the Colesberg Advertiser. By the way, Mr.Dyason is in error in stating that Van der Kolf was a German by birth; he was born at Beaufort West; the crime he committed there was not forgery, but horse stealing. Van der Kolf was shot by old Horne, somewhere between Rhenoster Kop and the Vaal River; a friend of mine, Captain Barnes of the 45th Regiment, was present on the occasion. It is said that "Koppie Alleen," now the property of Mr.M.Otto, was granted to Horne as a reward for slaying Van der Kolf

 

(Turning the other cheek ? - this editor.) I cannot but feel gratified that my sketches are approved of by the conductor of the oldest newspaper in the Free State, and I admit, with him, that Mr. Biddulph deserves praise for the manner in which the work of the Land Commission was performed in this district, and of which he was President, but as the Winburg correspondent to the Friend observes, praise is also due to the other members of the commission. F. Rex, Esq., Surveyor, was one, as well as the Fieldcornet of each of the respective wards of the district. I was also a member and Secretary to the Commission.

 

This point settled, I have now something to say to Mr. Howell, the Winburg correspondent, and, in the first place, I thank him for the handsome manner in which he is pleased to acknowledge my feeble attempt at describing past events in the country beyond the Orange River. I however, perceive that he is impressed with the feeling that they are not very "lively imagined." I acknowledge the soft impeachment, and have no doubt when his history of the country is brought to light the "incidents of the dim past" will be far more vividly described than any thing I can indite, or depict. I am aware, Mr. Howell, from his long residence in the country north of the Orange River, is in possession of many important facts connected with its history, and I have no doubt when his work does appear, it will be very interesting. I perceive it is not at me his shafts of satire are intended, but for the Editor of the Colesberg Advertiser, who has evidently much displeased him in a critique on his "Proposed History of the Orange Free State." Mr.Howell further states, "that I am in error in stating that Van der Kolf was a German by birth, and that the crime he committed was not forgery but horse stealing." This is Mr.Howell's impression of the matter, but I am still not convinced that he is right. It is true that it is a good many years ago that Van der Kolf was lodged in the Beaufort West Jail, but yet the circumstances attached to it are still vivid on my memory, and as Mr.  Howell appears to attach some importance to it, I will enter more into detail than I did in the proceeding (sic) outline.

 

When Van der Kolf was apprehended, I was Clerk to the Clerk of the Peace of Beaufort, and it was my duty to copy all the preparatory examinations for transmission to the Attorney-General. Van der Kolf had been travelling about the Beaufort district endeavouring to purchase stock, but whether horses, horned cattle, or sheep I am not certain. He did succeed in purchasing some at two or three places, for which he passed promissory notes, signing them with a fictitious name. This was soon after discovered, and the charge was brought against him to the authorities. Just at the time he arrived in Beaufort, and while the warrant was preparing, I found him in the street, and kept him in conversation until the officer with the warrant appeared and apprehended him, and conveyed him to prison. While there awaiting his trial, it was afterwards found, he had connivance with a coloured constable, who conveyed letters to his friends, and who purchased for him a number of hanks of thread. The prison was a two-storied building, and Van der Kolf was lodged in one of the upper rooms, having iron bars at the window. With the thread he had made a slight rope of some nine feet in length, and had an instrument secreted of sufficient strength to force the bars apart, so as to admit his body through, and when all was ready, two horses were at hand, (whether they were

stolen I know not,) one saddled and bridled. One morning early the alarm was given, that Van der Kolf had escaped. On examination of the prison the rope was to be seen suspended from the window, fastened at the top to one of the bars. After this I heard nothing of Van der Kolf till I arrived in the Sovereignty some years after. Van der Kolf was, I believe, born in the colony, but I was informed that his father was a German. Mr. Howell is quite correct in stating that he was shot somewhere between Rhenoster Kop and the Vaal River. It is my intention to make some remarks in reference to the abandonment of the Sovereignty. I shall return to this subject on another occasion.

 

 

XI.

 

As my friend Peach did not intend to occupy again the farm we had vacated in the neighbourhood of Winburg, and having business to transact, in reference to some of the farms I had sold, at Bloemfontein, I proceeded there, and there I resided until the arrival of Sir George Clerk, in 1853. It is known that this gentleman was sent out expressly by the British Government, as Her Majesty's special commissioner for settling the affairs of the Sovereignty. Settling, indeed! It was a pretty settlement certainly. It was soon found that the term settle was wrongly applied, and that the intention was nothing less than the abandonment of the country by the Imperial Government whether right or wrong. With the exception of those in the pay of Government, all the British born subjects in the Sovereignty were most strenuously opposed to the measure, and considered themselves most cruelly treated. Even the bare thought that such an obnoxious idea should ever have been entertained seemed to them preposterous. It was gratifying to us, in the Sovereignty, to find that our views were approved of by a large number in the Cape Colony, and that we were ably defended by the press, and it must be said next to our own paper the Friend of the Sovereignty, the Graham's Town Journal took the lead.

 

The Rev. William C. Holden also, in an appendix to his History of the Colony of Natal, gives a very full account of the Orange River Sovereignty, and argues well against the abandonment of it. Public meetings were held at Bloemfontein, and interviews were had with Sir. George Clerk trusting he might be induced to recommend the country to be retained, or at least that abandonment should be postponed for a time, until our Delegates had reached the mother country, and brought their case before Parliament or to the foot of the throne, if need be. But, all to no purpose, as on the 23rd February, 1854, the Orange River Sovereignty ceased to exist. If I remember right, the very same day, in the morning, the troops, some 300, were formed into line at the foot of the Queen's Fort, the British inhabitants were also assembled there, with some Dutch, and so was the chief Moshesh, and several of his followers. An address was read by George Home Esq., and afterwards handed to the commanding officer, thanking the troops for their important services at various times in assisting to maintain the peace of the country, and for their courteous behaviour during their stay in the Sovereignty; and, after burying a man, who had dropped dead while being marched from the Fort to join the ranks, caused by excess of drink over night, orders were given to the troops to march for the only colony; three cheers were given, and the remaining English returned to their homes, all of us having feelings better imagined than described, and which were, if possible, increased, when, on looking at the late Queen's Fort, we perceived that the English flag had been lowered and in its place a Dutch one hoisted, thus reminding us

that we were, at that moment, under a Dutch Republican Government. It was enough to make us rebel against our own, having been heartlessly abandoned.

 

In reference to abandonment, the Rev. W. C. Holden observes: "Indeed, there must be great ignorance of the Orange River Sovereignty and its relative importance and value to the colonies of the Cape of Good Hope and Natal, as well as to Great Britain itself otherwise the subject of abandonment, which has been entertained in many quarters, would never have found a place in the minds of thoughtful men."

Again, the Graham's Town Journal, in its leader of the 2nd July 1853, states:

 

Abandonment of the Sovereignty would not be an act of mere short-sighted policy; it would be one of those suicidal deeds, the folly of which is only equalled by their atrocity. The Sovereignty is the great door or highway into interior Africa, as well as the link which unites the splendid territory of Natal to this Colony. Break up this link, block up this highway, and incalculable mischief will be done, without any conceivable motive to justify the act. But, more than this, such abandonment could not take place without absolute dishonour to the British name and character. The Sovereignty is established as a separate and independant Government, under Royal Letters Patent; and these cannot be rescinded without injustice towards those who have invested their property on the security of them, and consequent discredit to the Government by whose breach of faith their prospects would be blighted, and their property wrecked.

 

With the above extracts I fully coincide, as they perfectly agree with my sentiments on the subject. Many more could be selected of a similar nature. A few, however, from our local and colonial papers, will be sufficient to prove and absurdity of the act of abandonment.

 

When we consider what was the condition of the Sovereignty five years ago (1849) and what is has produced even during so short a period, we must acknowledge that the acquisition of this territory, has not only proved a valuable addition to the colony but one of the soundest measures of policy that has emanated from the Government for many years. -- Graaf Reinet Herald, June, 15th.

 

A resident at Bloemfontein, at the time, gives the following reasons why the Sovereignty should not have been abandoned:

 

Its position and the nature of the country, open and flat, renders it easy of defence. Its

superiority as a sheep veld, and the dry and cold climate, favourable for earing of the young lambs. 95 per cent of their flock can be raised every year. Title deeds have been issued in the name of the Queen of England, and, upon the faith of the Government, large amounts of money have been expended on improvements. There may be about one quarter million of money outstanding in the Sovereignty, and payable within fifteen years from this. If it is given up, who is to guarantee the payment of this? What is to become of all the mortgage bonds, and who is to enforce the conditions? But the greatest difficulty of all, because it is really insurmountable, is this: What is to become of the Maitland treaty, signed by Queen Victoria, in favour of Adam Kok, and the only treaty existing here that bears her signature? Dare this be broken?

 

The Friend of the Sovereignty, March, 31, observes: The evils which have led to the

discussion as to the propriety of abandoning the Sovereignty, are not chargeable to the

annexation, but to its subsequent administration, and handling of the country generally.

These evils can be remedied, and the country restored to prosperity, if the proper means

are only adopted.

Besides the revenues derivable from quit-rents, and a variety of other sources, and the

admitted claim which the Sovereignty has to a share of the custom-dues collected at the

colonial sea-ports; which ought to be not less than five to six thousand pounds; the transfer dues alone would yield a very large amount, were the stability of the country once authoritatively declared. The right of transfer dues exacted in the two percent, the half of the rate paid in the colony. Were four per cent to be made the rate here, a revenue of five thousand to six thousand pounds would, in the course of 1854, be derived from that source alone. (In 1849 the transfer duty received was three hundred and fifty six pounds, five shillings and two pence., and so (sic) it went on increasing from year to year until in 1852 it amounted to one thousand, eight hundred and forty nine pounds, ten shillings and one pence). It is calculated by persons acquainted with the wool trade of the country, that upwards of 4,000 bales of about 1,200,000 lbs. of wool, will, during the season, be sent out of the Sovereignty. This quantity will not, perhaps, appear large to persons who do not consider all the circumstances; but if it be kept in view that only 1,220,000 lbs. were exported from the Eastern Province in 1843, it will at once be acknowledged, that, for a province of only three or four years' existence, the progress in the growth of wool is most gratifying. If the new Home Government or Parliament would only say, "Go a-head and don't bother yourselves about the prospect of abandonment,' the country would go forward with a bound. Those who are here would carry on improvements of every description, whilst such as have been deterred by those reports of abandonment would settle among us.

Notwithstanding all the evidence I have quoted, and a deal more was brought before Sir George Clerk, it had no effect. He was determined to act up to the instructions he had received from the Imperial Government, and this on the ipse dixit of, I may say, the Governor of a day, who had had but little opportunity of becoming acquainted with the affairs of South Africa. Sir George Cathcart was disgusted with the doubtful, if not unsuccessful encounter he had with Moshesh, with a strong force, on the borders of the Sovereignty. He designated the country a barren desert, and intimated that it could not be maintained without a strong force, and great cost to Government, and therefore recommended that it be abandoned.

 

In executing the unpleasant duty he had to perform, it is certain the British Government could not have selected anyone better qualified, in every respect, than Sir George Clerk. The Journal, at the time, very correctly observes:-

 

We cast no censure on Sir G. R. Clerk, whose gentlemanly conduct has won golden opinions from all men. He is simply acting upon instructions from those who have sent him hither to do an act of violence. Verily, if anything could influence the British inhabitants of the Sovereignty to prefer a request to be absolved from their connection with the British Government, it would be the series of mischievous blunders that have been made, of which this is the climax, in the administration of the affairs of that territory.

 

That the favourable portraiture of Sir George Clerk has not been over drawn I am prepared to testify. He had been some time in Bloemfontein, but so much did I disrelish the very thought of abandonment, that I had not sought a personal interview with him. He was from day to day engaged endeavouring to settle the affairs of the country with credit, prior to its abandonment, and using his best energies to satisfy all claims that were made upon justifiable grounds. Compensation was also allowed to parties, who could prove that they had had stock stolen from them by the natives. Molitsani's people having purloined a valuable horse of mine from the commonage of Winburg, I decided to wait on Sir George and proffer my claim for compensation for the loss I had sustained. On arriving at his residence, I found two men of the 45th Regt., on duty as orderlies. My name was announced by one of them, and I was very courteously ushered into the present of Sir George Clerk, who immediately desired me to be seated. In a few words I stated the business I had come upon, and when ascertained, it was directly satisfactorily settled. Sir George's manner to me was of the most affable description - so gentlemanly and unostentatious, that I directly felt quite at home. He desired me not to hurry away as he wished to have some conversation with me. During it he gave me to understand that he was pretty well acquainted with my Colonial history. He knew that I had been a long time in the government service, and was aware that I had passed many years at Beaufort West. He knew I had resigned my appointment in the Sovereignty. He expressed his

regret that I had done so. He told me he really felt for an old government servant like myself and kindly and feelingly concluded by saying that any thing he could do for me in his power he would, and said now that I had once called upon him, I must do so frequently as he wished to get information from me in reference to affairs of the country. It may well be supposed that I felt much gratified at the handsome reception given me by Sir George, and I have every reason to believe that he was sincere. I naturally expressed myself as being very grateful indeed, to him for his good wishes towards me; but, I said, Sir George, before we part, I consider it my duty, in candor, but with every respect, in inform you, that I do not like the vacillating conduct of the British Government, nor shall I ever approve of the abandonment of the Sovereignty.

 

 

XII

 

At the interview I had with Sir George R. Clerk, it was evident, from what transpired, that the tide of events was again taking a turn in my favour. It only wanted leading to make it flow freely; but then it would have been at the sacrifice of principle and of the views I had all along maintained in reference to the abandonment of the Sovereignty. Had I adopted Sir George's views he would, I felt, have re-instated me again in the Government service, and that in a superior position to what I had ever been before. As it was, he required me to assist him, with the gentlemen engaged, in taking the steps prior to abandonment. Those employed with, Mr. Rawstorne, Civil Commissioner of Colesberg, Commissary-General Graham, Mr. Moffat, brother-in-law of Dr. Living stone, Mr. Burnet, Clerk to Mr. Biddulph, now Civil Commissioner of Aliwal North, Mr .Thomas Jervis Biddulph, with, I believe, one or two more. I accordingly appeared at the office for a day or two. A great number of claims for compensation were made under various heads, and I must say, Sir George used his best endeavours to satisfy all, but that was impossible; and, as is generally the case, those who had but slight grounds of claim for compensation, were most unreasonable and urgent in their demands. Some whom I knew to have been leaders in the rebellion, were bountifully rewarded, whilemany of the loyal received but scant consideration. Upon the whole I had a greatdislike to the proceedings altogether. The last time I was at the office, it was between 9

and 10 o'clock in the morning, Sir George had not arrived, but Messrs, Rawstorne, Graham, and Biddulph had, and it may be another or two were present. On my entering, friend Biddulph addressed me personally, and intimated that I must not be so late there in future, as they were very busy times. What ! was the cringing sycophant envious to see that Sir George treated me with greater consideration than himself? and did he again think to domineer over me? He was mistaken. I was on fire in a moment, and addressing myself to all present, said, "Gentlemen, I would recommend you to get over the Orange River as fast as you can, as you will soon have no business here. I am off for the Vaal; so good morning;" and I rushed out of the room. Now, calm and serious-minded people are likely to consider that I acted very rashly, if, not foolishly, by taking such a hasty step, but such was my temperament at that period, that nothing in the shape of insult could be brooked by me, even at the cost of every future prospect of advancement. It must also be remembered that the measures going on for the abandonment of the Sovereignty were very distasteful to me, and I was eager to get away from having any hand in it. On quitting the office, I did not exactly proceed to the  Vaal, but was at times not far from it, and I did not return to Bloemfontein until a few days before the last scene in the tragedy of abandonment of the Orange River Sovereignty was closed, and a comedy introduced, termed the opening of the Free State.

 

I remained in the Free State for some time after Sir George Clerk took his departure, and during that time I was by no means idle. Besides, having been solicited by the leading Dutch to enter into the service of the State, I performed two or three engagements with business gentlemen in Bloemfontein, and had to enter upon duties that were entirely new to me. In executing my part in them, I was forcibly reminded of Shakespear's "seven ages”, wherein he says -

 

"All the world's a stage,

And all the men and women merely players:

They have their exits and their entrances:

And one man in his time plays many parts."

 

Yes! I had so far played a fair number of parts, and had passed through five of the seven

ages described by the immortal dramatist, but I am sure I was not “full of wise saws and modern instances," as in many of the scenes in which I had been engaged there was a deficiency of tact so necessary to ensure success; but I never lost sight of HOPE, and was sanquine to the last; trusting that it would be "better luck next time."

 

My last business engagement in Bloemfontein, at the latter end of the year 1854, was with Mr. Donaldson. I was assisting him in winding up his affairs prior to leaving the country, as he had decided not to remain in it after its abandonment by the British Government, but to proceed to Natal. He was satisfied with my exertions on his behalf, and urged me to proceed to Natal with him. I partly consented, but the idea was set aside by the arrival of Mr.Peach, who urgently solicited me to accompany him to Grahamstown and assist him in bringing the pecuniary results of his Chancery case to a final close. I, therefore, agreed to the proposition, and which was the more readily embraced, as I long had a desire to visit Grahamstown, having been absent from it for upwards of twenty years. I had heard much of the progress it had made in the march of improvement. I was informed I should be surprised to find how much it had increased in its dimensions, at the increase of population, and its refinement of manners, and at the beauty and extent of many of its buildings, both public and private, as well as at the improvements in its gardens and streets. Besides all this, I was aware that many of my early friends who were striving with me in the said town, many years ago,  for attainment to a higher position, had been fortunate, and had become honourable note both as citizens and statesmen. I fondly thought -- bearing in mind the warmth of feeling the settlers had for each other in times past - I should again be received amongst them with joy, and be almost overburdened with the continued acts of kindness forced upon me, and with the same desire to serve me if in their power. Perhaps this was expecting too much. Who was I that there should be so much interest taken in me? Certainly, I was one of the original boys, but had not, like so many others, made any progress in my career of life, and that was certainly a damper. At all events, I had a feeling that I should meet with friends who would serve me if they could, especially when they found me still full of vigour and energy; and would, provided I should decide again to settle in their midst, use their means and interest to place me in a respectable position. Remember, this was all imaginary.

Well, Peach and I arrived all right in the city of the graces, and I found that the picture I had formed of it in my mind's eye, had not, in several instances, been overdrawn. I was delighted with the improvement that had taken place in its external appearance, and was yet to learn  what was the moving principle "of the inward man" of its inhabitants. I soon discovered that, comparatively speaking, I was in the midst of strangers, as most of those with whom I was formerly acquainted, had passed away, but I met with a few old friends who kindly received me. I, however, could discover nothing of that warmth of feeling I had anticipated; all was precise, stiff, and cold, so different to what things

formerly were; but then, I supposed, it must be attributed to what is termed "the march of improvement," and self-respect has long obtained the dominion over everything else - I must not be too cynical. There was evidently much that was good in the city, and as I was tired of a wandering life, I had made up my mind to become a resident of it. I returned, with Mr. Peach to it, having promised a tried and sincere friend in Grahamstown, I should return when I had accomplished by business beyond the Orange River.

 

 

(The sections of the above 'Rough outlines.. ." appear in the Anglo-African, printed in

Grahamstown, as follows: -

Chapter: I             23.6.1866.

Chapter: I1             30.06.1866

Chapter: I11             07.07.1866.

Chapter: 1V             14.07.1866.

Chapter: V             21.07.1866.

Chapter: V1             28.07.1866.

Chapter: VII             11.08.1866.

Chapter: VIII             18.8.1866

Chapter: IX             1.9.1866

Chapter: X             22.9.1866

Chapter: XI             6.10.1866

Chapter: XII             20.10.1866

 

 

 

THE LAST SECTION ENDS WITH THE PHRASE "TO BE

CONTINUED" BUT NO FURTHER INSTALMENTS APPEAR

TO HAVE BEEN PUBLISHED.