CHAPTER X

.--THE BATTLE OF MAGERSFONTEIN. Nov. 29-Dec. 12, 1899.

New bridge over the Modder--Lord Methuen reinforced--British communications threatened--Position of Magersfontein--Boer defences--Boer methods--Difficulty of relieving Kimberley--Skirmishing--Lord Methuen's plans--Choice of Sunday--Disposition of troops--Attack on Magersfontein kopjes--General Wauchope's premonitions--Night march--Boers open fire--Demoralisation of Highland regiments--Accounts of the fighting--General Wauchope's death--Collapse of Highland Brigade--Artillery support--Reinforcements--Heroism on the field--Protest against Lord Methuen's orders--Artillery cover Highlanders' retreat--Incidents of the battle--British retirement to Modder River--British losses--Cronje's account--Criticism of Lord Methuen's tactics--Burial of General Wauchope 172-204

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