CHAPTER XV

.--COLESBERG AND THE WEST. Dec. 1899-Feb. 10, 1900.

General French's position--Engagements near Arundel and Rensburg--The Boers fall back on Colesberg--British camp moved to Rensburg--Fighting round Coles Kop--French's mobility--Loss of a commissariat train--Both sides reinforced--General Schœman repulsed--Death of Major Harvey--Boers driven back--Disaster to the Suffolks--Occupation of Slingersfontein--Guns and supplies hauled up Coles Kop--Small actions near Colesberg--Boer attack near Slingersfontein--Guarding the railway junctions--Gradual withdrawal of British forces--A ride for life--Accuracy of Australian shooting--Coles Kop and Slingersfontein evacuated--British retire to Arundel--Seizure of German steamers--Lord Roberts conciliates the Colonials--Reorganisation of transport--Roberts and Kitchener leave Capetown--Lord Methuen keeps the enemy busy--Demonstrations towards Koodoesberg Drift--Roberts in camp--Preparations for the great blow--Composition of the Grand Army 320-345

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