"The 1st Cavalry Brigade having been broken up, General Gordon hopes that the O.C. Royal Scots Greys will be good enough to permit him to express through Regimental Orders to all ranks of the regiment his very sincere thanks for their gallantry and devotion during the six months the Brigadier has had the honour to command the Brigade. No leader could possibly have been better served, and the Brigadier will always think of the Scots Greys and other units of the 1st Cavalry Brigade with the sincerest feelings of admiration and true affection."
Carbines were now withdrawn and long rifles issued and carried to conclusion of the war.
27th.—The regiment marched from Johannesburg at 5.30 a.m., via Reitfontein to Putfontein, to take part in operations in Eastern Transvaal against Botha, under Lieut.-Gen. French, forming part of eight columns stretching from Middelburg, on Delagoa Railway, to Heidelberg, on Natal line.
29th.—The regiment marched from Putfontein at 4 a.m., engaging enemy at Boschman's Kop, which was strongly held. On arrival of Col. Pulteney's column the enemy retired, leaving several dead and wounded. They were followed up by A Squadron under Capt. Feilden, and several prisoners and wagons were captured.
Casualties:—Killed—3735 Pte. J. Stokes. Wounded—Ptes. 3576 Harper, 3359 Bell, 3875 Angus, 3526 Sergt. Hughes, Ptes. 4586 Fergus, 4527 Colvin, 3896 Martin.
Bivouacked at Reitfontein.
No. 4937 Pte. T. Mercer died of disease at Germiston.
Jan. 30th.—Pom-pom of enemy opened fire as we were going into our lines. Made off on two squadrons being sent in pursuit.
The regiment marched from Reitfontein at 8.50 a.m. to Watervals Hoek. No. 3896 Pte. Martin died from wounds received in action at Boschman's Kop. No. 4720 Pte. Archer accidentally wounded.
31st.—No move. Patrols to front engaged with enemy throughout the day.