17th.—The regiment marched from Reitkuil at 8.15 p.m. to Leeuwkop.
3645 Sergt. Head died of disease at Standerton.
18th.—The regiment marched from Leeuwkop at 6 a.m.
Strong party of enemy located in a laager by advance scouts under Lieut. D. McCombie. Attack not being ordered at once by Gen. Hamilton, enemy inspanned and took up a strong position. A Squadron with one squadron 5th Dragoon Guards were ordered to attack, under Major C. W. M. Feilden.
The attack not being supported by the remainder of the column, the squadron 5th Dragoon Guards were forced to retire, and A Squadron suffered severely in extricating itself, with the following casualties:—
Killed—Lieut. J. F. Rhodes, 4225 Sergt. Glen, 4237 Pte. Cruickshank. Wounded—Capt. and Adjt. E. Ussher, Major C. W. M. Feilden, D.S.O., Ptes. 4749 Coffield, 4253 D. Ritchie, 4818 G. Welsh, 3955 E. Gray, 4709 R. Bell, 3375 D. Beatson.
Enemy estimated at 500. The whole force then retired and bivouacked at Nigel.
20th.—Major C. W. M. Feilden, D.S.O., died of wounds; 3575 Pte. Beatson died of wounds. The regiment marched from Nigel at 6.30 a.m. to Springs. Capt. and Adjt. E. Ussher died of wounds.
23rd.—The regiment marched at 11 p.m. for reconnaissance. No enemy. Returned to bivouac.
25th.—Civil Surgeon J. S. Clark attached to regiment.