13th.—The regiment marched from Skene's Farm towards Bloemfontein. After firing a few shots, the enemy retired, and the city surrendered to Lord Roberts about 10.30 a.m.
Bivouacked west of Bloemfontein.
14th.—Army Orders: "It affords the F.-M. Commanding-in-Chief the greatest pleasure in congratulating the Army in South Africa on the events which have occurred during the past few weeks, and he would especially offer his sincerest thanks to that portion of the Army under his immediate command which have taken part in the operations, resulting yesterday in the capture of Bloemfontein. On February 12th this force crossed the boundary which divided the Orange Free State from British territory. Three days later Kimberley was relieved. On the fifteenth day the bulk of the Boer army in the State, under one of their most trusted generals, was made prisoners.
"On the seventeenth day the news of the relief of Ladysmith was received, and on March 13th, 29 days from the commencement of the operations, the capital of the Orange Free State was occupied. This is a record of which any army may well be proud—a record which could not have been achieved except by earnest, well-disciplined men, determined to do their duty, and to surmount whatever difficulties or dangers might be encountered. Exposed to extreme heat by day, bivouacking under heavy rain, marching long distances, not infrequently with reduced rations, the endurance, cheerfulness, and gallantry displayed by all ranks are beyond praise; and Lord Roberts feels sure that neither H.M. the Queen nor the British nation will be unmindful of the efforts made by the Force to uphold the honour of their country.
"The Field-Marshal desires especially to refer to the fortitude and heroic spirit with which the wounded have borne their sufferings.
"Owing to the great extent of country over which modern battles have to be fought, it is not always possible to afford immediate relief to those who are struck down. Many hours have indeed elapsed before some of the wounded could be attended to, but not a word or murmur of complaint has been uttered. The anxiety of all when succour came was that their comrades should be cared for first. In assuring every officer and man how much he appreciates their efforts in the past, Lord Roberts is confident that in the future they will continue to show the same resolution and soldierly qualities, and to lay down their lives if need be (as so many brave men have already done) in order to assure that the war in South Africa may be brought to a satisfactory conclusion."
Mar. 15th, 16th, and 17th.—At Bloemfontein.
18th.—The regiment marched from Bloemfontein at 7.50 a.m. to Wessel's Farm, where it bivouacked.
20th.—Information received of the death of General Clarke, C.B., Colonel of the regiment.
25th.—No. 4042 Cpl. Peters died of disease at Kimberley.