[298] So called because the officers and men belonged to regiments stationed at Malta at the beginning of the war.
[299] The correspondence was as follows:—
“I, Ralph Clements, Major-General, having full power from Field-Marshal Lord Roberts, G.C.B., &c., Commander-in-Chief of Her Britannic Majesty’s forces now in South Africa, hereby demand the surrender of the town of Bethlehem to me by 10 A.M. this day, Friday, July 6, 1900—failing which I shall bombard the town.
“The inhabitants are hereby informed that should the town surrender, and subsequent to its surrender any firing takes place at the troops under my command when occupying it, the town will be shelled and burned.
“R. Clements.”
“To well-respected Sir R. Clements.
“Respected Sir,—In connection with the missive you have addressed dated 6th July to the village of Bethlehem I have, your Excellency, herewith to state that no reply can be given.
“The responsibility will rest on you for the blood of innocent women and children in case you should bombard the town.—I have the honour to be, Sir, &c.,
“C. R. de Wet,
“Chief Commandant.”
[300] The greater part of the Royal Irish mounted infantry were in this column, see [p. 367].