SERGEANT and BUGLER, 1st ARGYLE AND SUTHERLAND HIGHLANDERS.
Photo by Gregory & Co., London.
Their deliberate unenlightenment, had it not been so tragic for those who suffered in consequence of it, must have been almost comical. On one occasion the question of firing at the clouds to bring down rain was discussed, and declared to be impious.
"August 5.—A memorial was read from Krugersdorp, praying that the Raad would pass a law to prohibit the sending up of bombs into the clouds to bring down rain, as it was a defiance of God, and would most likely bring down a visitation from the Almighty.
"The Memorial Committee reported that they disapproved of such a thing, but at the same time they did not consider that they could make a law on the subject.
"Mr. A. D. Wolmarans said he was astonished at the advice, and he expected better from the Commission. If one of their children fired towards the clouds with a revolver they would thrash him. Why should they permit people to mock at the Almighty in this manner? It was terrible to contemplate. He hoped that the Raad would take steps to prevent such things happening.
"The Chairman (who is also a member of the Memorial Commission) said the Commission thought that such things were only done for a wager.