"Advocate Coster was State Attorney at the time of the Reform trials, but resigned owing to President Kruger having insulted him at a meeting of the Executive. He was an accomplished man, a member of the Inner Temple, and was very popular with the Dutch Bar.
"General Ben Viljoen was responsible for most of the fire-eating articles which appeared in the Rand Post."
"Colonel Schiel was court-martialled in past days for shooting four natives whom he accused of insubordination."
The courage of the Boers during this battle was immense. About two thousand were engaged, and these, though certainly aided by the strength of their position, fought valiantly, facing doggedly the heavy consummately well-directed fire of the British artillery, and returning it with undiminished coolness.
An interesting incident is mentioned in connection with the battle. When the fire of the British guns became overwhelming, eight plucky Boers dashed forward from cover, and, standing together, steadily opened fire on the men of the Imperial Light Horse, with the evident purpose of drawing their fire, while their comrades should change position. Out of this gallant little band, only one man was left to tell the tale!
THE BATTLE OF ELANDSLAAGTE—CHARGE OF THE 5th LANCERS.
Drawn by R. Caton Woodville.
The following is the casualty roll of officers killed at the battle of Elandslaagte:—