The Boers evidently preferred dropping in shells at a safe distance to risking their lives by a storming attack.

With great pride Mr.P.showed me a basket of carrier pigeons, by which he assured me I could now communicate swiftly and safely with the garrison.

He was even kind enough to send off one at once on a trial trip, with a short note signed with his name, informing Colonel Baden-Powell that I was at Setlagoli, and that I would be able to forward any letters or information they might wish to send.

I had never had any experience of such birds, and was delighted to think how much quicker they would travel than old Boaz.

When the pigeon was released, however, I must confess it was rather disturbing to note that it did not seem at all sure of the direction it should take, circling round at least twenty times in the air.