At half-past eight the proposed Flying Column, which is to co-operate with the relieving force, had a kind of dress rehearsal, all turning out with field equipment and transport for three days' rations.

The Irish Fusiliers under Major Churcher formed the head of the column at Range Post, a body of Natal Volunteers coming next, followed by the Gordons.

I waited at Range Post in the eager and refreshing wind till the column gradually dissolved into its camps, and all was still.

By eleven the rehearsal was over and I rode back to my end of the town.

To-night the civilians of the Town Guard went on picket by the river, and bore their trials boldly, though one of them got a crick in the neck.
_December 13, 1899._ The early part of the day was distinguished by a violent fire from the big gun of Bulwan upon the centre of the town and the riverside camps.
"Lady Anne" answered, for she has not yet been removed to her destined station on Waggon Hill.