During the night as they drew near De Aar, his guards fell asleep, and our brave Commandant prepared to leave the train.

He seized a favourable opportunity when the engine was climbing a steep gradient and jumped off.

But the pace was fast enough to throw him to the ground, though fortunately he only sustained slight injury.

When daylight came he hid himself.

Having made out his bearings he began to make his way back on the following night.