So far as military purpose can be inferred from military action, the effort of the Boers was concentrated--or rather localised--upon the occupation of unprotected and friendly districts in the east, where they took up scattered defensive positions, while for offensive operations they satisfied themselves with the investment of Kimberley and Mafeking.
An American correspondent--evidently not unfriendly--writing of Pretoria about October 20, records an instructive anecdote, which reveals much of the Boer idea and purpose, and suggests food for thought as to underlying causes, not unprecedented in history, which from the first, if then known, would have foretold sure defeat.

"A large door on the opposite side of the room opened, and a clerk informed the Secretary (Mr.Reitz) that he was wanted in the Executive Council room.

While he was collecting a number of papers on his desk I could hear the conversation of {p.122} men in the adjoining room.
Suddenly there was a deep roar--almost like that of a lion--and at the same time a bang on the table that made the windows rattle.

And the voice--it was that of a man--continued its deep bellowing, and again there was a thundering bang on the table.

'The old President has met with some obstacle in his plans,' said the Secretary of State, smiling at my look of surprise at the sound of such a human voice, and he disappeared with an armload of papers....