Against Wagon Hill went 300 men, who, on reaching the foot, took off their shoes and divided into two parties, one of which climbed noiselessly Wagon Hill, the other Wagon Hill West.

They came as a complete surprise upon the British outposts.

Wagon Hill West was held by two squadrons, about 70 men, of Natal troopers--the Imperial Light Horse; Wagon Hill proper by a half-battalion of infantry.

It happened, however, by fortunate coincidence, that it had been decided {p.240} to mount that night a naval gun upon Wagon Hill West.

This, with an escort of engineer troops, a half company of infantry, and some seamen--in all sixty rifles--had reached the foot of the hill by 2.30 A.M., the hour the attack was made.
Alarm was taken only an instant before the Boers were upon the garrison.