I find, though, that Joeboy is missing, and if he does not return I shall have to come and meet you myself, and then I can tell you what to do.

I will, however, write this in the hope that I can send it, as I do not want to leave your aunt and Bob, for there is much to do, burying and hiding a few valuables in case we are ever able to come back." "Oh!" I exclaimed, and Joeboy half-sprang to his feet, but subsided as I went on: "War has broken out, the Boers having defied the British Government.

It has, of course, all been a surprise to me; but the news is coming in fast.

Hodson has been here, and he tells me the English are all receiving orders to go.

It is ruin to us, and after making such a home; but, God help us! we must do our best.
"Of course you cannot serve against your own countrymen, and I don't like your having anything to do with the horrible business; but if you feel that you must join in with our people and act as a volunteer against what is a cruel tyranny, I know you will act like a man.
"I can write no more, and Heaven knows when we may meet again.