Michael D.Heath-Caldwell M.Arch.

Michael Heath-Caldwell M.Arch
Brisbane, Queensland
ph: 0412-78-70-74
alt: m_heath_caldwell@hotmail.com

1900

Eliza Louisa Marsh-Caldwell – known as Louisa - age 81/82

Frances Mary Crofton (ne Marsh) - age 80/81

Georgina Amelia Marsh-Caldwell – Gies - age 79/80

Rosamond Marsh-Caldwell – Posy - age 76/77

Admiral Sir Leopold Heath - age 82/83

Lady Mary Heath – (ne Mary Emma Marsh) - age 75/76

Arthur R. Heath - age 45/46

Marion Emma Crofton (ne Heath) – May - age 43/44

Major Frederick Crofton Heath R.E. – (Gen. F.C. Heath-Caldwell) - age 41/42

Constance Mary Helsham Heath-Caldwell - aged 31-32

Cuthbert Helsham Heath-Caldwell -aged 10/11

Martin Frederick Heath-Caldwell- aged 6/7

Cuthbert Eden Heath - age 40/41

Sarah Caroline Gore Heath (ne Gambier) age 40/41

Leopold Cuthbert Heath age 5/6

Genesta Mary Heath - age 0/1

Ada Randolph Broadwood (ne Heath) - age 39/40

Herbert Heath - age 38/39

Gerard Moore Heath - age 36/37

Diary Letters of Captain Gerard Moore Heath R.E. from Ladysmith, South Africa.

Monday 1 January 1900 - New Year's Day.
I am going to close this now, much love dear Mother to you and to all, and a happy New Year.
Colenso guns are firing, a joyful sound, Boer guns doing their usual evening shelling of us. They say we have had over (15) 8,000 shells fired into us, with marvellously little damage considering.
Your affectionate son, (Sd) Guard M. Heath.
We have over 1,300 sick, chiefly with Typhoid and dysentry.

Monday 1 January 1900 - New Year's Day.

Various small employments for us. Tilney concocted fearful and wonderful puddings, we call them "Gluten pudding" it consists of old pieces of bread saved from table, green grapes, chocolate flour and tapioca, all boiled into a sort of sticky glue, very filling but heavy on the stomach.

A good deal of shelling from Boers. They sent in a note in a shell and asked why "we cowards did not come out of our holes and fight them."

Tuesday 2 January 1900
Civil and Military Gazette (Lahore)

School of Military Engineering - Capt. G.M.W.Macdonogh R.E., to be Brig.Major, and Secretary, vice Major F.C. Heath R.E., whose period of service in that appointment has expired.

Saturday 20 January 1900
West Surrey Times

Capel
Parish Council - A Council meeting was held on Tuesday for the purpose of filling a casual vacancy and other business. A letter was read from Sir L.G. Heath re footpath at Coldharbour, referring the Council to Sec.13 of the Local Government Board Act 1894 - On the motion of Mr Roffey, seconded by Mr Worsfold, it was resolved that the Council sanction the expenditure of not more than £1 in repairing the footpath.

Dairy Letters for Captain Gerard Moore Heath RE from Ladysmith, South Africa in Boer War

Friday 26th January 1900

Night alarm. Boers attacked Wagon Hill and Caesar's Camp at 2.30 a.m. I called up men and stood to arms. Firing increased and attack became general, one of my natives in my camp hit in the knee earlyl, but wound slight. There were a good many bullets whizzing over head and flying about my camp.

I went up to Flagstaff Hill with Aylmer to spy and remained there the whole morning. I reported re-inforcements from South moving against Wagon Hill and Boers in a nullah under Lancer's Nek. Our guns got into action on each flank without much effect on right, but good on the left.

(3)
In the afternoon I took the Balloon Section up the Flagstaff Kopje (having no orders) and posted them along side a company of the Gordons. A good few bullets about and no attack on that side, so we had nothing to do but watch Boers about 5,000 yards away.

Later the section on a call for ammunition took a lot up to Ceasar's Camp, and found it was not wanted after all. There was heavy fighting going on all this time on Wagon Hill and Ceasar's Hill, but personally I never realised till told about it afterwards, what a bad fight it was, as I saw a great many of our men quite happy under cover on our slope of Wagon Hill, and there appeared to be no call for re-inforcements there.

We had a working party of 2 officers and 30 men (R.E.) on Wagon Hill when attack began, they fought gallantly all day, losing 2 officers and 17 men killed and wounded. I met one of latter walking down the hill, with a bullet through both cheeks, he did not seem to mind much, but said it hurt him to talk, naturally I put him on a stretcher and sent him to hospital.
The attack was not over till after dark and the Boers who had got twice on to Wagon Hill had to be driven by the bayonet and there they just ran!

Our losses 14 officers killed, 23 wounded, about 100 men killed and 220 wounded. Boers believed to have lost about 150 killed and many wounded.

Sunday 7th January 1900
I went over battle fields and they were not altogether pleasant, but one soon gets used to it. The Boers who got to the top must have been plucky fellows. They were lying within a few feet of our men. They were mostly oldish men and all I think Free State, the Transvaal lot are not a patch on Free State either for pluck or for honesty or any thing else.

Majuba Day,Tuesday 27th Feb 1900
Great bombarding from Buller and heavy fighting (this was the battle of Pieters, a great victory after sixteen days hard fighting.) Long Tom of Bulwana anxious to show how far he could shoot.

Wednesday 28th February 1900
I was convalescing in hospital, when heliogram came from Buller, "Enemy thoroughly beaten and believed to be in full retreat, I am pursuing with Cavalry and Artillery as fast as bad roads and difficult country will allow," or words to that effect.

About 3 p.m. Aylmer watching Long Tom through his telescope from verandah of Convent, saw a derrick go up on the gun and evident preparations made for taking it away.

I sent a fast messenger to Head Quarters to tell them - Naval guns opened a hot fire and did some very good shooting which we watched through our telescopes with very great interest! about 12 of the Boers in the gun emplacement thought it was not good enough, and ran away as fast as their legs could carry them, but about 6 remained and went about their work in a dignified, stolid way, as if nothing was happening, they were much to be admired, for Lyddite shells from our Guns were bursting all around and on the emplacement. They got their gun away all right, but I think probably in the night.

Meanwhile we could see Boers moving away from their Colenso positions in two or threes at a walk. They were passing away West all day and there must have been a lot of them. (2)
RELIEVED!

Carbineers headed by Macdonald came in over Klip River drift in the evening. I got on to a poney and galloped down to meet them though I thought I should fall off, I was so weak - all was great excitement - everybody cheering- - natives and all - much speechifying in the streets and singing of "God save the Queen" speeches by Sir G. White, Hunter and others, "Thank God," said Hunter, "That we have been able to preserve our flag," then everyone thought everyone else was "a jolly good fellow,' and sang to that effect in various keys - when it was too dark to see each other's faces we dispersed.

Poor Burtenshaw very ill in hospital from Enterio, not much joy for him, but hope the sound of it will do him good, and the other 2 or 3,000 of our sick. Driver Cross died at Intombi a few days ago, he was a very good lad. That makes three of my little lot - half the section are still in hospital.

Thursday 1st March 1900
Appears Boers panicked yesterday,leaving all their camp and much loot. Buller and staff came in, but there was no demonstration to speak of. Archie Calvert having captured Bulwana (already evacuated!) came to see me, looking handsome and hard a iron. I robbed him of some tobacco, a box of sardines and a pot of jam which we found in his wallets, and jolly good they were too.

About 10.a.m. we sent out a flying column of weak kneed men and starving cavalry, but they could only get a few miles and (3) the gunners got to a hill just too late to shell the last Boer train, leaving Modder Spruit,the Boers blowing up two culverts behind them as they left.
Buller refused to pursue. I expect he was quite right, his cavalry was tired and the country intricate.

Hawkins got through to Maritsburg on the telegraph at 3.30 p.m. and the Mail for England was sent out, the first for over 17 weeks. Tilney went out looking at Boer Camps and returned with a pony and a Boer saddle bag full of various luxuries, which he gave to the men.
Buller and Co. returned to their camp at Nelthorpe. Hear poor Massy killed at Spion Kop, very very sorry.

Friday 2nd March 1900
More relief and good pouring in, an issue made of jam!!
Saw Phillips and Buller's Balloon Section and Sandback his A.A.G. for Intelligence.

Saturday 3rd March 1900
Arrival of letters from home!! only a small batch, though, I hear 15 tons of letters are on their way for Ladysmith garrison.

Buller made a grand triumphal entry - but it was not much fun for we poor weak ones, who had to line the streets for 3 hours in a very hot sun and cheer. Buller looked very old and as if responsibility sat heavy on him, but perhaps he was only hot like the rest of us - but his men looked thorough hard war worn Soliders that nothing would stop, it was rather terrible to see so few Officers (4) left and nearly all regiments commanded by Majors, "You've done splendid fighting" I said to a man of the Rifle Brigade, "Oh we meant to relieve you alright this time," he said. "What are your losses in your regiment? "Oh, I think about 200," "How many Officers?" "Oh, about 10 or 11, Sir,' all said in a nonchalant sort of way, and no regret shown.
Luxuries coming in fast and we had quite a good dinner, it is extraordinary how greedy one is.

Sunday 4th. March 1900
A Thanksgiving Service was held in the open. I did nothing but listen to stories of how galantly the Soldiers of the relief column fought. I sent a letter, suggesting that Phillip's section should be combined with mine to make one efficient section.

Monday 5th March 1900
A weary day's work, but perfectly delightful evening, nearly 80 letters (sat up reading them till 2.30 a.m.) from Wife, children, Father, Mother, Aunts and Cousins, let alone about 50 newspapers and parcels.

There were presents - plum pudding, socks, Christmas Cards, Pipes and tobacco, silk handkerchiefs, everybody so kind, I felt quite proud.

In the morning I agitated about getting Balloon Section sent to Free State, but no good.

Dairy Letters for Captain Gerard Moore Heath RE from Ladysmith, South Africa in Boer War

Ladysmith

14 March 1900

Dear Father and Mother,
We have just experienced the worst hail storm I think I have ever seend. Strong wind and hail stones, without any exaggeration as big as hen's eggs. I only just got to my tent in the nick of time and luckily it stood.

Others did not fare so well and tent and all went, and they were left to protect themselves as best they could in the folds of the canvas. Meanwhile, in case mine would collapse, I stowed my small articles and fortified myself against stones with my table and a drawing board. I hope on one has been hurt or killed, but I should think those out in the middle of it must have had a bad time.

I have been looking up my diary to find out when I sent my last diary letter but I can find no entry. I think it must have been before the battle of the 6th January in which I took no part. I will take it up at Christmas Day.

Thursday 18th March 1900
I find I must stop this uninteresting record for now, as mail goes and I have other letters towrite. Caesar's Camp and Wagon Hill were in a very undefended state before the attack and I was afterwards, ballooning being off, put in charge of these hills in order to get them into a state of defence.

This gave me a great deal of work and a great deal of walking in hot sun. I got out a scheme for clearing the slopes of trees, and for building Sangers and making obstacles etc., which was generally followed.

A good deal of work had to be done at night for fear of shell and bullets, but later we got callous and worked all day and found that if in small parties we were not spotted.
I also engeinnered a flying bridge of pontoons running on a cable made of telegraph wires, but before this was completed, I had on February 4th to go to hospital with fever and remained there until the day before Buller relieved us. I have had every man but one of my lot and 3 officers in hospital, four men have died, there are eight in hospital still and the remainder are a sickly lot.

Today I take over Buller's balloon section and join it on to my own. I have also taken over the "mapping section" of the Intelligence Department, but this is only temporary I think and any way there is little or nothing to do there just now.

I am also taking over Seach-lights, so shall have plenty of jobs if there is more fighting.
Best love to all, and thank you, May dear for that beautiful little diary book and letters from all and Aunt Posy for hers.
Your affectionate son,
G.M.

Tuesday 20 March 1900
Surrey Mirror

Holmwood
Charles Hamerton Gould, The Vicarage, Holmwood, clerk in holy orders, proposed by Admiral Sir L.G.Heath, Anstie Grange, Holmwood, seconded by J. Bixby, School House, Holmwood.

Saturday 20 January 1900
London Evening Standard

Among the later contributors to the Lord Lieutenant of Surrey's Volunteer and Yeomanry Equipment Fund, which now amounts to between £6,000 and £7,000 are the following - - - Viscount Knutsford and Sir Charles Scotter, £10.10s.: and Admiral Sir Leopold Heath £10.

Saturday 17 March 1900
Dorking and Leatherhead Advertiser

The Holmwood Drainage Question. - The Protection Committee Dissolved
In pursuance of a numerously signed requisition, Mr. Barclay, the chairman of the Dorking Rural Parish. Council, convened, on Wednesday evening, meeting of the ratepayers the Holmwood Ward, in the North Holmwood Schoolroom, “for the purpose or passing a resolution rescinding certain resolutions passed at a parish meeting held Nov. 18th, 1897, constituting the Holmwood Protection Committee.” The Vicar of North Holmwood, the Rev. S. C. Lowry, was called upon, to preside over a largely attended meeting, which included Col. Helsham-Jones, (hon. sec. of the committee), Capt. St. John Hornby, Dr. Arbuthnot Robertson, Messrs. Wildman Cattley, F. S. Phillips, S. J. Hack, A. J. Canter, Jeal, G. Clifton, R. Sims, J. Clifton, VV. Rapley, sen., W. S. Piper, H. H. Chalke, W. Mansell. E. Brooks, J. Johnson, T. F. Tracy, C. F. C. Knight, P. Frost, F. Butcher, J. Higgins, G. Manning. R. H. Beaumont, T. VV. Hoad, W. Watson, W. Pierce, G. Dunn, R. Spratley, F. Pledge, etc.

The Chairman, said it would be in the remembrance of most of those present that on Nov. 18th, 1897, certain names were proposed in that room and duly passed—he might almost say unanimously—constituting what had been called the Holmwood Protection Committee, for the purpose partly of opposing the rather expensive drainage scheme proposed the District Council and also of seeing whether some less expensive and yet satisfactory scheme of drainage might not be devised, which would meet the requirements of the Thames Conservancy without the adoption a complete system of main sewers.

That committee had taken some trouble—and some of them he knew a great deal of trouble—to ascertain if some such alternative scheme could not be suggested, and whatever the parishioners might think the general question of drainage, their thanks were most certainly due to those gentlemen who had taken considerable amount of trouble in the interests of the parish.

That, however, was two and a half years ago, and it might be that during the intervening period, opinion had changed. The present meeting, he took it, was to consider whether the committee still represented the feelings and the wishes the ward, and whether the ward wished them to CONTINUE THEIR WORK of opposing the Council’s drainage scheme, and of seeking some other less expensive method of dealing with the drainage of the Holmwood.

Mr. Lowry then announced the receipt of letters from the Rev. C. H. Gould, Vicar of South Holmwood. and a Rural District Councillor for the ward; from Admiral Sir Leopold Heath, and Mr. W. Sanders, Holmwood Farm, all of whom were unable to attend the meeting. Mr. Gould wrote that he considered the meeting to be premature. In his opinion it would have been better to wait until the decision of the Local Government Board upon the recent inquiry was made known. If that decision should be adverse to the scheme the Rural District Council, then the action of the Holmwood Protection Committee was endorsed the highest authority. If, how-ever. the Board accepted the scheme then, ipso facto, the committee was practically dissolved. But, whatever the decision, he thought the committee deserved the thanks of the parishioners for the trouble they had taken in the matter.

Admiral Sir Leopold Heath wrote that it seemed to him that to dissolve the committee before the Local Government Board had given their decision as between the scheme of the District Council and that of the Protection Committee was most unbusinesslike and foolish.

Mr. Sanders wrote that however good their intentions might have been on the question of the drainage, the committee had failed to bring forward a satisfactory and at the same time an inexpensive scheme, as was proved in evidence at the late inquiry.

Therefore, Holmwood had its elected representatives the District Council, which body was the sanitary authority responsible for the drainage of the parish of Dorking Rural, the District Council should once more be masters of the situation.

Col. Helsham-Jones also apologised for the non-attendance of Mr. Chas. Chaldecott and Mr. Habershon, members of the committee, both of whom were absent through illness.

Mr. Cattley then moved: “That this parish meeting of the electors of the Rural parish of Dorking rescinds the resolution passed at the Parish Meeting held in the North Holmwood Schoolroom Nov. 18th. 1897, constituting tho Holmwood Protection Committee, so that such, committee dissolved.”

Referring to the election of the committee, three years ago. Mr. Cattley said there was doubt it was sprung upon them. They had since made no report, and had formulated no actual scheme on paper until the other day, when they tried to obstruct the Council’s scheme.

There was doubt that a great change had since come over the Holmwood on this question drainage.

Three years age he dared say everyone was frightened, and allowed the committee to be formed, but there was not a single member of the committee who held a seat on the District Council or the Parish Council. Therefore, he considered it was utterly non-representative.

The committee, he thought, had not earned the thanks of the parishioners, considering that they had done practically nothing, and as Mr. Gould’s remark that this was premature, thought the committee had had every chance. The present resolution ought to have been proposed year and a half ago at least, and as the committee was thoroughly non-representative one, and they had put the parish to the expense of throwing obstacles in the way, and delaying the drainage of the district, he thought that sooner they were relieved of their labours the better.

It was easy for some gentlemen get rid of their sewage, but he thought there was A higher principle than that, viz., of putting their hands in their pockets to help these who were not so fortunately situated.

He regretted in one way having to move this resolution, because several of the committee were old friends of his. Still he hoped that as a committee they would see the last of them that evening.

Mr. Knight, in seconding, said he agreed entirely with all Mr. Cattly had said he failed to see what good the committee had done for the ratepayers of the Holmwood. He put it to the members of the committee: Would, they like to live in the houses that some of the ratepayers had to live in? Why should not the majority be considered, not so much the minority? The committee's object had been to protect themselves, and not the people living on the Holmwood.

In the event of epidemic of typhoid or fever breaking out those who constituted the Protection Committee could go away, but their less fortunate neighbours would have to remain there, and the chances were they would lose some their family.

The committee had done not single thing for the ratepayers, except to increase the rates. They did not represent the people of the Holmwood, but themselves.

Mr. Sims said there was nothing in the Local Government Act about a Protection Committee, and why should they have one when they already had a Parish Council and Rural District Council to represent them? He failed to see that the Holmwood Protection Committee had done any good, and he hoped they would be put out of existence that evening by a good substantial majority, and that the District Council would be given a free hand to carrying out their drainage scheme.

Mr Hack said did not want to offer opinion for or against the present proposal. but he could not help regretting that the Chairman, who used to be a member the Parish Council, should, like the Protection Committee, utterly ignore the Parish Council’s arduous labours in this matter during two years.

Although they had practically been publicly called ignorant men Sir Leopold Heath —men not used to affairs, which meant a lower order of being altogether the Parish Council had attacked this Question of drainage in intelligent manner—he was speaking now as a civil engineer, and educated as such. Although they were placed the Local Government Board in an impossible position. arrived at a very intelligent conclusion, and left the matter in the hands the District Council. much regretted that no little credit for their labours. He had always objected to the constitution of the Protection Committee because as Mr Cattley had said, it as not a representative body. - - -

Col. Helsham-Jones, replying to the remarks that had been made, said notwithstanding Mr Hack's disappoval of the committee itself, he had to thank them in many ways in the work they had done. He thought Mr Hack hardly did himself justice, and so he would remind him that in May last he actually proposed to the District Council the adoption of the scheme of Mr Lemon, who was the engineer employed by the committee, and when one member said it would practically be rescinding all the Council had done, Mr Hack replied, "Exactly, its never to late to mend." So he thought it was clear that the labours of the committee had at any rate met with some approval from the last speaker.

Mr Hack, interposing, said he believed he said he had loyally abided by the actions of the committee.

Col. Helsham-Jones said Mr Hack has also remarked that the committee's scheme was very simple; that was precisely what they tried to make it..They held that the condition of such a rural district was such as to require a simple scheme; the utmost simplicity was what they considered perfection.

Turing to the remarks made by the mover of the proposition, Col. Helsham-Jones remarked that Mr Cattley had said that the resolution passed on Nov.18th 1897, was sprung upon the parish meeting. He thought he could show that there was no foundation for that statement, because four months previous to that their repesentatives on the District Council convened a meeting on July 2nd, which was adjourned to July 23rd, a small committee being appointed on the 2nd to report to the adjourning meeting.

Therefore it was four months before the meeting in November that the question was started, so he did not think it could be said that the matter was sprung upon the meeting in November. - - - -

Col. Helsham-Jones then briefly referred to what the committee had done, and their endeavour to show, at the recent inquiry, that it was not necessary to have so expensive a scheme, and further that there were great dangers connected with the scheme which ought to be avoided. He thought he had shown, he said, that the committee had done useful work, and with respect to the absurd simplicity, as some people seemed to him to be really the best part of it all. They believed they had shown that the scheme of the District Council was dangerous, at any rate in its present form, and that it was certainly exceedingly costly. - - -

The Chairman said he thought it was possible to thank the committee for what they had done, and yet think that their work was over. The amendment was put and lost by over-whelming majority, eleven voting in favour and 46 against. The original proposition to dissolve the committee was then carried by 42 to 12. - - -

Thursday 22 March 1900
Morning Post
Mrs Cuthbert Heath requires a good Single-handed Kitchen-Maid for town and country: wages £18 to £20. Call, before eleven or after six, 47 Portman Square.

Wednesday 21 March 1900

Saturday 17 March 1900

Newcastle Guardian and Silverdale, Chesterton and Audley Chroniclealso Nantwich Guardian

Death of Miss Georgina Marsh-Caldwell - Granddaughter of a Former Newcastle Recorder.
The death has taken place at Linley Hall, Talke, at an advanced age, of Miss Georgina Marsh-Caldwell. The deceased lady had been an invalid for some time, but her illness took a serious turn about a fortnight ago.

The Misses Marsh-Caldwell, of whom there are three, are well-known in the Talke district for their benevolence, and for their many unostentatious deeds of charity. The deceased lady some years ago apportioned the district, a large and scattered mining community for the most part, along with her sisters, for the purpose of visitation, she undertaking herself to ook more particularly after Talke Pitts.

She was eventually, after rendering invaluable assistance to parochial work, obliged, much against her will, to relinquish the work on account of bodily infirmities. She was a member of St.Saviour's Church, Talke, and was for long years a devoted helper in anything she conceived for the good of the parish.

Latterly Miss Georgina had taken a great interest in a circulating library in connection with St.Saviour's Sunday school. Much sympathy is freely expressed for her sisters (Miss Marsh-Caldwell and Miss Rosamond Marsh-Caldwell) in their bereavement. Miss Caldwell belonged to an old Staffordshire family. Her grandfather, Mr James Caldwell, of Linley Wood, was a magistrate for the county and was Recorder of Newcastle. He died in 1839, and was buried in Audley churchyard. Her mother, Mrs Anne Marsh-Caldwell, of Linley Wood, obtained some distinction as a novelist and died in the year 1874
The Funeral

The funeral took place yesterday at Talke, and as was anticipated, it partook of a simple character. The cortege left Linley Wood about three o'clock and proceeded up the lane to Talke Church. The coffin, borne in a hearse was literally lost in the most beautiful wreaths. It was followed by the mourners, Miss Marsh-Caldwell, Miss Rosamond Marsh-Caldwell, Mr Jno Loring, Mr Arthur Loring and Mr Nele Loring, nephews; Captain Harry Crofton R.N., and Captain Richard Crofton R.A. The tenants on the estate acted as bearers and a number of private friends included Mr R.N. Wood of Bignall End, Mr G.B. Baker of Rose Hall; Mr Frank Rigby of Alsager, Mr John Booth, Mr Robert Rigby, Dr Greatrex, the Rev. G.W. Skene, rector of Barthomley, and the Misses Poole, of Alsager, and the family servants.

Many sympathetic tokens and expressions were to be marked en route, while there was a large and respectful gathering at the church gates, only those taking part being admitted to the body of the church.
The opening sentences of the burial service were read by the Rev. M.W. MacHutchin, while the lessson was read by the Rev. Lloyd Davies, of St.Saviour's. At the graveside the service was continued by the Rector. The aperture of the vault had been lined with crocuses and trailing ivy. The coffin which was of polished oak, and fitted with handsome brass mountings bor the inscription "Georgina Amelia Marsh Caldwell. Born 13th November 1820, Died 12th March 1900."

A simple cross of lilies of the valley and violets from the hall was laid across it. A large number of beautiful floral tributes were received from a large number of relatives and friends.

Saturday 24 March 1900
Dorking and Leatherhead Advertiser

The Break-up of the Holmwood Protection Committee
Amongst the many queer incidents which have occurred during the five years consumed by our District Council in their endeavour to settle the Holmwood drainage question, perhaps the most queer is that of last Wednesday.

On reading your account of the meeting and hearing a description of it from a credible eye-witness, the following questions occurred to me:

Why was a Parish Meeting called to discuss a purely Holmwood Ward question?
Why was it not more extensively advertised?

Why did Westcott electors take the trouble to attend on a matter which in no way concerned them?

Have not the Westcott electors a tough business in hand with their own drainage scheme?
If the Holmwood electors have never interfered with the Westcott drainage affairs, why do Mr Canter and the Westcott electors interfere with those of the Holmwood?

How many Westcott young men who could not possiby have been electors held up their hands to vote with the majority, and why did one of them hold two?

The answer to these questions would be interesting, but would not affect the result of the meeting, which is that the Protection Committee, which has done such good work for the Holmwood, has been dissolved by the help of strangers.

The census of 1891 records that there were then 3,821 inhabitants in the parish of Dorking Rural. It is fair to suppose that there are now at least 5,000, and there are, therefore, on the usual estimate five a family at least 1,000 heads of families and presumably 1.000 parochial electors in the parish.

Of this 1,000 Mr Cattley succeeded in mustering only 54, and thus the meeting was not a representative one. Fortunately the committee have had time to place their views fairly and fully before the Local Government Board, with whom the matter now rests, and, fortunately, for the Holmwood, the resolution passed in 1892 that "a system of drainage sewers is not suitable for a district like the Holmwood," has not been repealed.
I am. etc.. ,
L. G. HEATH,
Holmwood, March 20, 1900.

Saturday 31 March 1900
Dorking and Leatherhead Advertiser

The Late Holmwood Protection Committee
Sir,
—l am sure that old respected friend. Sir Leopold Heath, would not knowingly misrepresent me or say things which were not the case; further, that will believe me when I say that I had nothing whatever to do with the calling the meeting to dissolve (or rather, turn out). the H.P.C. I did not know of it until it was arranged, and when I did know, I only spoke to one person about attending.

I feel bound say this, as he says. "Mr. Cattley only succeeded in mustering 54.”
I have spoken strongly against the H.P.C. for two reasons:

(1) Because from all I have heard, it has not gone about its business in a manly and open, or a judicial way. Its mind has been made one way from the first; it has worked in (I do not say it offensively) one-sided and somewhat subterranean manner;
(2) because it has not, in my opinion, thought sufficiently the welfare and sanitary needs of the majority of the inhabitants; of those in a less fortunate position than its members.

I know that for a long time some working men and tradesmen, etc., would not take action (some will not even now) against the H.P.C., being afraid for certain reasons (which anyone will quite understand) so.

I have seen for long time that the H.P.C. was a "discredited” committee, and one not in proper touch with the parish—the meeting held in September last more than ever convinced me of this, and from what I heard and saw at that meeting I felt sure that its days were numbered, and that Holmwood voters were now, at all events, in favour of real, a propoer, system of drainage, instead of (as the L.G.B. official described it) "homeopathic treatment.”

The smallness of the meeting (it appeared to be a small one in Sir Leopold’s eyes) helps prove what I say, that many were afraid to attend. We had as good a chairman as I ever saw, and counted the hands fairly, and doubtless allowed for the one wrongly held up.

There is always one "funny man” at a country meeting.

I will not refer to the "prehistoric” resolution passed in 1892. As Lord Beaconsfield used say, "a great many thing" have happened since then.”
—l am, etc., Cattley. West Grinstead. March 23th, 1900.

P.B.—I hope that now war has come to end." the "two races" will live happily together (I mean those favour of real drainage and those who are not), and I feel that in time the members the H.P.C. will not regret having been "dissolved," as one old and valued friend, released from his arduous duties, will be able to more fully enjoy his pretty little place on the Holmwood, the gallant Colonel will have time to compile different and more fascinating statistics some other subject, and the worthy Vicar will not have, now, to sacrifice his every five minutes leisure from his heavy work in his lovely (and will be now) healthy parish.

Sir,—We were much amused by the manner in which Sir Leopold Heath attacked the Westcott electors in his letter you of the 20th iust. We should be very glad if you would spare a little space to enlighten those (including Sir Leopold Heath) who were not eye-witnesses of the collapse of the committee.

The meeting was called to discuss a question which concerns the whole parish of Dorking Rural and not the HoJmwood Ward only, as stated, and it was advertised in the usual way to meet the requirements of the Act.

The Westcott electors attended that meeting because they unquestionably had the right to so, and the fact of them being electors is a sufficient answer. Truly, Westcott has a tough job in hand respecting their drainage; you see, they haven’t got a Protection Committee.

It is a fact that electors from the Holmwood have attended meetings held at Westcott and voted as well: in fact, when the meeting was held at Westcott to protest against the Urban District Council’s amalgamation scheme, half the opposition came from the Holmwood, but we didn’t mind that.

Mr. Canter attended the meeting at Holmwood and spoke as a Rural District Councillor; and did it very well, and he was quite within his rights.

In answer to the last question in Sir Leopold Heath’s letter, there were no Westcott young men present who were not voters; of the four who were, only one voted. The names are given below, and we challenge Sir Leopold Heath’s very incredible eye-witness to produce more.

Mr. Cattley is credited with having mustered only 54 electors, out of a possible 1,000 (why Mr. Cattley?) by which Sir Leopold argues that it was not a representative meeting. What about the meeting which appointed the Committee, was that any more representative? If so. we fail to see the difference.

We have endeavoured to answer Sir Leopold’s questions fairly without expressing opinion either way. There is one question, however, should like answered, and it i this; why should Sir Leopold, who was onee a leading light of the Holmwood Protection Committee, withdraw his support from the same and then take up the cudgels in its defence?

— We are, etc., Hy. Herbert Chalke, William Mansell, Edward Brooks. John Johnson. Westcott, 28th March, 1900.

Saturday 31 March 1900
Dorking and Leatherhead Advertiser

Soldiers' and Sailors' Families Association
Sir,─
Would you kindly allow me through your columns to announce that Major Phillimore, who has been acting as Hon. Treasurer to the Dorking Division S.S.F.A., having been re-called to active service, Capt. St.John Hornby R.N., has undertaken his duties. Captain Hornby's address is The Oaks, The Holmwood, Dorking. Also, that, during my absence abroad till about the middle of May, Mr Charles Mortimer, of Wigmore, has kindly undertaken the duties of Hon. Secretary.
I am, etc.
H. H. Helsham-Jones, Hon. Secretary
Redlands, the Holmwood.
March 28, 1900

Croydon Observer

Friday 6 April 1900

Dorking Petty Sessions.

Saturday - Before Colonel Calvert (Chairman), Colonel Lewin, Admiral Sir Leopold Heath, and J.C. Deverell, C.E. Cuthell, and J. Clift Esqs.

Cases dismissed.

Considerable time of the Court was occupied in hearing a summons against William Thirtle, secretary to the Dorking Anti-Vaccination League, for neglecting to have his child vaccinated; and against young men, named Charles Smith, Charles Jenner, John Cubitt Knight (etc) Alfred Holden and Charles Worsfold, for alleged disorderly conduct at Holmwood, on March 1, but both cases were dismissed. The latter case arose out of a demonstration on the relief of Ladysmith.

Friday 6 April 1900
West Surrey Times.
Dorking Petty Sessions.
Saturday. - Before Col. Clavert (Chairman), Admiral Sir Leopold Heath, Col. Lewin, Messrs J.C. Deverell, C.E. Cuthell, and J. Clift
Licensing Business - - -
The Scale of Justice - - -
The War Fever - - -

Saturday 7 April 1900
Dorking and Leatherhead Advertiser

Mr Heath's Balloon Detachment
What the Boers Think of It
The following extract from the “Daily Telegraph” will interest our readers, more especially Mr Heath is the son of Admiral Sir Leopold Heath of Anstie Grange, Holmwood.

Dealing with the operations preceding the relief of Ladysmith, the war correspondent of our contemporary which enable observers to look almost straight down on the scene of battle, appear to be the only means by which well-concealed guns or troops can be discovered. Our balloons here, worked a balloon section of the Royal Engineers, under the command of Capt. (now Major) Heath, have rendered us invaluable service in this respect.

They have located the enemy’s gun positions, and again and again detected movements of the Boer forces which would have been undiscoverable by other means and enabled the general to take steps in good time to counteract them.

The Boers themselves are quite aware the almost omniscopic powers of the balloonist. One of them said to one of our medical staff who went out to attend the wounded after Monday's battle “If ever we get hold of the man in the balloon we’ll make mincemeat of him. He is the one who does us most harm. We could not move, we couldn’t creep from one stone to another, but he saw and pointed out. and we’ll pay him for it if lay hands on him.”

Staffordshire Sentinel

Saturday 19 May 1900

Sale of Work at Mow Cop.The parish of St.Thomas, Mow Cop, being in debt to the tune of £113 in connection with the acquirement of a new graveyard, it was recently decided by the incumbent (Rev. F.M. Haughton) and his band of parochial workers to hold a three days' sale of work. The ladies of the congregation laboured most assidiously in sewing class, making garments wherewith to stock the stalls, - - - -

The list of subscribers is as follows, - - - -Miss Marsh-Caldwell £1 - - -

This was an admirable start to the sale of work itself which was opened on Thursday afternoon by Miss Mable Heath, of Biddulph Grange, in the presence of a numerous company. Miss Heath was accompanied by her father, Mr Robert Heath, and there were also present - --

The Vicar observed that they were delighted to welcome Miss Heath,the name of Heath being a household word in the parish, and one that was associated with every good work in the neighbourhood (applause). Miss Heath then formally declared the sale open, expressing the wish that it would be successful.

---continues-----

Record of Staff Service &c from July 1899 to June 1902

Lieutenant-Colonel F.C. Heath, R.E.

1900

12th December 1899 - 13th February 1900 - D.A.A.G. to Inspector General Line of Communication.

14th February - 4th March 1900 - A.A.G. to General Officer Commanding Orange River.

5th March - 3rd May 1900 - A.A.G. to General Officer Commanding operations in North West Provinces. * Line of Communication Order No.6 of 11th July 1900

4th May - 7th August 1900 - A.A.G. to the Lieutenant-General operating in Griqueland West. (This command was officially stated to be equivalent to the Command of a Division).

Saturday 26 May 1900
Dorking and Leatherhead Advertiser

Mafeking Celebrations
Nowhere in the country, perhaps, has greater interest been taken in the war generally than in this village. Holmwood has many of her sons at the front, both officers and men; two have lost their lives, one at the battle of Colenso. and another just before the entry into Ladysmith, and several endured the privations of that memorable siege, including Major Gerald Heath, son of Sir Leopold Heath, of Anstie Grange.

The gallant Admiral has also had two other of his sons engaged—Major F. C. Heath, and Commander Heath, of H.M.S. Powerful.

Sergt.- Major Maiming has been with Colonel Plumer, and has earned distinction in the plucky efforts to relieve his old officer, Colonel Baden-Powell. Many have been wounded, and all have served their country well.

No wonder, then, that the village celebrated the relief of Mafeking! Flags and other decorations were abundant everywhere, and gaiety was the order of the day. Early in the evening a large procession, with music, was formed, which perambulated the village, vigorous cheers and patriotic songs alternating. Various stoppages were made, special attention being paid to those houses that had representatives engaged in the war.

The first house visited was that of Lady Laura Hampton, whose son-in-law. Major Biddulph, is on active service.

After giving the worthy and popular Vicar a similar call, the enthusiastic party marched to Anstie Grange.

Here they were hospitably received by Sir Leopold Heath, who made a patriotic speech, in the course of which he said: thank you much for letting us join in your rejoicings. All England is doing as you are, and I am glad that Holmwooders are not behindhand. It is a glorious day for us all. Mafeking has been besieged for, I believe, 218 clays, and never has the bulldog character of the British race come out more gloriously.

We who live at home at ease can hardly realise the effect on the nerves of an almost continuous bombardment. It is a very different thing from a pitched battle, where the excitement of marching and counter-marching, of firing at the enemy as well as being fired at, of hearing the cheering of your own side and, above all, the hope of victory, leave no time for nerves, and it is all over in a day.

In the bombardment such was suffered at Mafeking, no one knew when he might be hit, at his meals, in his bed; all day and all night the idea must have been constantly before him, and it is wonderful that even the stoutest nerves should have withstood the almost constant strain.

Then consider the weakening of body and mind by the steady decrease in the daily rations, the allowance being reduced day by day to eventually almost starving point.

Lastly, consider the dreadful doubt to whether you would ever be relieved, and you will appreciate the splendid patriotism and determination of the inhabitants to keep the old flag flying at all costs, and die rather than surrender.

All honour the garrison, and its heroic officers, Lord Salisbury’s son amongst them; all honour to the civilians who fought side side with them, and all honour to the women who bore all their troubles without disheartening the men by repining!

Let us not forget the Kaffir population, who bore all their sorrows without complaint, but more than all, let us give honour to their glorious chief, Baden-Powell, whose name will go down to posterity as a model of what a British soldier should be.

All honour to Lord Roberts for the pluck which he showed (for it required pluck) in refraining from sending a relief force to the suffering community, although he knew the terrible straits to which they had been reduced, until all his combinations were complete and he knew that the enemy, being threatened at every point, would not dare to send an overwhelming force to crush the relieving party (cheers).

After visiting Oakdene, the residence Mr A. F. Perkins, the procession, ever growing, returned to the centre of the village, where a monster bonfire had been prepared. This being lighted was the signal for more enthusiastic cheering, amid which a large number of rockets were sent up.

The fire burned merrily, and quickly consumed the effigies of Kruger and Cronje, the latter carrying the white flag.

On Sunday, at St. Mary Magdalens. both the morning and evening services were of a character befitting the occasion. Such hymns were chosen as “O God our help in ages past." “Fight the good fight,” and “Now thank we all our God.” The morning service closed with the National Anthem, while the Te Deum and the Hallelujah Chorus formed fitting conclusion the service in the evening:

Tuesday 29 May 1900
Morning Post

The Queen's Levee
By command of the Queen a Levee was held yesterday afternoon at St.James's Palace by his Royal Highness the Prince of Wales, K.G., on behalf of her Majesty. - -
The following presentations to the Prince of Wales were made, the names having been previously left at the Lord Chamberlain's Office and submitted to her Majesty for approval:- - - -Bradford-Atkinson, Maj.T.,Royal Guards Reserve Regiment, by Capt. A Broadwood. - - Heath,Com. Herbert Leopold, R.N., on promotion, by the First Lord of the Admiralty, - - - Admirals - Sir Leopold Heath K.C.B. - - -

Friday 1 June 1900
West Surrey Times
Rural District Council
Thursday - Present: - The Rev. C.H. Gould (in the chair), Colonel Calvert, Colonel Lewin, - - A letter was read from Admiral Sir Leopold Heath complaining that a paragraph in a letter from the Local Government Board, dealing with the drainage of Holmwood, was discussed in committee by the Council. He thought the letter should not be kept secret from the public, and would be obliged if it was made public.

The chairman said he thought Sir Leopold was going rather far in requesting them to publish a matter which they considered in committee. It was merely a matter of detail, and of no particular public interest. - On the motion of Mr Canter, seconded by Mr Sanders, it was decided to acknowledge the receipt of the letter. - - -

Saturday 2 June 1900
Dorking and Leatherhead Advertiser

Dorking Rural District Council
Sanitary Authority
Thursday - Present: The Rev. C.H. Gould (vice-chairman) - -
Holmwood Drainage - The Clerk said that at the Guardian's meeting last Thursday, the Chairman of the Board, Mr Grissell, handed him the following letter he had received from Admiral Sir Leopold Heath: "I observe from the report of the Rural District Council's meeting last Thursday, published in the "Dorking Advertiser," that a certain paragraph in a letter on the subject of the Holmwood Drainage from the Local Government Board, was considered in committee. Of course, such a proceeding is not only within the rights of the Council, but it may be right and expedient, but I think the letter itself should not be kept secret from the ratepayers, and I shall be obliged by your directing a copy of the letter to be made public." - Mr Cantor asked if any reply had been receivd to the Board's communication from the Local Government Board. - The Clerk replied in the negative. - Mr Canter: Then I think the best way would be to acknowledge the receipt of the letter and let it remain in abeyance. - The Chairman said it seemed to him that Admiral was going rather to far in requesting them to publish a matter which they had thought fit to take in committee.

The Chairman: And I think rightly so. I don't think it was a matter to be brought before the public at all.

Mr Canter proposed that the reply to Admiral Heath's letter be deferred.
Mr Sanders seconded the proposition, which was carried. - - -

Saturday 23 June 1900
Dorking and Leatherhead Advertiser

The Holmwood Drainage
Sir.
—You recently reported that at meeting of the Dorking Rural District Council the Clerk mentioned having received a letter from the Local Government Board, authorising the borrowing £5,340 tor the purpose draining the Holmwood, and your report stated that, although the first paragraph of the letter was read in public, the Council determined that the last part, together with their deliberations upon it, should be kept secret.

It struck me that in this matter the Council were merely the agents of the ratepayers. The money was to be borrowed for their purpose, they were to pay the interest; on it and eventually to repay the capital, and in the meanwhile to find security for such repayment; and I thought that although it might be wise and proper for the Council to discuss in private the nature their future dealings for obtaining the money, the rate of interest to be offered and so on, yet it was not right or reasonable or necessary to conceal from the ratepayers the full nature of the communication made the Local Government Board to them as agents (it may also be said) for the ratepayers.

Accordingly I asked for a copy of the letter. A month or more has passed since my application, and I have not received it, but the Local Government Board have, at my request, sent me copy which I beg you to publish for the information my fellow ratepayers.
—l am etc.. Holmwood, uuo 20th, 1900. (Copy.)
L. G. HEATH

Local Government Board, 2nd May, 1900.
Sir, —I am directed by the Local Government Board to advert to your letter of the 9th ultimo, and to forward to you herewith their formal sanction to the borrowing by the Rural District Council of Dorking the sum of £5,340 for the purposes of sewerage and sewage disposal tor the Parish of Dorkng Rural.

I am to state, however, that the sanction is given on the understanding that no payment out of the loan will be made to any salaried officer the District Council.
—l am, sir your - Assistant Secretary. The Clerk to the Rural District Council, Dorking.

Saturday 30 June 1900
Dorking and Leatherhead Advertiser

The Holmwood Drainage - In the letter upon this subject which we published last week from Admiral Sir Leopold Heath the sentence "It may also be said" should have read "It may almost be said."

Wednesday 11 July 1900
Morning Post
The City of London Imperial Volunteers.
Staff
Maj. F.C. Heath R.E., to be deputy-assistant adjutant-general;

Thursday 12 July 1900
Morning Post

The Queen's Garden Party
Brilliant Assembly
Her Majesty the Queen held a garden party at Buckingham Palace yesterday afternoon. The event had been looked forward to with great expectation, for no party of the kind has taken place at Buckingham Palace since the memorable occasion in the Diamond Jubilee year. The weather, fortunately, proved favourable. The sun shone out brilliantly, hardly a cloud flecked the blue of the sky, and the heat was tempered by a delightfully cool breeze. The guests included all that was most distinguished in London, and in every respect the occasion was a notable one. - - -Guest - Lady Mary Holland, Mrs A Holland Hibbert, - - Admirals - - Sir Leopold Heath - - -

Saturday 14 July 1900
Dorking and Leatherhead Advertiser

A few weeks ago the Dorking Rural District Council considered in committee a communication from the Local Government Board on the subject of the Holmwood Drainage.

At a subsequent meeting Admiral Sir Leopold Heath wrote suggesting that the letter should be published in the interests of the residents of Holmwood, but the Council declined to accede to his request.

Upon this the Admiral wrote direct to the Local Government Board and was supplied with copy of the letter in question, which, at his request, was published in our correspondence columns.

The Council have now decided to call the attention ot the Parliamentary representative of the Reigate Division to the matter, with a request that he will inquire through the House to Commons whether such practice, i.e.. the divulging of official communications to private individuals, is not contrary to precedent

Saturday 21 July 1900
Morning Post

Staff
The undermentioned appointments to the Staff of the Lines of Communication made in South Africa are confirmed. Major F.C.Heath, Royal Engineers, staff officer to the inspector-general, to be graded as an assistant adjutant-general from February 14, 1900 to May 8, 1900, and to have the local rank of lieutenant-colonel while so employed; - - -

Saturday 4 August 1900
Dorking and Leatherhead Advertiser

The Hampshire Carabineers - Annual Troop Sports
An event of extreme rarity in Dorking, and consequently of unusual interest, drew large and fashionable company to the beautiful Deepdene grounds on Saturday afternoon, namely, the annual sports the Surrey and Sussex Troops of the Hampshire Carabineers.

Captain Hoare and the other officers of the Troops, Lieut Nicholson, 2nd Lieuts. H. H. Gordou Clark, N. Partridge, and the Hon. C. Brand, had issued invitations many of the leading families and other prominent residents in the county, whom it is hoped to interest in the local troop of Yeomanry.

The response was very gratifying, and the enclosure was rendered a scene picturesque animation by the pretty toilettes of the ladies, every variety of vehicle, and the bonk of trees, which formed an effective background to the whole, and afforded also welcome shade to the guests and horses.

Amongst those who had signified their intention of being present were the following: - - - -

Mr G. Alloway, Dorking.
Mr. F. S. Bone, Dorking;
Mr Hargreaves Brown, M.P., Holmwood;
Mr. Benecke, Dorking ;
Mr and Mrs Bovill, Betchworth;
Mr R. W. Barclay, Dorking; Mr,
Mrs and Miss Barclay, Dorking;
Mrs. Eyre Crabbe, Mickleham;
Mr and Mrs Cuthell, Dorking;
Mr and Mrs. Cunliffe, Mickleham;
Mr. and Mrs. in. Calvert, Holmwood;
C. S. Gordon Cla|k. London;
Mr. V. Falconer Clark, Dorking;
Mr Howard Chaldecott, Dorking;
Mr and the Misses Chaldecott, Dorking;
Mr and Mrs J. M. Cazenove, Horsham;
Mr and Mrs Cuthbert Heath. Holmwood;
Col. and Mrs. Helsham-Jones, Holmwood;

13 August 1900

From Lieutenant-Colonel F.C. Heath R.E.

A.A.G.to G.O.C. L. of C.

Sir,

On the evacuation of HOOPSTADT I beg to make the following report of events which took place whilst I was in command. I also wish to bring to your notice the excellent behaviour of the troops and the particularly valuable work done by the Officers named hereafter.

I took over command on August 13th, 1900 from Major T.W.JONES, 3rd SOUTH WALES Borders, who had been in command since May 20th. I found the Garrison in excellent order and the defence well carried out reflecting great credit on all concerned.

A few days before my arrival the Garrison then consisted of 1/2 Battalion 3rd SOUTH WALES Border had been strengthened by the addition of No.2 Company ROYAL BERKSHIRE M.I. No.2 Company 5th NORTHUMBERLAND Fusiliers M.I. and two (guns?) 9th Batter R.A.HOOPSTADT was then in an isolated position, over 70 miles from the railway and nearest support with the TRANSVAAL to the North practically clear of English troops. There were rumours of large bodies of the enemy on the VAAL just North of us but at this time there appeared to be none South of it.

I at once organised an Intelligence Department and before long got a very good idea of what then was to the North of that River.

The District of HOOPSTADT I patrolled with my M.I. up to the VAAL to our North, 40 miles to our East and West and half way to BULTFONTEIN to the South; these patrols were carried out during August and the early part of September without opposition; a few suspicious persons were brought in including a stranger believed to be a despatch rider.

From Lieutenant-Colonel F.C. Heath R.E.

A.A.G.to G.O.C. L. of C.

13th August 1900 - 3rd April 1901 - A.A.G. and Officer Commanding Troops and Commandant of Hoopstat Orange River Colony garrison, a mixed force of over 600 men. Hoopstadt was 80 miles from any support and was cut off for 6 months from all communications from outside when visited by a mobile column. The garrison was constantly engaged in minor operations against the enemy who kept a close watch on the place.

From Lieutenant-Colonel F.C. Heath R.E.

A.A.G.to G.O.C. L. of C.

3 September 1900

On 3rd September, an order came from Military Governor BLOEMFONTEIN, to collect all rideable horses. I at once sent the whole of my M.I. to the VAAL to distribute the District Commissioner's Government order on the subject and to cut off a few Boers who had crossed to the South bank; unfortunately these being dressed in Khaki were taken for our own men and succeeded in making their escape. On re-inforcements arriving from across the VAAL the Mounted Infantry were forced to retire with a loss of 1 man killed and 4 men were taken prisoners; the Boers are known to have lost 2 killed, but reports gave their casualties as 5 killed. A Special report of these operations was made at the time.

The Boers now crossed in force and some 700 appeared outside HOOPSTADT and demanded surrender and took up a position 5 miles to the North. This force gradually left again for the VAAL.A reconnaissance in force however proved that the enemy remaining on the South bank was still too strong for us. This reconnoitering force was followed up to the edge of the bush some 2000 yards from the town; the enemy fired in to the town and only retired on their flanks being turned, and Maxim & Artillery fire being brought to bear on them. Our loss 1 man taken prisoner; Boers loss unknown, they being in the bush.

I now decided that the distant patrolling was no longer advisable with the force at my disposal, more especially that several wires had been received warning me of intended attack from the BOTHAVILLE direction. I therefore confined myself to endeavouring to keep the country 5 miles round HOOPSTADT clear.

Commandeering at this period was being actively carried out, but some 30 farmers escaped from the Boer Laager and came into HOOPSTADT for protection.

October 1900

After this our patrols were several times engaged but without loss. Early in October however a patrol was ambushed close to the town resulting in 1 man severely wounded; the Mounted Infantry went out to cover the retreat of the patrol, but had to retire in face of a superior force, losing 1 man taken prisoner. Except for a little sniping we were then left in comparative peace until after the departure of General SETTLE's Column on the 25th October.

24 October 1900

The force of Boers in our neighbourhood having then been reinforced by some 600 Transvaaler and Griqualand Westers, and emboldened by their success in the affair near WIXEDDRAAI (?) on the 24th made a determined effort to recapture the ten or twelve thousand head of loot stock left here by General SETTLE; the enemy some 600 or 700 strong succeeded in recapturing some of the cattle but failed in their attempts to take away the sheep. At this time our Garrison had been reduced to 400 men, one Company of Mounted Infantry and 50 dismounted men having gone to BRANDFORT on convoy duty.

This convoy consisted of 50 wagons, it had reached BULTFONTEIN on its return journey and was on the point of marching for HOOPSTADT when I received information that 300 Boers were crossing the Vet to our South with the express purpose of capturing it. I at once wired ordering the convoy and escort to remain at BULTFONTEIN until further orders.

Two hours after sending this order the wire was cut, and in spite of repeated efforts to repair it, it remained broken up to the end of the occupation.

This convoy never reached us, but its escort returned early in January helped in by General BRUCE HAMILTON's Column.

1 November 1900

On November 1st the enemy made an attempt to surprise us at 2 a.m., but on being discovered made a hastly retreat; a similar attempt with same result was made on November 10th, and again on December 4th. From October 25th to about November 20th some 800 to 1000 badly armed Boers were within striking distance of HOOPSTADT.

8 November 1900

About November 8th I got a runner from General HUNTER warning me to be on the look out for DE WET who was said to be moving on HOOPSTADT with 800 men and one or two guns.

20 November 1900

After November 20th the main body of Boers moved away South leaving a force of some 300 men to block our communications and worry our Cossack posts and patrols.

28 November 1900

On 28th an endeavour was made to ambush the morning patrol, which was driven in, one native scout being wounded, a force of Mounted Infantry with one gun went out a few minutes afterwards, and from reports received from natives succeeded in inflicting loss on the enemy.

15 December 1900

About this time I put my force on 3/4 biscuit rations and about 15th December went on 1/2 ration biscuits with 1/4 mealies added. The men had now been some time without tobacco, and all luxuries in the town has been consumed. Our telegraph line had been cut since November 1st, and I could get no news of any convoy. However, on the 28th we saw dust North of us, and on the 30th General BRUCE HAMILTON arrived with 90 days supplies, but with no tobacco, soap, matches or mails (we had no mails since middle of November).

23 December 1900

After General BRUCE HAMILTON left, I got into communication with the Boer Commandantes and endeavoured to get them to surrender on Lord KITCHENER's terms of 23rd December; they would not believe that we were sincere in offering these terms, and negotiations broke through.

Wednesday 5 September 1900
Evening Mail

The following appointments to the Staff made in South Africa are confirmed:- - - Maj. F.C.Heath R.E., - and to have the local rank of Lieutenant-Colonel whilst so employed.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday 25 September 1900
Sussex Agricultural Express

Wanted
Carter Wanted, and an Under Carter - Apply to Sir Leopold Heath, Anstie Grange, Holmwood, Surrey

Morning Post.

Thursday 11 October 1900

Re Miss Georgina Amelia Marsh-Caldwell Deceased. -

Pursuant to the Act of Parliament 22nd and 23rd Victoria Cap 35 intitled "An Act to Further amend the Law of Property and to relieve Trustees" Notice is Hereby Given That all Creditors and other Persons having any Claims or Demands against or upon the Estate of Miss Georgina Amelia Marsh-Caldwell late of Linley Wood, Talk-o'th'-Hill in the County of Stafford who died on the 12th day of March 1900 and whose Will together with a Codicil was proved in the Principal Registry of the Probate Division of the High Court of Justice on the 22nd day of September 1900 by Cuthbert Eden Heath Esquire, Commander Duke Arthur Crofton R.N. and John Loring Esquire the Executors named in the said Will are hereby required to Send in Full Particulars in writing of their Debts, Claims and Demands upon the Estate of the said Deceased to Messrs Barnard and Taylor of 47 Lincoln's-Inn-Fields, London, W.C. the Solicitors for the said Executors on or before the 20th day of November next after the expiration of which time the Executors will proceed to Distribute the Assets of the said Deceased among the parties entitled thereto having regard only to the Claims and Demands of which they shall then have had notice and Notice is hereby also Given that the said Executors will not be liable for the Assets or any part thereof so distributed to any Person or Persons of whose Debt. Claim or Demand they shall not then have had notice - Dated this 5th day of October 1900.

Barnard and Taylor, 47 Lincoln's-inn-Fields, Solicitors to the said Executors.

File PB101012

Part of letter

Continues

...calleth thee. The casting away the garment that as time passes gets to fit us so ill and to press on us more and more, (though with you dear Rosamond I am glad to think this does not apply) rose and came to Jesus. We are all blind men groping as best we can through life and crying out for help. And to believe that we shall receive our sight at last and follow Jesus in the way is almost the whole of my faith.

And this early spring time always gives a stimulus to my faith. Once more the heavenly power makes all things new, and domes the red plowed hills with loving blue; the black birds have their [wills?], the Thrushes too.Opens a door in Heaven; from skies of glass, a Jacobs ladder falls on greening grass; over the mountain walls young angles pass. A fellow keeping blood, the seasons line A heart look down, and up serene, secure. Warm as the crocus cup as snow drop pure.

I trust you and Louisa are well and will accept our tender and respectful sympathy, which my sister in law, Amy asks to participate in. I do not think you will mind my telling you, even in this letter, what a heavy trial we have been going through in our son Cecil a peaceful [potter?] feeling it his duty to serve his country actively in South Africa. He sailed from Queenstown this day week in the SS Kildonen Castle. In the...

(SS Kildonen Castle - H.M. Transport 44 - 1900)

Saturday 15 December 1900
Dorking and Leatherhead Advertiser

The Late Col. Calvert - Funeral Yesterday
The funeral of Colonel A. M. Calvert, who died on Friday of last week at the age of 73, took place in the Ockley Churchyard yesterday (Friday), morning, and, at the express desire of the family, was of a strictly private character, only near relatives being present. The interment look place at the east side of the church on a piece of land which forms an addition to the churchyard, and which was dedicated in the course of the committal service.

Among the contributors of the magnificent collection of wreaths were; Mrs. Parry, Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Heath, Miss Steere, the Misses Steere, Miss Holland, Mrs. and Miss Edith Gilbert, Mrs. Mr. and Mrs. Percy Godman, Mr. and Mrs. Cuthbert Heath, Mr. and Mrs. Errington, Reigate Constitutional Club, Mrs. Rycroft, Mrs. Keith Falconer, Mrs. Sautoy, Miss Gilbert.Mr Sadler; the household at Birtley.Miss Guidon Rebow, Mrs. Asquith, Mr, and Mrs. Dodman and family, Mr. Broadwood, Mr. Gibbes, Mr. and Mrs. Marshall, household at Broomells, household at Ockley Court, Miss Broadwood, Miss Rowley. Mrs. and Miss Arbuthnot, - - -

Friday 28 December 1900
Morning Post

May Queen, Hauraki
The ordinary general meeting of this company was held yesterday at "Winchester House, under the presidency of Mr. H. White, who, in moving the adoption of the report and accounts, pointed out that the output of gold for the year had been £15,500.

As stated in the report the board regretted to say that the Thames Hauruki Company ceased sinking in the month of October last, and allowed the water to rise, which had rendered it necessary for operations on their property to be entirely suspended.

The New Zealand Government had notified the Thames Hauraki Company that their action in discontinuing the pumping was a distinct breach of agreement, and endeavours were being made by the various companies interested to induce the Government to force the Thames Hauraki Company to resume work.

During the year this company 'a assessment by the Thames Drainage Board had been increased, and it now stood at £l,891 per annum. The increased assessment was disputed, but without success.

Mr. A. Angeli seconded the motion.

Admiral Sir Leopold Heath proposed that the meeting instructs the board to take steps for the liquidation of the company. The proposal was not seconded. Mr. "W. F. Turner dissented from the proposal. He severely criticised the action of the Thames Hauraki Company, and said that he was satisfied that the New Zealand Government would not allow the interests of an important field to be sacrificed in this way. He urged the directors to lose no time in making the strongest possible representations to the New Zealand Government, and also to the Agent-General for New Zealand in this country.

The present Prime Minister of New Zealand had had considerable experience as regarded mining affairs, and no one could realise better than Mr. Seddon the importance of that question to the mining industry of the South Island. He thought that they might rely on the Premier seeing justice done in this matter.

The chairman, in reply to the various observations, asserted that the mine was a deep mining proposition, and as it had not yet been thoroughly unwatered it had never had a proper chance. He had confidence of success being achieved under favourable circumstances.

The report was adopted, and Mr. Samuel Green re-elected a director of the company.

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