In October 1899, Cecil was serving with Colonel Baden-Powell, when besieged at Mafeking. 30 October was known as 'Mournful Monday' as three British columns surrendered; the situation became desperate. As second-in-command Cecil imposed the death penalty for spying, looting, trespassing, and loitering outside a women's laager at night. He was in charge of provisioning: when the food ran out the people had to eat dogs and horses, there was one reported case of cannibalism. 478 people died during the siege. Baden-Powell kept the Boers tied down for seven months, only to emerge later as a national hero. On 5 January, "The Times" reported that Cecil was in hospital in Mafeking with fever. Cecil set up the Mafeking Cadet Corps that led onto Baden-Powell founding the Scouts later on. Cecil was chivalrous towards women, but it became clear that the English expected the blacks to starve first. When the siege was finally lifted on 17 May 1900, there was ecstatic rejoicing in London at the news. Cecil had a poignant reunion with his wife at Mafeking on 29 June, and then rode out north into the Transvaal. Lady Edward was staying at Groote Schuur and probably conducting an affair with Lord Milner. Frances teased the Prime Minister "Gainst death could wrestle with Gallant young Cecil!" When Lord Edward Cecil came home to a triumphant welcome at Hatfield House his father had written off his debts, and the whole town turned out to cheer as the celebrations began on 18 December. The houses were decorated with bunting, the brewery men decked out in livery. Lord Edward made a speech, and was formally thanked by Lord Salisbury. They lit a huge bonfire in the park with fireworks.