Daily Kennebec journal. [microfilm reel] (Augusta, Me.) 1870-1975, 1899-12-21
GEN.. LORD ROBERTS
Arrives at London on His WAY
to South Africa.
Bowed With Personal Sorrow, But
Alert and Active in Duty.
Traditions Of Our Army will Be Upheld in
Souh Africa"

London, Dec. 20.-Gen. Lord Roberts.
who is to have full command of the
British troops in South Africa, accom-
panied by Lady Roberts and their two
daughters, arrived in London. this
morning, having travelled from Dublin
with Mr. Chamberlain. Their depart
IRE from Dublin was marked by cheer
ing crowds, but the general made
quiet entry into London. After going
to private hotel, he spent about an
hour at the war office in consultation
with the Marquis of LansdoMne, the
secretary of state for war. Then Gen.
Roberts returned to the task of pack
ing his effects and interviewing the Of
ficers selected for his staff.
When Little Bobs." the beloved of
Tommy Atkins" received a report
representative of The Associated Press
he was dressed in the deepest black, in
vivid contrast with his snow white hair
and moustache. His dapper little
figure was as straight as ever, but the
keen eyes that have so often scanned
British victory We're slightly dimmed
by the personal sorrow that has be
fallen him. But, in spite of this and
the multitude of details that claimed
his attention. Gen. Roberts willingly
assentcd to send through The Assoc
ciatcd Press a parting message to the
American people, and gave the follow
ing statement:
circumstances naturally forbid nv
speaking about the campaign ahead of
me. except to say that | have entire
confidence in the British soldier and
that i believe the traditions of our
army will be upheld in South Africa
For the friendly interest and sympathy
exhibited by many Americans | am most
deeply grateful. l feel sure the justice
Of our cause merits this. Though we
may be at war; l can safely say that no
unnecessary harshness and no acts Of in
humanity VIII mar the fair name Of this
branch Of the AngIo-Saxon race. | can
not too warmly express my admiration
for the spirit which prevails in our colo
mics. The action of Canada will always
be a glorious page in the history of the
sons Of the empire. | look for great
things from the mon she has sent and is
sending TO the front.
The reports which indicate that dis
loyalty exists in the Irish regiments are
absolutely untrue. In the hour of danger
my countrymen have ever been among
tilt llISl ~ LAY uDNll lutlT lives LOT lltH
Queen ANA country. ana. whether it ba
against the Beers or men If any other
nationality, the Irish soldier VIII be found
loyal to his queen ana brave in battle
You cannot too strongly deny those re-
ports of Irish disloyalty."
The Associated Press representative
learned that Gen. Roberts cntcrtans a
great friendship for Gen. Kitchener.
though they have never served together.
ana that combination Of gencralship Gre
ates the greatest satisfaction in military
circles. As one officer of Gen Roberts
staff said: 1T really makes life worth
living once again
London, Dec 21.-4.45 A. M.-The
gravity Of the military situation is
again becoming accentuated in the
public mind owing to the complete alb
sence Of news. Nothing has been
heard from Lord Methuen since Sun
day; and it is feared that his com
have been cut If this is
so, his position is dangerous.
A correspondent Of the Daily News,
from Modder river, last
SAYS: The Boer position.
already formidable, Dec. II. has since
been greatly strengthened extending
for an area of u miles. 1t is en-
trenched according to the most modern
methods throughout its entire length:
wire fences have been placed before all
he trenches at every point: guns have
been got into position: and there is
every evidence that the Beers are well
with ammunition. Only
powerful attacking force can hope to
make 4 successful assault"
The Times in an article from the pen
II military expert, laments the dis
persion Of the British forces, quotes
he maxim of Napoleon in favor Of the
and regrets that Lord
Hethuen did not retire to Orange river
week ago.
The latest dispatches received seem
N show that the British forces are
standing ~ the defensive at all points.
zen. Butler is ordering the troops now
arriving at cape Town to proceed to
Durham to reinforce the Natal column.
\bSenCe of news from him has led to
urmse that he is turning to join Gen.
White by flank movement.
Continued on page 81