Spirit of the age. [volume] (Woodstock, Vt.) 1845-1913, 1899-12-23
GENERAL LORD ROBERTS.

berlain. After going to private hotel
he spent about an hour at the war office
in consultation with the Marquis of
Larsdowne. the secretary of state for
war. Then General Roberts returned to
the task of packing his effects and in
terviewing the officers selected for his
staff.
When Little Bobs," the beloved of
"Tommy Atkins" received representa-
tive 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. In spite of
the multitude of details that claimed his
attention, General Roberts willingly as
sented to send parting message to the
American people, and gave the follow
ing statement:
circumstances naturally forbid my
speaking about the campaign ahead of
me, except to say that have entire con-
fidence in the British soldier, and that
believe the traditions of our army will
be upheld in South Africa.
For the friendly interest and SYM
pathy exhibited by many Americans
am most deeply grateful. feel sure the
Justice of our cause merits this. Though
We may be at war / can safely say that
no unnecessary harshness and no acts of
inhumanity will mar the fair name of
this branch of the Anglo-Saxon race.
cannot too warmly express my admira-
ton for the spirit which prevails in our
colonies. The action of Canada will al
ways be a glorious page in the history
of the sons of the empire. I look for
great things from the men 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 dan
ger my countrymen have ever. been
among the first to lay down their lives
for their queen and country and. whether
1t be against the Beers or men OF any
other nationality, the Irish soldier will
be found loyal to his queen and brave in
battle. You cannot deny those reports
of Irish disloyalty too strongly"
Anxiety Is intense regarding Lord
Methucn. Nothing has been heard from
his column since Sunday. 1t is feared
his communications have been cut. If
this be so his position. 1t is acknowledged
is extremely dangerous.
A correspondent OF The Daily News,
telesraphing from MOdder River last
Saturday, says: The Boer position, al
ready formidable on Dec. II, has since
been greatly strengthened, extending
for an area of IL miles. 1t is entrenchei d
according to the most modern methods
throughout its entire length; wire fences
have been placed before all the trenches
at every point; guns have been got into
position, and there is every evidence that
the Beers are well supplied with am
munition. Only q powerful attacking
force can hope to make successful as
sault.
The Times, in an article from the per
of a military expert. laments the dis
persion of the British forces, quotes the
Maxim of Napoleon in favor Of concen-
tration. and regrets that Lord Methuen
did not retire to Orange River q week
ago.
The latest dispatches received seem tC
show that the British forces are standing
On the defensive az all points. General
Butler is ordering the troops now ar
riving at Cape Town to proceed to Dur
ban to reinforce the Natal column
Absence of news from him has led to a
surmisc that he is trying 20 join General
White by flank movement.