FOOTNOTES:

FOOTNOTES:[97]What happened at Polela was briefly this: In consequence of the local police being unable to arrest two Natives at one Luplankwe's kraal, on a charge of contempt of court, a stronger body, including half-a-dozen European farmers and members of the accused's tribe, proceeded, on the following morning, to execute the warrant. In spite of many attempts to induce the accused to surrender, they refused to do so. They, and eight others, armed themselves with shields and assegais. An altercation arose and assegais were thrown, one of the police party being killed and another wounded. Orders were then given to fire. The accused and four others were killed, and three wounded. The affair was apparently confined to the one kraal. It created a considerable sensation, and formed the subject of special inquiry by direction of the Governor.[98]Natal Law Reports, 1895, vol. xvi. 239.[99]The Ethiopian or Separatist movement is a movement among the Natives of South Africa towards ecclesiastical independence, apparently with the object of obtaining greater political power. Although attempts have, since 1886, been made by Native congregations to break away from European control, the movement did not assume importance until 1892, when one M.M. Makone, subsequently joined by J.M. Dwane, seceded with large followings from the Wesleyan Methodist Church, and set up "The Ethiopian Church" at Pretoria. In consequence of action taken by these Ethiopians, they became affiliated with the African Methodist Episcopal Church of America in 1897, and such connection has since then been strengthened in various ways.Apart from the foregoing, there have been a number of other secessions. Such churches—also wholly independent of European control—as: Church of the Tembus; Presbyterian Church of Africa; Ethiopian Catholic Church of Zion, have been set up in various parts, whilst, in Natal, there are: Uhlanga Church; African Congregational Church; Zulu Congregational Church; Ibandhla li ka Mosi, etc. It may be added, however, that, in 1900, the South African Episcopal Synod established the "Order of Ethiopia" which, whilst under the jurisdiction of the Bishop, is independent of that of the parochial clergy.[100]Sometimes referred to as having occurred at Byrnetown. This, however, was not the case.[101]The poll tax actually collected from Natives in the years 1906-1909 was as follows:1906190719081909Natal£68,500 1£49,637 10£45,150£41,498Zululand7,990 64,267 03,9403,520———————————————Total£76,490 7£53,904 10£49,090£45,018That it was greater in 1906 than in later years, was due to failure by Natives to apply for exemption or to their assuming liability in different ways for the hut tax.[102]Pigs were disposed of in Weenen division at 1s. to 4s. apiece.[103]The Magistrate, Umgeni division, was one of the first to attempt collection. On 25th January, however, the Magistrate, Upper Umkomanzi division (Mr. J.Y. Gibson), had made an unsuccessful attempt at Mid-Illovo. The same officer tried again, before the outbreak, to collect, this time at Richmond, but the Chief requested him to defer collecting until some more powerful tribe had paid.[104]One of them belonged to a different and adjoining tribe.[105]Natives, in speaking of themselves collectively, frequently use this phrase.[106]This man belonged not to Mveli's, but another, tribe. He was subsequently tried and convicted by the Magistrate on the evidence of three witnesses.[107]Act No. 36, 1903, secs. 69, 71. It will be observed the force was to be distinct from the Active Militia or Reserves, but only by reason of being a standing body.[108]"Rules on the subject of Martial Law." Colonial Regulations,videColonial Office Circular, 26th May, 1867.[109]The latter contingency did not arise. The presence of troops, however, had the effect of interrupting public business during April and May at Nkandhla, May, at Umsinga, and July, at Mapumulo, magistracies.[110]A, B and C troops were left to guard the Pondo border.[111]This officer's services were:—Mashonaland, 1897 (medal and clasp). South African War, 1899-1902. Engaged in—Relief of Ladysmith, including action at Colenso; operations of 17th to 24th January, 1900, and action at Spion Kop; operations of 5th to 7th February, 1900, and action at Vaal Krantz; operations on Tugela Heights, and action at Pieters Hill; operations in Natal, March to June, 1900, including action at Laing's Nek; operations in the Transvaal, east of Pretoria, July to October, 1900.In command 2nd Imperial Light Horse, November, 1900, to May, 1902. Engaged in—Operations in the Transvaal and Orange River Colony, 30th November, 1900, to 31st May, 1902; operations on the Zululand Frontier of Natal, September and October, 1901.Despatches,London Gazette, 8th February and 16th April, 1901, and 29th July, 1902. Queen's medal with five clasps. King's medal with two clasps. Awarded C.B.; C.M.G.TheOfficial Army List, 1911. War Office. Wyman & Sons, Ltd., Fetter Lane, London E.C.[112]Vide, p. 149 note.[113]The N.R.R. were withdrawn from Richmond in the middle of March and demobilized.[114]Miskofeli's mother is a daughter of the late Chief Langalibalele of whom mention was made in Chapter I. This woman's influence during 1906 was directed to inducing her son's tribe to pay the poll tax.[115]It should, however, be pointed out that the Magistrate, Richmond, had previously been directed to proceed to the Ixopo division to inquire of Miskofeli if it was true his tribe had armed and, if so, for what reason. Mr. Gibson had an interview with the Chief near Waterfall on the 14th February, when Miskofeli denied having armed or that he intended attacking anyone; he added that he had duly proclaimed the Act about the poll tax. The visit, carried out with much tact and discretion, probably contributed in no small degree to the result referred to in the text.[116]Also called Ixopo.[117]A remarkable stampede of about 1,100 horses took place one night whilst the troops were at the village. Owing to its being cold and rainy, the animals were driven, with some mules, into a paddock near camp. The mules later on caused the horses to stampede, when the whole started galloping wildly,en masse, round and round in a great circle, part of whose circumference lay within a few yards of the camp. The thunder of the rush as each time they swept madly by was positively deafening, much to the dismay of the reclining warriors. Once or twice they dashed through the picket lines, compelling the sentries to take refuge helter-skelter in camp for fear of being trampled to death. Not until dawn did the galloping cease, probably owing to sheer exhaustion. It was found that many of the animals had severely, and some even permanently, injured themselves by running into barbed-wire fences in the dark.[118]The foregoing took place although all the efforts of the Chief himself were on the side of law and order.[119]A Zulu word, meaning here 'affair.'[120]This officer's services were as follows:South African War, 1899-1902—In command Umvoti Mounted Rifles. Operations in Natal, 1899; Relief of Ladysmith, including operations on Tugela Heights; operations in Natal, March to June, 1900, including action at Laing's Nek; operations in the Transvaal, east of Pretoria, July to October, 1900; operations on the Zululand Frontier of Natal, September and October, 1901.Despatches,London Gazette, 16th April, 1901. Queen's medal with four clasps. King's medal with two clasps. C.M.G.TheOfficial Army List, 1911. War Office. Wyman & Sons, Ltd., Fetter Lane, London, E.C.[121]Cd. 2905, p. 20.[122]General authority to administer martial law had, as in the case of McKenzie, been specially delegated to Leuchars by the Commandant. The latter had, in his turn, been deputed by the Governor to administer it. At a later date, the Governor decided to reserve to himself exercise of the authority granted to the Commandant.[123]One of these was Mjongo, but he was unable to attend, not having sufficiently recovered from his wounds. He was, however, subsequently tried by the Supreme Court, convicted and sentenced to death by hanging; the sentence was carried out in September.[124]Revocation took place on the 16th March.[125]There had been only two, viz. the two rebels captured by McKenzie's column on the 13th February.[126]Cd. 2905, pp. 32, 34.

[97]What happened at Polela was briefly this: In consequence of the local police being unable to arrest two Natives at one Luplankwe's kraal, on a charge of contempt of court, a stronger body, including half-a-dozen European farmers and members of the accused's tribe, proceeded, on the following morning, to execute the warrant. In spite of many attempts to induce the accused to surrender, they refused to do so. They, and eight others, armed themselves with shields and assegais. An altercation arose and assegais were thrown, one of the police party being killed and another wounded. Orders were then given to fire. The accused and four others were killed, and three wounded. The affair was apparently confined to the one kraal. It created a considerable sensation, and formed the subject of special inquiry by direction of the Governor.

[98]Natal Law Reports, 1895, vol. xvi. 239.

[99]The Ethiopian or Separatist movement is a movement among the Natives of South Africa towards ecclesiastical independence, apparently with the object of obtaining greater political power. Although attempts have, since 1886, been made by Native congregations to break away from European control, the movement did not assume importance until 1892, when one M.M. Makone, subsequently joined by J.M. Dwane, seceded with large followings from the Wesleyan Methodist Church, and set up "The Ethiopian Church" at Pretoria. In consequence of action taken by these Ethiopians, they became affiliated with the African Methodist Episcopal Church of America in 1897, and such connection has since then been strengthened in various ways.Apart from the foregoing, there have been a number of other secessions. Such churches—also wholly independent of European control—as: Church of the Tembus; Presbyterian Church of Africa; Ethiopian Catholic Church of Zion, have been set up in various parts, whilst, in Natal, there are: Uhlanga Church; African Congregational Church; Zulu Congregational Church; Ibandhla li ka Mosi, etc. It may be added, however, that, in 1900, the South African Episcopal Synod established the "Order of Ethiopia" which, whilst under the jurisdiction of the Bishop, is independent of that of the parochial clergy.

Apart from the foregoing, there have been a number of other secessions. Such churches—also wholly independent of European control—as: Church of the Tembus; Presbyterian Church of Africa; Ethiopian Catholic Church of Zion, have been set up in various parts, whilst, in Natal, there are: Uhlanga Church; African Congregational Church; Zulu Congregational Church; Ibandhla li ka Mosi, etc. It may be added, however, that, in 1900, the South African Episcopal Synod established the "Order of Ethiopia" which, whilst under the jurisdiction of the Bishop, is independent of that of the parochial clergy.

[100]Sometimes referred to as having occurred at Byrnetown. This, however, was not the case.

[101]The poll tax actually collected from Natives in the years 1906-1909 was as follows:1906190719081909Natal£68,500 1£49,637 10£45,150£41,498Zululand7,990 64,267 03,9403,520———————————————Total£76,490 7£53,904 10£49,090£45,018That it was greater in 1906 than in later years, was due to failure by Natives to apply for exemption or to their assuming liability in different ways for the hut tax.

[101]The poll tax actually collected from Natives in the years 1906-1909 was as follows:

That it was greater in 1906 than in later years, was due to failure by Natives to apply for exemption or to their assuming liability in different ways for the hut tax.

[102]Pigs were disposed of in Weenen division at 1s. to 4s. apiece.

[103]The Magistrate, Umgeni division, was one of the first to attempt collection. On 25th January, however, the Magistrate, Upper Umkomanzi division (Mr. J.Y. Gibson), had made an unsuccessful attempt at Mid-Illovo. The same officer tried again, before the outbreak, to collect, this time at Richmond, but the Chief requested him to defer collecting until some more powerful tribe had paid.

[104]One of them belonged to a different and adjoining tribe.

[105]Natives, in speaking of themselves collectively, frequently use this phrase.

[106]This man belonged not to Mveli's, but another, tribe. He was subsequently tried and convicted by the Magistrate on the evidence of three witnesses.

[107]Act No. 36, 1903, secs. 69, 71. It will be observed the force was to be distinct from the Active Militia or Reserves, but only by reason of being a standing body.

[108]"Rules on the subject of Martial Law." Colonial Regulations,videColonial Office Circular, 26th May, 1867.

[109]The latter contingency did not arise. The presence of troops, however, had the effect of interrupting public business during April and May at Nkandhla, May, at Umsinga, and July, at Mapumulo, magistracies.

[110]A, B and C troops were left to guard the Pondo border.

[111]This officer's services were:—Mashonaland, 1897 (medal and clasp). South African War, 1899-1902. Engaged in—Relief of Ladysmith, including action at Colenso; operations of 17th to 24th January, 1900, and action at Spion Kop; operations of 5th to 7th February, 1900, and action at Vaal Krantz; operations on Tugela Heights, and action at Pieters Hill; operations in Natal, March to June, 1900, including action at Laing's Nek; operations in the Transvaal, east of Pretoria, July to October, 1900.In command 2nd Imperial Light Horse, November, 1900, to May, 1902. Engaged in—Operations in the Transvaal and Orange River Colony, 30th November, 1900, to 31st May, 1902; operations on the Zululand Frontier of Natal, September and October, 1901.Despatches,London Gazette, 8th February and 16th April, 1901, and 29th July, 1902. Queen's medal with five clasps. King's medal with two clasps. Awarded C.B.; C.M.G.TheOfficial Army List, 1911. War Office. Wyman & Sons, Ltd., Fetter Lane, London E.C.

In command 2nd Imperial Light Horse, November, 1900, to May, 1902. Engaged in—Operations in the Transvaal and Orange River Colony, 30th November, 1900, to 31st May, 1902; operations on the Zululand Frontier of Natal, September and October, 1901.

Despatches,London Gazette, 8th February and 16th April, 1901, and 29th July, 1902. Queen's medal with five clasps. King's medal with two clasps. Awarded C.B.; C.M.G.

TheOfficial Army List, 1911. War Office. Wyman & Sons, Ltd., Fetter Lane, London E.C.

[112]Vide, p. 149 note.

[113]The N.R.R. were withdrawn from Richmond in the middle of March and demobilized.

[114]Miskofeli's mother is a daughter of the late Chief Langalibalele of whom mention was made in Chapter I. This woman's influence during 1906 was directed to inducing her son's tribe to pay the poll tax.

[115]It should, however, be pointed out that the Magistrate, Richmond, had previously been directed to proceed to the Ixopo division to inquire of Miskofeli if it was true his tribe had armed and, if so, for what reason. Mr. Gibson had an interview with the Chief near Waterfall on the 14th February, when Miskofeli denied having armed or that he intended attacking anyone; he added that he had duly proclaimed the Act about the poll tax. The visit, carried out with much tact and discretion, probably contributed in no small degree to the result referred to in the text.

[116]Also called Ixopo.

[117]A remarkable stampede of about 1,100 horses took place one night whilst the troops were at the village. Owing to its being cold and rainy, the animals were driven, with some mules, into a paddock near camp. The mules later on caused the horses to stampede, when the whole started galloping wildly,en masse, round and round in a great circle, part of whose circumference lay within a few yards of the camp. The thunder of the rush as each time they swept madly by was positively deafening, much to the dismay of the reclining warriors. Once or twice they dashed through the picket lines, compelling the sentries to take refuge helter-skelter in camp for fear of being trampled to death. Not until dawn did the galloping cease, probably owing to sheer exhaustion. It was found that many of the animals had severely, and some even permanently, injured themselves by running into barbed-wire fences in the dark.

[118]The foregoing took place although all the efforts of the Chief himself were on the side of law and order.

[119]A Zulu word, meaning here 'affair.'

[120]This officer's services were as follows:South African War, 1899-1902—In command Umvoti Mounted Rifles. Operations in Natal, 1899; Relief of Ladysmith, including operations on Tugela Heights; operations in Natal, March to June, 1900, including action at Laing's Nek; operations in the Transvaal, east of Pretoria, July to October, 1900; operations on the Zululand Frontier of Natal, September and October, 1901.Despatches,London Gazette, 16th April, 1901. Queen's medal with four clasps. King's medal with two clasps. C.M.G.TheOfficial Army List, 1911. War Office. Wyman & Sons, Ltd., Fetter Lane, London, E.C.

[120]This officer's services were as follows:

South African War, 1899-1902—In command Umvoti Mounted Rifles. Operations in Natal, 1899; Relief of Ladysmith, including operations on Tugela Heights; operations in Natal, March to June, 1900, including action at Laing's Nek; operations in the Transvaal, east of Pretoria, July to October, 1900; operations on the Zululand Frontier of Natal, September and October, 1901.

Despatches,London Gazette, 16th April, 1901. Queen's medal with four clasps. King's medal with two clasps. C.M.G.

TheOfficial Army List, 1911. War Office. Wyman & Sons, Ltd., Fetter Lane, London, E.C.

[121]Cd. 2905, p. 20.

[122]General authority to administer martial law had, as in the case of McKenzie, been specially delegated to Leuchars by the Commandant. The latter had, in his turn, been deputed by the Governor to administer it. At a later date, the Governor decided to reserve to himself exercise of the authority granted to the Commandant.

[123]One of these was Mjongo, but he was unable to attend, not having sufficiently recovered from his wounds. He was, however, subsequently tried by the Supreme Court, convicted and sentenced to death by hanging; the sentence was carried out in September.

[124]Revocation took place on the 16th March.

[125]There had been only two, viz. the two rebels captured by McKenzie's column on the 13th February.

[126]Cd. 2905, pp. 32, 34.

OUTBREAK AT MPANZA.

WhilstMcKenzie was demonstrating in the south-west, and Leuchars was similarly occupied at Mapumulo, a state of affairs was rapidly developing in the Mpanza valley,[127]not more than sixteen miles from Greytown, destined soon to alter the whole character of the situation.

Owing to the fact that neither McKenzie nor Leuchars had met with any opposition whatever when dealing, as has been seen, promptly and effectively with all cases of disaffection that came to their notice, it was, by the end of March, generally supposed that all further trouble was at an end, at any rate, for the time being. This conviction was strengthened by the execution of the murderers of Hunt and Armstrong. This execution, however, proved to be not the end, but only the end of the first phase of the Insurrection.

How far the Trewirgie affair can be associated with what was taking place in Mpanza valley is for the reader to judge, after consideration of the facts that will be laid before him. To understand it, it is necessary to examine the character and antecedents of the man who, on the 4th of April, became the initiator of the second and far more vigorous phase of the Rebellion. This is all the more necessary, not only because the Natives generally refer to it ashisRebellion,[128]but because he was the Chief of acomparatively small, low-class tribe and almost unknown, either by Europeans or Natives, beyond the division in which he lived. The rôle he took on was one which a far more imposing man like Mehlokazulu (of Zulu War fame), or even Zibebu (had he been living),[129]might have been proud to assume, had opportunity favourable for so hazardous an enterprise presented itself. Indeed, the general belief of the Natives of Natal and Zululand in regard to the poll tax was that, if there was to be any overt action at all, Dinuzulu himself would take it as head of the Zulu House. But for his imprisonment and banishment to St. Helena, it is quite possible he would have taken it. As he failed, or at any rate preferred to remain in the background, it fell, of all Chiefs in this portion of South Africa, on one Bambata to step forward as protagonist on this unique and dramatic occasion.

As a section of the Native public appeared desirous of a change in the way in which they were being governed, it devolved, of course, on some one to take the lead. Who should this be? A Chief? Of course, for, in a matter such as this, it would be altogether foreign to Native sentiment for a mere commoner to do so. Look how Makanda and Mjongo had failed. What Chief, then, so far forgetful of his own interests, as well as of those of his tribe, would dare to translate into action the spirit of resistance innate in the people? Who, in short, would have the temerity to start an insurrection against a Government which, however much it might be regarded as oppressive, had yet, as Bambata well knew, delivered his ancestors, and those of a million other Natives, from the wrongs, cruelties and inhumanity of Tshaka and Dingana, and enabled every man, woman and child to sleep peacefully in their homes for upwards of two generations, undisturbed by death-dealing, predatory raids?

The question, therefore, arises as to how it came about that one so petty and obscure as Bambata should standforth, practically alone, as the redresser of the nation's alleged wrongs. Who and what was he?

Bambata was born about the year 1865 in the neighbourhood of Mpanza valley. His father was Mancinza,aliasSobuza, member of the Zondi tribe,[130]and his mother the daughter of Pakade, a well-known Chief of the Cunu tribe, now for the most part living in Weenen division. This woman was Mancinza's principal wife. In regard to the principal wife, a tribe is, by custom, called on to contribute towards herlobolo; an attempt was made to do this in the present instance. The tribe, however, objected to the Chief taking a girl of the Cunu tribe, and refused to assist inlobola-ing her.[131]Determined to marry the girl, Mancinza delivered the necessary forty or more cattle out of his own herd. A few months after the wedding, the bride became so averse to living with her husband's three other wives that, after accusing them of wishing to kill her, she deserted and took up her abode at the kraal of another man of the same tribe. It was at this establishment that Bambata was born. His mother then insisted on a kraal being specially erected for her. This was done, the result of the unusual action being that the former place was well-nigh wrecked, for the other wives complained of their husband devoting too much attention to Bambata's mother.

As a boy, Bambata was headstrong and fond of fighting. He frequently neglected the cattle he had to herd. When chastised, he took the beating well, never crying out or shouting as boys sometimes do. He became expert in the use of the assegai, and was an exceptionally fine runner. Owing to the latter qualification, he earned the sobriquetof "Magadu" (short forMagaduzela, o wa bonel 'empunzini),[132]which stuck to him all his life. His father had a double-barrelled, muzzle-loading shot gun. This the youth soon accustomed himself to, and became a good shot. When he was about 25 years of age, his father died. His uncle, Magwababa, to whom there will be further reference later, was appointed to act as Chief. After a few years, he was formally superseded by Bambata himself. A year or two after becoming Chief, Bambata committed a daring theft of three head of cattle belonging to a Boer. He was tried and severely punished, though not imprisoned. On the amount of the fine being raised by members of the tribe, he was released.

As Chief, he was harsh, extravagant and reckless, selfish and domineering. On one occasion he fined a man, but, as the latter would not pay, he attacked him with an armed body of men and forced him to comply. He rapidly squandered the property his father had left and, like his father, ran counter to the wishes of the tribe in selecting his principal wife. The elders were in favour of his promoting a particular woman, and opposed to his own choice, on the ground that the woman was a twin. He ignored their wishes and, after one of his wives (there were four in all), had committed adultery and been expelled, whilst another had deserted, he erected a solitary hut for the principal one—calling it Emkontweni (the place of the assegai)—thereby following once more the irregular example set by his father.

In the meantime, the relations he stood in towards his European neighbours were even less satisfactory. The total strength of his tribe at the end of 1905 was 910 huts in Umvoti, 120 in New Hanover, 21 in Umgeni, and 91 in Lion's River, divisions, or 1,142 in all; representing a total approximate population of 5,000 men, women, and children, or about 500 capable of bearing arms. The system of recruiting regiments was followed in this as in some other tribes of Natal and Zululand. Owing, however, tolimited numbers, there were incorporated into each regiment men of widely differing ages. During the twenty-four years Bambata was nominally Chief, he recruited only two regiments.

Most of the kraals of the tribe, as well as his own, especially in the Umvoti division, were distributed over a number of private farms. The landlord of the farm on which he personally lived, viz. Aangelegen,[133]demanded a rental of £3 per hut, this, of course being apart from Government taxation. Such rent was undoubtedly high, although on other farms in the same district a similar, and even heavier, charge was not uncommon. Notwithstanding these obligations, he continued in his career of extravagance. He illicitly purchased European liquor and drank freely thereof, as well as of Native beer, though not so as to become a confirmed drunkard. In order to make good what he had squandered in drink and in other ways, he borrowed from lawyers who, not being less importunate or exacting than other people, usually got back their own with interest through the local Magistrate's court. Bambata was constantly being sued, either on account of loans or for outstanding rent, and to such indebtedness there seemed to be no end. Instead of bracing himself up and endeavouring to meet his obligations, he persisted in his reckless conduct, until he became a nuisance to Europeans, on the one hand, and the members of his tribe, on the other. A more perturbed spirit than he was at the close of 1905 it is scarcely possible to conceive. He, hereditary Chief of a tribe, which, though of humble origin as compared with many of the adjoining ones in Zululand and Natal, was of no mean size, seemed to be daily losing his grip over the people and coming within measurable distance of utter ruin. This prospect he was smart enough to realize, and it was because he knew such end to be sooner or later inevitable that his despondency grew to despair.

In common with all other Chiefs throughout the Colony, including Zululand, he was required, in April, 1904, on coming with his people to pay the hut and dog taxes, to give information in connection with the census. He was the man who, as has been stated, protested to the Magistrate against furnishing a few matter-of-fact details, concluding with the remark: "If there be anything behind all this, we shall be angry." The threat was uttered at Marshall's hotel, exactly two years and a day before his starting the Insurrection not a mile from the same hotel. Mr. J.W. Cross, the Magistrate, by way of pacifying and convincing him that the Government had no sinister motive, said: "You may as well expect the sun to fall from the heavens as imagine that harm will come to you." "That was just what we wanted to hear," he exclaimed in reply.

In August, 1905, a faction fight occurred in the ward. Owing to having taken part in it himself, Bambata was charged before the Magistrate, but the case was not disposed of till early in 1906, as one of those assaulted was too unwell to appear. He was convicted and sentenced to pay a fine of £20, with an alternative of three months' imprisonment. The Government was advised to depose him, as being unfit for the position of Chief, and because he was always being sued. About this time he visited his lawyer in Pietermaritzburg, from whom, it seems, he learned that his deposition was in contemplation.

When, in September, 1905, the Poll Tax Act was proclaimed in Umvoti division, no opposition was raised by the Zondi or other local tribes; the headmen, however, complained that the law would result in complete loss of the small control kraal-owners still retained over their sons. Bambata took the opportunity of reminding the Magistrate of the statement the latter had made when the census was being taken, asking that official to reconcile the assurance then given with the demand for the poll tax that was being made. The Magistrate was unable to do this to Bambata's satisfaction.

As a matter of fact, there was considerable and generalobjection to the tax, though not given expression to in the presence of officials as at other magistracies. Among those who objected in the Zondi tribe was the headman, Nhlonhlo. He assumed a determined and defiant attitude. But for the part he took, Bambata might not have broken into rebellion. Nhlonhlo called together the people about him, proceeded with them to Bambata and declared they would not pay. Bambata apparently did what he could to persuade, but without success. The only reason why Nhlonhlo made the stand he did was because he had five taxable sons, and did not see why all of these should be liable. Like Bambata, he had got into difficulties with his own landlord, and when, some years previously, the latter had sought to eject him, he borrowed money of Bambata, more than half of which is said to be still owing.

Towards the end of 1905, confidential information was received by the Magistrate to the effect that Bambata was in league with the Zulus, and that he had agreed to bell the cat by putting to death the Magistrate and his staff on their visiting Mpanza to collect poll tax. As a result of this, the collections were begun in another part of the division instead of, as was usual, in Bambata's ward. So far, then, from being the first, Bambata was the last Chief to be called on to pay. More than this, he and his people were ordered to attend for the purpose at the Magistrate's office in Greytown. The date fixed was the 22nd February. After receiving the instructions, he requested the Magistrate to come as usual to collect in Mpanza valley. Mr. Cross, however, said he was unable to countermand the order.

On the day appointed, the people appeared at the Magistrate's office. They arrived about 11 instead of 9 a.m. The Chief was not with them, as he should have been. An induna appeared in his stead, apologizing for the Chief's absence on the ground of ill-health. (He was said to be suffering from a stomach-ache.) The Magistrate naturally concluded Bambata was at his kraal some thirteen or fourteen miles away, whereas, as was afterwards reported, heand a number of young men had concealed themselves in a wattle-tree plantation, overlooking, and about two and a half miles from, Greytown. Those who came up to pay were chiefly elderly men. They at first appeared very surly. In reply to a question as to where the young men, i.e. those liable for the tax, were, the old men said they had gone out courting.

About 8.30 p.m. the same day, information was received from Native sources that Greytown was to be attacked during the night "after the white people had gone to bed," for Bambata had gathered together animpiand was with it in the trees overlooking Greytown, meaning Mr. Layman's and Dr. Wright's plantations. It was explained that payment of the tax that day was simply a ruse 'to hoodwink the Europeans,' and that Bambata intended to recover the money paid in. A similar rumour came from another quarter. Steps were thereupon taken to warn and protect the inhabitants. There happened that night to be a dance on in the town hall. The electric light was purposely kept burning all night in the building as well as in the streets. The hall, in the meantime, was quickly transformed into a lager. Arms were issued and pickets posted in various directions.

This 'scare,' for such it was, was based on incorrect or insufficient information. Careful inquiry of those actually with Bambata on the day in question has resulted in the following explanation:—As directed, the Chief called on his people to proceed to Greytown to pay the tax. He instructed them all to assemble on the ridge just before coming within sight of the town. Such procedure was not irregular, as Chiefs, when calling on their people to pay hut tax, often direct them to assemble at a given spot to afford an opportunity for preliminary inspection. Quite contrary to Bambata's orders, it would seem, a number of young men came up from Mpanza valley led by Nhlonhlo, all being armed with shields and assegais. They proceeded to the vicinity of a kraal beside the road, a couple of miles further away from Greytown than where Bambata had directed them to assemble. On learning this, Bambata,then some little way off, sent a messenger to order the young men to put down their arms and go to Greytown with the others and pay. They refused point-blank. "If," they said, "we are to throw away our assegais and go empty-handed, we certainly shall not comply." Bambata now borrowed a horse and moved to inspect the other section of his people who were in front. As he went off, Nhlonhlo's party were heard to shout to the lender of the horse, "If, after your supplying him with a horse, Bambata should be arrested by the white people, we shall stab you." When the Chief reached the rendezvous, he found his uncle, Magwababa, had already been driven into Greytown by Mr. Botha, whilst a number of others had followed him. Of those present, some were not properly dressed[134]and, moreover, had not the necessary money. He ordered them home, telling them to sell their goats and so find the amount of the tax. Others were sent into Greytown with a message to the man in charge to say that Bambata was absent owing to a headache.

Already apprehensive as to what might happen, especially as he had, contrary to custom, been summoned to Greytown without knowing why such course had been adopted, and, again, finding that a few hot-bloods, who had by then heard all about the Trewirgie affair, had taken up arms for the purpose of protecting him, and, if need be, resisting by force any attempt to arrest him, can anyone be surprised that Bambata showed some hesitation about going forward? He was in a dilemma. The course he took was, questionable as it seems, on the side of law and order, at any rate for the time being. His people were obviously inclined to get out of hand, and it required his personal presence to check any rash or hostile demonstration. Had he gone into Greytown and been apprehended, it is quite possible an effort at rescue would have been made. As it was, nothing occurred. Nor would anything have occurred, because his arrest was not contemplated. It was, of course, bad enough that a body ofyoung men should have assembled where they did, armed with assegais, in much the same way that those of Mveli's had done when Mr. Bennett went to collect at Henley, but, at that time Bambata had apparently no intention of attacking Greytown. Where he made a fatal mistake was in not reporting the incident at once, as Mveli had done, thus placing on the Government the onus of preserving peace. Rather than sacrifice the lawlessly inclined he, by inaction at a critical moment, caused himself to be identified with them in every respect. "If we fail to denounce the crime, we become participators in it."[135]From the moment he excused himself from appearing on the lying pretext that he had a headache, it became more and more difficult for him to do otherwise than rebel. At that moment he unfitted himself for the position of Chief. This the Government, some days later, recognized, whereupon Magwababa was appointed to act as Chief asfrom that date.

On the day after the scare, a message was received from the Secretary for Native Affairs summoning Bambata to attend at his office in Pietermaritzburg. Two Native police were sent to say he was to take an early train to Pietermaritzburg on the following morning (Saturday). The messengers returned to say he had promised to comply on the Monday. After the police had gone, Nhlonhlo intervened and would not allow the Chief to keep the promise, for the reason that, having by that time slept in the veld for three days with men under arms, he would be looked on as already in revolt, and, therefore, as a criminal to be put under arrest. Nhlonhlo and hisimpithereupon carried him off to another kraal. On Tuesday, a further message was sent. After some trouble, the messengers found him and delivered their message. He told them to inform the Magistrate he was afraid of going to Pietermaritzburg, as he had heard the European people had taken up arms against him.

At this stage, Mr. C. Tatham, an attorney of Greytown, who had one of Bambata's relations working for him,Bambata himself, moreover, being his client, sent to the Chief to say that, if afraid of obeying the summons, he was to send a particular man to him, when Tatham himself would go and see Bambata and, after explaining the position, conduct him to the authorities. Bambata was besought by his wiser followers to seize the opportunity, which he said he would do. The man referred to arrived, but found Tatham unwell. The latter then sent word to say Bambata was to come by himself, and, if afraid, he was to proceed direct to Tatham's residence, when he would be conducted to the Magistrate's office. On hearing this, Nhlonhlo exclaimed: "He won't go." In reply to a remark about the probability of Bambata being released on payment of a fine, Nhlonhlo remarked: "I prefer he should die in our own hands, rather than be shot by Europeans out of our sight." Others tried to persuade the Chief, but, influenced by Nhlonhlo, Bambata remarked: "I won't go. Some of you want me to be killed by myself. When they kill me, it will not be until some of you have been laid out." References to the action of the British Government in regard to Cetshwayo and Langalibalele were unavailing, for Bambata replied: "When each of these was captured, it was not until after some of their people had been killed, therefore I too mean to resist." "If you are tired of him" (i.e.Bambata), said Nhlonhlo to the peace-makers, "give him over to us." After the wiser men had queried whether Nhlonhlo had a fortress where Bambata could be hidden with any good prospect of success, the people dispersed. Bambata was then conducted to the forest-clad hill above the principal induna Mgombana's kraal, and there concealed.

On the 3rd March, a final message was dispatched to the effect that, if Bambata continued any longer to disobey the Supreme Chief's order, he would have to take the consequences, whatever they might be. The bearers, however, failed to see him, as the people refused to disclose his whereabouts. The message was delivered to the Chief's brother Funizwe.

Major W.J. Clarke, with a force of 170 Natal Police anda troop, U.M.R. (Helpmakaar), made a surprise visit to Mpanza on the 9th, with the object of arresting Bambata, but failed, as the man hid himself in the dense bush about those parts as soon as he saw the force advancing. Clarke, thereupon, returned to Pietermaritzburg.[136]In the meantime, Bambata, feeling that Natal could not afford him protection, crossed into Zululand on Sunday, the 11th March, boasting to his followers as he left, that when they next set eyes on him he would be at the head of an army. Nothing more was heard of him officially from the 11th until the morning of the 3rd April.

During his absence, Magwababa and Funizwe (Bambata's full brother), together with the more important men of the tribe, including the firebrand, Nhlonhlo, were summoned to Pietermaritzburg, the object being to appoint a successor to Bambata, who had been deposed as from the 23rd February. It was decided Funizwe should succeed, but that, for a year, Magwababa was to act as Chief.

But where was Bambata at this time? Subsequent inquiries show that, when he left for Zululand, travelling on foot, he was accompanied by his chief wife, three children, and a mat-bearer, also a young man, Ngqengqengqe by name. Among other places, he slept at a relative's in Nkandhla district; he then proceeded on to Dinuzulu's Usutu kraal by easy stages, leaving his wife and children at a place some seven miles away from there. He reached Usutu on Sunday, the 25th March.

Only long after the Insurrection was any account procurable of these doings, particularly from the woman and children in question. According to their evidence, this young man, Ngqengqengqe, had been sent from Usutu kraal by Dinuzulu's minor induna to summon Bambata, as Dinuzulu desired to see him. Bambata had several interviewswith Dinuzulu, being treated by the latter in a markedly hospitable manner. Accommodation in a special establishment a few yards from the kraal and Dinuzulu's own apartments, was provided. His wife and children were brought the next day to Usutu and there concealed. Dinuzulu, says Bambata's wife, through his principal induna, Mankulumana, gave Bambata instructions to go back to Natal, commit an act of rebellion and then flee to Nkandhla forests, where Dinuzulu's men would join him. Bambata was, at the same time, given a Mauser rifle and some ammunition. After spending four days at Usutu, he started on his return journey, leaving his wife and children at Dinuzulu's kraal. And there they continued to be concealed for fourteen months.[137]Two young men were sent back with Bambata to Natal, one being Cakijana (son of Gezindaka), who soon began to play an important part. Bambata, accompanied by these two, called at a kraal of Chief Matshana (son of Mondise) on Friday, the 30th March, but was refused admission. He left the same afternoon for Ngubevu drift (on the Tugela), having first assured himself that it was not being watched by police.

About 7 a.m. on Tuesday, 3rd April, it was reported to the Magistrate that Bambata was back in Mpanza valley (as a matter of fact he had got back on the 31st March), and that he and animpihe had raised had captured the acting Chief Magwababa on the preceding evening; that they had surprised Magwababa in his hut, treated him with violence, and, tying him with a reim,[138]had marched him off towards that portion of the tribe that lies furthest from Greytown, and in the vicinity of Marshall's hotel. The foregoing tale had been brought to a farmer (Mr. Botha) at 3 a.m. by Magwababa's own wife who, from what she saw, supposed her husband must by then be dead.

Afterwards it was discovered that the assailants had, on seizing Magwababa, jeered at him in these terms: "Where are your white friends now? We acknowledge, not a Natal king, but a black one."

In addition to arresting Magwababa, attempting to secure Funizwe (who escaped through having slept in the field because afraid of his brother), Bambata, assisted by his principal induna, Mgombana, and other men, went about commandeering the young men, threatening immediate death on failure to comply. The commandeering was carried on throughout the whole of Monday night (2nd). That such "club law" had to be adopted, shows that Bambata felt it difficult to get members of the tribe to join, although some were only too eager to do so. His tribe, for the most part, was against rebelling, and could be forced into doing so only by the adoption of violent methods. But for the presence of Cakijana, the reputed emissary from Dinuzulu, and who in the name of Dinuzulu urged all to rise,[139]Bambata must have failed to dragoon as many as he did.

The result of the report was that the Magistrate deemed it necessary to proceed to Mpanza to investigate. He was accompanied by a clerk, a civilian, Inspector J.E. Rose and two troopers of the Natal Police, and a Native guide. They went along the main road as far as Mpanza (Marshall's) hotel when, unaware that their movements were being watched, they proceeded up Mpanza valley in the direction of Varty's house in search of Magwababa's captors. Whilst looking for a drift to cross the Mpanza, which passes the hotel about three-quarters of a mile lower down, they were suddenly surprised by a body of men, under the command of Bambata himself, fully armed with assegais and some guns. Bambata's party immediately opened fire at short range at the Inspector, who, with a couple of men, was leading. A few shots were returned, when one of the enemy was wounded. Theimpihad behaved in a deliberate and cold-blooded manner,well-knowing the party was composed of Government officials. One would have thought the smallness of the party was enough to have guaranteed its safety. It would probably have made a considerable difference had it been even smaller and unarmed. Evidently the temper of the people had greatly changed. When the men were sent with Clarke to arrest Bambata, he fled to Zululand. Now, when another, though smaller party, appears on the scene, he, without warning, opens fire upon them. Clearly something had occurred during the visit to Zululand to embolden him to break out into open rebellion. The Magistrate's party, on going into Mpanza valley, did so in no aggressive spirit, not even to attempt arrest, but solely to find out what had become of the acting Chief, as it was their duty to do. They could not, under the circumstances, do otherwise than make their way back to the hotel (on the main road) as best they could, through the thick thorn bush that lay between. The three ladies in the hotel, Mesdames Hunter, Marshall and Borham (and son), warned of their danger, proceeded to effect an escape as speedily as they could. This was done with the assistance of the police.

As a matter of fact, though unknown to the party at the time, the rebels did not pursue, otherwise one or more must have been overtaken. They made their way as rapidly as possible to the Police Station, Keate's drift (on the Mooi River), reaching the post the same afternoon.

Some time after the party had gone off, a number of the insurgents proceeded to the hotel and, breaking into the canteen and cellar, helped themselves freely to the large supply of liquor they found there.

After representing the state of affairs to the Commandant, Colonel Leuchars, whose Mapumulo command had, of course, by this time demobilized, proceeded on his own responsibility, in the absence of the Magistrate, to arrange for the defence of Greytown. The necessary organization was effected the same evening with the assistance of the Town Commandant (Major Menne). All available men of the U.M.R. were mobilized; patrols were sent out indifferent directions, and the local First Reserves put on to guard the approaches to the town. The action taken was at once confirmed by the Commandant.

Such Natal Police as were available, including the four officers, 100 non-commissioned officers and men who had the day previous been to Richmond to carry out the executions referred to, were immediately ordered to Greytown, not, however, receiving instructions until late in the afternoon. On arrival at Greytown by train at about 8 a.m., the force was joined by a detachment, raising the strength to six officers, 166 non-commissioned officers and men, under the command of Lieut.-Col. G. Mansel, C.M.G., Chief Commissioner. The force marched from Greytown about 10.30 a.m. and camped on Botha's farm (adjoining Burrup's), six or seven miles from and above Mpanza valley. The idea was there to await developments. Leuchars was, the same day, appointed to command all troops in the district; this, of course, brought Mansel's force under his orders.

Intelligence was received by Mansel the same afternoon by wire from Keate's drift, to the effect that the European men and women, who had taken refuge there, were unable to proceed through Mpanza valley to Greytown, owing to insufficiency of escort. On account of the hostile attitude assumed by Bambata, whose fastnesses were not more than seven or eight miles from Keate's drift, the position of the ladies was considered to be unsafe. Mansel accordingly decided, without, however, submitting the matter for instructions, to bring in the fugitives. Shortly before 3 p.m. a column, consisting of five officers and 146 non-commissioned officers and men, left for the purpose. A few men, together with some Nongqai (Zululand Native Police), were left in charge of the camp.

The force, with Mansel in command, not having seen anything of the enemy, although it had passed through Mpanza valley, arrived at the drift at 4.30 p.m. It left again at 6.15, escorting the ladies and child. The latter travelled in an open carriage drawn by two horses. The police detachment at Keate's drift continued to hold thepost under Sub-Inspector Ottley. Mpanza hotel was reached just after sunset. A short halt was made, when the column continued its march along the road. There was an advanced guard of twenty-six men. The carriage occupied a position in the centre of the main body. Every precaution was taken. Connecting files were posted between the guard and main body (about 150 yards apart), but, in Mpanza valley and for some miles further on, the nature of the country was such that flankers could not be thrown out, not even five yards on either side of the road. The density of the bush about that part is remarkable. The trees, though not more than twenty feet high, are so closely intermingled, some of thorn, others of cactus variety, as to make it difficult for a man to make his way through, even on foot. Add to this, a three-strand wire fence running five yards from the road on either side—the road itself not being more than thirty feet wide—and the predicament the column would be in, in the event of attack at night, can better be imagined than described. The worst is what actually did happen. After the force had marched barely a mile from the hotel, and just as the advanced guard, under Major O. Dimmick, 100 to 150 yards ahead of the main body, was passing through the worst section of the forest along the route, and one of the nastiest spots to be found either in Natal or Zululand—the time being about 8 p.m.—a sudden and determined rush was made by the savages at the right rear of the guard. As they rushed, they simultaneously shouted, at the top of their voices, their newly-adopted war-cry "Usutu!"[140]Almost instantly the rest of the right flank of the guard was attacked. Every horse took fright, and, although each man was marching with his rifle drawn, it was impossible to use it. The attack had come from the higher side of the road, where the whole of the enemy, about 150 in number, were in hiding, the spotbeing beside a huge solitary rock at the foot of a steep, bush-covered hill, known by the Natives as Hlenyane. The enemy's object was evidently to cut the advanced guard off the main body.

Owing to the narrowness of the road, the way it was hemmed in by the bush on either side, and the darkness—there being but half-moon, with clouds about—the guard succeeded, only with great difficulty and after considerable delay, in making their way back to the main body. As it was, the leading section was completely cut off, and, with three horses wounded, made its way on to the camp as best it could.

The tactics of the enemy were evidently to deal first with the horse, then with the man, after bringing the latter on to a level with himself. Sergt. E.T.N. Brown, Lce.-Sergt. J.C.G.Harrison, and Tprs. A.H. Aston and J.P. Greenwood were killed outright, whilst four were wounded (one of them dangerously). Three horses were killed, and nine wounded. All these had been stabbed, except two—shot through the neck. When the attack started, the main body moved up, dismounted, and volleyed into the bush on either side. Except for those who came on to the road, it was quite impossible to see the enemy, although at the outset they could not have been more than five to ten yards off the road. They were in possession of several firearms, but, owing to the heavy fire of the police, were obliged to retire in different directions. It was afterwards ascertained they withdrew by dragging themselves along their stomachs through the undergrowth, done to avoid being hit.

During the action there were several acts of bravery. Among those who behaved with conspicuous gallantry were Dimmick and Trooper O. Folker. Trumpeter C. Milton, who was severely wounded, must have been killed but for their carrying him out of danger, with much difficulty and at great risk to themselves.

MPANZASketch PlanShowing attack on Magistrate's party (3rd) and ambuscade (4thApril)

The following account by Dimmick will be read with interest:

"When the rebels started their attack, they volleyedinto us; as they did so, the majority, with assegais, sprang on to the road to stab, or throw where that was impossible. The attack was directed more at the rear of the guard than at its front and, for a moment or two, more at the horse than the man. The practically simultaneous wounding of many horses caused them, as well as the others, to plunge about. During the resulting confusion, the guard, as the attack was being delivered, was pressed forward. I suddenly heard Trumpeter Milton on my left cry out. He had been struck in the back by, I believe, a flung assegai. He bumped up against me and lay across his wallet. I held on to him in the best way I could with my left hand, calling out to the men to steady down. I went forward with him a distance of about 100 yards, shouting to my men as I did so, when, by the faint light of the moon, I saw Hodge and Emanuel on foot in the road, the latter having been knocked off his horse by a knobstick striking him on the forehead. A few yards further on I saw Folker, Guest and others coming back mounted. Folker made for me at once and took Milton up on to the front of his saddle, whilst Guest considerably assisted Emanuel. I told the men, about eight or ten of them, to bunch together, when we began to work our way back. The enemy at this time was in the bush on both sides of the road, being briskly fired at by the main body."

After the rebels, who were commanded by Bambata in person, assisted by his chief induna and Cakijana, had been beaten off, the action having lasted five to ten minutes, the wounded were placed in the carriage (promptly given up by the ladies), and the column moved on.

An advanced guard was dispensed with. The men were all dismounted and made to march in single file with fixed bayonets on each side of the road, horses and vehicle inside. Three of the dead were, at short intervals, picked up in the road and put into the carriage.

For a mile or two there was occasional firing into the bush to keep off the enemy, who, it was supposed, might be following. They shouted obscene epithets at thepolice from a distance. The camp was not reached till about midnight. As a matter of fact, the rebels, afraid of being hit, did not follow, notwithstanding that one man was heard to shout out from a hill "Bapakati!" (They are hemmed in!)

As far as could be seen, in addition to assegais, shields and knobsticks, the enemy had about a dozen guns.

The ladies, after giving up the carriage, walked most of the way back to camp, a distance of about six miles.

Reviewing the two foregoing incidents, it is, in the first place, difficult to understand why the first expedition took place in the way it did. In view of Bambata's attitude, firstly, on the 22nd February, in connection with the poll tax; secondly, his refusal to attend at headquarters when summoned, and quitting Natal for Zululand; and, thirdly, his arresting Magwababa, who had just been formally appointed as his acting successor, it seems as if the occasion was one which required far stronger action than that which was taken. In arresting Magwababa, Bambata did not do so out of personal spite, although the relations between the two had for long been strained, but because, supported by Dinuzulu, he was determined, if possible, to bring about a general rebellion.

When the Chief Commissioner arrived on the scene, he knew Bambata and his men were under arms; he knew that, after the attack on the Magistrate's party, Bambata did not pursue, otherwise one or more of the fugitives must have been killed. Moreover, there was no good ground for suspecting an attack on the Keate's drift station. As it was, the European residents referred to in the wire on which Mansel acted were perfectly safe where they were, especially as Bambata had, at the most, no more than 150 to 200 men, while the station was protected by about twenty rifles.[141]

There thus being no immediate necessity for removing the "European residents," it would seem the columnshould not have been marched off merely to relieve an unthreatened post at the imminent risk of being attacked on a road it was impossible to defend in the dark. The situation certainly called for immediate action, not, it would seem, in the direction of relieving Keate's drift, but of getting within striking distance of the enemy and, after ascertaining his probable strength and position, attacking him. It is, however, easy to be wise after the event.

In going to Keate's drift, the mistakes were made of returning the same day after an apparently unavoidably late start, and of returning by the way that was used on the forward journey. It is a maxim in Native warfare not to come back by the way one goes out. In this case, just because it was impossible to do otherwise than return to camp by the road (except by making a long detour), it would, no doubt, have been wiser to have adopted the precaution of doing so in the day-time. As there was an advanced guard when the column proceeded to the drift, the enemy, of course, knew the kind of formation to look out for.

The body of Sergeant Brown was not recovered until some days later,[142]when it was seen lying on its back at right angles across, and in the middle of, the road where the fight had been. It had been purposely put there by the rebels, and had about it no fewer than twenty-seven assegai wounds. The whole of the moustache and upper lip had been cut off and carried away, as also the left forearm. A deep incision, in the form of a cross, had also been made for some purpose at the side of the left biceps. Deceased's helmet, too, had been taken, as also his boots, tunic and breeches, whilst the way in which the stomach and intestines had been ripped open, showed those present that they were at war with savages indeed.

The horrible mutilation of this poor fellow's body was, however, not done from sheer wantonness, but for a particular object, viz. to obtain pieces of the flesh for medicinal purposes. This practice, so revolting from acivilized person's point of view, is one usually followed by Zulus and other South African races. Indeed, according to their superstitions, to act thus is an indispensable accompaniment of warfare.

On an inspection being made at the scene of the ambuscade, it was noticed the bottom strands of the wire fence had been lifted to the top one, and there tied. This had been done in several places, evidently to enable the enemy to pass through quickly, whilst, at the same time, sufficient to check horses.

An incident of the attack was that not only Aston but his dog was killed, both almost on the same spot. Another feature was that not one of the enemy was killed, though, as was afterwards ascertained, ten or twelve were wounded. Such a result, as it happened, carried with it mysterious significance in so far as the Natives were concerned. To this attention must now be drawn.

Attached to Bambata's force, were three persons of importance, viz.: Cakijana, Moses, and Malaza. The first was commonly understood to be an emissary from Dinuzulu. He it was who had come specially to foment the Rebellion;[143]the second had, for some years, carried on Christian mission work within the tribe—during the Rebellion he acted as a kind of "chaplain to the forces"; Malaza was the war-doctor, quite indispensable, according to Native ideas, on such occasions.

By one or other of these, the belief was started that Bambata had secured drugs from Dinuzulu, whose effect would be to prevent European bullets from entering the body. This curious belief was destined to play a remarkable part during the rising. It seems to have originated from the Basutos.

The belief that the bodies of the "rightly disposed" would be impervious to bullets, would appear to have existed, not only before the attack on the police atMpanza, but also before the one at the kraal of Mjongo.

If there was anything that went to confirm the belief in "bullets not entering," it must have been the comparative absence of casualties among the rebels: (a) at Mjongo's kraal; (b) when the Magistrate's party was attacked; and (c) when the police were ambuscaded at Mpanza. It may, however, be mentioned that Malaza was wounded at Mpanza, though not to such an extent as to oblige him to retire.

Immediately after their attack, the rebels cut the telegraph line between Greytown and Keate's drift.

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