PEACE AND WAR IN THE TRANSVAAL - PRESENTATION COPY

The first edition of this very scarce title recounting the unsuccessful defence of Lydenburg during Siege of Lydenburg in 1881, resulting in the onset of the First Anglo Boer War. This account was written by Mrs. Walter Long, wife of the British Commander of this operation, Second Lieutenant Walter Long. The author was also present in Lydenburg during the siege so this is a first hand report. 128pp. Small 8vo. In the original green gilt embossed cloth. SABIB Vol. 3. Page 158.

A most interesting copy as there is a presentation inscription, dated March 1889, on the half title from a Lady Bishop to "The Admiral of The Fleet, Sir Henry Keppel". Laid down on to both front endpapers is an article from the Trowbridge Chronicle. June 25th, 1881 entitled "The Gallant Defence of Lydenburg by Lieut. Long." The article makes mention of "Mrs. Long, the only one of her sex in the Fort". It complements her thus "The conduct of Mrs. Long.....shows that she fully shares with her gallant husband the desire to the honour of England and the credit of the British arms, notwithstanding the fearful odds against them." 

An about very good copy in the original cloth which has slight rubbing and wear. The internal hinges are cracked but holding. There is a small stain along the top of the first few preliminary pages.

This title does not appear to have been reprinted.

Walter Hillyar Colquhoun Long (20 October 1858 - 18 February 1892) was a British Second Lieutenant that fought in the First Boer War. He was originally a second lieutenant in the 6th Dragoons, but was then transferred to the 94th Regiment of Foot on 27 March 1880. As part of the 94th Regiment, he played a crucial part in the defence of Lydenburg during a three month siege in 1881.