THE MATABELE CAMPAIGN, 1896

THE MATABELE CAMPAIGN 1896- Being a Narrative of the Campaign in suppressing the Native Rising in Matabeleland and Mashonaland.

The materials for this work were drawn mainly from notes and sketches made in the field, the author keeping an illustrated diary for the "particular diversion" of his mother. He sailed for South Africa, on this occasion on May 2nd. 1896,and arrived at Table Bay on the 19th, proceeded at once to the front via Mafeking, where he joined Sir Frederick Carrington's Staff. There is an account of the journey to Bulawayo and of the appearance of the newly established town, which was, at this time,almost surrounded by hostile natives.There are descriptions of many skirmishes, an important engagement on the banks of the Umgusa, scouting expeditions in the Matoppos, together with the narrative of the attack on the Mlimo's cave and fortress in which the rebels were severely defeated.

The volume is written in a cheery and humourous style, and affords a spirited picture of the position of affairs in the Chartered Company's territory at this period as well as a chatty description of life in the field. brightened by lively sketches of the campaign and country.

Original dark green boards with gilt warrior figure to front cover and gilt lettering to spine.Carries two book plates, one to the front paste down of Princess Beatrice youngest daughter of Queen Victoria-with pencil notation.Another Ex Libris to front endpaper for Gordon R Everson-Military Library.

Frontispiece showing Matabele Warrior with tissue guard- xv plus 500pp. 8vo 1897.With nearly 100 illustrations.39 pages advertisements, slight tape residue to endpapers. Very clean copy.Scarce.