The plain was one which was continually traversed from end to end by our troops and convoys, so that once out upon its surface all danger seemed at an end.

Broadwood had additional reasons for feeling secure, for he knew that, in answer to his own wise request, Colvile's Division had been sent out before daybreak that morning from Bloemfontein to meet him.

In a very few miles their vanguard and his must come together.

There were obviously no Boers upon the plain, but if there were they would find themselves between two fires.

He gave no thought to his front therefore, but rode behind, where the Boer guns were roaring, and whence the Boer riflemen might ride.
But in spite of the obvious there WERE Boers upon the plain, so placed that they must either bring off a remarkable surprise or be themselves cut off to a man.