They challenged, and the answer was a shattering volley, instantly returned by the survivors of the picket.

So hot was the Boer attack that before help could come every man save one of the picket was on the ground.

The sole survivor, Daley of the Dublins, took no backward step, but continued to steadily load and fire until help came from the awakened camp.

There followed a savage conflict at point blank-range.

The mounted infantry men, rushing half clad to the support of their comrades, were confronted by an ever-thickening swarm of Boer riflemen, who had already, by working round on the flank, established their favourite cross fire.