The little force walked into one of those horse-shoe positions which the Boers love, and learned by a sudden volley from a kraal upon their right that the enemy was present in strength.

On attempting to withdraw it was instantly evident that the Boers were on all sides and in the rear with a force which numbered at least five to one.

The camp of the main column was only four miles away, however, and the bodyguard, having sent messages of their precarious position, did all they could to make a defence until help could reach them.

Colonel Laing had fallen, shot through the heart, but found a gallant successor in young Nairne, the adjutant.

Part of the force had thrown themselves, under Nairne and Milne, into a donga, which gave some shelter from the sleet of bullets.