The British were aware of the presence of the enemy, but do not appear to have posted any extra outposts or taken any special precautions.

Long months of commando chasing had imbued them too much with the idea that these were fugitive sheep, and not fierce and wily wolves, whom they were endeavouring to catch.

It is said that 700 yards separated the four pickets.

With that fine eye for detail which the Boer leaders possess, they had started a veld fire upon the west of the camp and then attacked from the east, so that they were themselves invisible while their enemies were silhouetted against the light.
Creeping up between the pickets, the Boers were not seen until they opened fire at point-blank range upon the sleeping men.

The rifles were stacked--another noxious military tradition--and many of the troopers were shot down while they rushed for their weapons.