I only mention this so as to draw attention to the history of the weapon which I held in my hand.

It is as follows:-- When the enemy passed through Potchefstroom on their way to Pretoria, they left a garrison behind them, and many burghers went there to give up their arms, which forthwith were burnt in a heap.

When the garrison left the dorp the burghers returned.

Amongst them were some who set to work to make butts for the rifles that had been burnt.
"This rifle," I was told by the man who showed it to me, "is the two hundredth that has been taken out of the burnt heap and repaired." This made such an impression on me that I took it in my hand, and had my photo taken with it.

I am only sorry that I cannot mention the names of the burghers who did that work.