And there was but one road open to us--we must somehow get across the Orange River and thus obtain elbow-room.

Accordingly we returned to make for Zevenfontein, a ford ten or twelve miles further up the river.

If it were not already in the enemy's hands, we would surely be able to get across there.

Shortly before sunset, on the 8th of December, we arrived at Zevenfontein.

To our immense joy, it was unoccupied and fordable.
I at once marched towards Dewetsdorp, intending, if only General Knox and his huge force would give me the chance, to rest my horses, and then make another attempt to enter Cape Colony.
But it was not to be.
The English were afraid that if President Steyn and I were in Cape Colony their troubles would be doubled.