Negotiations with the Enemy It was the intention of President Steyn to remain for some time in the division of Vice-Commander-in-Chief Judge Hertzog.

Meanwhile, I went to the northern commandos, in order to keep in touch with Generals Louis Botha and De la Rey and our Government.

When I was about twelve miles to the south of Petrusburg, I received a letter from General Botha, informing me that Lord Kitchener desired to have a conference held, at Middelburg, in the middle of February, as the English Government wanted to make a Peace Proposal.

General Botha asked the President and myself to come yet nearer, so that, in case we might be wanted, we should be within reach.
I sent on his letter to President Steyn, giving him my opinion of it, and asking if he would come.

The President, who was always ready to do anything for his country or people, did not lose one moment, but came at once.