The helio was veiled in cloud, and there were no sounds of war.

The spirits of the garrison fell.
Grave rumours circulated.

Men even said that for the third time the relief column had recrossed the Tugela.

Monday brought a wave of hope, for at midday there was a gleam of sunshine, and we learned the news that Cronje had been surrounded in the Free State.

Still there was no news from Buller's column.