Compiled by Henry Berthoud, after his travels in 1881, 1883 and 1885, colour, 1886

Entries out of order.

Introduces himself as the general replacing Sir George Colley in command of the British troops; has heard with sorrow of the trouble between Montsioa and Machabi (of Polfontein) and that war has broken out; a Royal Commission (for the settlement of the affairs of the Transvaal) is sitting and will shortly proceed to Pretoria to enquire into the affairs of the Transvaal and the disputed Keate Award territory; is sending Major Ernest Buller to enquire into the cause of the fighting; Major Buller will disperse Boer commandos to prevent the Barolong being attacked. letter signed sealed (mutilated).

The Royal Commission has brought forward the date when it will have an interview with the chiefs; it will new meet on July 30 and each deputation is to consist of not more than the Chief and six perssns in attendance; it is not necessary for Montsioa to come to Pretoria as his son is already there and will probably be granted an interview with the Royal Commission. autograph letter signed. 1p.

He will not agree to an armistice with Moshete ae requested by Captain Nourse; in 1881 May Major Buller and Pete [Piet] Joubert came to negotiate peace between himself, Moshete and his sub-chief Matchabi; all agreed to keep the peace, but no sooner had they left when Matchabi stole his horses and cattle and was not punished for his offence; in addition Moshete has prevented his people from taking their corn to the Diamond Fields to sell; fears that the Boers want peace so that the British troops will leave, and subsequently they will again support his enemies; will agree to an armistice for two months on the condition that his stolen cattle are returned and justice is meted out; questions Captain Nourse's threat to send troops as he was given assurances by Colonel Moysey that he could rule as he pleased in his own country. Copy. letter. 2p.