An account of the defection of rebels of Barkly East to Free State forces under Commandant Olivier (22nd November 1899).

Thanks Crewe for his gift to the St. Andrews College Fund. Gives report on the progress of Diocesan School for Girls, Kingswood and St. Aidans. Asks Crewe to exert influence in the establishment of a Department of Bantu Studies. Fort Hare would do the linguistic side of the course. Discusses the chances of Mr Stuart winning the election in Port Elizabeth. Personal news.

Letter of Introduction to Crewe on behalf of Capt. R. Higgins.

Supports the evidence of W.T. Morris against the Barkly East rebels.

Is sending Crewe a copy of Douglas' report of a visit to some settlers. The farmers round Nylstroom and the Springbok Flats will be assisted financially. Was unable to address 1820 Association meetings in Durban due to the uncooperative attitude of the local Chairman, Mackupton.

In April, Webber discussed with C. Davies and Walter Hudson the matter of Ainsworth's will. A private Bill will be introduced next session to alter the terms of the will so that people from England, already settled in South Africa, can be helped.

Will not be able to visit Crewe on his way back from Port Elizabeth. Has had good rains in Transvaal and Orange Free State.

Agrees with Crewe that the General Manager's report, written by Hobbs is unsatisfactory. Hobbs attempted to concentrate all power in his own hands and distorted the facts. Hopes Lionel Phillips will attend the Port Elizabeth meeting. Laments the death of Drummond Chaplin. Miners Union causing trouble. The Cold Producers Committee has weak leadership and is too conciliatory.

Blames the Minister of Mines, Patrick Duncan, for encouraging the strike by agreeing to make concessions to a miners' deputation. Agrees with Crewe's views regarding Smuts' East London speech. Webber resigning from South African Party. Feels that fusion is a trick to destroy the old Unionist Party.

Describes annual meeting of the Transvaal area of the 1820 Association. Praises Mackenzie's activity in collecting subscriptions. Cresswell shows a surplus of over 200 for the year. Is sending Crewe a copy of the Private Bill for the amendment of Ainsworth's will, to include help to British settlers already in South Africa.

The matter of centralizing supervision of the provincial areas and doing without Edmunds was not passed at the Port Elizabeth meeting of 1820 Settlers' Association. Is pleased with Woodin. Is leaving for England on 23rd February.