THE AFRICAN REINFORCEMENTS.

Press, Volume XXXI, Issue 4290, 30 April 1879, Page 1 (Supplement)

THE AFRICAN REINFORCEMENTS.

Our own outlook is somewhat brighter. The last batch of reinforcements haa this week sailed for Zululand, and the telegraph has already reported the arrival of the first transports at St. Vincent's. Some indignation has, however, been excited by the news that five of them have been detained there by difficulties about coaling. Troops have been sent on from St. Helena and other points. The confidence of the publio is restored, and this more sanguine view is justified less by our preparations tban by the general tone of the communications received from Africa. But the despatches of Lord Chelmsford have given rise to much severe criticism, and it as been urged by many, both Conservatives and Liberals, that he should be immediately recalled. The document of most interest is the despatch of Lieutenant Chard, telegraphed from Madeira, and describing the defence of Borke's Drift. It is a plain account—in language almost as vigorous as the action it narrates —of one of the most gallant deeds in the history of British arms. The odds were nearly thirty to one, but Natal was saved as mnch by the resolute skill and foresight of the defence as by its heroic bravery.