SECRET DESPATCH FROM MR CHAMBERLAIN.

Clutha Leader, Volume XXVI, Issue 1381, 6 March 1900, Page 3

SECRET DESPATCH FROM MR CHAMBERLAIN.

A Sydney cable dated Ist inst., reports that a despatch of great importance bas bean received by various Governments from Mr Chamberlain, . Secretary of State for the Colonies. The greatest secrecy is preserved. Speculation is life, and varies from a suggestion that the Imperial authorities wish to intern Cronje and the Boer prisoners in Australia to trouble with Russia. Mr M'Lean, the Victorian Premier, went so far as to say that the publication might create alarm. It is believed that the colonies will be asked for more troops for South Africa, so that in the event of trouble with other Powers the Imperial forces will be available for service elsewhere. Sydney, March 3. Mr Chamberlain's secret despatch is published. It states that the Imperial Government requires au additional 2000 men, similar to the Bushmen, for general service anywhere in South Africa. Probably the force will be required outside Natal and Cape Colony, in which case private's will be paid 5s per day, and other ranks proportionally. Mr Chamberlain is confident Australia will respond patriotically to the further call. Realising the magnitude of the efforts already made by Australia, the Imperial authorities will defray all the expenses of arming, mounting, and transporation. Mr Chamberlain has asked Mr Lyne to repeat the message to all the colonies, excluding New Zealand.