THE DISASTER AT STORMBERG.

Marlborough Express, Volume XXXIV, Issue 292, 13 December 1899, Page 2

THE DISASTER AT STORMBERG.

THREE HOURS DESPERATE FIGHTING. A TRYING EXPERIENCE. [OfIITSD PBBBB A850014T105.1 Oapbtown, December 11. Later reports give a fuller description of the reverse that befell the British troops m the viciuity of Storm berg Junction. When General Gatacre with a force of 3000 men set out from Molteno he had m eiew an attack on about 2500 Boers m a position at Stormberg ; but he was led into contact with as many as 6000, strongly posted. When the force was surprised the infantry behaved as coolly as if on parade ; and, after desperate fighting lasting over three hours, succeeded m carrying an almost impregnable position. No sooner had they gained the position than they foual it untenable, the location being commanded by a fort and a rifle fire from three directions ; and a retreat hud to be made. The retirement was effected under difficulties, add the inoeaeant shelling caused some disorder. The 74th and 77th Batteries of Artillery worked splendidly m covering the retreat, and averted a great disaster. The maroh back to the starting point was a most arduous one, Molteno being regained after thirty hours' hard work. It is feared the missing men from the Irish Rifles and Northumberlands have been oaptured.