GERMAN MILITARY CRITICISM

New Zealand Mail, Issue 1682, 25 May 1904, Page 14

GERMAN MILITARY CRITICISM

BOER WAR TOPICS. The criticisms of German military authorities on the doings of British generals in the South African War, as translated by Colonel Waters and published by Murray, are frank but lyin regard to Colenso, the remark made is that it was General Buller, not the gallant army, that was defeated. ■Lord Methuen is praised for his tenacity, his caution, and his careful thinking out of plans. But at Magersfontein, after the slaughter of the Highlanders, he showed want of resource.

Of Lord Kitchener it is „ said: —“Ho was independent and reserved, and disliked asking the advice of others. Nevertheless, he has a deep appreciation for everything really great and lofty'’.” Both Lords Roberts and Kitchener are described as sharing “the feeling of real enthusiasm for the might and greatness of their country, for which they would sacrifice anything. They have hut one military ambition, namely, to see England progress along the path of glory and power.” Lord Roberts is praised for taking the loss of his convoy so coolly when it was by De Wet. “The rapidity with which he regained his mental equilibrium merits the utmost admiration. He received the brigade (which had lost the convoy) on its return not only without one word of reproach, but with friendly expressions of encouragement, -and those around him failed altogether to discern in his cheerful demeanour the gravity of the situation.” iSir John French is warmly commended for his relief of Kimberley. His subsequent cutting off of Clronje’s retreat from Magersfontein was “a very remarkable achievement.” “The capture of Cronje was chiefly due to the ability with which the cavalry division was handled, and to the skill of its gallant and resolute commander. The cavalry carried out its duty in a brilliant manner, and rendered incalculable service.” Testimony is borne to the humanity and good conduct shown by the British army throughout the war. If severe measures were employed after the Boers resorted to guerilla warfare, the British generals only did what was “in accordance with their duty and for the justifiable protection of the lives of those under their command.”