THE BAND RAID.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 10730, 19 February 1897, Page 2

THE BAND RAID.

MR KHODES BEFORE A PARLIAMENTARY COMMITTEE. Press Association—By Telegraph—Copyright. London, February 17. The Prince of Wales, besides numerous members of both Houses, were present at the opening of the sitting of the Transvaal Raid Committee of Inquiry. No ladies' were amongst the spectators. Continuing his evidence, Mr Cecil Rhodes said the persistent unfriendly attitude of the Transvaal towards the Cape prevented common action being taken. The denial of civil rights to the Uitlanders became intolerable. The situation had been almost on the verge of a revolution I for years, and preparations for a change would continue to be made antil the grievances were redressed. Dr Jameson had started on the expedition without his authority. Mr Rhodes admitted having placed troops on the frontier; also that he had supplied them with money and arms. He was perhaps morally culpable, but the case of Prince George of Greece starting for Crete without the concurrence of the Great Powers was an analogous one. Sir W. V. Harcourt cross-examined Mr Rhodes with bland delicacy, the duel between the witness and the leader of the Opposition being watched with intense interest. Mr Rhodes was impatient when asked for details. Sometimes he refused to answer questions put to him. His almost rude replies disconcerted Sir William Harcourt. He admitted having sent a cablegram to The Times with regard to an I invitation to Dr Jameson from the Rand for I help, but was unaware who altered the date of his letter. He denied having pressed the Rand to rise. He declined to state without reflection if Colonel Khodes'a telegram of December 21 implied that the rising would not be proceeded with unless Lord Kosmead and Mr Cecil Rhodes went to the Rand. The inquiry has been adjourned till Friday. j