§ MR. SYDNEY BUXTON (Tower Hamlets, Poplar)I wish to ask the Secretary for the Colonies whether he can confirm or contradict the report of the operations at Bulawayo which appears in the evening papers; and 1646 whether he is in a position to inform the House if telegraphic communication has been re-established with that place?
§ THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE COLONIES (Mr. J. CHAMBERLAIN,) Birmingham, W.I have received a telegram from Sir Hercules Robinson containing a message from Bulawayo, from which I gather that telegraphic communication is again in working order. This telegram is from Captain Nicholson, Bulawayo, dated April 23:—
Action on Umgaza river yesterday. Rebels in considerable force were driven up the river and must have lost heavily. Our casualties;— Frank William Baxter, killed; following wounded, none seriously—Captain Grey, Lieutenant S. M. Hook, Lieutenant F. S. Crewe, and Corporal Wise. Some cattle were driven off by the raiders from three miles west of this while we were out.I have also got, another telegram from Sir Hercules Robinson containing information which may be interesting to the House. It is from Mr. Rose-Innes, who, as the House will remember, was appointed by the Government to represent them at the Trials at Pretoria: —Pretoria, April 24. — Rhodes, Phillips, Farrer pleaded guilty high treason on first count in indictment. Other prisoners pleaded guilty lese majeste, but without hostile intent against independence of Republic. Four of the accused unavoidably absent, but will he present Monday. Case adjourned till then, when written statement will be handed in by Phillips, Rhodes, and Farrer. Counsel will address Court and sentence given.