letter

Letter written by Colonel Borton of the 2nd Battalion which he commanded in South Africa to Colonel A.C. Becher commanding officer of the 1st Battalion. Borton describes the difficulties of exposed terrain. He is distainful of Methuen under whom they have been serving. (see note) and explains that the battalion is acting as covering party for the Border Regiment. He notes that the 'foot slogger' or infantryman gets the hard work but none of the excitment, but is proud of the quality of their entrenchments which he believes have discouraged Boer attacks. Borton then complains about the transfer of large numbers of men and the lack of experienced NCO's and men he has. He gives news of, and complains about a number of named officers.