The Duke, who wore the uniform of a Field-Marshal, was received by the following members of the reception committee: Major Domville, D.L. (vice-chairman), Mr. Justice Ross, Sir Wm. Thompson, Sir Charles Cameron, C.B., Major Davidson Houston, Colonel Finlay, Colonel Davidson, Major-General Sir Gerald Morton, K.C.B., Colonel Paterson, Colonel G. T. Plunkett, C.B., Captain Lewis Riall, D.L., Colonel Vernon, D.L., and Alderman Harris.

Major-General Vetch, commanding the Dublin District, was accompanied by Major Lowndes, A.D.C., Major Gilles (Brigade-Major), and Captain Fox Strangways (Garrison Adjutant). A guard of honour of the Royal Irish Rifles was drawn up outside the Show Buildings, and the band of the regiment played the National Anthem when the Duke and Duchess of Connaught drove up.

Their Royal Highnesses having taken seats on the dais, the Duke of Connaught, who spoke in a tone which was easily heard in all parts of the building, said, 'Colonel Hicks, officers and non-commissioned officers, and men of the 2nd Battalion Royal Dublin Fusiliers, allow me to welcome you most warmly home again to old Ireland after your very arduous four years' service. I am sure I am only the mouthpiece, not only of the General Officer Commanding this Army Corps, but also of every loyal Irishman, when I assure you how warm and how hearty is the greeting that is given you on your return to your native country, and especially in this capital of Ireland. You are an old and distinguished regiment; raised originally for service in India as the Royal Madras and Royal Bombay Fusiliers. During the time that you bore this name and the numbers 102 and 103, you took a very honourable part in all those great battles that assured us the conquest of India. Now, since the year 1881, you have become closely associated not only with Ireland, but with its capital. Your first service since you became the Royal Dublin Fusiliers was in South Africa, and through the arduous services in that country you, men, whom I have now the honour of addressing, nobly maintained the traditions of those fine soldiers who went before you. When you were sent from India amongst the first reinforcements of the troops in South Africa in 1897—soon afterwards the war broke out—you took a leading part in the Battle of Talana. You then went back to Ladysmith, and after falling back across the Tugela, you were attached to the army of Sir Redvers Buller, in the Irish Brigade under General Hart. During all those weary months on the Tugela, you took a leading part in every action that took place, and you distinguished yourselves so much at Pieter's Hill that when the relief force of Ladysmith marched in, the general officer commanding gave you the post of honour, and you led the troops that marched into Ladysmith. (Cheers.) Men of the Royal Dublin Fusiliers, this occasion is one of especial pleasure and satisfaction to myself, as His Majesty has done me the great honour of appointing me your Colonel-in-Chief—(cheers)—and I hope that in this you will recognise not only His Majesty's high appreciation of the distinguished services you have rendered to his throne and his empire, but also that you will see in it his wish that you will have some special mark of distinction when he has made me, his only brother, Colonel-in-Chief of the regiment. I hope I shall long have the honour to be your Colonel-in-Chief, and to have a connection with a regiment of which every Irishman feels so proud.' (Cheers.)

Colonel G. T. Plunkett, C.B., read the following letter, received from the Earl of Meath, H.M.L. for the County and City of Dublin:—

'Ottershaw, Chertsey.

'MY DEAR PLUNKETT,—Owing to absence from Ireland, I shall be unable to be present in person with you on the 13th, when you and the Reception Committee entertain the 2nd Battalion Royal Dublin Fusiliers on their return home from foreign service, but I shall be with you in spirit, and I hope you will let the officers and men know how sorry I am that I cannot personally welcome them on their return to Ireland, and to Dublin, after so many years spent abroad in the service of their Sovereign.

'The fame which the regiment has acquired by daring deeds of valour performed during the late war has travelled far beyond the shores of Ireland. Military men the world over, and all who have studied the South African War, have heard of the famous deeds of the Dublin Fusiliers. The citizens of the Metropolitan county and City are proud of the men who, mindful of their origin, have known how to make the name of Dublin to be honoured in all lands. Both officers and men have done their duty to King and country, and we, their Irish brothers, accord them a hearty welcome on their return to the dear land of their birth.

'Believe me, yours sincerely,

'MEATH,

'H.M.L. for County and City of Dublin.'

The Duke of Connaught then said: 'I have been particularly requested by His Excellency the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland to assure you of his warm welcome. He is away in England at present, but he has sent his military secretary and senior A.D.C. to represent him, and to give you his warmest wishes.' (Applause.)

His Royal Highness then distributed the medals and other distinctions to the officers and rank-and-file of the battalion who were entitled to them. The following officers were decorated, the Duke cordially shaking hands with each recipient:—Colonel Hicks, C.B., Colonel English, Major Fetherstonhaugh, Major Carington Smith, Captain H. W. Higginson, Captain Cory, D.S.O., Captain Garvice, D.S.O., Lieutenants Grimshaw, D.S.O., Haskard, Britton, Wheeler, St. George Smith, Knox, Tredennick, Seymour, Robinson, and Maclear, and Lieutenant and Quartermaster J. Burke and Sergeant-Major Sheridan. His Royal Highness pinned distinguished-conduct medals on the breasts of Lieutenant and Quartermaster J. Burke, Corporal Connell, and Privates C. N. Wallace, M. Farrelly, and M. Kavanagh, each recipient being loudly cheered.

The following officers who had served with the battalion during the war, but who had previously come home through wounds or sickness, availed themselves of the opportunity to have their medals presented to them by the Duke:—Captain Downing, Captain Dibley, Lieutenants Renny, Supple, Newton, Weldon, Molony, Armstrong, and Cooper. The distribution of the medals occupied over half an hour.

When this important portion of the programme had been completed, the order to 'stack arms' was given, and the men filed into their seats at the four long rows of tables which had been admirably prepared for the dinner by the caterers, Messrs. Mills & Co., of Merrion Row. Messrs. Mills & Co. had a picked staff of forty-two persons to carve the various dishes and wait at table. Dinner consisted of several courses, with selected fruit; while in addition to liberal supplies of ale, stout, and mineral waters, 300 bottles of champagne were placed before the honoured guests. This last-mentioned luxury was the generous gift of Messrs. Perrier-Jouet & Co., of Epernay, the famous wine shippers, who kindly and thoughtfully presented this supply of their extra-quality wine through their Irish representatives, Messrs. James McCullagh, Son & Co., 34 Lower Abbey Street. When the guests were seated, H.R.H. the Duke of Connaught, the Duchess of Connaught, and the Princesses Margaret and Patricia of Connaught, with the Reception Committee, a number of ladies, and a resplendent military entourage, walked slowly down between the rows of tables, stopping to speak a few gracious words to the non-commissioned officers and men who had made themselves conspicuous even amongst their comrades for valorous deeds and unflinching devotion to duty. Many of the reservists who sat beside former 'chums' at table, and on whose less warlike garb, the ordinary civilian clothes, medals and clasps shone out in high relief, also received kindly congratulations from the Commander-in-Chief in Ireland. Meanwhile the string band of the 21st Lancers, who occupied a good position on the gallery, played a beautiful selection of airs, principally Irish, not the least being 'The Wearin' of the Green.' The Royal party on walking down the centre of the hall was enthusiastically cheered, and the Duchess and her daughters left the building at about half-past one.

The Duke remained for lunch with his staff and the officers of the battalion. The health of His Majesty the King was drunk amidst much enthusiasm. After dinner, cigars and cigarettes and tobacco were liberally distributed, officers of the regiment performing most of this agreeable duty, and each man was presented with a nice briar pipe before leaving, the gift of Messrs. Lalor & Co., of Nassau Street.

In the interval between dinner and leaving the premises at Ballsbridge, many friends and relatives of the members of the battalion were afforded an opportunity for a pleasant chat, and most of these accompanied the men in their subsequent march through the city. One figure attracted much attention during the afternoon—a sturdy soldier who formerly belonged to the Royal Dublins, and who appeared in the quaint, and, in this country, unusual uniform of a West African regiment. It would be certainly less than unwarranted to refer to the general appearance and behaviour of the men. Clean, smart, soldierly fellows, they all appeared to be impressed with the one idea—that they belonged to a crack corps with unrivalled traditions to maintain.

The departure from Ballsbridge occasioned unbounded enthusiasm on the part of thousands of eager spectators, who, unaware of the exact time at which the entertainment would finish, had patiently waited for a couple of hours to catch a glimpse of the 'Old Toughs.' The main thoroughfare from the Show-grounds to Pembroke Road was lined by detachments of the Warwickshire, East Lancashire (with band), and Middlesex Regiments, while a guard of honour of the Royal Irish Rifles (with their band) was stationed opposite the main entrance. About 3.15 o'clock H.R.H. the Duke of Connaught, preceded by two mounted policemen and an escort of the 21st Lancers, drove out, and passed over the route to be traversed immediately afterwards by the Fusiliers. The Field-Marshal was loudly cheered as he proceeded to the Royal Hospital, and repeatedly returned the cordial salutations of the large crowds who were assembled at different points. The appearance of the feted warriors was the signal for an astonishing ovation at Ballsbridge.

The scene was a striking one. A splendid body of the 21st Lancers, numbering fifty, occupied first place in the procession, and these were followed by four or five bands and the heroes of the day. Another detachment of fifty Lancers brought up the rear, and a number of men of the same dashing cavalry regiment marched on either side of the advancing column. Many relatives and friends of the Fusiliers had now an opportunity to exchange greetings, and strict army discipline was at an end. There was nothing reprehensible, however, and the progress to Kingsbridge was of the most orderly and praiseworthy description.

The route followed was the main road from Ballsbridge—Pembroke Road, Upper Baggot Street, Lower Baggot Street, Merrion Row, Stephen's Green, North Grafton Street, College Green, Dame Street, Parliament Street, and the south lines of quays to Kingsbridge. At different points, like Baggot Street Bridge, Stephen's Green, and Grafton Street, the reception was of a most cordial nature, while an immense crowd in College Green raised deafening cheers as the sturdy warriors marched past. Enthusiasm reached its height when the tattered colours of the battalion, borne by two stalwart young ensigns, came into view. The officers and men appeared delighted with the cordial reception extended to them on all sides. At Grattan Bridge the band of the Seaforth Highlanders, which had already delighted a large concourse of people with some choice selections, struck up a lively air as Dublin's guests moved past, while a splendid send-off characterised the entrainment of the battalion at Kingsbridge for Buttevant, co. Cork.

The Railway Company made excellent arrangements for the men, who, considering their long day and its happy experiences, went through the ordeal in first-class style. After all, one could scarcely expect less from soldiers who carry six or seven, or even nine clasps, on their medal ribbons.

It is right to mention that a number of members of the Army Veterans Association, decorated with their medals and other distinctions, visited Ballsbridge, and cordially congratulated the Fusiliers on their return from foreign service.

On reaching Buttevant, the men will be supplied with new clothing and granted a general furlough.

* * * * *

Shortly after the reception the battalion was once again supplied with their home service full-dress head-gear—the busby, and it was with much gratification that the men wore their new busby hackle for the first time. This distinction was granted in 1902, when by Army Order 57 it was directed that the Royal Dublin Fusiliers should wear a blue and green hackle in their busbies: that for the officers to be blue and green, eight inches long, and that for the non-commissioned officers and men a similar but shorter one, in recognition of their services during the war in South Africa. In explanation of the colours of the hackle it may be stated that blue is the distinguishing colour of the 1st Battalion ('Blue Caps'), and green that of the 2nd Battalion ('Old Toughs').

On November 27th, 1903, the regiment was honoured by having appointed as its Colonel Major-General W. F. Vetch, C.V.O., commanding Dublin Garrison, vice Lieut.-General Sir John Blick Spurgin, K.C.B., G.C.S.I., deceased.

General Vetch joined the 102nd Foot on March 8th, 1864, was promoted Lieutenant, July 1st, 1869; Captain, May 22nd, 1875; Major, June 18th, 1881; Lieut.-Colonel, June 7th, 1884; Colonel, June 7th, 1888; and Major-General, April 1st, 1900.

After a quiet and uneventful stay at Buttevant for nearly three years the battalion proceeded to Fermoy on September 14th, 1906, and took up quarters in the New Barracks at that station.



CHAPTER III.

THE MEMORIAL ARCH.

'Even so great men great losses should endure.'

Julius Caesar.

On August 19th, 1907, the memorial arch to the officers and men who fell in South Africa was opened by H.R.H. the Duke of Connaught, Colonel-in-Chief the Royal Dublin Fusiliers. The 2nd Battalion was marching from Kilworth Camp to Ballyvonaire Camp on that day, but the authorities very kindly did everything in their power to make the ceremony a success, and Colonel English, Major Bromilow, and every one of any importance who had taken part in the war proceeded to Dublin by special train on the morning of the 19th, while the Depot and Militia officers also assembled in good force.

The officers and men of the regiment were very sensible of the honour shown to them by H.R.H. the Duke of Connaught in personally opening the arch, and so identifying himself with it and them, while every Dublin Fusilier present felt an added pride in himself and his uniform as he saw it worn by His Royal Highness the brother of His Majesty the King.

The following account of the ceremony is taken from the Dublin Daily Express, to whose proprietors our thanks are due for permission to reproduce it:—

'ROYAL DUBLIN FUSILIERS' MEMORIAL IN STEPHEN'S GREEN INAUGURATED BY THE DUKE OF CONNAUGHT. LUNCHEON AT SHELBOURNE HOTEL.

'To-day the Royal Dublin Fusiliers' Memorial to the officers and men of the regiment who fell in South Africa was formally inaugurated by the Duke of Connaught, Inspector-General of the British Army. His Royal Highness arrived at Amiens Street terminus by the early morning train from Belfast, and was received by the Viceroy's Military Secretary. The Duke of Connaught at once drove to the Shelbourne Hotel, where he was received by the following members of the Memorial Committee:—The Earl of Meath, President; the Earl of Drogheda, Mr. Justice Ross, Colonel Vernon, Sir Frederick Shaw, Bart., D.S.O., Sir Maurice Dockrell, Mr. Richard Dowse, Colonel Gore-Lindsay, Colonel Finlay, Sir Thomas Drew, R.H.A., Sir Charles Cameron, C.B., &c.

'Lunch was served immediately afterwards, and was presided over by the Earl of Meath, K.P., who was supported on his right by H.R.H. the Duke of Connaught, K.P., the Earl of Drogheda, Major-General Vetch, C.V.O., and Mr. Justice Ross, P.C.; and on his left by Lord Grenfell, G.C.B., Commander-in-Chief of the Forces in Ireland; Viscount Iveagh, K.P.; Major-General Sir Herbert Plumer, K.C.B.; Lieut.-Colonel Sir F. Shaw, D.S.O., 5th Royal Dublin Fusiliers. There were also present:—

'Sir G. Holmes, K.C.V.O.; Col. Vernon, D.L.; Brig.-Gen. Hammersley, Col. Lindsay, D.L.; Brig.-Gen. Monro, C.B.; Col. R. St. L. Moore, C.B.; Lieut.-Col. Hackett, 4th R.D.F.; Sir Daniel Hegarty, Captain Seymour, A.D.C.; Sir T. Myles, Major D. C. Courtney, Alderman Cotton, D.L.; Mr. Gerald M'Guinness, Col. Doyly Battley, Capt. Cameron, Dr. Wheeler, Mr. G. S. Dockrell, Capt. Halahan, Col. Chapman, 1st R.D.F.; Sir Horace Plunkett, P.C.; Col. Finlay, Sir John Arnott, Brig.-Gen. Cooper, C.B.; Mr. G. A. Stevenson, M.O.; Col. Hutcheson Poe, D.L.; Mr. P. Hanson, Sir John Moore, Major Carington Smith, Major Domville, D.L.; Col. Lyster Smythe, D.L., A.D.C.; Major Skeet, Capt. Garvice, Capt. Thompson, Mr. H. M. Dockrell, Mr. Wm. Graham, Mr. John Laverty, Col. F. P. English, D.S.O., 2nd R.D.F.; Mr. R. Dowse, B.L.; Major-Gen. Sir John Maxwell, K.C.B.; T. A. O'Farrell, J.P.; Surg.-Gen. Edge, C.B.; Col. the Hon. E. Lawless, Col. O'Neill, 3rd R.D.F.; Sir W. Watson, D.L.; Col. Colville Frankland, Major Lowndes, Mr. James F. Darcy, D.L.; Mr. J. H. Pentland, R.H.A.; Mr. Key, A.D.C.; Mr. J. A. Pigott, Mr. Robert Mitchell, Mr. R. H. A. M'Comas, Mr. Major Gorman, Mr. George Healy, Mr. R. Tyson, Mr. R. A. Falconer, Major-Gen. Bunbury, C.B.; Sir Maurice Dockrell, Brig.-Gen. Mills, C.B.; Sir John Ross of Bladensburg, K.C.B.; Sir T. Drew, R.H.A.; Sir G. Moyers, D.L.; the Hon. M. Ponsonby, A.D.C.; Sir William Thomson, Sir C. Cameron, C.B.; Sir L. Ormsby, Col. D. Browne, Mr. R. H. Jephson, Major Knight, Mr. A. E. Kennedy, Mr. W. A. Shea, Mr. Milward Jones, Mr. F. J. Usher, Mr. J. H. Reid, Mr. Henry L. Barnardo, Mr. R. P. Jephson.

'After lunch, which was admirably served,

'The Earl of Meath arose, amidst applause, and said:—"The toast list to-day is short, and contains but one toast, that of The King (applause). His Majesty King Edward occupies a position amongst rulers which is absolutely unique. He not only rules over twelve million square miles, one-sixth of the earth's surface, and governs four hundred millions of subjects of all races, colours, creeds, and conditions of civilisation, from the most advanced to the most backward, but he is a Monarch whose personal qualities are of so distinguished an order that he has come to be regarded as a statesman of the first rank (applause). The world watches His Majesty's movements with breathless interest. Under his masterful touch international difficulties which seem insuperable are solved, political sores are healed. His presence seems to breathe the spirit of peace and of goodwill, so that when he undertakes a journey it needs no strong imagination to picture to oneself the Angel of Peace hovering over his footsteps with healing in her wings (applause). King Edward is no stranger to Ireland; certainly not to Dublin (renewed applause). We knew him and loved him as Prince of Wales, and our affection for him has only increased since he became King, and since we recognised that Ireland and the Irish are as dear to him as he is to us (applause). We are an open-hearted race, and on each occasion that he has visited these shores, his kindly, sympathetic, and genial nature has captivated our hearts. He is just such a monarch as we love (applause). May he be long spared to reign over us and may he often grace this island with his genial and captivating presence." (Loud applause.)

'The toast was duly honoured, and the festive proceedings terminated.

'INAUGURATION CEREMONY BY THE DUKE OF CONNAUGHT. BRILLIANT FUNCTION.

'Brilliant and strikingly picturesque was the ceremony of unveiling the Royal Dublin Fusiliers' war memorial in St. Stephen's Green, which took place at four o'clock this afternoon. The weather was, fortunately, bright, although inclined to be showery, and no heavy rain fell at any stage to mar the success of the interesting proceedings, which were attended by a very large and distinguished gathering. Long before the ceremony commenced, a great crowd had assembled in the Green and its vicinity.



'The military arrangements were of a most elaborate nature, and thoroughly in keeping with the occasion. The troops of the Dublin Garrison and representative detachments of the Line and Militia battalions of the Royal Dublin Fusiliers were drawn up in the vicinity of the Memorial Arch, and presented a very imposing appearance. There was also a representative gathering of ex-soldiers who had served in the Royal Dublin Fusiliers during the South African war and of members of the Veterans' Club, who were accommodated in special places reserved for them on the outside of the arch. After the troops had been drawn up, the massed bands of the 13th Infantry Brigade played a number of pleasing selections whilst awaiting the arrival of H.R.H. the Duke of Connaught.

'The magnificent monument, which takes the form of a triumphal arch spanning the north-west corner of St. Stephen's Green, was greatly admired by the crowd. The noble archway is undoubtedly a most beautiful and artistic ornament to the city. Twelve feet in width, it springs from rusticated piers, each intersected by a pedestal and a pair of pilasters supporting a Doric entablature. The frieze bears on its four elevations the names in gold of the principal actions in the South African War in which the regiment took part. The entablature is surmounted by an Attic storey broken over the pilasters, and bearing two inscription panels. The front keystone supports a bronze cartouche, flanked by branches of bay bearing the arms of the regiment. Within the arch appear the names of the gallant 212 who perished in the war.

'Loud cheers were raised when, at a quarter to four o'clock, Field-Marshal H.R.H. the Duke of Connaught arrived on the scene and was received with a Royal salute. He was accompanied by the Right Hon. the Earl of Meath, President of the Memorial Committee; General the Lord Grenfell, K.C.B.; Sir George Holmes, K.C.V.O.; the members of the committee, and others who had attended the luncheon at the Shelbourne Hotel. More cheers rose from the expectant gathering when, a few minutes later, their Excellencies the Lord Lieutenant and the Countess of Aberdeen arrived, and were received with a Royal salute. The flag on the Memorial Arch was then half-masted, and the order was given for the troops to "reverse arms" and "rest on their arms reversed." The massed bands of the 13th Infantry Brigade played the "Dead March in Saul," after which "Oft in the Stilly Night" was played by the band of the 2nd Battalion Royal Dublin Fusiliers. The massed bugles of the 13th Infantry Brigade then sounded "The Last Post," and the flag on the Memorial Arch was mast-headed.

'His Excellency the Lord Lieutenant extended a hearty welcome to the Duke of Connaught, and congratulated the Memorial Committee, and every one connected with the undertaking, upon the successful manner in which it had been carried out.

'The Earl of Meath, in requesting his Royal Highness the Duke of Connaught to open the gates of the archway, said:—"Your Royal Highness, we meet to-day for the purpose of honouring the memory of the gallant men belonging to the Royal Dublin Fusiliers who sacrificed their lives for King and country in the late South African war. By the aid of subscriptions raised throughout the city and county of Dublin and its neighbourhood, a large sum of money has been collected, and I trust that your Royal Highness will agree with the general opinion that a very handsome and satisfactory memorial has been raised, worthy of the heroes whose fame it is destined to perpetuate. As the only surviving brother of the gracious and mighty Sovereign whose uniform these heroes wore when they died in the defence of their country's interests, and as Colonel of the regiment in which they so faithfully served, it is fit and proper that you, Sir, should have been invited to perform the ceremony of opening the gates of the arch erected to their memory. We who have been actively concerned with the erection of the memorial most sincerely and gratefully thank your Royal Highness for the honour you have done the regiment by thus personally identifying yourself with the effort to keep fresh in the minds of their fellow-countrymen the gallant deeds performed by those heroes whom to-day we delight to honour. Irish gallantry and Irish fidelity to King and country are well known. Wherever British arms have penetrated, there the record of Irish valour need not be sought in brass or stone, but in the soil itself, which has been made sacred to Erin's sons by the knowledge that it holds the mortal remains of hearts which have been faithful to duty and to high ideals of Irish valour even to the gates of death. But, sir, it may safely be said that not in the Peninsula, nor in India—where this regiment under its old title, in a hundred fights never knew the meaning of the word defeat—did Irish soldiers ever cover themselves with greater glory than did the Dublin Fusiliers in the battles of South Africa—Talana, Colenso, Tugela Heights, Hart's Hill, Ladysmith, and Laing's Nek. These glorious contests are commemorated on the memorial arch which your Royal Highness will shortly declare open. Situated in the centre of the Irish capital this memorial, recording the gallant deeds of brave men, will be an ever-present reminder to coming generations of the citizens of Dublin of the obligations of loyalty, of faithfulness to duty and to honour which Ireland demands of all her sons. I have the honour, sir, on behalf of the Dublin Fusilier Memorial Committee, to ask your Royal Highness to declare the gates of the archway to be open."

'As his Royal Highness formally opened the gate, the massed bands played the National Anthem.

'Headed by H.R.H. the Duke of Connaught, the troops then marched through the arch with bayonets fixed, the Royal Dublin Fusiliers leading, and the other battalions following in regimental seniority, headed by their bands. Loud cheers were raised as the soldiers passed out into Grafton Street, and proceeded down that thoroughfare, which was thickly lined on either side with spectators. At College Green the troops separated, and marched off to their respective quarters.

* * * * *

'The memorial which was inaugurated to-day forms a handsome addition to the ornamental architecture of the city. It stands in one of the most prominent and most beautiful parts of the city, and is a striking adornment to the main entrance to Stephen's Green Park. The luxuriant trees and foliage of the park form a capital background to the fine imposing arch, the design for which was suggested by Sir Thomas Drew, composed entirely of Irish granite; the height of the memorial is thirty-two feet six inches, and the breadth twenty-seven feet three inches. The ornamental iron gates leading into the principal carriage-drive of the park are cast out of metal taken from guns captured by the British Army from enemies in the past, and suspended over the keystone there will be an interesting trophy consisting of the Crest and Arms of the regiment. In front a large millstone will bear the inscription:—

FORTISSIMIS SUIS MILITIBUS HOC MONUMENTUM EBLANA DEDICAVIT. MCMVI.[21]

[Footnote 21: 'To her brave soldiers Dublin has dedicated this Monument. 1906.']

'In big letters in the frieze appear the names of the important battles in which the battalions of the regiment took part, and on the back of the arch the inscription:—"In memory of the officers, non-commissioned officers, and men of the Royal Dublin Fusiliers who died in the service of the country during the South African War, 1899-1902."

'The Earl of Meath, H.M.L., President of the Memorial Committee, and his colleagues, including the Earl of Drogheda, Sir Maurice Dockrell, Sir Thomas Drew, Colonel Gore Lindsay, and Colonel Vernon, are to be congratulated upon the successful result of their indefatigable efforts. When the project was first mooted, it met with enthusiastic support, and the necessary sum of 1800l. was quickly raised to cover the cost of erection.

'The plans were designed by Mr. Howard Pentland, of the Board of Works, in consultation with Sir Thomas Drew, and Messrs. Laverty & Son, Belfast, carried out the contract.

'The losses of the 1st and 2nd Battalions of this famous regiment in the Boer war totalled 31 officers and 655 non-commissioned officers and men. The glorious and inspiring deeds performed by these two battalions during the terrible engagements which led to the relief of Ladysmith are still fresh in the memory of their proud countrymen. Throughout the whole of the arduous campaign, indeed, the regiment nobly upheld the finest tradition of the Irish soldier, and gained the admiration and respect of friend and foe alike. The 5th Battalion lost, in several minor engagements, two officers and ten men killed, and eight wounded.'



EPILOGUE.

With the opening of the Memorial the curtain drops on the last scene of the drama of the South African war, and the regiment's share in it. To the large majority of those present the ceremony was probably merely a spectacular entertainment, but its real significance was borne fully home to us, even without the sight of more than one poor woman, silently weeping from the re-opening of the never-healed wound in her heart. For there is nothing truer than that a victory is only less terrible than a defeat, and as the sad strains of the wailing music fell on our ears, our thoughts flew back through the many happy years of good-comradeship we had spent with the gallant friends whom we have never ceased to mourn, and whose names will be treasured memories as long as the regiment endures.

But with the opening of the gates by our Colonel-in-Chief a fresh chapter in the history of the regiment commenced, and all that remains for us who share in the triumph of the present is to emulate in the future the noble deeds of those who gave their lives in willing, cheerful sacrifice for their sovereign, their country, and their regiment.



THE END.



APPENDIX

I.

ROLL OF DEATH CASUALTIES.

KILLED IN ACTION.

No. Rank and Name. Place of Cause. Date. Remarks. Death. ——+————————-+———————-+——————+————+———— Capt. Weldon Talana Hill Killed in action 20/10/99 5103 Pte. Cahill " " " 5794 " Merrill " " " 5933 " Crotty " " " 5918 " Callaghan " " " 5795 " Balfe Chieveley " 15/11/99 Armoured Train 5031 " Birney " " " " 5546 " O'Shea Colenso " 1/11/99 While on patrol, M.I. Lieut. Henry " " 15/12/99 3441 Sgt. Hayes " " " 4488 Pte. Smith " " " 5930 " Sinnott " " " 5123 " Broderick " " " 5319 L.-Cpl. Coyne " " " 5833 Pte. Dillon " " " 4795 " Murphy " " " 4380 " Doolan " " " 4299 " McAlpine " " " 5044 " Moore " " " 4560 " Clifford " " " 4838 " Flood " " " 6287 L.-Cpl. Gibson " " " 6134 Pte. Pearse " " " 6044 L.-Cpl. Cathcart " " " 4462 Pte. Murphy " " " 6165 " Bennett " " " 6297 " Campion " " " 4679 " Bowen Potgieter's Drift " 8/2/00 Capt. Hensley Venter's Spruit " 20/1/00 5668 L.-Sgt. Taylor " " " Lt.-Col. Sitwell Hart's Hill " 24/2/00 Capt. Maitland " " " 4261 Cpl. Seymour " " " 4871 Pte. White " " " 5359 " Galbraith " " " 6296 " Allen Pieter's Hill " 27/2/00 3303 " Timmins Hart's Hill " 24/2/00 Militia 4th R.D.F. 4012 " Armstrong " " " Militia 5th R.D.F. 2037 " Whelan " " " " 2872 " Wade " " " " 5073 " Kinsella Pieter's Hill " 27/2/00 5618 " Purcell " " " 1769 Sgt. Brennan " " " Section 'D' 1717 Pte. Shirwin " " " Militia 5th R.D.F. 2327 " Grimes " " " " 5573 " Tyrrell Near Talana " 20/10/99 5987 Pte. Mahoney Near Talana " 20/10/99 4864 " Byrne " " " 5861 " McGuire Chieveley " 15/11/99 Armoured train 2112 " Kelly Hart's Hill " 23/2/00 Section 'D' 6171 " Kavanagh Colenso " 15/12/99 6011 Cpl. Sinnot Steelkoolspruit " 25/10/01 4621 Pte. Hyland Nr. Krugersdorp Murdered by Boers 6/1/01 Found riddled with bullets

II.

DIED OF WOUNDS.

No. Rank and Name. Place of Cause. Date. Remarks. Death. ——+————————-+———————+————-+————+———— 2nd-Lt. Genge Talana Hill Of wounds 21/10/99 1166 C.-Sgt. Anderson " " " 5263 Pte. Johnston Maritzburg " 27/11/99 Arm. train disaster 3467 Clr.-Sgt. Gage " " 20/12/99 Battle of Colenso 6293 Pte. Crosbie Spearman's Cmp " 26/1/00 " Venter's Spruit 1823 " Finnegan Hart's Hill " 25/2/00 Section 'D' 219 " Oldham Chieveley " 3/3/00 Battle of Hart's Hill 3648 " Norton Maritzburg " 2/3/00 Battle of Hart's Hill 5745 " Brady Colenso " " Battle of Pieter's Hill 6299 " Kelly Maritzburg " 8/3/00 Battle of Pieter's Hill 5349 " Bracken " " 16/3/00 Battle of Hart's Hill 3094 Sgt. Broughton Dundee " 22/10/99 Battle of Talana 2753 Pte. Frahill " " 28/11/99 " " 4029 " Quirke Colenso " 1/3/00 " Colenso 5706 " McEvoy Johannesburg " 11/11/01 6347 " Nugent Bakenlaagte " 31/10/01 5710 " Keegan Dthala " 8/10/03

III.

DEATHS BY DISEASE.

No. Rank and Name. Place of Cause. Date. Remarks. Death. ——+————————-+———————-+——————+————+————

5102 Pte. Phelan Frere Enteric 24/12/99 642 Q.M.S. Hynes Maritzburg Pneumonia 7/1/00 2865 Sgt. Linehan Pretoria Dysentery 16/12/99 5519 Pte. Brennan Maritzburg Abscess liver 7/1/00 3498 " Dunphy " Dysentery 19/1/00 6129 " Homan Mooi River Enteric 22/2/00 4593 " Keating " " 15/2/00 5368 " Walsh Cape Town Tumour brain 26/11/99 2775 " Ward Ladysmith Enteric 7/2/00 5317 " Maher Estcourt " 8/3/00 6510 " Tobin Ladysmith Dysentery 22/3/00 5909 " Dixon " " 25/3/00 5801 " Martin Chieveley " 24/4/00 5790 Pte. Greene Mooi River Enteric 15/4/00 2nd Lt. Dennis Aliwal North " 2/5/00 1600 Pte. O'Brien " " " 3rd R.D. Fus. 4791 " O'Connor Mooi River " 3/5/00 5200 " Hart " Fractured thigh 1/5/00 3380 " Cummings Aliwal North Enteric pneumonia 5/5/00 3rd R.D. Fus. 3760 " Keogh Chieveley Enteric " 4012 " Mack Aliwal North " 12/5/00 5847 " O'Carroll " Enteric phthisis 15/5/00 4566 " Gray Kimberley Enteric 17/5/00 5622 " Corr Maritzburg Ague 28/2/00 4131 Cpl. Looney Woolwich Dysentery 24/3/00 Lieut. Ely At sea Enteric 15/4/00 6049 Pte. Neill Kimberley " 23/5/00 6309 L.-Cpl. McGinley " " 8/6/00 6608 Pte. Behan " " 19/6/00 4686 " Ears Wynberg " 25/6/00 7049 " Roach Heidelberg Pneumonia 14/7/00 5881 " Pooley " Enteric 18/7/00 4499 O.R.S. Hanrahan Maritzburg g.s. skull 2/7/00 Suicide 5873 Pte. Hunt At sea Enteric 26/4/00 3998 " Kenny Krugersdorp Pneumonia 12/9/00 1741 " Burke Johannesburg " 11/9/00 Section 'D' 4737 Cpl. Wilson Maritzburg " 27/10/00 5741 Pte. Dwyer Germiston Enteric 31/10/00 5697 " Davis Pretoria 29/11/00 Died in hospital, prisoner of war 5181 " Clark Kaalfontein Lightning 24/11/00 6800 " Connor Johannesburg Enteric 25/11/00 5967 " Sutton Krugersdorp Jaundice 18/1/00 2961 " Ambrose Johannesburg Enteric 3/2/01 6770 " Cassidy Bloemfontein " 22/3/01 1346 " Hanlon Maritzburg " 5/4/00 6109 " Buckley Cork Insane 3910 L.-Cpl. Stewart Gaskraal " 28/8/01 6491 Pte. O'Connor " " " 5532 " Peel Krugersdorp Enteric 14/8/01 4657 " Mooney " " 22/12/01 5397 " Melia Kroonstad " 27/12/01 5540 " Quinn Krugersdorp Drowned 14/1/02 6028 Sgt. Pearson At sea Enteric 7/2/02 5303 Pte. Furlong Aden Heat apoplexy 29/5/02 4938 " Moore " Heart disease 9/8/02 4921 Sgt. Smith " Syncope 13/9/02 4565 Pte. Dunne " Multiple neuritis 10/10/02 5686 " Gray Diseased liver 11/10/02 3661 " Mooney Krugersdorp Enteric 6/7/01 4th R.D. Fus. 6332 " Merrigan Aden " 8/11/02 7547 Boy Roberts Dthala Pneumonia 8/3/03 7182 Pte. Dempsey " Enteric 13/10/03 5944 " Wynne Aden Consumption 2/3/04

IV.

LIST OF WOUNDED.

Reg. No. Rank and Name. Date. Place. Nature of Wound. Remarks. ——+————————-+————-+——————+————————+————- Capt. M. Lowndes 20/10/99 Talana g.s. leg " Dibley " " g.s. head Lieut. Perreau " " g.s. shoulder 5686 Pte. Gray " " 2753 " Frahill " " 5310 " Black " " 4815 " Doyle " " 4700 " Leonard " " 4894 Sgt. Grace " " 5430 Pte. Babester " " 5317 " Maher " " 4790 " O'Brien " " 5047 " Greer " " 4359 " Smith " " 4699 " Callaghan " " 4931 " Righton " " 5947 " Dwyer " " 43 Sgt.-Maj. Burke " " 3770 Col.-Sgt McNeice " " 5426 Sgt. Walton " " 3139 " McKenna " " 6264 Pte. Carroll " " 6125 " Dempsey " " 5038 " Richardson " " 5523 " Ryan " " 4620 " Summerville " " 5635 " Tracey " " 6084 " Brady " " 4910 Dmr. Brudnell " " 5078 Pte. Gorman " " 5643 " Cullen " " 5011 " Brennan " " 4382 " Jordan " " 4766 " Murphy " " 4592 " Cullen " " 6096 " Gilhooley " " 3704 " Kearns " " 4857 " Butler " " 4767 " Byrne " " 6022 " Cassin " " 5156 " Fitzpatrick " " 5118 " Magee " " 5142 " Murray " " 5063 " Kelly " " 5595 " Reynolds " " 4948 " Wilby " " 2156 Cpl. Hogan " " 5634 L.-Cpl. Keenan " " 4593 Pte. Flood " " 5137 " McGrath " " 4785 " Hopkins " " 5531 " Hatt " " 4444 " Creegan " " 4347 " Lahey " " 5914 " Coyle 15/11/99 Armr. Train shell, arm Capt. Shewan 15/12/99 Colenso g.s. thigh 4341 Sgt. Doherty " " g.s. shoulders 4986 L.-Sgt. Gibbons " " g.s. arm 5668 " Taylor " " g.s. shoulder 3150 Sgt. Towey " " g.s. hand and foot 501 " Hamilton " " g.s. foot 5108 " Bodkin " " g.s. leg 5628 L.-Sgt. Church " " g.s. leg 5374 Cpl. Loughran " " g.s. thigh 6684 Pte. O'Brien " " g.s. hand 5117 " Lillis " " g.s. foot 4589 " Whelan " " g.s. hand 5637 " Taylor " " g.s. thigh 4898 " Walker " " g.s. head 5687 " Enright " " g.s. hand 5869 " Mackey " " g.s. knee 5584 " Carr " " g.s. hip 6145 " Byrne " " g.s. elbow 6103 " Cooney " " g.s. foot 4997 " Ludlow " " g.s. arm 4201 Dmr. Webb " " g.s. thigh 5970 L.-Cpl. Cooper " " g.s. leg 6094 " Hanley " " g.s. leg 5760 Pte. Brown " " g.s. leg 5765 " Welsh " " g.s. foot 4545 " Flood " " g.s. thigh 4959 " Smith " " g.s. hand 5672 " Sanders " " g.s. leg 5661 " Murphy " " g.s. foot 4582 " McCarthy " " g.s. head 4395 " Ellis " " g.s. arm 4290 Sgt. Hunt " " g.s. wrist and thigh 4987 Pte. Reilly " " 4552 " Kelly " " g.s. thigh 3362 Dmr. Murphy " " 4411 Pte. Murray " " 5716 " Lahey " " 6038 " Kelly " " 3013 Sgt. Healey " " 4726 Pte. O'Brien " " 5848 " Townsend " " 5834 Pte. McBride " " g.s. hip 5520 " Hackett " " 4441 L.-Sgt. Merry " " g.s. thigh 5023 L.-Cpl. Hayes " " g.s. feet 4543 Pte. Keating " " g.s. foot 6123 " Kelly " " 4800 " Walsh " " 4226 " Reilly " " g.s. hand 6137 " O'Brien " " g.s. thigh 2442 " Leary " " 5151 " Clark " " Maj. English 20/1/00 Vent. Spruit g.s. leg 6105 L.-Cpl. Kidd " " g.s. neck 6796 Pte. Burke " " g.s. foot 6285 " Healey " " g.s. back 3141 " Rooney " " g.s. arm 4644 " Burke " " g.s. hip, thigh 5997 " Davis " " g.s. thigh, leg 5458 " Burke " " g.s. neck 5873 " Hunt " " g.s. head 5659 " Walsh " " g.s. leg 5069 " Lee " " g.s. hand 6121 " Brien " " g.s. thigh 2892 L.-Sgt. Ryan 21/1/00 " g.s. foot 3548 Sgt. Cragg " " g.s. hand 6047 Pte. Cole " " g.s. arm 6391 " Richardson " " g.s. foot 4898 L.-Cpl. Walker " " 6366 Pte. Molloy " " g.s. right leg 6310 " Gibney " " g.s. leg 5883 " Marshall " " g.s. hand 5283 " Shaughnessey " " g.s. left leg 5904 " Edwards " " g.s. right hand 4636 Cpl. Reynolds " " g.s. chin 4368 Pte. Githens " " g.s. arm 5056 " Lordan 22/1/00 " g.s. thigh 4794 " Murray 23/1/00 " g.s. right forearm 4689 L.-Sgt. O'Higgins " " g.s. chest 4384 Pte. Ring " " g.s. head, shoulder 5888 " Kenny " " g.s. head, shoulder 6484 " Duffy " " g.s. hip 5882 Sgt.-Dmr. Smith 25/1/00 " 5900 Pte. Mason " " g.s. hand 6569 " Conroy " " g.s. foot 2nd Lieut. Lane 23/2/00 Hart's Hill g.s. head " Dennis " " g.s. left leg 2872 Pte. Wade " " 5th R.D. Fus. 4012 " Armstrong " " 3303 " Timmins " " 5167 Pte. McDonnell " " 5928 " Pender " " g.s. right hand 4791 " Connor " " g.s. chest 4817 " Iliffe " " 4559 " McCabe " " 2426 " O'Beirne " " 6522 " Ryan " " g.s. right hip 1st Battalion 5461 L.-Cpl. Dennehy " " 5387 Pte. Brannagan " " g.s. chest 4771 " Johnston " " g.s. left thigh 5765 " Ward " " g.s. arm and knee 4557 " McCarthy " " g.s. back 5811 " Ryan " " g.s. arm 2921 " Thompson " " 6355 " Fagan " " 148 " Metcalf " " g.s. right arm 5th R.D. Fus. 2096 " Farrell " " 1557 " Kinsella " " 4530 " Brown " " g.s. groin 5684 " Hetherston " " g.s. chest 6333 " Newsome " " g.s. left arm 3631 " McDonald " " g.s. left shoulder 1997 " Brady " " 5th R.D. Fus. 6110 " Kelly " " 2387 " Strain " " g.s. buttock 3068 " Adams " " 5069 " Lee " " 4424 " Mulvaney " " 4621 " Hyland " " g.s. left thigh 5836 " Cullen " " g.s. right wrist 3313 " Concannon " " g.s. right shoulder 6498 " Flannagan " " g.s. chest 1741 " Burke " " g.s. left arm 2422 " Morgan " " 2787 " Brien " " g.s. left knee 4325 " Curran " " g.s. left leg 6108 " Bernes " " 5908 " McDonald " " 1881 " Reynolds " " 4th R.D. Fus. 4015 " Lynch " " 2348 " Maddox " " g.s. left shoulder 4029 " Quirk " " 6217 " Valentine " " 3881 " Talbot " " 6314 " Early " " 5224 " McNeill " " 4277 " Mack " " 4994 " Knoctor " " g.s. right leg 3441 " O'Grady " " g.s. left hand 4th R.D. Fus. 5982 " Tighe " " g.s. head 347 " Doyle " " g.s. left hand 6130 " Mason " " 3rd R.D. Fus. 5141 " Kirwan " " g.s. right foot 4569 " Gorman 27/2/00 Pieter's Hill g.s. shoulder 5399 " Connor " " 5828 " Kegney " " 847 " Mangan " " 3rd R.D. Fus. 1716 " Quinn " " " 5716 " Leahy " " 5981 " Broad " " 5698 " Toomey " " 350 " Murphy " " 3rd R.D. Fus. 1846 " Kealey " " " 4741 " Moore " " 4903 Cpl. Marshall " " 5379 Pte. Pryor " " 2368 " Byrne " " 4878 " Clark " " 6524 " Quaid " " 1554 " Brennan " " 5th R.D. Fus. 5757 " Kelly " " 5284 " Farrell " " 5th R.D. Fus. 3361 " Brady " " " 1765 " Fagan " " 6429 " Fox " " 4777 " Mullane " " 3253 " Mellington " " 5th R.D. Fus. 5280 " Daly " " 639 " Whelan " " 5th R.D. Fus. 6139 " Dignam " " 2917 " Ferris " " 5th R.D. Fus. 3242 " McHale " " " 3266 " Evans " " 1377 " Farrell " " 4474 " McLoughlin " " 6113 " McCormack " " 1651 " Kinsella " " 5th R.D. Fus. 3639 " Brien " " " 3282 " O'Brien " " g.s. hand 1846 " Gradwell " " 5th R.D. Fus. 174 " Lawless " " g.s. foot, right hand " 1284 " Molloy " " " 1508 " Donnelly " " 5704 " Kennedy " " 2236 " Tuite " " g.s. right heel 5th R.D. Fus. 4317 " Carpenter " " 3231 " Mallon 21/7/00 Zuikerbosch g.s. right thigh 4th R.D. Fus. 2853 " O'Brien " " g.s. left thigh " 1143 Pte. Stanton " " 4th R.D. Fus. 2961 Col.-Sgt. Cossey " " Maj. English " " slight shell splinter, eye 6786 Pte. Reilly 15/9/00 Nr. Frdkstdt. On convoy duty 2392 Sgt. James 21/9/00 " very slight g.s. leg 6070 Pte. Angleton 2/10/00 Near Irene g.s. foot With M.I. Lieut. Haskard 27/2/00 Pieter's Hill right elbow 2nd Lieut. Bradford " " shoulder 2692 Pte. Doyle 31/12/00 Nr. Krugersdorp g.s. buttock 5767 " Lang " Nooitgedacht 2052 " Armstrong 2/2/01 Gatsrand g.s. left arm, very slight 6265 " Roach " " g.s. right leg, slight 4981 " Sheehan " Nr. Carolina g.s. neck 5718 " Kavanagh " " g.s. left knee 4365 " Moran " " g.s. left shoulder 4680 " Fitzgerald " " g.s. left arm 6057 " Goff " " g.s. chest 5433 " Holmes 28/8/01 Gaskraal 4840 " Nolan " " 4858 " Butler 27/7/01 Nr. Wonderfontein 4680 " Fitzgerald 25/10/01 Swartzfontein g.s. hand, severe 5706 " McEvoy " " g.s. buttock, groin 3761 Sgt. Carroll 30/10/01 Bakenlaagte g.s. leg, very slight 4473 Pte. Hand " " g.s. knee, severe 4448 " Murphy " " g.s. foot, slight 4513 " Connor " " g.s. hip, severe 5706 " Moran " " g.s. hand, severe 6347 " Nugent " " g.s. abdomen 4686 Cpl. Curtis 15/12/99 Colenso g.s. hand 5548 Pte. Metcalf " " g.s. left leg 4453 " White " " g.s. both legs 6330 L.-Cpl. Matthews 21/1/00 Vent. Spruit g.s. leg 5330 Pte. Holohan 27/2/00 Pieter's Hill 5973 Cpl. Gaffney 7/10/03 Aden Hntlnd. g.s. severe, foot 6367 Pte. Daly " " g.s. very slight 5584 " Carr " " g.s. severe, chest

V.

BATTLE OF TALANA.

REPORTED MISSING SINCE OCTOBER 21ST, 1899.

Reg. No. Rank and Name. ————-+————————- 2615 Clr.-Sgt. Gage 2078 Sgt. Martin 4388 " Guilfoyle 3761 " Carroll 5328 L.-Sgt. Payne 5178 " Crean 5094 Cpl. Corrigan 5544 " Richards 6028 " Pearson 5004 " Kiernan 5601 L.-Cpl. Lee 5143 " Flynn 5304 " Whelan 4812 " Lyons 4868 " Green 5033 " Byrne 4947 " Harper 4638 Pte. Mahon 4966 " Murphy 4359 " Hall 4655 " Cullen 5175 " Reddy 5143 " Flynn 5759 " Dowling 5070 " Angleton 5402 " Rourke 5209 " Dunne 5793 " Murphy 4513 " Connor 5055 " Reidy 5609 " Connor 5162 " Macken 5929 " Carroll 5956 " Rourke 4498 " Watts 4884 " Kenny 5876 " Molloy 5647 " Harrison 6087 " Tyrrell 4788 " Toomey 4366 " Doyle 5931 " Bracken 3752 " Travers 5733 " Kavanagh 6055 " Gough 5266 " Bigley 5479 " Brien 5489 " Geoghegan 6019 " Curran 5918 " Callaghan 4411 " Cooney 5706 " McEvoy 5600 " Gleeson 5000 " Nulty 4974 " Costello 5889 " Keogh 5501 " Mannix 5127 " Battersby 5352 " White 4864 " Byrne 5390 " Doyle 5126 " Farrell 5714 " Finnigan 5055 " Reidy 5345 " Dunne 5789 " Flood 4964 " Gibney 5987 " Mahoney 5030 " Callaghan 5126 " Delaney 4692 " McGuinness 6018 " McDonagh 5693 " Keating 4532 " Kirwan 6866 " Molloy 5427 " Carr 4142 " Lyons 6120 " Cullen 4927 " Kane 5545 " Reilly 5702 " Byrne 5724 " Dempsey 5218 " Reilly 5880 " Carroll 5144 " Williams 5027 " Doody 4473 " Hand 4566 " Glynn 5184 " Dowler 5551 " Finn 5912 " Kavanagh 5182 " Cavanagh 5350 " Farrell 4692 " McGann

VI.

REPORTED MISSING SINCE OCTOBER 22ND, 1899.

Reg. No. Rank and Name. ————+————————- 5022 Pte. Rourke 4998 " Hawthorn 5246 " McGuinness 4327 " Neill 5321 " Moran

VII.

REPORTED MISSING SINCE OCTOBER 30TH, 1899.

Reg. No. Rank and Name. ————+———————— 5524 Pte. Wall 5503 Pte. Hennessey

VIII.

REPORTED MISSING SINCE NOVEMBER 15TH, 1899

(ARMOURED TRAIN DISASTER).

Reg. No. Rank and Name. ————+————————— 3672 Sgt. Hassett 5114 Cpl. Hallahan 5800 Pte. Buckley 6293 " Kempster 5499 " Byrne 4497 " Barry 5755 " Collins 6140 " Dunphy 5741 " Dwyer 5256 " Kavanagh 5691 " O'Rourke 5626 " Buckley 5968 " Glynn 5057 " Kirwan 5017 " Pakenham 5239 " Herbert 6283 " Cragg 5790 " Murray 5210 " Rice 5329 " Stanton 4680 " Fitzgerald 5548 " Metcalf 3715 Sgt. Osborne 5795 Pte. Balfe 5316 " Daly 5516 " Scully 4443 " Hoey 5031 " Bierney 5697 " Davis 5297 " Drew 5841 " Hoy 5287 " Lynch 5908 " Murphy 6308 " Connell 6116 " Harty 6228 " Meehan 5297 " Doogan 6319 " Burke 4676 " Driscoll 4865 " Reynolds 6354 " Sheridan 5861 " McGuire 4542 " Flannagan

IX.

LIST OF OFFICERS IN NATAL CAMPAIGN.

Rank and Name. Remarks. ——————————————————————————————————— Col. Cooper Commanding 2nd Royal Dublin Fusiliers. Maj. Bird 2nd in command. " English, A Company Wounded at Venter's Spruit and Zuikerbosch. Capt. Hensley, G Company Killed at Venter's Spruit. " Weldon, E Company Killed at Talana. " Fetherstonhaugh, D Coy. Acted as Adjutant after Capt. Lowndes was wounded. " Dibley, B Company Wounded at Talana, and sent into Intombi Hospital. " Lonsdale, M.I. Company Captured at Talana. Lieut. Shewan, H Company Wounded at Colenso. " Perreau Wounded at Talana, and sent into Intombi Hospital. " Le Mesurier Captured at Talana. Escaped from Pretoria. " Grimshaw Captured at Talana. " Cory Was sent with M.I. Section to Dundonald's Brigade. " Renny Transport Officer. Left in Ladysmith. 2nd Lieut. Haskard Wounded at Pieter's Hill. " Henry Killed at Colenso. " Frankland Captured in Armoured Train. " Genge Killed at Talana. Capt. Lowndes (Adjutant) Wounded at Talana, and sent into Intombi Hospital. Lieut. and Qtmr. Rowland Went to S. A. C. Lieut. Garvice Joined battalion at Dundee; captured at Talana. 2nd Lieut. Ely Joined battalion at Dundee, and died of enteric, 1900. Lieut. H. W. Higginson Joined on posting, and shared in siege of Ladysmith. Capt. Romer Joined from Staff College on Oct. 30th. Capt. Haldane and Lieut. The former was captured in the Armoured Maitland (of Gordon Train, and escaped from Highlanders) Pretoria with Lieut. Le Mesurier; the latter killed at Hart's Hill. 2nd Lieut. Britton Joined on November 5th. After Colenso he acted as Transport Officer. Brevet-Lieut.-Col. Sitwell Joined on November 8th, and commanded C Company. He was killed at Hart's Hill. 2nd Lieut. Lane Joined on December 6th. He was wounded at Hart's Hill.

X.

The following Officers of the 1st Battalion and other corps joined on December 7th and subsequent dates:—

Rank and Name. Remarks. ——————————————————————————————————— Maj. Hicks Returned to 1st Battalion after Colenso. Succeeded Col. Cooper in command of 2nd Battalion, March 1900. " Gordon Wounded at Colenso. Capt. Bacon Killed at Colenso. 2nd Lieut. De Salis Promoted into another regiment. " Brodhurst Hill Wounded at Hart's Hill. " Halahan " Macleod Wounded at Colenso. " Winnington (Worcestershire Regiment). Attached. " Wheeler Joined December 23rd. " Dennis Joined December 27th, and died of enteric at Aliwal North. Capt. Venour Joined on January 30th. Lieut. Hill Joined on January 30th. Wounded at Hart's Hill. 2nd Lieut. Bradford Joined on January 30th. Wounded at Pieter's Hill. Capt. Sir Frederick Frankland, (3rd Bedford Regiment). Joined on Bart. March 2nd. Lieut. G. S. Higginson Joined on March 11th. Lieut. Nelson, R.M.L.I. Joined on March 29th. Capt. Clark, " Joined on April 1st.

Col. C. D. Cooper took over a brigade, with Lieut. Renny as his A.D.C., early in 1900. It will thus be seen that Capt. Fetherstonhaugh was the only officer who was with the regiment from start to finish who was not hit.

XI.

TOTAL CASUALTIES OF OFFICERS OF THE 1st AND 2nd BATTALION ROYAL DUBLIN FUSILIERS.

Name. Nature of Place. Casualty. ——————————————————————-—————————— Capt. Weldon Killed Talana. Lieut. Genge " " Capt. Bacon " Colenso. Lieut. Henry " " Capt. Hensley " Venter's Spruit. Lt.-Col. Sitwell " Hart's Hill. Capt. Maitland (Gordon " " Highlanders, attached) Capt. Macbean " Nooitgedacht. " Watson " Western Transvaal. Lieut. Ely Died of disease " Dennis " " Capt. Dibley Wounded Talana. " Lowndes " " Lieut. Perreau " " Maj. Gordon " Colenso. Capt. Shewan " " Lieut. Macleod " " Maj. English " Venter's Spruit and Zuikerbosch. Capt. Hill " Pieter's Hill. Lieut. Brodhurst Hill " " " Lane " Hart's Hill. " Dennis " " " Bradford. " Pieter's Hill. " Haskard " " Capt. Carington Smith " Sanna's Post and Heidelberg. Lt.-Col. Mills " Alleman's Nek. Lieut. Seppings " " " Taylor " Parys. Capt. Kinsman " Near Mafeking. " Chapman " Itala. Lieut. Lefroy " "

XII.

HONOURS AND REWARDS OF OFFICERS OF THE 2ND ROYAL DUBLIN FUSILIERS.

C.B.

Colonel C. D. Cooper. " G. A. Mills. " H. T. Hicks.

D.S.O.

Major S. G. Bird. " W. H. O. Neill. Brevet-Major A. F. Pilson. " W. J. Venour. Captain H. M. Shewan. " G. N. Cory. Lieutenant E. A. A. De Salis. " C. Garvice. " Lefroy. " W. F. Stirling. " C. T. W. Grimshaw. " A. Moore. Captain-Quartermaster R. Baker.

BREVETS.

Major F. P. English. Brevet-Major Godley. Captain McBean. Major A. W. Gordon. Captain E. Fetherstonhaugh. " C. F. Romer. " P. Maclear. " H. Carington Smith. Major A. J. Chapman. Captain M. Lowndes.

SPECIAL PROMOTIONS.

Lieutenant Watson. " E. A. A. De Salis. " Lefroy.

XIII.

N.C.O.'S AND MEN OF 2ND ROYAL DUBLIN FUSILIERS AWARDED DISTINGUISHED CONDUCT MEDAL.

Reg. Rank and Name. No. ———+———————————————— 3423 Sgt. M. Connor } 4290 " Hunt } 1664 " Sheridan } A.O. L.-Cpl. J. Kelly } 163 of Pte. W. Holmes } 1901 " P. Kelly } " E. Reid }

Sgt.-Mj. F. A. Whalen } 5th R.D. Fus. } Qmr.-Sgt. B. T. Bruen } 5th R.D. Fus. } Col.-Sgt. F. Gage } Arm.-Sgt. T. H. Ford, } attached R.D. Fus. } Sgt. W. Brown } 2892 " J. Ryan } A.O. Cpl. G. F. Frost, 1st } 15 of Batt. R.D. Fus. } 1902 L.-Cpl. Melia } Pte. W. Connell } " W. Cullen } " A. Dowling } " M. Farrelly } " M. Kavanagh } " J. McCormack } 6642 " C. N. Wallace }

43 Sgt.-Maj. J. Burke } 4637 Col.-Sgt. J. Ambrose } A.O. 5178 " T. Crean } 10 of " M. Dunne } 1903 Cpl. P. Flannery } Pte. P. Furlong }

Col.-Sgt. J. H. } A.O. Robinson, 1st Batt. } 172 of R.D. Fus. } 1903

XIV.

AN ADDRESS PRESENTED BY THE NATAL UNITED IRISH ASSOCIATION.

The Officers, Non-commissioned Officers, and Men of the 2nd Battalion Royal Dublin Fusiliers.

The recent war, from which we welcome you back, marks another epoch of glory in the annals of your distinguished battalion. It was our privilege on several occasions to be favoured at social functions with the presence of officers and men of the DUBLIN FUSILIERS, and we felt assured that the goodness of character and disposition which shed their radiance at those gatherings, would shine with added lustre when in the face of danger and death. The popularity of your regiment in Natal has only been exceeded by your distinguished gallantry in the field, and as we followed your fortunes with feelings of deepest interest throughout the campaign, our hearts thrilled with pride as we read of your gallant and heroic deeds. As you held the position of honour at the march to Lucknow, so were you by the unanimous consent of the army awarded a similar position in the entry to Ladysmith. The marvellous bravery displayed by your regiment in the terrible fighting between Talana Hill and Tugela, forms a fitting sequel to your magnificent record in the Indian Peninsula; and we as Irishmen can take a legitimate pride in the fact that your muster-roll of glory is replete with familiar names which abound throughout the hills and valleys of our far-off motherland. The name and fame of your regiment are world-wide; and whether on frozen shores or in tropical climes, a light-heartedness, an uncomplaining endurance of hardship and fatigue, and a ready adaptability to circumstances, afford abundant proof that the best traditions of our race have been maintained by the DUBLIN FUSILIERS. In the vast territories of Hindustan as in South Africa, you have shown the world the material of which an Irish soldier is made. In the many engagements in which you have taken part, you have seen your enemies fall thick around you, and seen, too, the crimson tide ebb from the heart of many a brave comrade, whose last good-bye will remain for ever hallowed in your memory. You have returned triumphant from this WAR, and though, alas! your numbers are fewer, your hearts are as stout and your spirits as intrepid as ever. The land which claims you as her sons has in proportion to her capabilities given more hostages to glory than any land beneath the sun, and well and nobly have you upheld that national renown. You have won a name and eclat that will go down through the ages, and with the hope that countless honours are yet in store to further illumine the aureole of your prestige,

We are yours faithfully,

CHAS. DONNELLY, President. JAMES P. DONNELLY, Hon. Treasurer. E. G. O'FLAHERTY, Hon. Secretary.

Vice-Presidents:

CRAWFORD LINDSAY. THOS. KELLY. A. TRIMBLE. J. F. E. BARNES.

Committee:

W. P. BOWEN. C. W. KAY EVANS. W. J. LYONS. R. S. W. BARNES. P. O'NEILL. J. J. O'NEILL. E. BUTLER. D. LANE. N. F. BLACK.

XV.

ADDRESS FROM THE EUROPEAN INHABITANTS OF ADEN TO THE MEMBERS OF THE SERGEANTS' MESS, 2ND ROYAL DUBLIN FUSILIERS.

To the Members of the Sergeants' Mess, 2nd Battalion Royal Dublin Fusiliers.

We, the undersigned, take advantage of this occasion, the eve of your departure from among us, to place on record our very high esteem of the many sociable qualities displayed by you since your battalion arrived in this station from South Africa in February, 1902.

Coming to Aden at a time when, after the brilliant services you had rendered to your Sovereign and country in that uncertain field of the reputation of battalions as well as individuals—South Africa, you had every reason to expect a far better station, a union with those near and dear to you, and therefore every reason to be despondent. Instead, you threw yourselves into the social life of this place in such a way that, before you were here many weeks, it was felt that you, who had displayed the brilliant qualities so characteristic of your race on many a hard-fought field in South Africa, were not lacking in those social qualities which tend to enhance the popularity of His Majesty's forces, and make life a little less irksome in what all must admit is not a pleasant spot.

Words fail to express what we all feel at being compelled to say good-bye to you, who have been more than friends to so many of us, and in leaving Aden for return to your homeland, we assure you that you carry with you the sincerest good wishes of all.

We shall always have a kindly feeling for you, and watch your future with great interest, and, above all, we trust that you will find those from whom you have so long been separated in the best of health, and that a long life and prosperity is before you.

W. SMITH. F. WISEMAN. C. ELLIOTT. G. C. KENNEDY. W. WILLOWS. R. THORLIN. E. B. BATCHELOR. H. M. HANLEY. T. GRAVES. E. B. OWEN. R. GRIFFITHS. J. A. RUPERT JONES. A. HANDY. J. R. DEANE. C. A. HOLLAND. T. W. TWADDLE. C. J. HOCKING. C. O. CRAVEN. J. M. GILTINAN. J. MALLIA. F. C. BREWIN. J. INGLOTT. F. WELLS. G. NOEL. E. HALL. J. F. FIELD. F. J. CLAY. E. HESSLETON. G. R. CHAMARETT. F. PENHA. P. C. KELLY.

XVI.

EXTRACT FROM BATTALION ORDERS ISSUED AT LADYSMITH, 27/10/99.

Para. 2. Strength.—The following officers and men, killed in action on the 20th inst. at the Battle of Talana, are struck off the strength:—

Capt. G. A. Weldon.

No. 5103 Pte. P. Cahill, A Coy. " 5794 " A. Merrill, E Coy. No. 5931 Pte. P. Crotty, E Coy. " 5918 " P. Callaghan, H Coy.

Died of wounds received in action on 21st:—

2nd Lieut. C. J. Genge. No. 1166 Col.-Sgt. F. Anderson, F Coy.

The Commanding Officer, while expressing his deep regret at these casualties, can fully testify to the gallant manner in which each and all met their death, fighting for their Queen and upholding the regimental honour.

XVII.

EXTRACT FROM BATTALION ORDERS, DATED FRERE, 18/12/99.

Para. 3. Strength.—The following officers, N.C.O.'s, and men, having been killed in action at Colenso on the 15th inst., are struck off the strength of the battalion from that date:—

2ND BATTALION.

Lieut. Robert Clive Bolton Henry.

Reg. No. Rank and Name. 3441 Sgt. Hayes. 6287 L.-Cpl. Gibson. 6044 " Cathcart. 5123 Pte. Broderick. 4488 " Smith. 5930 " Sinnott. 5833 Pte. Dillon. 4795 " Murphy. 4380 " Doolan. 4299 " McAlpine. 5044 " Moore. 4462 " Murphy. 6134 Pte. Pearse. 4560 " Clifford. 4838 " Flood. 5319 L.-Cpl. Coyne. 6165 Pte. Bennett.

1ST BATTALION.

Capt. Arthur Henry Bacon.

Reg. No. Rank and Name. 3993 Col.-Sgt. Magee. 3514 Sgt. Flynn. 4869 " Callan. 5505 Pte. Cole. 4301 " Carroway. 2943 " O'Keefe. ? " O'Keefe. 6472 Pte. Hayes. 4192 " Neill. 3906 " Walsh. 4273 " Nolan. 3273 " Costello. 2504 " Bissett. 4193 " Deevey. 4095 Pte. Usher. 3108 " Connell. 6002 " Wisdom. 4387 " Toole. 4242 " Joyce. 4672 " Maddox.

The Commanding Officer, whilst deeply regretting, in common with all ranks, the severe loss the regiment has sustained in the deaths of Captain Bacon and Lieutenant Henry and the N.C.O.'s and men killed in action at Colenso on Friday last, desires to place on record his high appreciation of the admirable spirit displayed by all ranks in unflinching pressing forward under a very heavy fire to the attack of a practically impregnable position.

The names of the officers, N.C.O.'s, and men who fell will, he feels sure, be honoured in the annals of the regiment, as having set a noble example of fearless courage and devotion to duty.

XVIII.

Colenso, 18/12/99 (5).

TELEGRAM RE DECEASE SERGEANT LINEHAN.

'From Censor to G.O.C. L. of Comn.

'No. 5514 Cable from Lorenzo Marquez says that Sergeant Linehan, Fusiliers, died Racecourse, Pretoria, of Dysentery, Friday last. Buried Catholic Cemetery.'

XIX.

Frere, 25/12/99 (3).

THE QUEEN'S MESSAGE, CHRISTMAS, 1899.

'I wish you and all my brave soldiers a happy Christmas. God protect and bless you all.—V.R.I.'

XX.

Spearman's Camp, 29/1/00 (6).

CAPTAIN C. A. HENSLEY DIED OF WOUNDS 21/1/00; STRUCK OFF STRENGTH; ORDER REGRETTING HIS LOSS.

The following Officer and N.C.O. having been killed in action and died of wounds on the dates opposite their names, are struck off the strength of battalion accordingly:—

Captain C. A. Hensley, died of wounds 21/1/00. No. 5668 Lance-Sergeant Taylor, D company, killed in action 20/1/00.

Whilst in common with all ranks deeply deploring the severe loss the battalion has sustained by the death of Captain Hensley, the Commanding Officer desires to place on record his great appreciation of the services rendered on all occasions by the late Captain Hensley, whose zeal, devotion to duty, and gallantry in action was ever conspicuous since the present war began. He feels sure he is but expressing the sentiments of all ranks in saying that his name will always be handed down in honour to future generations of the regiment as one of those who have nobly striven to shed additional lustre on the regiment's reputation.

XXI.

Spearman's Camp, 31/1/00 (3)

PRESENT OF TOBACCO FROM PAST OFFICERS, AND LETTER, &C.

The following letter, accompanying a present of 400 pounds of tobacco sent to the N.C.O.'s and men of the battalion by some former officers of the battalion, has been received to-day:—

'From the old Officers of the 2nd Battalion Royal Dublin Fusiliers to the N.C.O.'s, rank and file of the 2nd Royal Dublin Fusiliers, in token of their high appreciation of the conspicuous gallantry displayed by the battalion during the campaign, now in progress in South Africa, in which they have so brilliantly maintained the ancient traditions of the "Old Toughs."'

The following names are appended to the above:—Colonel R. Taylor, Colonel Colville Frankland, Colonel C. E. Glasse, Colonel W. Holmes, Colonel F. Taylor, Colonel W. C. Riddell, Lieut.-Colonel Reeves, Lieut.-Colonel F. W. Graham, Lieut.-Colonel A. A. Godwin, Lieut.-Colonel R. H. Mansel, Lieut.-Colonel M. J. Hickley, Lieut.-Colonel J. R. Povah, Major the Hon. H. M. Hobart Hampden, Major R. L. Shaw, Major S. J. Wynne, Major E. Pearse, Captain A. M. Horrocks, Captain R. D. Vincent, Captain H. J. Guyon, Lieutenant W. S. Burmester.

REPLY.

'Colonel Cooper, the Officers, N.C.O.'s and men of the 2nd Battalion the Royal Dublin Fusiliers desire to return their very heartfelt thanks to Colonel Frankland and the old Officers of the battalion for their kind thoughtfulness in providing the men with tobacco.

'They beg to assure the old Officers that their gift is most thoroughly appreciated, as also the expression of goodwill and admiration of the battalion's services in the present campaign which accompanies it.

'To know that the old Officers still continue to follow with interest and admiration the fortunes and doings of the "Old Toughs" will ever be an incentive to all ranks to do all that lies in their power to maintain the reputation which the old Officers helped to win for the corps in days gone by.'

XXII.

Spearman's Camp, 1/2/00 (5).

LANCE-SERGEANT MERRY PROMOTED FOR GALLANTRY.

The Commanding Officer has been pleased to specially promote the undermentioned N.C.O. to the rank of Sergeant from January 12th for meritorious service in the field:—

No. 4441 Lance-Sergeant J. Merry, H company.

XXIII.

Ladysmith, 5/3/00 (2).

LOSSES IN ACTION, INCLUDING COLONEL SITWELL AND CAPTAIN MAITLAND, NOTED AND DEPLORED.

The following Officers, N.C.O.'s and men having been killed in action on the dates opposite their names, are struck off the strength of the battalion, or cease to be attached to it as the case may be, from those dates accordingly:—

Major and Brevet-Lieut.-Colonel C. H. G. Sitwell, D.S.O., 24/2/00. Captain S. C. Maitland, 2nd Gordon Highlanders (attached), 24/2/00.

No. 4871 Pte. J. White. " 4262 Cpl. J. Seymour. " 5359 Pte. Galbraith. " 2872 " Wade. " 4012 " J. Armstrong. " 2037 " Whelan. " 3303 " Timmins. No. 4743 Pte. T. Reid (attached). 24.2.00 " 5073 " Kinsella. " 6296 " Allen. " 5618 " T. Purcell. " 1717 " Sherwin. " 2327 " Grimes. " 1749 Sgt. T. Brennan.

Died of wounds 2/3/00:—

No. 5745 Pte. Brady.

Whilst in common with the rest of the battalion deeply deploring the loss of so many brave Officers, N.C.O.'s and men, and sympathising with those who have been wounded, the Commanding Officer wishes to place on record his high appreciation of the services rendered to the battalion on all occasions by the late Major and Brevet-Lieut.-Colonel Sitwell, whose distinguished career hitherto tended to the honour and reputation of the regiment. All ranks of the battalion join with him, he is sure, in lamenting the loss of such a distinguished soldier and comrade, and a brilliant career thus suddenly though gloriously cut short.

To the late Captain Maitland's sterling qualities as an officer and comrade he would also wish to bear testimony. His services to the battalion during a very trying and critical time were most valuable. On behalf of the battalion he offers the late Captain Maitland's relatives and brother-officers his deepest sympathy.

XXIV.

5/3/00 (4).

THE QUEEN'S MESSAGE RE RELIEF OF LADYSMITH.

The following telegram, received by the Commander-in-Chief on the relief of Ladysmith from Her Most Gracious Majesty the Queen, is published for information of all ranks:—

'Thank God for news you have telegraphed to me. Congratulate you with all my heart.—V.R.I.'

XXV.

Ladysmith, 5/3/00 (3).

THE QUEEN'S MESSAGE—'MY BRAVE IRISH.'

The Commanding Officer has much pleasure in publishing for the information of all ranks, the following message from Her Majesty the Queen, to the 5th Brigade, which was recently received by the G.O.C. in Chief in Natal.

'To General Buller, Natal.

'I have heard with the deepest concern of the heavy losses sustained by my brave Irish soldiers. I desire to express my admiration of the splendid fighting qualities which they have exhibited throughout these trying operations.—V.R.I.'

THE FOLLOWING REPLY WAS SENT BY SIR REDVERS BULLER:—

'Sir Redvers Buller has, on the part of the Irish Brigade, to thank the Queen for her gracious telegram of sympathy and encouragement.'

XXVI.

5/3/00 (5).

LETTER TO GORDON HIGHLANDERS, RE CAPTAIN MAITLAND.

The Commanding Officer has, on behalf of the battalion, forwarded the following letter to the Officer Commanding the 2nd Gordon Highlanders.

'Ladysmith, 5/3/00.

'DEAR MAJOR SCOTT,—

'On behalf of myself and the officers of the battalion, I write to offer you all our very deepest sympathy in the severe loss your battalion has sustained by the death of Captain Maitland.

'I find it hard to adequately express to you how very deeply the whole of my battalion laments his loss, and I know I am only expressing the sentiments of all ranks when I assure you that his memory will ever be cherished in the battalion.

'A better or more conscientious officer I have never had under my command. We would all esteem it a very great favour if you could send us a photograph of our late dear comrade, and might I also so far trespass on your kindness, as to ask for one for his company (G) as well, which I need hardly say will be highly prized by them.

'Yours, &c. (Signed) C. D. COOPER.'

XXVII.

Ladysmith, 14/3/00 (3).

NATAL ARMY ORDERS. THE WEARING OF SHAMROCK ON ST. PATRICK'S DAY.

The following extracts from Natal Army Orders are published for information:—

'(1) The General Commanding has to communicate to the troops the following telegram he has received from the C. in C. viz.

'Her Majesty the Queen is pleased to order that in future on St. Patrick's Day all ranks in Her Majesty's Irish regiments shall wear as a distinction a sprig of shamrock in their head-dress to commemorate the gallantry of Her Irish soldiers during the recent battles in South Africa.

'WOLSELEY.'

XXVIII.

Ladysmith, 18/3/00.

WINSTON CHURCHILL'S TELEGRAM TO REGIMENT.

The following telegrams received yesterday, and replies thereto, are published for information:—

'To Colonel, Dublin Fusiliers, Ladysmith.

'My earnest congratulations on the honour the Dublin Fusiliers more than any other regiment have won for the land of their birth. We are all wearing the shamrock here.

'(Signed) WINSTON CHURCHILL.'

REPLY.

'To Winston Churchill, Lord Dundonald's Brigade.

'Many thanks for your kind message received yesterday, all ranks appreciate your kind expressions.

'(Signed) COLONEL, DUBLIN FUSILIERS.'

XXIX.

18/3/00 (1).

COLENSO RAILWAYMEN'S TELEGRAM TO REGIMENT.

'To Brigadier-General Cooper, Commanding Irish Brigade, Ladysmith.

'On St. Patrick's Day the railway men of Colenso respectfully wish to convey to the officers and men of Her Majesty's Dublin Fusiliers their best wishes for a speedy termination of the present war, in which the Dublins have borne so glorious a part. The whole of South Africa rings with praise of the gallant Irish Brigade. We mourn with you the loss of so many gallant men of your command. They have fallen in their defence of a united South Africa, over which, please God, Her Most Gracious Majesty's flag will fly from Cape Town to the Zambesi.

'(Signed) INSPECTOR CAMPBELL.'

REPLY.

18/3/00 (1).

'To Inspector Campbell, Colenso.

'On behalf of the officers and men under my command, please accept our heartfelt thanks for your kind message and expressions of sympathy.

(Signed) COLONEL COOPER.'

XXX.

5th Brigade Orders, 18/3/00 (1).

CAPE TOWN IRISHMEN SEND TELEGRAM.

The following telegram has been received by General Sir Redvers Buller:—

'Cape Town Irishmen wish the gallant Irish officers and men under your command many returns of St. Patrick's Day, and would express their heartfelt admiration for the way in which they have maintained unsullied the splendid military traditions of Ireland and the Empire under your gallant leadership.'

XXXI.

Ladysmith, 20/3/00 (2).

THE QUEEN SENDS TELEGRAM OF THANKS.

The following reply to telegram sent by Colonel Cooper on behalf of the battalion to Her Majesty the Queen on Shamrock Day was received yesterday:—

'The Queen thanks her Dublin Fusiliers for loyal message. Windsor Castle, 18th.'

XXXII.

Elandslaagte, 3/4/00 (7).

COLONEL SAUNDERSON'S LETTER.

The following letter was received to-day by the Commanding Officer from Colonel Saunderson, M.P.:—

'Castle Saunderson, Belturbet, 1/3/00.

'DEAR SIR,

'I cannot help writing to you to express on my part, and on the part of every loyal Irishman, the pride and sympathy we take in the heroic deeds of the Dublin Fusiliers in South Africa. Your gallant regiment has shed a lustre on the army to which they belong and on the country from which they come.

'No words of mine can express the admiration we feel for their loyalty, their courage, and their indomitable determination. I hope they realise how our hearts are with them.'

A reply thanking Colonel Saunderson has been sent by the Commanding Officer.

XXXIII.

Fourteen Streams, 12/5 (3).

DEATH OF SECOND LIEUTENANT J. T. DENNIS AT ALIWAL NORTH, MAY 2ND. ENTERIC.

The Commanding Officer deeply regrets to announce the death of Second Lieutenant J. T. Dennis, which occurred at Aliwal North on May 2nd of enteric.

XXXIV.

17/5/00 (4).

GENERAL HART CONGRATULATES 1ST BORDERS AND 2ND ROYAL DUBLIN FUSILIERS ON THEIR MARCHING.

Major-General Hart congratulates the 1st Border Regiment and 2nd Royal Dublin Fusiliers upon the recent instance of their marching powers. For military reasons it was needful after the march forward yesterday to march back at once to Fourteen Streams. As far as he can arrive at a tolerably accurate estimate of the ground gone over, these two battalions in the course of yesterday and last night marched twenty-six miles in the space of nineteen hours. And the strong point is that they arrived at the end of it in compact formation, still going a good pace, and without any straggling or falling out. The Major-General accordingly puts this event on record.

XXXV.

Heidelberg, 2/7/00 (5).

COLONEL COOPER'S FAREWELL ORDER.

The following farewell order by Major-General C. D. Cooper is published for information. The Commanding Officer regrets that its publication has been unavoidably postponed till now:—

'In bidding farewell to the battalion in which I have served for so many years, I wish to thank all ranks from the bottom of my heart for the kind and efficient support accorded to me during the period of my command—close on five years. It was always my ambition to command the battalion, and on active service, and I feel very thankful that my wish was granted. We have fought together and worked hard for our noble Queen and country, and all ranks have shown that good spirit and bravery that has made the battalion what it is. You may rest assured that I will always take the greatest interest in the doings of the battalion, and I shall never forget the happy days spent amongst you. I much regret that I was unable to wish you Godspeed in person, but I sincerely hope I shall soon see you all again. My very sincere sympathy and regret at our very heavy losses. May God bless you all.

'(Signed) C. D. COOPER, Major-General Commanding 4th Brigade.'

XXXVI.

Heidelberg, 24/7/00 (6).

GENERAL BULLER'S TELEGRAM RE ZUIKERBOSCH.

The following telegram received by the G.O.C. is published for information:—

'from Sir Redvers Buller.

'So glad to hear of your fight. Good old Dublins, and tell them so from me, and well done you.'

XXXVII.

Krugersdorp, 4/10/00 (8).

A PATROL UNDER LIEUTENANT GARVICE, &c.

A patrol under Lieutenant Garvice, Commanding Virginia Railway Station, came in contact with some Boers on the 1st. We had one man wounded, Boers three, whom they had to leave on the ground. The casualties in the 2nd Coldstream Guards near Pan were caused by the enemy's fire, the majority of the wounds were caused by explosive bullets: the men behaved very well, and everybody kept their heads, otherwise the loss would have been greater, as the Boers opened fire at sixty yards range.

XXXVIII.

Krugersdorp, 4/10/00 (8).

COLONEL ROCHFORD'S ATTACK.

Colonel Rochford attacked a small Boer laager between Pretoria and Johannesburg before dawn yesterday, with Royal Dublin Fusiliers and M.I. Fusiliers. He rushed the position with the bayonet. Nine prisoners were captured, most of them men of importance, who have been troubling the district for some time. A small party of Boers made their way to Dewetsdorp and Wepener. General Kelly Kenny has sent troops to occupy both these places.

XXXIX.

Krugersdorp, 16/12/00 (8).

COMMANDING OFFICER'S REMARKS ON TREK.

The Commanding Officer is very well pleased with the way the men marched in this trip, doing 102 miles in six days, an average of seventeen miles a day; also with their excellent conduct and the cheerful way in which all difficulties were met. The results of the trip were over 1000 head of sheep and cattle and seven waggons captured, thirty barns of forage burnt, and innumerable stocks of oat hay, some of which concealed ammunition.

XL.

LETTER FROM GENERAL HART.

Lieut.-Colonel Hicks, Commanding 2nd Battalion Royal Dublin Fusiliers.

The manner in which the encampment of your battalion is arranged deserves my special commendation. On very bad camping-ground, beset with rocks and bush, and afflicted with dust between, I find your companies excellently established by ingenious and industrious adaptation to circumstances. The regularity and tidiness are conspicuous, and have been noted by me with great satisfaction. I need not say how much neatness of arrangements must conduce to quickness and good quality of soldier work.

(Signed) A. FITZROY HART, Major-General Commanding Irish Brigade.

Fourteen Streams, May 20th 1900.

XLI.

Krugersdorp, 25/1/01 (4).

GENERAL HART'S FAREWELL.

The following Farewell Order by Major-General A. Fitzroy Hart, C.B., is published for information:—

'In leaving to take another command, I wish you, my brother soldiers of my force, farewell.

'It is an article of my faith, that you would go anywhere and do anything required in battle.

'I leave you with deep regret, and of course I must feel this particularly for the last of my old Irish brigade with which I began the war.

'In departing, I give you this scrap of advice: Be individually, whenever opportunity offers personally, not only kind but generous to the inhabitants of this country which we have taken from them, and among whom so many of our countrymen and countrywomen will have to dwell. It will not diminish your soldierly strength, and it will hasten a welcome for the pleasant government of peace.'

XLII.

Fort Kilmarnock, 25/9/01 (6).

LETTER FROM CAPTAIN ANLEY.

The following extracts from a letter received from Brevet-Major Anley, Commanding 3rd M.I., are published for information:—

'The behaviour of your M.I. company continues to be very good. Lieutenant Garvice and thirty men of the company did excellent service the other day, when acting as rearguard to a convoy which was leaving Carolina. It was reported that it was due to the steadiness of the men of the Royal Dublin Fusiliers, and the able manner they were handled by Lieutenant Garvice, that the convoy got in without loss.

'The Inspector-General M.I. wrote and asked me to congratulate Lieutenant Garvice on the behaviour of his men. No. 4701, Private Kelly, R.D.F., was recommended for gallantry on this occasion.

'(Signed) F. GORE ANLEY,

Brevet-Major Commanding 3rd Battalion M.I.'

XLIII.

CONSPICUOUS GALLANTRY AT GASKRAAL ON AUGUST 28TH, &C.

The following extract from Army Order No. 418, dated Pretoria, September 28th, 1901, is published for information:—

'No. 1. The following have been brought to notice of the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, for gallantry and good service:

2nd Royal Dublin Fusiliers: No. 6491, Lce.-Cpl. T. O'Connor (killed).

For great and conspicuous gallantry when very closely engaged with enemy at Gaskraal on 28th Aug. 1901.'

XLIV.

LORD KITCHENER'S WIRE.

'I know I am speaking for the whole army in South Africa, when I wish the Dublin Fusiliers Godspeed, and congratulate them on the fine record they have established during their services in the country.'

ANSWER.

'I beg to thank your Lordship in the name of the regiment for your very kind and congratulatory telegram, which is much appreciated by all ranks.'

XLV.

ROLL OF OFFICERS, 2ND ROYAL DUBLIN FUSILIERS, WHO EMBARKED AT DURBAN ON S.S. 'SICILIA,' ON THE 29/1/02, EN ROUTE FOR ADEN.

Rank and Name.

Col. H. T. Hicks, C.B. Maj. S. G. Bird, D.S.O. Capt. and Bt.-Maj. E. Fetherstonhaugh. Capt. and Bt.-Maj. M. Lowndes. Capt. H. W. Higginson. " G. N. Cory, D.S.O. Lieut. C. Garvice, D.S.O. " L. F. Renny. " J. McD. Haskard. " A. H. D. Britton. Lieut. A. de B. W. W. Bradford. " S. G. De C. Wheeler. 2nd Lieut. A. W. Newton. " E. St. G. Smith " R. F. B. Knox. " J. P. Tredennick. " B. Maclear. " J. P. B. Robinson. " E. F. E. Seymour. " H. St. G. M. S. Scott. Lieut. J. Burke (Quartermaster).

_Printed by Strangeways & Sons, Tower Street,

Cambridge Circus, London, W.C._

THE END