Sir George had brought about the cease fire, in a
quarrel between the Basutos and the Boers. That gave him the prestige
which was requisite for anyone who would go to Thaba Bosigo. Having a
Boer for guide, and a few natives for retinue, the Governor presented
himself at the outer postern of the stronghold, after darkness had
fallen.
'I was admitted,' he said, 'and found Moshesh ill in bed, a bright
nightcap, with a tassel, on his head. A more strange, more picturesque
conference, bearing upon the well-being of the British Empire, surely
never took place. Moshesh was propped up in his bed, his leading men
grouped themselves round, and we talked. A fire burned in the place, a
tallow candle or two spluttered, making lights and shadows as in a
Rembrandt picture. My natives understood Basuto and English, and were the
medium for my converse with Moshesh. He was really one of the cleverest
fellows in all South Africa, as well as one of the most powerful chiefs.
Thus, I was pleased with myself when I left Thaba Bosigo, no longer a
Mountain of Midnight, knowing that he was in my league of peace.'
This novel covenant was strictly observed by the chiefs, so assuring the
Governor against his neat venture. It hurled him, once more, through the
fabric of the British constitution, a road to which he had grown
familiar.
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