HAMILTON, Sir Ian Standish Monteith (1853-1947). General.
Autograph Letter Signed to Kempthorne, 3 pages 8vo (note of identification in red ink at the head), Bloemfontein, 1 April 1900. Describing his illnesses following the relief [of Ladysmith] ('in a short of reaction I suppose'), and, now recovered, expressing the desire to acquit himself well in the coming battles.

'... I hear I am to get a good command on this side in a few days time. I hope I may do credit to Lord Roberts' selection but the enemy is a formidable one and it does not do to be too sanguine. ...'

The letter was written just over a month after the relief of Ladysmith, in which Hamilton's courage and resourcefulness played an important role.
[No: 23986]