The Transvaal Crisis.

Feilding Star, Volume XVII, Issue 258, 6 May 1896, Page 2

The Transvaal Crisis.

(Per Press Association.) London, May 5. Sir A. Fraser, Agent- General for Western Australia, asked the Hon Mr Chamberlain to intercede on behalf of Walter Davies, one of the reformers sentenced at Pretoria. Dr Leyds, the Transvaal agent, has complained that Sir Hercules Robinson's reports that 6000 troops are being massed at Mafeking has caused a feeling of disquiet, especially as the officers alleged they were declined for the Transvaal. It is hinted that affidavits have been made by the Boer waggoners, asserting that they were hired to assist the invasion. De Wit, the British agent at Pretoria, has confirmed Dr Leyds' complaint, and suggests a joint commission of enquiry. Sir Hercules Robinson has given a peremptory denial, and scouts the idea of a Commission, as proposed. He says there are only 1490 troops proceeding to Mafeking, and half of them have not yet arrived, although frequent assurances that there is no hostile intention towards the Transvaal are needless. Sir H. Robinson has also cabled to the Hon J. Chamberlain, stating that he never had the slightest suspicion or hint of Jameson's raid. The Times denounces the conditions of De Wit's suggested Commission of enquiry as an egregious folly.