An Interview With Kruger.

Gisborne Times, Volume VI, Issue 231, 8 October 1901, Page 4

An Interview With Kruger.

The Freeman’s Journal contains tie tail? of an interview which Mr. William Redmond has had with Mr. Kruger in Holland. The greater portion of two columns, into which that article run s, is taken up with a description of Mr. Kruger’s home at the Hilvei binn and the reception accorded to Mr. Redmond. In the course of the interview, Mr Kruger expressed the hope that Mr. Redmond had not been forced to fly from the British Government as the result of his “strong speeches” in favour of the Boers. In declaring his opinion as to the effect of Lord Kitchener’s proclamations, Mr. Kruger said, “jMy people are not to bejjfrightened by such proclamations and speeches. These things can only encourage those who are fighting to continue to do so.” He then went on to make charges against the British of employ, iny armed natives. “ Was it true, as stated,” Mr Redmond asked, “ that there was a great conspiracy to drive the English from South Africa ?” “ Never,” cried the President, striking the table, there was no such conspiracy.” Resuming, he said:—“We only want to he left alone in our country. We made many concessions to avoid war. Even the seven years’ franchise, which after ti e Bloemfontein conference we agreed to give them at once, would have given the Outlanders 90.000 votes agaiust our 20,000.” In answer to a question in reference to the : promises made by the Government as to the treatment of the Boers, if they would sur- - render, Mr Kruger stated that he “ knew England's promises ; ” adding, “We should be slaves.” Asked as to the future, he further declared : “ All wo want is to enjoy o in- own. liven now. if we get our independence, we would still manage to rebuild our country, but to enable us to do so we want our full independence.” Mr Fischer here (writes Mr Redmond) turned to him and said that be was desired to lay stress on the word “ full.” Asked as to his proposed American visit, Mr Kruger replied that nothing was definitely settled. In conclusion, Mr Redmond states that the impression left upon his mind by the interview was that those who imagine that Mr Kruger is breaking up, either mentally or physically, are very much mistaken.