OPERATIONS IN THE FREE STATE.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume XXXXII, Issue 77, 28 March 1900, Page 2

OPERATIONS IN THE FREE STATE.

GENERAL CLEMENTS' ADVANCE. (Received 27, 9.15 a.m.) London, March 26. The Tasmanians and Eimington's Scouts, who were in the van of General Clements' force, were the first to enter Phillopolis. Later on General Clements entered the town, the Dragoons with drawn swords acting as his escort. After, General Clements read a proclamation to the burghers announcing that those swearing neutrality, if they had not taken a leading part in the policy of the Republics or the hostilities, would be allowed to return to their farms. The late Government at Bloemfontein would never be re-estab-lished.

The burghers listened carefully and than surrendered their arms. The Landdrost and Sheriffs were reappointed to their offices, and a number of Colesburg rebels who had taken shelter in the town were arrested, PROCLAMATION BY LORD ROBERTS. THE ENEMY WILL WITHDRAW TO THE TRANSVAAL. (Received 27, 9.15 a.m.) London, March 26. Lord Roberts' proclamation, calling upon the Boers to surrender, and recommending them to trust to the clemency of the British, does not apply to rebels. He offers leniency to burghers who were misled by Steyn, if they reconsider their action and disarm, A Eeuter's message states that resistance at Kroonstad and elsewhere is designed to cover the enemy's ultimate withdrawal to Transvaal territory. The halt of Lord Roberts at Bloemfontein is due to a cautious effort to secure the peaceful transition of authorities. WHERE THE BIG FIGHT WILL TAKE PLACE. MILITARY HOPE THAT IT WILL BE AT KROONSTAD. j (Received 28, 1,30 a,m.) London, March 27. The military hope that the Boers will fight at Kroonstad, as the position is not naturally strong. The plains beyond render pursuit easy. GENERAL FRENCH RETURNS TO BLOEMFONTEIN. MANY BOERS SUBMIT TO THE BRITISH. (Received 28,1.30 a.m.) I London, March 27. I General French has received many submissions, and has returned to ' Bloemfontein. . „