DEPUTATION TO MR CHAMBERLAIN.

Gisborne Times, Volume IX, Issue 821, 9 February 1903, Page 2

DEPUTATION TO MR CHAMBERLAIN.

A HEATED DEBATE.

R CHAMBERLAIN ACTS FIRMLY

By Telegraph—Press Association—Copyright Received 5.2 p.m., Feb. 7. Capetown, Feb. 7. Christian DeWot, with a party of three of tho last fighters, had a two hours’ interview with Mr Chamberlain, who declined to receive an address dealing with the language question, repeating the efforts lately made at Pretoria and accusing the Government of contravening the \ ereeniging terms, especially in regard to the amnesty. This Mr Chamberlain indignantly denied. Tile debate was a heated one. DeWot was auxtous to tear up the Vereenigiug arrangement and begin afresh.

Mr Chamberlain's reply was diroct, forcible, and uncompromising. The “ hauds-uppers ” and National Scouts later on thanked Mr Chamberlain for all ho had dene, and gave pledges of unswerving loyalty. Delegates at the previous deputation decliued Government hospitality. Mr Chamberlain was not satisfied with tho representative character of the first burgher deputation, which was supposod to represent three sections. Thon came Christain DoWet's delegation, including Hertzog, Georgo Brand, aud Drain. Mr Chamberlain declared that if tho Vereeniging arrangement was rovisod ho would dictate the terms. Piet Do iVot headed a more influential section of loyalists.

DE WET AND BOTHA

SOME PRESS COMMENTS,

By Telegraph—Press Association—Copyright Rccoivod 5.44 p.m,, F’ob. 8. London, Fob. 7.

Tho Standard declares Christian DaWet will probably end by becoming an instrument of tho Bond in tho struggle for mastory between tho various soctions now begun. The Telegraph says that Christian DoWet occupios a similar position in Orangia to that of Botha in tho Transvaal. They are willing to co-oporato with tho "Government, but afraid to lose thp, Boors' confidence.