they were given guns, and taught how to use them; thus forming a sort of bodyguard for their masters when visiting friendly native chiefs. Very quickly after having arms in their hands they asked to be allowed to become soldiers, and were then drafted into the regular force. Eventually, what was called a “ boy company “ was formed, and it became the smartest set of soldiers we had. Their chief amusement when off duty was to go through their drill.

The boy corporals had generally a few natives, or prisoners, who had been given into their charge to look after; these recruits they used to drill for the pleasure of drilling them, and many of them also became soldiers. One great advantage in connection with these boys was, that, when in action they got into trouble or retreated, they invariably rallied round the