about. But the Australian soldier, though
frequently the subject of much literary effort,
has not yet had his say. Therefore, in these
pages the author has striven to show other
Australians, who had not the good fortune to
serve in Africa, what some phases of campaigning
were like, as viewed from the standpoint of
the Australian ranks, and has occasionally ventured to say,
as an Australian, how things have
impressed him.
With regard to the two " Battle " chapters, it
is perhaps necessary to explain that, though the
incidents and setting are actual facts, the whole
is not intended to represent any particular
engagement, but is rather a kind of composite
portrait of half a dozen or more.
In conclusion, the author wishes to acknow-
ledge the kindly assistance and advice for which
he is indebted to Mr. John Arthur Barry in the
making of this book.
- Sydney, 1902.
