* * * * * UNITED WE STAND. BY TROOPER G. SIMES, F SQUADRON, ROBERTS' HORSE. Who are these hasting with speed o'er the ocean, Meeting together in one common cause, Proving by deeds and a whole-souled devotion, Their love for our Flag and contempt for the Boers? These are the oversea sons of one mother, Some bred in sunshine and some bred in snow; Meeting together as brother with brother, One common kindred 'gainst one common foe. Bright sunny land in the far-off Pacific, Fit habitation for men such as these, Proving their birthright in battle terrific, Sons of the Mother though bred overseas. Grand snow-clad land on the stormy Atlantic, Home of our brothers who fight with us here-- Proving by deeds most high-souled and romantic Their love for their country we all hold so dear. This be our comfort and this be our beacon-- Blood that was shed has but bound us together, No power can conquer, no quarrels shall weaken The Rose and the Maple, the Wattle and Heather! * * * * * TEN-A-PENNY'S.[8] [Footnote 8: "Ten-a-Penny" was a soldiers' nickname for the Pom-pom. "The ----y Doorknocker" it was christened in the Highland Brigade. The word "Pom-pom" came first into use immediately after the battle of Modder River.] A certain General has breathed vengeance against two of the Editors of THE FRIEND, threatening to put them in his guard-room if he finds them within his lines. They are not afraid of him, but prefer to admire him as of old. They scorn his threats but will welcome an invitation to lunch. * * * * * A linesman describing the arrival of the Guards Brigade at Bloemfontein after they had covered 41 miles in 22 hours: "An' they come in the last mile like a lot o' bloomin' Park hacks, steppin' 'igh an' dressin' most particular." * * * * * A French waiter at a Parisian cafe recently heard the news of Kimberley's relief, and observed joyously: "Bon! Fashoda finds itself avenged. Behold, ze English again in the consommee, for ze French are in Kimberley!" * * * * *