Page:George McCall Theal, History of South Africa since September 1795, Volume 1 (1908).pdf/25



On the 16th of September 1795 the English troops took possession of Capetown, and as far as the government of the Dutch East India Company was concerned the colony was surrendered; but the people of the country districts were not disposed to acknowledge the new authorities. The greater number of the militia retired to their homes, declaring that they did not consider themselves bound by the capitulation of Commissioner Sluysken and the Council of Policy, and about a hundred of the Dutch artillery corps deserted and followed the burghers inland.

Under these circumstances every possible effort to soothe the colonists was made by the English commanders. The people of Capetown were treated in such a manner as to dispel their anxiety, and they were assured that they would presently be in the enjoyment of such liberty and good fortune as they had never known before. The government was carried on by Admiral Elphinstone and Generals Clarke and Craig, acting conjointly. On the 1st of October the important office of secretary to government was provisionally bestowed upon Mr.