The strike of miners on the Rand has been weakening
from day to day. Unless the engine-drivers join the strike, it cannot continue much longer, although the miners have unanimously resolved to go on with it. Everything depends upon the ballot of the engine-drivers, on whom pressure of various kinds is being brought to bear. The Johannesburg corre- spondent of the Daily Chronicle was told by Mr. Smuts, who acted as Premier during General Botha'a absence, that the troops which are now garrisoning the Rand were sent largely because an outbreak among the Chinese seemed possible. The Government had issued instructions that the troops were to be held in reserve against a great emergency. Their presence has had a very quieting effect. General Botha, who has returned to the Transvaal and has been most cordially welcomed, announces that he warmly approves the action taken by the Government in his absence.
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