29 AUGUST 1896, Page 1

The news from Rhodesia continues good. On Saturday last Mr.

Rhodes rode out to meet the rebel indunas, and, after a palaver with them, is stated to have obtained their sub- mission. Up till now, however, the terms of peace have been kept secret. It is believed, however, that what is practically an unconditional surrender has been obtained. Picturesque details of the scene at the palaver are supplied by the corre- spondents, and the chiefs are represented as talking like the redskins in Fenimore Cooper. Sekombo declared that neither Mr. Rhodes nor Dr. Jameson knew of the things that had been done in Matabeleland. If Mr. Rhodes stayt d and cared for them they would not fight. Mr. Rhodes had won their confidence by entering their stronghold unarmed. We

do not grudge Mr. Rhodes his success, or the least doubt his courage, and are aware that he is a very able negotiator; but it is ridiculous to talk as if he had done something which no one else could have achieved. If General Carrington had gone instead of him the result would have been equally satis- factory. The attempt to represent Mr. Rhodes at all times and in all places as "the necessary man" is being greatly overdone.