Though such a movement from Natal seems likely before long,
there is as yet no positive news of it having begun. All that we hear from Elandslaagte are accounts of outpost skirmishes, and of "a general expectation" that some big operation is in contemplation. Meantime the news from the extreme west of the theatre of war is excellent. Hunter's division has crossed the Vaal in face of the enemy, and is advancing towards Mafeking. It is, of course, quite possible that it may still meet with very serious opposition, but it should be noted that every mile General Hunter and Lord Roberts march np their respective lines of railway, the Boer opposition becomes more difficult and more dangerous. The two lines do not ran parallel but diverge. Thus the possi- bility of the two Boer forces co-operating becomes daily less, and their respective positions more isolated.
