The response of the Union Government has been prompt and
drastic. Martial law has been proclaimed throughout the Union. Lord Buxton announces that the Government is taking the most vigorous steps to stamp out the rebellion and inflict condign punishment on all rebels and traitors. General Smuts, the Minister of Defence, justifies these measures on the ground that the Government of German South-West Africa has, " through a widespread secret propaganda, persistently endeavoured to seduce citizens of the Union and the officers and members of the Defence Force of the Union from their allegiance, and to cause rebellion and civil war within the Union, under the false and treacherous pretext of favouring the establishment of a Republic in South Africa." We deal with the situation elsewhere, but may note that the great majority of the Dutch, through their Press and in public meetings, have shown themselves resolutely loyal to the Government and General Botha, who has sent a strong force against Colonel Maritz.
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