The Germans are experiencing some of the disadvantages
that attend possessions in Africa. On Sunday last, for example. Berlin was startled to hear that the Hereros, who are being treated "punitively" in reprisal for their attack upon German settlements in South-West Africa, had out off a party of officers. They were riding with Major von Glasenapp in advance of the main column, when the Hereros, who were supposed to be retreating before them, suddenly opened fire and drove them back on their supports. No leas than seven officers were killed and three wounded, besides nineteen men killed and two wounded out of thirty-six who were escorting the party. They had a Maxim with them, but it does not appear to have been used. The disaster will, of course, hasten the despatch of reinforcements; but it is keenly felt in Germany, where the African colonies are not overvalued, and where the impression is that the Hereros in particular have been needlessly provoked by subordinate officers to whom too much power has been entrusted. There is a rumour that another formidable tribe may take the field, and that, indeed, the Germans may have to face a general native rising. It is possible that there is some exaggeration in the stories of the soldiers' brutality ; but it is certain that the Germans do not anywhere conciliate native feeling. They insist too strongly on an abject obedience.
