Much Smoke and Little Fire.—
Some American papers which can see no good in anything British, had much to say when Dr. Anthony was arrested and charged with treason. They were sure he would be executed or condemned to severe punishment unless this government acted promptly and strenuously. Treason is a serious charge, but we were sure that the British courts would act justly. Well, here is a report from a Natal paper by Reuter's despatch, giving account of Dr. Anthony's trial:— Graaff Reinet, Jan. 8 (Reuter).—Dr. Anthony, of Cradock, before the Military Court, was charged with assisting the enemy with clothing in July last, whilst Theron's commando was in Cradock district. Kissen swore that Wessels, a medical student fighting with the Boers, sent him with a letter to Anthony, who is Wessel's brother-in-law. On receipt of the letter, Anthony sent him to purchase £10 worth of clothing, which was taken out by Anthony and witness, who met Wessels and the clothes were carried off by the Boers to the laager. Wessels and Anthony were very friendly. Witness admitted in cross-examination by Advocate Gardiner, that he was under arrest for aiding the enemy. Dr. Anthony denied Kissen's statement in toto, but acknowledged having met Wessels as a pleasant surprise, and tried to induce him to surrender. He went out with Kissen to visit a patient for whom clothes were bought, but they were commandeered by the Boers. The case was dismissed.