QSAMIKE

Thankyou Gentlemen for your kind comments...... Mike

March 13th. 1900: Extract from letter from War Office;- "The new commissions for the officers of your corps will be prepared and submitted in due course to Her Majesty and the Secretary of State for War. When completed they will be forwarded to your Lordship for transmission to the officers in question.

March 12th. 1900: Following letter from Lord Strathcona to Sir Arthur Bigge:- "Dear Sir Arthur Bigge, I am in receipt of your letter of the 9th. inst., and beg that you will convey to the Queen my respectful acknowledgments of her most gracious message. This significant mark of Her Majesty's consideration will be communicated to the members of the corps by whom it is certain to be received with affection and gratitude. Both officers and men consider it a privilege to have the opportunity of serving their Sovereign and the Empire, and may be relied upon to do their duty as Canadians and as loyal British subjects; and to justify the confidence in them to which Her Majesty has been graciously pleased to give expression. Believe me to be, Yours very truly, (Signed) Strathcona & Mount Royal March 12th. 1900: Telegram from Mr. E. S. Clouston:- Force expected to arrive Montreal 13th. March at three o'clock in afternoon, and to leave at seven o'clock the same evening. Dr. Borden, Minister of Militia & Defence to represent Lord Strathcona at embarkation of the force at Halifax. Pressure of Parliamentary duties did not permit of Sir Wilfred Laurier being present on this occasion.

March I0th. 1900: Following telegram from Governor General to Lord Strathcona:- "It has been greatest pleasure to me. Your corps magnificent body of men and horses very good. Everyone deeply regrets that you have not been able to see them."

March 9th. 1900: Telegram from Mr. E. S. Clouston, General Manager, Bank of Montreal:- "Your force passed splendid inspection yesterday by both Houses of Parliament. Were given addressees by His Excellency, the Premier, Dr. Borden, Sir Charles Tupper and others; and there wasan enormous and enthusiastic gathering to witness it. " March 9th. 1900: Following letter from Sir Arthur Bigge:- Buckingham Palace March 9th. 1900. 'Dear Lord Strathcona, The Queen understands that the body of Scouts from the North West Territories of Canada which has been raised and equipped by your munificent liberality, is on the eve of departure for South Africa. Her Majesty would be glad if, before they start you would convey to them the expression of her confidence that they will prove themselves worthy comrades of her Canadian soldiers who are now so gallantly fighting in the Empire's cause. The Queen wishes them all success and safe return to their homes in the Dominion. Yours very truly, (Signed) Arthur Bigge" Can you please ley me know if this is actually being read...... Mike

It is possible that he is a CanLoan Officer...... Canadian Officers loaned for service in the British Army..... Take a look here..... http://www.veterans.gc.ca/eng/feature/normandy/norm_report/canloan Mike

March 7th. 1900: Arrangements made for the appointment of the officers of Strathcona's Horse to appear in the Official Gazette; and the temporary commissions granted to them will be in every way equivalent to those issued to the regular forces. March 8th. 1900: Telegram from Minister of Militia to Lord Strathcona:- "Presentation of guidons to your force was made this morning by Mrs. Borden on behalf of Ladies of the Civil Service in Parliament Square, in presence of thousands of citizens and visitors. I also presented Steele with field glass on behalf of his many friends and admirers. Addresses were delivered by Governor General, Premier and Sir Charles Tupper. Force presented splendid appearance on parade. After presentation marched through principal streets to barracks amid great enthusiasm."

Good Morning Timo..... Looks like a napkin ring to me...... Mike

Hello Vaughan...... There are no missing pips...... He would have had 3 for a Captain which have been removed and when promoted to Major just one Crown...... The ribbons: 1939-1945 Star Africa Star with 8th Army Bar Italy Star Defence of Britian Medal 1939 - 1945 War Medal Mike

Good Morning and Hello Mark..... Can you tell me anything about 3979 Private G. Sampson, 1st Bn. Cameron Highlanders His WW1 are to Highland Light Infantry..... Mike

The Right Hon. Lord Strathcona and Mount Royal Victoria Street, London, S.W. OTTAWA 25th February 1900 Dear Lord Strathcona Your kind favor was duly received I am grateful for your expression of satisfaction at my appointment, and will do my utmost to make the Corps do credit by your name. The organization is now complete, as far as the men are concerned, and the horses coming in fast. Over three hundred have arrived, and the remainder are by this time are on the way. The saddlery, all of which has to be made, is now complete and will be issued this week. The clothing and all stores have carefully inspected by a board of experienced officers, and the evidence of the experts in the corps taken. The uniforms are good and fit well. I have Master Tailor Creegan of "A" Battery doing the fitting. His experience has been great, and I find the advantage of it. I have done my best in selecting officers and men. The great majority of the officers have a great deal of experience, and more than three-fourths are Western men. I was forced, on account of the lack of material, to get the remainder from the East, but they are good horsemen and possessed of certificates of qualification. The men are a fine capable and highly respected lot; the physique such as to make them the beau ideal of what horsemen should be. A few men have enlisted in the East for special purposes, not for mounted work. Shoeing-Smiths, saddlers and buglers could not be got in sufficient numbers in the West. The medical officer, Dr. Kegegan, was selected by Dr. Stewart. Dr. McEachran will select the V. Surgeons. I find that our force is the backbone of the organization. Their experience in the West makes even the Veterinary Surgeon a better man. The knowledge of discipline and advantage of it are plainly to be seen. I think the V.S. Will be selected from one of two men in the N.W.M. Police. Drill has been going on daily, the thirteen shoeing smiths are hard at work. The people of Montreal are anxious for us to parade there on our way. This could be done on foot as well, but the detraining of five hundred horses would be quite a task, and some might be injured. They are all new to the cities and although hard to frighten would give us a good deal of trouble. I sent my initial report last week, and will of course continue furnishing your Lordship with all the information that I can. Yours respectfully. 　 (signed) S. B. Steele

Good Morning Mervyn..... Great Group...... Makes you wonder why no Long Service and Good Conduct...... Was he a bad boy....... Well worth research...... Mike

Craig...... Another story is that Christie was a Special during the war and one night during the blackout Christie came up beside my Grandmother and said: "Is everything OK Mother, can I walk you home....." To which she replied that she was just a couple of doors down...... Of course long before they knew about the murders...... Not to sure how true this one is..... Yes I have seen the movie...... Mike

I remember my grand parents lived very near #10..... And my Grandmother tells a story that after Christie left the house a Jamaican family moved in and started to do some renovations...... She states that she was visiting a friend in Rillington Place when a body was found and now using her words: "That Darkie came running out of the house screaming his head off and he was As White As A Ghost"...... They always called it #10 or Christies.... Mike

February 21st. 1900: Letter from the War Office stating that the Commander in Chief had approved the appointment of the Officers of the Canadian Militia and other Gentlemen mentioned in Lord Strathcona's Letters that the necessary notifications have been made in an early Gazette and temporary commissions issued in due course. (Note: All the officers appointed were given temporary rank in Her Majesty's army.)

Great Collection...... Mike

STRATHCONA'S HORSE Ottawa, 17th February, 1900 From: Lt. Col. S. B. Steele, Commanding "Strathcona's Horse" To: The Right Honorable Lord Strathcona and Mount Royal, G.C.M.G. 17, Victoria Street, London, S.W., England My Lord, As requested by your Lordship I have the honor to submit this my report upon all matters in connection with the organization of "Strathcona's Horse". When I was in Halifax on my way to South Africa with the Second Contingent from Canada, I received a telegram from the Honorable the Minister of Militia offering me the command of your Corps, namely: "Strathcona's Horse". I accepted, and proceeded to Ottawa forthwith. At Ottawa the Minister, Major General Hutton, and I discussed the organization of the Corps and selected some officers from names presented, for your approval. Personnel - Officers Major Belcher: 2nd in Command, was 5 years in the 9th Lancers where he won prizes as the best swordsman and lancer the year he left. He joined the N. W. M. P. when the force was established and is still in the prime of life. He has great force of character and tact. Major Snyder: is 36 years of age. He has been an Inspector of the N. W. M. P. for fifteen years, passing through the schools of instruction, and is well qualified. Major Jarvis: is 36 years of age. He has been an Inspector of N. W. M. P. for 19 years, having risen from the ranks. He belongs to a well-known family in Toronto, and has had a very varied service in the Force. These Officers stand high in the estimation of the N.W.M.P. Department. Major Laurie is 38 years of age. He is a graduate of the R.M. College, Kingston, from which he passed at the head of his class and was offered a commission in the Royal Engineers, which he did not accept. He took part in the suppression of the rebellion of 1885, and was engaged in the actions at Fish Creek and Batoche. Captain Hughes is Lt. Colonel in Command of the 45th "Victoria" Battalion of Infantry and is on leave at the present time in South Africa. Captain Hughes will join the regiment at Cape Town. He holds R. S. Infantry certificates. Captain Howard is an Inspector in the N. W. M. P. of 10 years standing. He was engaged in the action at Batoche in 1885, serving with the 10th Royal Grenadiers. Lieut. Cameron is 35 years of age. Has been Major in the 5th Battalion, "Royal Scots of Canada" stationed at Montreal, since March 1897. He has a 1st class grade "A" certificate of the Royal School of Infantry, also equitation. He is at present Senior Major of his Battalion. Lieut. Cartwright is 27 years of age. Inspector of N. W. M. P., in which Corps he has served for four years. He was a Captain in the 14th Battalion Rifles, and has taken a first class long course certificate. Lieut. Mackie joined the 90th Battalion of Rifles in May, 1893, was gazetted in 1896, and was appointed Adjutant in 1898. He holds 1st and 2nd class grade "A" Infantry certificates and 1st and 2nd class grade "A" Cavalry certification. Lieut. Parker is an ex-Captain of the 15th Regt. of Foot. He retired on gratuity, and has resided for some years in British Columbia. He is a capital shot, and horseman, and has served on the staff of General Sir Charles Reid in India. Lieut. Courtney is a graduate of the R. M. College. He has served in the West and taken part in surveys in the Northern part of Canada. He was also attached to the 6th Fusiliers for upwards of 5 years. Lieut. Leckie is a graduate of the Royal Military College and has had experience in Western life. He is now a resident of British Columbia. He has served in the 72nd Battalion since 1895. Lieut. Magee is a graduate of the R. M. College and has served in the Imperial Army. For the past two years he has been attached to the 14th Battalion, Kingston. (Hythe Officers Extra -7th April, 1896). Lieut. Christie served with the Midland Battalion in the suppression of the Rebellion in 1885. He is at present a resident of Moosomin, Assa. This officer is late of the 38th Battalion and holds 2nd class "A" R. S. I. certificate. Lieut. Falls is a qualified officer in the Manitoba Dragoons and at present a resident of Oak Lake, Man. He served with the 75th Gordon Highlanders, the Queen's Own Dorset Yeomanry Cavalry, and was also in the North West Rebellion of 1885. He holds a 2nd class grade "A" Royal School of Cavalry certificate. Lieut. Pooley is a qualified officer in the Garrison Artillery, Victoria, and was gazetted in 1897. He holds 1st and 2nd Class Infantry and Artillery certificates from the Royal School of Instruction, England. He has also won Public School Rifle Competition prizes. Lieut. Strange is a graduate of the School of Gunnery, Kingston, and is a son of Major General Strange. He has had experience in the Western Provinces, having resided on his Ranch, near Calgary, for a number of years. He also served in the suppression of the Rebellion of 1885. Lieut. Parker. Quartermaster is 46 years of age, and has served in the N. W. M. P. since 1874. He took part in the suppression of the rebellion of 1885 in General Strange's column, and was present at Frenchman's Butte. Surgeon Keenan is the medical officer selected by Dr. Stewart of Montreal, and he reported for duty on the 16th February. The Captaincy of "C" Squadron is still vacant and Transport and Veterinary Officers are yet to be obtained. Personnel-Men The men enlisted are composed of the very pick of the cowboy, cowpuncher, rancher, policeman and ex-policeman of the Territories and British Columbia, the balance are westerners of varied experience, especially qualified with rifle and horse. Notes Preliminary to Organization. Doctor McEachran proceeded me to the North-West for the purpose of purchasing horses. Clothing. I arranged with Mr. Clouston to have some necessary improvements made in the uniform. Unfortunately there was a considerable portion of the clothing being made when I arrived at Ottawa from Halifax. This fact made it difficult for me to make any changes, or to have and distinguishing badge inserted (with your approval) but I believe it has been arranged to have a representative badge attached to the collar and hat. Rifles. The very long range rifle is not in use, to any extent, in the Territories, but for all that the men, as a body, can shoot well at ranges at which objects can be seen with the naked eye. Recruiting and Medical Examinations. In the Territories the men were examined by the Surgeons, and Assistant Surgeons of the N. W. M. Police, and Officers of the same force were employed to superintend the recruiting in their respective localities. In British Columbia, Inspector Morris of the N. W. M. Police Force recruited for me at Nelson, Captain Parker recruited at Fort Steele and Cranbrooke while Inspector Wilson of the N. W. M. Police did the recruiting at Golden, Revelstoke, Kamloops, Vernon; and Major Laurie carried out, in like manner, the enlisting of recruits in Victoria and Vancouver. Other Surgeons than those of the Force were employed in British Columbia, but great care was taken that the recruits were of fine physique, good shots, and capable horsemen, the latter quality especially was looked after. To make assurance doubly sure I have directed, since I returned to Ottawa, Surgeon Keenan of "Strathcona's Horse" to make another very strict medical examination of the men. With your permission, My Lord, I will now proceed to report the following detail of my work in organizing your Corps, and to enclose herewith a Nominal Roll of all ranks, showing the places in Manitoba, the North West and British Columbia, where the men enlisted, date of enlistment, and the names of Officers chosen to command each troop from the different districts. Organization and Recruiting Officers I left Ottawa en-route west on Tuesday, the 30th, January, and upon my arrival in Winnipeg I immediately notified the different districts that recruiting for the corps would commence on the 5th, February. I then appointed Lieut. Mackie, (late Captain and Adjutant of the 90th Rifles, Winnipeg) to undertake the recruiting for Manitoba under the supervision of Inspector Snyder of the N. W. M. Police, who is to be Major in command of "A" Squadron "Strathcona's Horse" and who was on his way to Halifax, arriving in Winnipeg shortly after my departure. Proceeding west the same day (2nd) I appointed Lieut. Christie to recruit at Moosomin under Major Snyder, and arrived at Regina on the 3rd, where I stayed over that day. I regret to say that, here, I found Major Belcher, N. W. M. Police, who is to be 2nd in command, ill in bed, where he has had to remain for the last ten days, but word received today is to the effect that he has greatly improved. This left me single handed in the command so far as he was concerned, but I arranged with the Assistant Commissioner (N. W. M. Police) so that the Regina District got their full share of good men recruited, also under Inspector Snyder, who completed his work to that point on the 8th inst. Quartermaster Parker, (Late N. W. M. Police) was very careful with the recruiting at Prince Albert and selected first class all round men. Battleford only furnished one qualified recruit, the first contingent having stripped that district of those who were qualified. Inspector Morris of the N. W. M. Police was detailed to accompany me west and I directed him to proceed via the Crows Nest to Nelson where in conjunction with Lieut. Leckie of "Strathcona's Horse," he soon obtained the number allotted and entrained for the east with 52 men on the 9th instant, picking up Lieutenant Parker and troop (42) of Fort Steele at Cranbrooke. I left Regina on the morning of the 4th and proceeded to Calgary, appointing Inspector Harper recruiting Officer at Maple Creek, en-route. He completed his work on the evening of the 6th, Medicine Hat District furnishing 10 out of the 20 allotted the two places. I arrived at Calgary on the night of the 5th, and made this point my temporary headquarters. Inspector Wilson, who was advised beforehand, proceeded to British Columbia on the same train that I got off, and Major Laurie, who accompanied me from Regina, went to the Coast. I had to perform Inspector Wilson's duties at Calgary as there was no other Officer doing duty at that post, but this did not interfere with my work and I am pleased to inform you that with constant instructions sent, and answers received, I was enabled to close the enlistment on the night of the 10th, making up the necessary compliment in five days. Of course changes had to be made where districts were under the number allotted, and in such cases I arranged to have the shortage made up by qualified men from other points. Many of these places had three and four times the number of volunteers required; as instances, Victoria and Vancouver, Vernon, Nelson, Calgary, Golden, Kamloops, Edmonton, Moosomin, and even Winnipeg. I believe a Brigade could have been formed with ease; however, the best men were selected in each case. Inspector Morris having reached Medicine Hat with the Nelson and Fort Steele contingents on the morning of the llth. instant, I sent him full instructions from Calgary and he proceeded east from Medicine Hat the same morning at eight, in command, picking up enroute. Medicine Hat, Maple Creek, Regina, Prince Albert, Moosomin, Virden, Brandon, Portage la Prairie and Winnipeg Troops which made up the first train consisting of 7 officers and 286 men. The railway people provided the following equipment for our use: 6 Tourists cars, 50 men per car, 2 sergeants to a berth, others 4 to a berth. Rear half of a 1st class car for Officers, front half for non-commissioned officers. 1 sleeper and 1 commissariat attached. The train is well handled, the commissariat being equally appreciated by both Officers and Men. A banquet given at Winnipeg was successfully carried out, the train being delayed there about two hours only (7 p.m. to 9 p.m.). The men were marched to and from the drill shed and entrained without difficulty. I left Calgary for Ottawa on the morning of the 12th being forced to come east sooner than I expected owing to Major Belcher's illness. Under the circumstances, I left instructions with Inspector Wilson N. W. M. Police and Lieut. Strange of "Strathcona's Horse" to assist Dr. McEachran who has been furnished with the necessary men to bring the horses east. The first train arrived in Ottawa on the morning of the 15th. inst., and took up their quarters at the Exhibition Grounds where everything is now in shape, and drill and order carried on. The second train carrying 3 Officers, 140 men and 96 horses left Calgary at 6:30 a.m. of the 14th. for Ottawa. They are expected to arrive Monday. Every provision has been made for them. With the exception of Major Jarvis, Lieutenant Cartwright, en-route from Yukon, and a few who were granted passes to visit their homes, the establishment of your Corps is about complete. My Lord, in concluding my report on the recruiting of your corps I have the honour to state that a better class of men, from a moral, physical, shooting and horsemanship point of view could not have been selected, and as a proof of such our Surgeon (Keenan) who has already examined one-half of the command, since I arrived, states that he was greatly surprised at their physique and intelligence. As I mentioned before Surgeon Keenan is to medically examine each man, although the western doctors recommended them all before leaving. Horses. As I already reported I left the west sooner than I would have liked to on account of my 2nd in command being seriously ill — (at the time of writing he has greatly improved and I well know his capabilities of endurance, should he be fit for service in time). This necessitated co-operations with Doctor McEachran by wire, but fortunately he arrived in Calgary in time to discuss the further purchases to be made. The doctor reported that the horses already purchased were all broken, of the proper standard in size, etc. He had purchased at MacLeod, Pincher Creek and High River, starting in at Calgary the next day after I left, where it is likely that he would have his pick of 200 at least. Medicine Hat, Maple Creek, Moose Jaw, Regina, Qu'Appelle, Red Deer were all prepared to exhibit their horses for his inspection. About 300 horses are now en-route and the probabilities are that Dr. McEachran will have little trouble in selecting the balance. 14 hands 2 to 15 hands 2 is the standard worked upon, but only the very best 14-2, which are well known to be hard in the west, are being taken. The Palace Horse Cars provided by the Company are excellent in comparison with the old stock cars and in every way the Canadian Pacific Railway people have met our wishes and carried out their part effectively Machine Guns. The officers have not been appointed, and the men have not yet been selected who are to compose the machine gun detachment, but I hold documents of qualification from a number of good men, and I intend having them parade, at once, so that I amy judge of their experience. My Lord, in conclusion this my first report upon the organization of your Corps, I beg to state that the two days, that I have been in Ottawa, I have devoted to completing the organization, and seeing the men properly instructed by competent instructors of the force and you will not be surprised when I tell you that the westerner has again proved himself to be a likely learner. The clothing may delay us, but everything is being rushed by competent hands and I am pleased to inform you that the organization is so far very satisfactory. I have the honour to be, Sir, Your obedient servant, (Signed) S. B. STEELE, Lieut. Col. Commanding Strathcona's Horse.

February 16th. 1900: Telegram from Minister of Militia:- "First trainload 287 men your force arrived Ottawa yesterday morning, having made good trip and being well satisfied food and general treatment received Canadian Pacific. Very good lot of men. Second lot left Calgary 14th. inst., consisting of 143 men and about 150 horses. Remainder of men waiting behind to assist getting horses together."

Thank You Mervyn...... Anything that you can save and learn from these documents makes it all worth while...... Mike

February 14th. 1900: Following telegram from Minister of Militia dated 14th. February:- "Whole force enrolled. Excellent men. First train 300 men arrive here Thursday morning. Next four days later. Remainder as soon as McEachran completes purchase horses, not later than 25th."

Sorry but these are not British..... Wrong type of Crown and British did not use Star as rank badge....... Mike

Photo Of Strathcona Horse QSA Medal...... Mike

S T R A T H C O N A' S H O R S E Militia Orders Headquarters, Ottawa. Thursday, 1st February 1900 G. O. 26 para. 1. Special Service, Force Strathcona's Horse In response to the patriotic request of the Rt. Hon. Lord Strathcona and Mount Royal, High Commissioner of Canada, authority has been granted for the formation of a Corps, equipped and armed as Mounted Rifles, at his own expense for special service in South Africa. This corps will be designated, "Strathcona1s Horse," with a strength of the regimental staff and three squadrons, in accordance with Army Establishments for a cavalry regiment, 1898. Enrolment Enrolment will be carried out by officers commanding squadrons, assisted by their subalterns and by officers of the North-West Mounted Police who will make the best arrangements possible for this service. N.C. Officers of the Permanent Corps, Active Militia and members of the North-West Mounted Police, may be enrolled as privates and promoted as required to the various grades provisionally by the officers commanding squadrons, subject to final approval by the officer commanding the Regiment. Places of Enrolment and concentration: Enrolment will take place, and the Troops concentrated as hereunder:- "A" Squadron - 1st Troop - Winnipeg / Portage la Prairie / Brandon / Verdon - Ottawa 2nd Troop - Moosomin - Ottawa 3rd Troop - Regina - Ottawa 4th Troop - Prince Albert / Battleford - Ottawa "B" Squadron 1st Troop - Calgary - Ottawa 2nd Troop - Edmonton - Ottawa 3rd Troop - Macleod / Pincher Creek - Ottawa 4th Troop - Lethbridge / Medicine Hat / Maple Creek - Ottawa "C" Squadron 1st Troop - Fort Steele - Ottawa 2nd Troop - Nelson - Ottawa 3rd Troop - Golden / Revelstoke / Vernon - Ottawa 4th Troop - Kamloops / Vancouver / Victoria - Ottawa Regimental Staff and Concentration at Ottawa. The regimental staff will be organized at the Exhibition Grounds, Ottawa, under the command, temporarily, of Lieut-Colonel Cotton, commanding the Ottawa Brigade. Lieut-Colonel Steel, commanding the Corps, and Mr. Fred. White, Comptroller North-West Mounted Police, will make all necessary arrangements for recruiting and for the maintenance and transportation of men and horses from the place of enrolment &c to Ottawa. Dr. McEachren is charged with the purchase of the horses required in the North-West Territories &c. The Officer commanding the Regiment and the Comptroller North-West Mounted Police will make the necessary arrangements for the detachments of men and horses arriving at Ottawa, in conjunction with the Officer Commanding the Ottawa Brigade, and the Quarter-Master General. 　 Qualification. Men will be enrolled subject to a medical examination at the places allotted to each troop. Each Troop of a Squadron will accordingly represent the place or places allotted to it. Terms of Service. Volunteers other than the above will be accepted provided they are good horsemen, good shots, unmarried and are in other respects qualified. Qualifications: Standard Height, 5 Feet 6 Inches, with 34 inches chest measurement. Age:- Not less than 22 years nor more than 40 The following are the terms of service:- (a) Service under the Army Act for 6 months with liability of extension to one year. (b) Rations, clothing and equipment, including saddlery, free. © Pay at the rates laid down for the North-West Mounted Police up to the time of disembarkation in South Africa. After that date pay will be issued by Imperial Government under the Royal Warrant for pay. Horses Standard: Age between 5 and 10 years. Height: 14 1/2 to 15 1/2 hands and practically sound. Saddlery: The saddlery will be of the North-West Mounted Police pattern. Accomodation, Clerical Assistance &c: The Officer Commanding the Regiment and the Officers of the North-West Mounted police will be good enough to arrange the accommodation required for the medical examination and for the necessary clerical work. They will also procure additional clerical assistance, if needed, and will provide the necessary stationary. Medical Inspection: The medical inspection of the men will be performed by Medical Officers of the Permanent Force, of the North West Mounted Police, or, where the services of such officers are not available, by medical officers selected by the Officer Commanding, or by the Assistant Commissioner of the North-West Mounted Police. In the case where Officers not in permanent employment of the Government perform the medical examination, at the termination of recruiting a statement of the number of men examined will be forwarded to Headquarters, Ottawa, certified by the Officer Commanding, for payment of renumeration. Medical Examiners are directed to be careful and rigid in examining recruits. They will be guided by paras: 496 to 527, Regulations for Army Medical Services, 1897, copies of which will be provided to Civil Practioners, when necessary by the Officer Commanding and Assistant Commissioner of the North-West Mounted Police. Attestation: Attestation papers, embodying an oath to be administered verbally, will be forwarded to the Officer Commanding and to the Assistant Commissioner North-West Mounted Police for the use of enroling Officers. These forms will be filled up by the Enroling Officer and signed by the Volunteer in the presence of the Enroling Officer who will also sign them. This constitutes the enrolment. Men who have been enroled will be paid by the Officer Commanding from funds which will be placed at his disposal, at the rates laid down for the North-West Mounted Police, from the date of attestation. Forage will similarly be issued for all horses upon enrolment, or an allowance in lieu in accordance with the North-West Mounted Police regulations. Relative Rates of Pay The following are the relative rates of pay: Special Service Force Amount Lieutenant-Colonel.............$7.12 Major................................... 4.38 Captain................................ 3.84 Lieutenant........................... 2.75 Surgeon Medical Officer..... 3.84 Vet. Surgeon Vet. Officer... 2.75 N.C. Officers and Men Special Service Force Per Diem Regimental Sergt. Major..................................................$2.00 Squadron Sergt. Major.....................................................$1.50 Other Staff (Do. Quartermaster Sergt.)............................$1.50 Sergeants (Orderly Room Sergeant)................................$1.50 Hospital Sergeant............................................................$1.50 Pay Sergeants.................................................................$1.50 Other Non-Commissioned Orderly Room Clerk...........................................$1.00 Sergeants..........................................................$1.00 Corporals...........................................................00.85 Private...............................................................00.75 (Private according to length of service 0.50 to 0.75) Administration of Squadrons during Formation: The administration of the troops and squadrons during the formation will be as follows:- (A) The squadrons will be under the command of the the Officer Commanding and Officers of the North-West Mounted formation Police. (B) At stations where units of the Permanent Force and of the N.W. Mounted Police are quartered, the men and horses will be attached to such units for discipline, rations and accommodation. Blankets will, if possible be drawn from stores. At other stations, the Officer Commanding and the Assistant Commissioner of the N.W. Mounted Police will act on their judgment. The men will be accommodated in drill halls or other buildings, and a contract entered into for their rations, or an allowance of 60 cents per diem may be issued, which with their daily pay, will cover their subsistence and lodging. The necessary arrangement for fire and light will be made by the Officer Commanding and Assistant Commissioner of Mounted Police. © After enrolment a report for orders will be made to the Officer Commanding at Calgary, who will arrange for the men and horses being moved to the place of concentration. (D) Officers will pay all expenses out of the imprest sent them by the Commanding Officer, furnishing afterwards receipts in duplicate, for all expenditure incurred by them under these instructions. Service to Count: The Non-Commissioned Officers and Men of the Permanent Force and of the N.W. Mounted Police will be allowed to count their service in this Corps as a portion of the period of their enlistment in the Permanent Force or in the N.W. Mounted Police. Men enroled to join in uniforms of their Corps: Militiamen and members of the N.W. Mounted Police who enrolled will join in there uniform which, if necessary, they will demand from the Officer in Command or their Corps, giving a receipt for the same. This receipt will be the voucher for striking off uniforms, thus issued, from their charge. Drill & Organization: The Drill will be that laid down for Mounted Infantry and Cavalry (Cavalry Drill 1898) which will be found embodied in the Manual of Drill for Mounted Troops, a limited number of copies which will be supplied. Organization and Administration in accordance with the above and the Queen's Regulations. Free Issue to Officers Officers appointed to this force will be provided with the following articles free:- 2 Serge Frocks, Rifle or Blue 2 Pair Serge Trousers, Rifle or Blue 2 Khaki Frocks 2 Pair Khaki Pants 1 Pair Cloth Pants 1 Revolver and Ammunition Officers will affix the necessary badges of their rank to their serges. "Sam Brown" belts will be worn. Arms The following will be the arms carried by the men:- 1 Lee-Enfield, .303 Rifle 1 Sword Bayonet 1 .44 Colt Revolver Provisional Field Service Manuals showing the Equipment required, and how carried, will be issued, 1 copy per Officer and 1 copy per Squadron. Instructions for Fitting Clothing and Size Rolls: To insure the proper fitting of clothing, head-gear and boots, Officers commanding squadrons will send in at the end of each day to the Chief Staff Officer, Ottawa, size rolls for the volunteers enrolled. These size rolls will give height of men, the measurement of chest and waist and circumference of head and size of boots, according to the following instructions. A. The height to be in stocking feet. B. The breast measurement is to be taken by a measuring tape over the trousers and drawn fairly tight. C. The height, breast and waist measurement are to be carefully made, so as to be as accurate as possible, as the garments will be made considerably looser than the measurements. D. For taking the head measurement of the helmet, a hat which fits the man should be measured and not the man's head. Field Service Caps will be issued in sizes half an inch larger than the helmets. E. The size of the boots generally worn is to be given. Demands will be met from a supply that will be in store at the place of concentration. Should it be found necessary in, some cases to provide insoles, one pair will be issued with the boots. Nominal Roll: A nominal roll of N.C. Officers and men will be prepared immediately after the concentration at Ottawa is completed, on forms to be provided for the purpose. The attestation papers will be sent to the Officer Commanding Regiment at the place of concentration for guidance in the preparation of the nominal roll. After the nominal roll has been prepared they will be returned to the Commissioner of the N.W.M. Police, Regina. Assignment of Pay: Officers, N.C. Officers and Men may assign their pay to dependants upon them to the amount of 20 days pay per pay month. Forms for this purpose will be provided, which will be filled out, in duplicate after the concentration of the Corps at Ottawa and two copies of this form will be forwarded to Chief Staff Officer, Militia Head-Quarters, signed by the Officer Commanding in adjusting his accounts with the department. Commissoned Officers: Officers holding commissions will be permitted to enrol in this force but before being attested they will be required to tender their resignation, enrolment. Officers commanding corps will not make recommendations for filling the vacancies thus caused , pending further orders. Grant and Advance Pay: A grant of $150.-, will be made to each officer defraying the expense of outfit. An advance of pay $80.-, will also be issued to each Officer. These amounts will be paid as soon as Officers' Appointment are notified in Militia Orders. Correspondence: To ensure prompt action, all correspondence, including requisitions and claims in connection with this corps will be marked "Strathcona" in red in the upper right hand corner. Envelopes covering the correspondence will be similarly marked. Ammunition: Five Hundred (500) rounds per rifle of Mark 3.a.a. ammunition will be supplied, Fifty Thousand (50,000) rounds per Maxim Gun will also be supplied. Equipment Regimental Picketing, and Camp gear. Regimental equipment, including camp equipment complete, picketing gear, horse shoes (3 months supply), blankets excepted, will be placed on board ship. The Camp equipment should be so stored that it can be easily got at upon arrival in South Africa. Saddlery Saddlery will be issued at place of concentration. It will be packed for shipment to Halifax and for placing on board ship in canvas sacks which will be provided for this purpose, marked with the Corps, letter of Squadron, number of troop and consecutive number of set. A reserve supply will be available at Halifax. Transport Waggons: Regimental and other transport waggons will be delivered direct and placed on board ship at Halifax. Arms and Equipment Arms and Eguipment will be issued at Halifax prior to embarkation. Dubbing and Oil: A considerable quantity of dubbing and oil will be available for issue at Halifax and a considerable reserve stock allotted for use on board ship. Farrier's, Cobbler’s, Saddler’s Tools (A) Complete sets of farrier's tools will be issued at Saddler's Ottawa, together with a proportion of horse shoes. (B) Complete sets of saddler's tools will be issued at Ottawa, together with a stock of leather, © Two sets of cobbler's tools with square leather will be provided. (D) A complete set of tailor's requirements will be provided. Kit, Clothing &c To be issued at place of concentration: The undermentioned articles of Kit, Clothing &c will issued, article per man. Frocks, Serge Green, with white collar and red braid..........2 Trousers, Pairs, Dark Green, with red stripe........................2 Frocks, Khaki, stand and fall collar......................................2 Pantaloons, Khaki, fully strapped, pairs...............................2 Ditto, , cloth, blue, winter use.............................................. 1 Putties, Khaki, Pair.............................................................. 1 Do. , Cloth, Black, pair.........................................................1 Long Boots, Special Pattern, Pair........................................1 Boots, Highlows, Pairs.........................................................2 Jumper, Sailors, Blue...........................................................1 Hat, Cowboy........................................................................1 Field Cap.............................................................................1 Tuque, (immediate use).......................................................1 Cloak...................................................................................1 Cape...................................................................................1 Waterproof Cloak (Officers Pattern)....................................1 Drawers, Pairs....................................................................2 Shirts, Flannel.....................................................................3 Belts, Flannel......................................................................2 Braces, Pairs......................................................................2 Socks, Pairs........................................................................2 Holdall, (Comb, Knife, Fork, Spoon)...................................1 Towels................................................................................2 Boot Laces, Pairs................................................................5 Pocket Handkerchiefs.........................................................2 Spurs, Jack (Mounted Men) Pairs.......................................1 Water Bottles......................................................................1 Haversacks.........................................................................1 Shoes, Canvas, Pairs.........................................................1 Clasp-Knife End Lanyard....................................................1 Mess-Tin, Cavalry Pattern...................................................1 House-Wife.........................................................................1 Tin of Grease......................................................................1 Curry Comb, Mounted Men.................................................1 Horse Brush, Ditto...............................................................1 Stable Sponge, Ditto...........................................................1 Hard Brush..........................................................................1 Cloth Brush.........................................................................1 Waterproof Sheet................................................................1 Blankets..............................................................................3 Strap for Bedding................................................................1 Rugs, Horse, 1 Per Horse...................................................1 Roller to Fasten Horse Clothing..........................................1 Saddle Covers, 1 Per Horse...............................................1 Hair Brush...........................................................................1 Arms and Accoutrements Sword Bayonet with Frog....................1 Sling Rifle............................................1 Rifle, Lee-Enfield.................................1 Belts, Waist, Brown Leather................1 Revolver and Case..............................1 Bandolier.............................................1 Leather Strap for Waist Belt................1 Issue of Kit and Clothing: The whole of the Kit, Clothing &c will be issued at Ottawa or forwarded to the place of embarkation as arranged between the O.C. Corps and the Mil. Dep. Civil Branch. Kit and Clothing: The Officer Commanding will arrange for the issue of whatever clothing he may consider advisable for the use of the Corps under his command while at Ottawa, or on board ship. The balance will be conveyed to South Africa in bulk. Blankets and Horse Blankets: Four blankets per man will be issued at Ottawa for the use of troops prior to embarkation. These blankets will be conveyed on board ship for the use of the troops and the proportion not required upon arrival in the tropics will be returned to store on board and stowed away accordingly. (A) A reserve supply of horse blankets and rollers will be required for the use of the horses upon embarkation. They will be issued prior to the horses being moved on board ship for those horses which have arrived from the North-West Territories, or elseware, unblanketed„ Clipping Machine: Two hand clipping machines with a crank will be provided and placed on board ship. Rifle Practice: Arrangements for musketry instruction and for practice with Morris Tube will be provided on board ship. Rations on Board Ship: The scale of rations for Troops and forage for horses on board Sea-Going Transports has been approved and will be issued to all concerned. Shipment of Baggage &c: Attention is called to Queen's regulations 1898 para1497 for full reference to the shipment of baggage stores and all packages by Sea Transport:- (A) Baggage in excess of the quantity allowed by regulations is forbidden. (B) Each article must have distinctly marked on it the name, rank and corps of the owner, and on the top the nature of the contents such as "Personal baggage and stores", "Clothing", "Equipment". Padlocks, cleats for rope handles and other projections which cause loss of stowage are forbidden. © Heavy baggage of individuals should be forwarded to Halifax so as to arrive several days previous to embarkation. (D) Each man is to take charge of his sea kit-bag and of his valise or other bags. While en route to Halifax he will have these articles in the car with him and not in the baggage car. (E) Packages containing stores and equipment are to be marked:- Canadian Special Service Force Strathcona's Horse South Africa No....................................... Contents............................. Ship.................................... Owner................................ (F) Officers commanding Squadrons will arrange for the making of equipment and necessaries when issued. Stencils and materials for marking will be issued as soon as possible. Travelling Expense Claims: Travelling claims submitted by officers appointed to this Force may be payed out of the Imprests provided after correctness of the claims has been established. The claims will be certified to in the usual way, marked "paid" and rendered to the Accounts Department of Militia and Defence. Date of Sailing: The Corps when formed at Ottawa will be subsequently moved to Halifax and embark for South Africa at a date to be hereafter named, probably early in March. By Order Herbert Foster, Colonel, Chief Staff Officer.

It looks like a Chrysanthemum around the anchor so could possibly be from Japan..... Mike

February l0th, 1900: Lord Strathcona addressed the following letter to Colonel Steele:- "I am writing a few lines to express my gratification that you have accepted the command of my little force, for I am sure that its control and its work will be safe in your hands. No doubt you are at the present time busy with matters of organization and equipment in consultation with the Minister of Militia. I feel sure that in the interests of the force and Canada, every care is being taken to insure that only the best and most suitable men for the services that are required will be selected, and that no regard will be paid to purely personal and other considerations. Naturally, the same remark will apply to the officers, who are being, and may be, nominated for the various positions. While I wish the utmost economy to be exercised, compatible with efficiency, I desire that the equipment of the force shall be in every way suitable for its probable work, and the best of its kind; and the Hon. Mr. Borden has assured me that everything purchased will be subject to rigorous inspection. We have purchased here at the request of the Minister, certain articles that are needed, and only a day or two ago three Maxim guns and ammunition were ordered and 50 binoculars for the Commissioned and Non-Commissioned Officers. The Maxims, ammunition and glasses will be addressed to the Chief Ordnance Officer Cape Town, to your order, and will be there on your arrival. I shall be glad to hear from you as frequently as you find time to write before your departure as to the progress that is being made with the organization and equipment, and I hope you will not hesitate to cable me fully and freely, either directly, or through the Minister, if the necessity arises. I had hoped to go out to Canada in order to be able to witness the departure of the force in the "Monterey". Lately, however, I have had one or two bad colds and by the advice of the Doctors I am postponing my visit for a couple of months, although it is a great disappointment to me. With best wishes, and again assuring you of the pleasure with which I approve of your nomination to the command, and of my conviction that the force will be a credit in every way to the country from which it goes, believe me, etc."