Eugene Casalis to Frederick Chesson, 31 January 1883

Paris, rue L’anguilin

No 5 January 31

My dear Mr Chesson,

Our friend, Rev Appia, at his return from London, has told me that you wished to know what news from our stations of the Basutos we have received. One part is rejoicing. The two sons of the chief Malapo, Jonathan and Joel, who were at war, the first having headed a party of loyals and the other having sided with the insurgents, have made peace through the wise and firm interference of Mr Orpen and of Lesotholi, the eldest son of the chief Letsie. Thus the danger of internal feuds can be considered as having been averted.

On another side, we have seen in a french paper the Temps, that the Cape parliament have decided to withdraw their protectorate from Basutoland. Our missionaries had written that they feared that event would take place, but we have not received up to the present moment the information that their fear was realised. If you are sure of it have the kindness to let me know. The abandonment of Basutoland would throw it open to the ambitions and … of the Boers. Could not the new secretary to the colonies, Earl Derby, be induced to replace that ill-fated country under the sway and protection of the Queen? It would be the saving of our people and of our stations. None of the chiefs would object, and I believe all would be glad, as they know that the act of disarmament was not ordered by the British government. The great mass of the people wish for peace and order.

Believe me, dear Sir,

Yours most sincerely

E. Casalis