Cranleigh
Guildford
12 November 1884

Dear Sir

I have received a letter from Miss Whitfield enclosing yours to her referring to a letter to be written to a London paper on dear Samuel’s case at Bloemfontein. It would have given me the greatest pleasure to have undertaken that task, as I have long wished to explore P Brand’s acts, not only in this case but also his previous acts relating to the Transvaal and Bechuanaland, but my long residence in Africa has not led me into that part where Samuel has been acting, and was never at Bloemfontein or Thaba Nchu. Therefore all the information I possess in through letters from Miss [Loswell Mr Leley?] and others, that I have no personal knowledge of what has taken place, and to write such a letter that would be of service must be written from known facts, otherwise it would damage his case. I am thoroughly acquainted with the whole of the Bechuana tribes north of the Cape Colony, but know nothing of the Basutos or their proceedings at Thaba Nchu. I much regret this for Mr Brand is and always has been running with the hare and hunting with the … in all his acts with the English. Consequently has been a most dangerous man in leading the English government to wrong doing as in the Transvaal.

I have written to Miss Whitfield stating my position.

Mr [Bourdellon’s?] letter was written I believe to blind the English people as to the true state of the case, and it is most important a counter letter should be before the public. If poor Samuel suffers it will be murder. Every one in Africa out of the Free State influence have always considered he was the rightful ruler of that country.

The Free State people have long had their eye on the country, and from the present attitude of the British government towards South Africa since they came into office has encouraged the President to strike this blow. Particularly as the present Cape government is Dutch and certain not to interfere.

I regret very much I am not in a position to expose this cruel and unjust act of Mr Brand.

I shall be happy at any time to give you information on native affairs where I have been for so many years exploring. And if I can help you in this case I should be very glad.

Yours very sincerely
Andrew A Anderson

F.W. Chesson, Esq