TOPIC:

Unusual and interesting dismissal note written and signed in the veld by Vecht General Andries (A.P.J.) Cronje (1849-1923). Andries Petrus Johannes Cronjé was a brother of the widely-known Pieter Arnoldus Cronje. Field manuscripts by Andries Cronjé are very rare. He surrendered relatively early in the war (June 1900), turned sides and subsequently became a prominent member of the hated National Scouts.

The note reads:


March 20, 1900
DISMISSAL
The undersigned herewith dismisses from commando service T TALLARD as he is incapable to carry out duties.
APJ Cronje
signed
Vecht Generaal


Tallard most likely was Taljaard and the T probably stood for Tinus, a common shortening of Martinus.

Cronjé uses the Dutch word Onbekwaam. This could mean that Taljaard was wounded, sick or otherwise indisposed, and therefore released from his duties. However Onbekwaam also translates as inept/incompetent and that could mean that Taljaard was booted out. The manner in which the note was written with “Dismissal” in bold letters and doubly underlined may suggest the latter was the case. Anyone with more information on this man?