'LADIES IN THE VELD' by Brian Roberts

A fascinating post-script to the Anglo-Zulu War, the story of two ladies who became embroiled in the aftermath. One is Lady Florence Dixie, the privileged traveller and adventurer who went to southern Africa to report on British successes in the Transvaal Revolt in 1881, found there were none and instead visited King Cetshwayo in captivity at the Cape. Originally a champion of the British invasion she found herself moved by the injustice of the King's plight, and turned her attentions instead to championing his restoration; her campaign was largely responsible for the King's visit to London in 1882. The other lady is the enigmatic Lady Avonmore, victim of a case of bigamy who turned her notoriety to her advantage as a journalist, and who also visited Africa in the hope of securing a scoop from the Eugenie on her 1880 pilgrimage to the spot where the Prince Imperial died. Her efforts were outmanoeuvred by Sir Evelyn Wood, who commanded Eugenie's escort.Two strange and intriguing footnotes to the story of the war. Hardback, cover a little scuffed, page edges a little grubby, otherwise good condition.