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The policy of extension did not at that time recommend itself to Mr. Gladstone's Cabinet, but it approved and adopted a minor object advocated by the Department in the Memorandum above quoted, namely, the use of firmer language as regards the Reserve itself, which, in the first instance, Lord Kimberley had refused to designate as "protected territory," because such a designa- tion was likely to give rise to the idea that the British Government was responsible for the pro- tection of the territory rather than the inhabitants themselves acting under the Resident (Lord Kimberley, 30 Nov. 1882, p. 217 of C-3466). The decision of the Cabinet in 1884 as to the Reserve and Central Zululand was embodied in the following telegram, dated the 16th of May
1884-
#
“ TELEGRAPHIC FROM LORD DERBY.
16th May. After a full consideration of recent reports and recommendations, Her Majesty's Government adhere to the decision not to extend British sovereignty or protection over Zululand, but the integrity and peace of the Reserve must be maintained.* I will telegraph further shortly" (p. 117 of C-4037).
• Similar decla- rations were made more than once in
both Houses of
This telegram crossed one of the previous day from Sir Henry Bulwer describing at length his Parliament by alarms at the then recent intervention of the Boers Ministers.-E. F. in Central Zululand, as follows :—
“TELEGRAPHIC FROM SIR HENRY BULWER.
"15th May. Osborn reports that one hundred of the Usutu party were killed in the attack on the 10th instant, but he apparently found force with him insufficient to deal with Usutu party in Inkandla, and fearing attack behind, fell back to obtain reinforcements. He reports that Ndabuko and Usutu party are there, being strengthened by Usutu force from Umnyamana, which is due entirely to the action of Boers, on whose support they rely, and who are an effectual check on Usibebu and Oham. He says that his natives are unwilling to face them unless troops assist, and that employment of troops has now become absolutely necessary if the Reserve is to be held. I have asked him for information as to number, and what nature employment, but I am informed this depends on what Her Majesty's Government decide as to Central Zululand and as to action of Boers. The latter have sent to Usibebu requiring him to acknowledge Dinuzulu, with threat of attack. Usibebu says he will not, but rather fight and die. This is an interference with a Chief made independent by us; the action of Boers introduces new element in Zulu question and entirely revolutionizes it, destroys balance of power existing in Usibebu, encourages the Usutu party, and intimidates the natives of the Reserve, who, fearful of the establishment of the Usutu party powerful under Boer protection, and not sure of us, will think how to save themselves;
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