38 
SOUTHERN AFRICA. 
On the renewal of the war with France, 
however, its recapture was amongst the first- 
steps then wisely adopted by the British Go- 
vernment. This was accomplished, as soon 
as contemplated, by the well appointed force, 
which, under the united commands of general 
Sir David Baird and admiral Sir Home Pop- 
ham, appeared off the Cape in January, 1806. 
Scarcely had the Highland brigade, on that 
occasion, advanced, with general Ferguson at 
their head, before the Dutch gave way, re- 
treated, and offered terms of surrender. Since 
that period, it has been permanently under 
British control, and has been steadily and pro- 
gressively advancing in civilization and com- 
mercial importance. Nor is it yet, we can 
clearly foresee, mid-way towards the zenith of 
its glory. 
In extent it has been materially augmented. 
At the period of the transfer of the Colony 
from the Dutch to the British Government, it 
included simply the four districts of the Cape, 
Stellenbosch, Swellendam, and Graff-Eeinet ; 
whilst Worcester, Clan William, George, Beau- 
fort West, and the others now existing, were 
subdivisions of these, thus extending on the 
Eastern boundary to the Great Fish Eiver, 
and on the North to the Eoggeveld and Mew- 
veld ranges of mountains. Since that time, 
