as a preface as well as a prologue to the events that will unfold. It introduces the author and sets the stage for his recollections, explaining that despite the challenges he faced—including the loss of his initial notes and being captured—it is his goal to be candid and straightforward in detailing his experiences during the war. Viljoen hints at the seriousness of the war's onset, discussing how the political landscape led to the hostilities and the impact of the Jameson Raid. He describes the atmosphere surrounding the declaration of war and reflects on the weight of the decisions made, conveying a deep sense of responsibility and the harsh realities of war that will be explored throughout his memoir. (This is an automatically generated summary.)