| Notes: | 7/1/1902: SRC Vredefort Rd to CSRC: Found in camp at 2 am; warned by SRC against such behaviour. There have been numerous rumours that he was in the habit of visiting the tent of a Mrs du Preez, whos husband was a pow in Bermuda.
On morning of 1/1/1902, he again visited her tent at 12 midnight. She was ill and in bed at the time. She remained ill and in bed and was eventually taken to hospital. She died of enteric on Sunday 5th, and comments on the interest which Dowling took in the whole matter of arranging for funeral etc. His conduct become the talk of the camp.
In matters of illicit intercourse the parties are seldom or never caught in the act, reliance has to be placed on circumstantial evidence which in this case is so strong and convincing that he reports it without the slightest hesitation. Dowling's behaviour has been scandalous and calls for sharp punishment. Urges his prompt dismissal. If he is not dealt with, he will press his affectons on some other woman before long. Understands he is a married man.
Various witnesses give evidence as to misconduct.
6/1/1902: Gert Fredrik Geere's evidence: Brother of Mrs John du Preez. His wife and mother also in camp. He was attached to Col Camant's column in the Intel Dept and returned to the camp on leave on Xmas leave. Asked after his family when he arrived, and his wife told him of the conduct of his sister and Mr Dowling. Describes above events. 'I have not the slightest doubt that Dowling's intimacy with my sister was with an immoral object.' After she died, Dowling ordered the coffin, and bought 14 yards of black stuff to cover it with and make clothing for her children.Told the oldest daughter, aged 11, that he would pay for the making of the dresses. Also gave brother 3 pieces of calico to line the coffin. Said he would pay for the coffin.
15/1/1902: Telegram: CSRC to SRC: Dowling to be dismissed. Dr Monkton to do dispensing until another dispenser is sent.
8/2/1902: CSRC to SRC Vredefort Road: Notes that PMO is keeping on Mr Dowling. Does he consider his case should be reconsidered? Dispensers are hard to get and will have to cable to England for one. |
British Concentration Camps