He was a Scotsman who stayed on in South Africa after the Boer war, and I believe that he was a member of the occupational forces.

Something of which I am rather proud and which speaks volumes for the game of rugby as a binding factor, is the fact that here was someone now not only enjoying playing rugby with his former foes, but being selected to play for South Africa.

Today, more than ever, the fact that people like McEwan, Frew, and many others who had fought against the Transvaal and Free State Republics stayed on, played rugby and represented South Africa at international level, sustains my belief that the spirit of rugby is greater than the enmity which exists between men and countries.

Far greater, as long as it is given a chance, and is not interfered with by selfseeking politicians and activists of all colours and creeds.