John Ames Native Commissioner is an adventure novel set during the Second Matabele War, in what is now known in Zimbabwe.   John Ames is a young Englishman, born in South Africa, serving as ‘Native Commissioner’ for the district of Sikumbutana. He is responsible for keeping of a vigilant eye on the local people, for settling local disputes and for the collection of the hated hut tax. In 1896 Ames finds himself caught up in the rising tensions which lead to a revolt by the Matabele people against the British South Africa Company .   Bertram Mitford (1855 – 1914) was a colonial writer, novelist, essayist and cultural critic who wrote forty-four books, most of which are set in South Africa. Published by F V White in 1900. Good condition.  Slight crack on inner spines, but otherwise binding is intact.