We fought them at the Bonko, 'twas just the other day
They laid an ambush in our path - we went another way
To capture Bulawayo and stop a fearful war
The Salisbury Horse, Victoria Rangers and the old Cape Corps
On the first day of November of 1893
We fought the Matabele at the Battle of Bembesi
We formed a laager on a hill at mid-day more to rest
We saw Insukumeni regiment towards the west
We swung the seven-pounder 'round; let a big one fly
And from the east the Amaveni gave their battle cry
On the first day of November of 1893
We fought the Matabele at the Battle of Bembesi
The wild Ingubo with the fierce Imbisu on the right
Came charging from the northern bush, they were a fearful sight
And near 6000 warriors - we stopped them on the run
The bravest of the brave could never match the Maxim gun
On the first day of November of 1893
We fought the Matabele at the Battle of Bembesi
On the first day of November of 1893
We fought the Matabele at the Battle of Bembesi
We fought the Matabele at the Battle of Bembesi