Life at sea was “like being in prison, with a chance of drowning”, 18th-century English writer Samuel Johnson reckoned.

Oh, what would have become of South Africa if not for the integrity and discipline of Nelson Mandela? Only during a Robben Island tour does the true extent of his suffering become clear.

SUPPLEMENT: A house in Addiscombe became the final home for a much-travelled old soldier, who fought in Wellington’s armies ...