Can anyone help me understand this lovely song? This song is on "Songs of the South African Veld," a 78 we had when I was a child. It was written and sung by Josef Marais. Perhaps Sarie is his mother? What's a "transfar"? I'm probably not be hearing the word right. What's the setting and history? What is the "green thorny tree"? What are "meelees"? The words in ()s are those I'm unsure of:

Sarie Marais

My Sarie Marais is so far from my heart,
And I'm longing to see her again,
She lived on a farm on the (Mooie) River's bank
Before I left on this campaign.

Refrain:
Oh, bring me back to the old (transfar),
That's where I long to be.
Way yonder 'mongst the (meelees) by that green thorny tree,
Sarie is waiting for me.I wonder if I'll ever see that green thorny tree,
There where she's waiting for me.

2. I feared that the soldiers would get hold of me,
They would send me away o're the sea
I fled over land to the Orange River sand;
In Uppington I would be free.

Refrain

3. At last there was peace and I started for home
To the (transfar) I've always adored.
My Sarie Marais will be waiting for me;
Her kiss will be my first reward.

Refrain

Thanks for any help,
Drew

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=agWJ4btMDe4