MEMOIRS
OF
THE LATE WAR.
VOL. I.
The United Service Journal
AND
NAVAL AND MILITARY MAGAZINE.
This new and interesting miscellany is regularly published by Messrs.
COLBURN AND BENTLEY every month, price 3s 6d. The following opinion
will at once demonstrate its claims on the attention of the public.
"The United Service Journal is confessedly one of the best
periodicals of its kind that have ever issued from the Public
Press. No Monthly Journal has yet appeared so devotedly attached
to the interests of the Army and Navy, or whose claims to the
patronage of both services are so strikingly conspicuous. It is
full of agreeable anecdote and useful information. In its pages we
find a faithful and most interesting record of past achievements,
whether on sea or land, diversified by many characteristic traits
of British heroism, and national gallantry, from the lowest to
the highest rank in the Service. New improvements in gunnery,
navigation, and the art of War, are exposed to view with the
commanding powers of a master hand, while no subject is omitted
which could by possibility involve the honour and welfare of our
Army and Navy. In fine, the Journal affords us a correct summary
of all changes in the station of Regiments and Ships of the line,
besides an authentic return of the Promotions in the Red and the
Blue. Independently of the attractions it has for a military man,
this periodical may be read with much pleasure by a civilian,
and we feel much gratification in stating that it enjoys a very
considerable patronage."—_Limerick Chronicle._
[asterism] The above Periodical is regularly supplied by all
Booksellers and Newsvenders, and may also be forwarded to friends and
relatives abroad, by giving orders, and making payment accordingly,
and those who may be desirous of obtaining it, are requested to give
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LONDON:
G. SCHULZE, 13, POLAND STREET.
MEMOIRS
OF
THE LATE WAR:
COMPRISING
THE PERSONAL NARRATIVE OF
CAPTAIN COOKE,
OF THE 43rd REGIMENT LIGHT INFANTRY;
THE HISTORY OF THE CAMPAIGN OF 1809
IN PORTUGAL,
BY THE EARL OF MUNSTER;
AND A NARRATIVE OF
THE CAMPAIGN OF 1814 IN HOLLAND,
BY LIEUT. T. W. D. MOODIE, H. P. 21ST FUSILEERS.
IN TWO VOLUMES.
VOL. I.
LONDON:
HENRY COLBURN AND RICHARD BENTLEY,
NEW BURLINGTON STREET.
1831.
CONTENTS
OF THE FIRST VOLUME.
PERSONAL NARRATIVE OF CAPTAIN COOKE.
CHAPTER I.
Page.
Initiation into military life—State of the militia
force—Preparations against the expected invasion from
Boulogne—French prisoners—An accident—The author occupies
a dull post near Grimsby—An enlivening incident connected
with the tender passion—Love cooled by aqueous immersion,
and rekindled by bright eyes—Earl Fitzwilliam—Quarters
in Bristol—A fatal affray—Clifton—The author engaged in
an affair of honour—Anecdote—The author enters the
line—Return of the British army from the Peninsula—Severe
drilling. 1
CHAPTER II.
Scene of embarkation for foreign service at Deal—A
character—Force and objects of the expedition—Arrival off
Walcheren—Siege and capture of Flushing—Disastrous sickness
among the troops—Evacuation of Walcheren, with the author's
adventure on the occasion—The return to England—Napoleon's
situation at that period. 34
CHAPTER III.
Progress of distemper on the re-landing of the regiment in
England—Change of quarters—Amusements—Colchester—An
eventful water party—The author obtains leave to join the
detachment proceeding to Portugal—A Review—A tale of
dental dislocation—Embarkation at Spithead—Landing in
Portugal—Incidents of an evening—Amusements at Lisbon, and
departure from that city. 54
CHAPTER IV.
March to Santarem and Abrantes—Scenery and incidents at
Aronches—Junction with some other regiments—Military scene
in a wood—Anticipatory reflections on the fate of some of
the author's comrades—Quarters at Portalagre, Castello de
Vida and Marvao—Bridge of boats across the Tagus—Contiguous
scenery—Horrors of travelling for invalids in the Portuguese
cars. 71
CHAPTER V.
March continued—Wild and striking aspect of the
country—Excellence of discipline—Camp followers—Spanish
peasant girls and men—Plain of Fuente de Guinaldo—Reflections
on a soldier's life—A vegetable conflagration—Village of
Martiago—Difficulties of the French—Arrival in cantonments—The
paymaster's peculiarities. 85
CHAPTER VI.
The author is attacked by illness—Miseries of military
travelling in that condition—Quarters at Celorico—The
author's difficult recovery—Grievous sufferings endured
by the soldiers affected with fever in the sickly season—Death
of the Paymaster—The author rejoins his Division—Movements
of the French—A clerical case of disaster—The contested
mattress—A dance—Expensive celebration of Christmas—Story
of the German suttler—Village and neighbourhood of Fuente
de Guinaldo—Theatrical representations by the English
officers. 100
CHAPTER VII.
Preparations for the siege of Ciudad Rodrigo—A review of the
light Division by Lord Wellington—The fort and convent of
Saint Francisco taken—Storming the breach—Capture of the
place—Regulations for the prevention of plunder—Disorders
committed in the city—Remarks and anecdotes connected with
the siege—Burial of General Craufurd—Removal of quarters
to El Bodon—Vestiges of the previous engagement near that
place—Ciudad Rodrigo consigned to a Spanish garrison—March
towards Badajoz—Castello de Vida—Fortress of Elvas—An
accidental acquaintance. 114
CHAPTER VIII.
March from Elvas to Badajoz—Defences of that city—The
investment—A sortie—Operations of the batteries—Capture
of fort Picurina—Preparations for the grand assault—Advance
of the "forlorn hope"—Desperate encounter at the
breaches—Loss of life experienced by the British—The mode
of attack changed to escalade with success—The city sacked
by the British troops—Reflections respecting the conduct
of the siege—Incidental anecdotes. 133
CHAPTER IX.
Movements of the enemy after the fall of Badajoz—March of
the British light and third divisions towards Ciudad
Rodrigo—Dispositions for a fresh campaign—Excellent
marching arrangement of the light division—Occupation of
Salamanca by the British, and investment of the forts—Advance
of the French army—Skirmishing and cannonading—Surrender
of the forts by the French—English quarters at Rueda, and
amusements there—Movements of the author's division—A
breakfast party broken up—Personal escape of the
commander-in-chief—Active manœuvres of the contending
forces—Retrograde movement of the British towards
Salamanca—Relative position of the two armies—Battle of
Salamanca. 157
CHAPTER X.
Well-performed retreat of the French after the battle of
Salamanca—Progress of the English troops—Description of the
Spanish plains and towns—Custom of the Siesta—Movements of
Joseph Bonaparte—Bivouac at Olmedo, and ball given there by
Lord Wellington—Advance of the British army, and entry into
Valladolid—A swimming adventure—Illness of the author, and his
removal to the town of Cuellar—Timorous conduct of the Portuguese
dragoons—The English army enters Madrid—Incidents attending
the author's further removal as an invalid to Salamanca—General
position of affairs on the Continent—Operations of Sir R.
Hill—Re-capture of Valladolid—Unsuccessful siege of
Burgos—Various movements of the forces. 191
CHAPTER XI.
The author becomes convalescent, and proceeds to rejoin the
army—Guadarama mountains—Park and Palace of the Escurial—An
enthusiastic native—A Spanish bandit—British quarters in
Madrid, and description of the city—English theatricals—Renewed
activity of the contending armies—The British troops evacuate
Madrid—Romantic attachments—Alba de Tormes—Re-occupation of
Salamanca—Military discomforts—Skirmishing affairs—The French
obliged to desist from pursuit through fatigue—Various positions
of the British forces during the winter of 1812-13. 211
CHAPTER XII.
The light Division reviewed by the Commander-in-chief—Reinforcements
from England—The army again in motion—Encampment of the light
division between Rodrigo and Salamanca—The German hussars—March
to Salamanca, the French retreating—Scene in the Cathedral at
Salamanca—Crossing the Tormes, and progress of the march—Passage
of the Esla—Affair at Toro with the French heavy
horse—Concentration of the whole army, and march through Valencia
towards Burgos—An accommodating priest—Capture of French baggage
and prisoners—Details of the battle of Vittoria. 242
CHAPTER XIII.
Pursuit of the enemy after the battle of Vittoria—Curious
spectacle and adventure in a French bivouac—Advance towards
Pampeluna, and repulse of the French rear-guard—Retreat of
the main body of the enemy into France—Reflections on the policy
of King Joseph—Change of the British route, and encampment at
Sanguessa—A casual dance—Return to Pampeluna—Expulsion of the
French from the valley of Bastan—The Basque peasantry—Town of
Bera—Position for covering Pampeluna and St. Sebastian—Preparations
for the attack of the latter place—The command of the French
assumed by the Duke of Dalmatia—A family scene—Position of the
French army. 274
CHAPTER XIV.
Offensive operations of the Duke of Dalmatia—Partial retrogression
of the British—Ill success in the storming of the breaches at
St. Sebastian—Movements of the various divisions—Great extent
of the British line along the Pyrenees—Interesting domestic
scene attending the departure of the Author's Division from the
town of Bera—Battle of Pampeluna—Embarrassing situation of
the light division through an accidental separation from the
army—Successes obtained over the French, and their consequent
retreat—Active movements, and capture of the enemy's baggage—A
trait of character—Continued advantages gained over the French,
who are driven beyond the Pyrenees. 300
PERSONAL NARRATIVE
OF
CAPTAIN COOKE.
MEMOIRS
OF
CAPTAIN COOKE.
CHAPTER I.
Initiation into military life—State of the militia
force—Preparations against the expected invasion from
Boulogne—French prisoners—An accident—The author occupies
a dull post near Grimsby—An enlivening incident connected
with the tender passion—Love cooled by aqueous immersion,
and rekindled by bright eyes—Earl Fitzwilliam—Quarters in
Bristol—A fatal affray—Clifton—The author engaged in an
affair of honour—Anecdote—The author enters the line—Return
of the British army from the Peninsula—Severe drilling.
On the 24th of January, 1805, I made my _début_ on the parade as
ensign in the first West York, powdered and equipped in full uniform,
with an artificial tail of considerable length tied round my neck, a
cocked hat square to the front and a sword five inches shorter than
the regulation, made in proportion to my height, being only four feet
eleven inches, and within one month of attaining my fourteenth year.
My diminutive figure soon attracted the attention of the leading
company of the regiment, composed of gigantic Yorkshire grenadiers[1],
and excited so much merriment among them, and so encreased my previous
confusion, that my eyes became dim and my feet seemed scarcely to touch
the ground. However, some kind expressions from the officers who came
forward and surrounded me, and their gay appearance soon dispelled my
inquietude.
A short time proved sufficient to instruct me in the duties required;
and the varied amusements caused the early months of my career to glide
rapidly on. Our uniform was plain, faced with green, but suddenly
altered owing to an officer of expensive habits, who ordered a new
coat to be made and covered with a profusion of gold lace, in which
he appeared at the mess table, and so captivated his companions by
his rich display, that a unanimous burst of admiration broke forth.
Although the lieutenant colonel was as much averse from any thing of
the sort as it was possible for any one to be, the new pattern was
carried by acclamation, and a tacit consent wrung from the commanding
officer, intermixed with his hearty execrations. Frequently, after the
alteration, he used to wear his old coat at the mess table by way of a
treat, when, to his extreme mortification, the very officer who caused
the change would throw out hints about officers being unregimentally
dressed.
Such was the ingenuity of this individual, that on being refused leave
of absence, he waited personally on a general, and afterwards declared
that he had represented the necessity of his appearance at home in such
moving words, that he not only obtained double the time originally
asked for, but also drew tears of sympathy from the general's eyes.
In the early part of the summer, General Sir John Moore inspected us
on our parade ground, and was pleased to pass his high encomiums on
the very fine appearance and steadiness of the men while under arms.
Indeed the militia at large were equal to the line[2], in the execution
of their evolutions and discipline, and were well adapted for the
defence of their native shores, at this epoch threatened with invasion
by the French. Had their services been required to repel such an
aggression,—led on by experienced generals, without doubt they would
have proved themselves equal to cope with any troops in the world;
and those who had an opportunity of judging at that time, will, I am
confident, fully coincide with me and join in just admiration at the
high state of perfection that national force had been brought to.
During the summer the troops in the numerous towns and camps in Kent
were reviewed. Our brigade left Ashford and joined two battalions of
the rifle corps, 95th[3], at Bradbourne Lees and manœuvred before the
Duke of York. The 43rd and 52nd light infantry regiments were organised
under the immediate superintendence of Sir John Moore[4] (assisted by
Major General McKenzie) at Hythe, and Shorncliff camp, in the most
exemplary manner. Those corps were indeed the admiration of all, for
their discipline, and the rapidity of their light movements, all of
which being executed on the moveable pivot, by divisions, or sections,
formed columns, squares, lines, and echelon, without a halt, by merely
marking time.
The moveable pivot preserved a regular cadence, handsome to the sight,
and of great utility. In course of time these useful evolutions
extended throughout the army, and, for aught I know, are still called
"NEW!" with perhaps a few alterations.
The officers of these regiments wore a neat soldier-like uniform
of scarlet, facings white and buff, with a pair of small silver
epaulettes; and such was the similarity of costume of the two corps,
that, at a short distance, it was hardly possible to distinguish
one from the other; and, when formed in a line on the green sod at
Shorncliff, they presented a fine coup d'œil. The rifle corps wore dark
green with black lace, helmets and long green feathers[5].
It is a strange coincidence, that these corps should have been so near
each other, (almost within sight of Napoleon's grand camp at Boulogne)
for the purpose of joining their efforts to repel the threatened attack
on the coast, and that, in after years, they should be united in a
series of brilliant victories gained over the French legions, during
a period of service, which, in future ages, will create wonder at the
extraordinary rise and fall of Napoleon in the centre of civilised
Europe; whose legions like an overwhelming lava spread death and
destruction far and wide; drove all nature into mourning, and converted
Europe into an hospital.
Napoleon at this period had formed at Boulogne and its vicinity a
powerful army, which he hoped to be enabled to throw across the
channel by the end of August and effect a landing in England under the
protection of the combined French and Spanish fleets, commanded by
Admiral Villeneuve, who was expected from the West Indies about that
time to concentrate the different fleets in the French and Spanish
ports, to be composed of sixty ships of war destined to cover the
numerous flotilla which was also to be crowded with soldiers inured to
war.
Every effort on the part of this country was made to frustrate such a
design. Martello towers had been erected along the coast of Kent at
certain distances, and thousands of navigators and soldiers were hard
at work cutting the military canal twenty yards wide across Romney
Marsh. Beacons were placed on the tops of the highest hills, to light
up, and alarm the country in case of a sudden descent of the enemy.
Fortunately however the hostile movements of the Austrians obliged
Napoleon to break up his camp at Boulogne, and march to oppose them.
The latter part of this year produced extraordinary events; Napoleon
was again overwhelming the continent by his military achievements, and
Nelson in a like manner, by his naval exploits, was clearing all before
him. These great commanders seemed striving to outvie each other on
their peculiar elements, and each won a great battle[6], and within a
few months of each other.
During the autumn, the regiment to which I belonged marched to
Chelmsford in Essex, and was stationed there a few weeks with other
corps, previously to our proceeding to Norman Cross for the purpose
of guarding some thousands of unhappy Frenchmen, cooped up at that
place, and clothed in yellow (the prison dress) to expiate their
revolutionary sins by many years' captivity and exile in a loathsome
prison, cut off from their relatives and friends.
Their necessities forced them to exert their ingenuity in making
various curious toys, which they disposed of at a very low rate to
enable them to procure a few comforts, to alleviate their extreme
wretchedness, which was beyond description; for want of clothes many
of them suffered every privation rather than be clad in a conspicuous
and humiliating colour; others were in rags and almost in a state of
nudity, having lost their all by gambling; and to so great an extent
did the vice grow, that many would even stake their rations, and every
trifle given to them by strangers, until, by their half famished looks,
they bore a resemblance to skeletons.
The exterior of the prison was enclosed by strong wooden railings, as
well as the four interior quadrangles, in the centre of which stood a
circular block house bristled with three pounders on swivels, their
muzzles peeping out of square apertures (similar to the ports of a
ship) to play on the prisoners in case of their becoming refractory.
Generals Boyer and Rochambeau were, for some reason or other, in close
confinement; one of them played and sang most delightfully on the guitar.
The barracks stood about east and west, occupied by two regiments, with
two field pieces always placed at the gates, in readiness to fire if
necessary. The high north road ran within about two hundred yards of
the west barrack. A troop of the 7th light dragoons[7] were quartered
near at hand to pursue those Frenchmen who might attempt to effect
their escape, which many accomplished by the utmost danger, and the
most unaccountable perseverance; sometimes by working under ground for
months, to excavate a way out of prison. One man, absolutely wrapped
in straw bands, dropped himself into a night cart, (which he was aware
would be drawn away that night) and he was pitched out with the soil at
the usual place on the slope of a hill; but, in his haste to extricate
himself, he was discovered, and brought back half suffocated.
Many of the poor prisoners gave lessons in fencing; and while I was
once displaying the proficiency I had made in that art to an amateur
by placing him in a defensive position to ward off my rapid attack, he
unfortunately guided the point of my cane up his own nostrils which
caused him forthwith to ungrasp his sword, and apply both hands to
the wounded part. Being much alarmed at the accident, I stood at
a respectful distance from my friend, until the pain had subsided;
fearing that, under such torment, he might take signal vengeance on my
slender frame.
The winter passed heavily enough at this dull spot, and without doubt
the best hour of the day was that when the drum struck up the "Roast
Beef of old England," the certain announcement of a well supplied
board, covered with massive plate, and groaning under the weight of the
choicest viands the season afforded.
Early in the spring the long wished for _route_ arrived for Hull in
Yorkshire. When we were on the march through Lincolnshire, a sudden
thunder storm came on, accompanied by heavy rain, and we saw a poor
girl at work in an adjoining field; but, before she was able to gain a
place of shelter from the rain, a flash of lightning struck her on the
forehead and killed her on the spot. Her lifeless body was conveyed to
the nearest town, to her unhappy relatives. After the expiration of
a few days we arrived at Barton, where we crossed the Humber (seven
miles down the river) in the regular passage-boats to the place of
our destination, having experienced the usual comforts of a march in
England: such as good breakfasts, dinners, and a comfortable feather
bed every night.
Soon after our arrival a detachment was ordered to take charge of some
batteries on the right bank of the Humber in Lincolnshire, no great
distance from Grimsby; and, for the good of my morals, I was selected
for that duty, it being considered by excellent judges that so populous
a town as Hull afforded too many temptations for one so young as
myself. Every movement to me was a source of pleasure; already my new
abode was anticipated, and some highly romantic spot pictured to my
imagination. A fancied governor too, surrounded by the inhabitants of
the adjacent country looking up with that respect so flattering to one
placed in so responsible a situation!
The hour of my departure was hailed with joy, and I eagerly jumped on
board a small packet procured for the transport of myself and party.
The sails being spread out, I felt a secret wish that my brother and
another officer had not been on board, so that I might have entered
into my important avocations without further delay. We had glided a
short way on our course, when the wind changed, and became adverse,
and, after a few tacks, I lost my vivacity, my countenance turned
pale, and my brother remarked that I was sea-sick. "How can that be,"
faintly replied I, "when we are only in a river;" although it must be
acknowledged that, owing to its proximity to the sea, the water was
sufficiently agitated to cause some derangement in the stomach of a
landsman.
At the expiration of a few hours' tossing, we anchored off a solitary
habitation, three sides of which were encompassed by a dreary marsh of
considerable extent, intersected with dykes. On landing, my companions
surveyed the surrounding prospect, casting significant looks towards
each other; and a half stifled laugh followed at my dejected amazement,
as I contemplated the prospect before me, wondering how the coming six
months were to be employed, or myself to be amused, in this swamp,
whitened by innumerable flocks of sea gulls. On entering the boat house
I sat down with little appetite to partake of some eggs and bacon, that
being the best fare to be procured. My companions made a hearty meal,
and, having swallowed a couple of tumblers of brandy and water, took
their departure with a fair wind, leaving me to make the best of my
way, over a pathless waste, in the direction of a small wooden building
rearing its chimnies just above an earth entrenchment decorated by four
heavy cannons mounted _en barbette_, and a bare pole in the centre by
way of a flag staff. The soldiers preceding me were a short way in
front. In vain I strained my eyes in search of a second habitation,
to cheer this monotonous scene; night was fast drawing to a close, and
the disagreeable Humber and its muddy banks disappearing from my view,
amidst a drizzling rain.
On entering the room allotted for my use, I seated myself on my baggage
in no very cheerful mood, waiting the delivery of coals and candles,
while my servant was busily employed mopping the floor. In the morning
the men were placed at the guns, armed with rammers and handspikes, to
learn to load, elevate, and traverse, so as to fire in case any French
ships might enter the river, to disturb the whalers anchored off Hull.
A printed board of orders nailed to the wall at the extremity of my
room shewed me the necessity of visiting another battery under my
charge (at stated periods) distant six miles up the river. I was
also informed that I had a horse at my service; but, when the animal
was brought forward, all hopes of a ride vanished, he proving lame
of a leg, very old, and his coat sticking up like the bristles of a
porcupine.
My instructions also specified that every Sunday the detachment was to
attend divine service, at a church situated inland on a gentle rise,
shrouded by trees, about two miles from the battery, which was to be
left in charge of a corporal's guard.
The sixth day happened to be the sabbath; the weather was propitious.
I therefore decorated myself in hopes of getting a glimpse of some
flowing drapery at the distant hamlet. On our arrival the bell
was tolling, and a few infirm individuals were creeping into the
old church. As the service had not begun, I squatted myself on a
hay-cock—for the grass of this church yard was turned to account, and,
as far as I could judge, was as fine a crop as any around.
At length the bell ceased to reverberate, and I was about to enter
the decayed doors of the church, when on raising my eyes I beheld a
young lady of lovely face and form, stationary, with one foot placed
on the top of the style (leading into the church-yard) and with her
eyes apparently fixed in the direction of where I stood. She evinced an
animation, which I shall long remember; for my heart began to beat with
the most joyful anticipations. She passed close to me, while I remained
fixed, and gazing on her with transported admiration. I soon followed,
and was placed in a pew exactly opposite to her. Her raven tresses hung
carelessly from under a little blue silk hat. Her cheeks vied with the
roses, and the lustre of her sparkling black eyes pierced the inmost
recesses of my beating heart. Before the service was concluded, we were
both holding down our heads laughing; and the only excuse for such
indecorous conduct, (if any can be offered), was our youth—for she was
only sixteen, and I was half a year younger.
Two days after, I wandered towards the village; the peasants had gone
forth to their daily labour. On looking about, I could see but one
house likely to contain the object of my secret regard. It was a large
old building encompassed by an extensive field in the shape of a park.
However, I fancied this was not her dwelling, as she had entered the
church yard from quite a contrary direction. Having wandered some
time without encountering a single person of whom I could make any
inquiries, I at last felt convinced that the fair object of my search
had come from a distant village, and that I should not again behold her
fascinating smiles.
In retracing my steps from thence, the marsh became doubly odious to my
sight; however, on the following Sunday, I placed myself on the same
spot in the church yard, with my eyes steadfastly fixed on the style.
The bell ceased to toll, the church doors closed, the service had
begun, but my _belle_ did not appear; and I now in real earnest began
to consider myself a perfect exile, not having exchanged a syllable
with any one save my servant (or when giving some trifling orders) for
thirteen days. The next morning I started on foot to visit the other
fort (mounting two guns, with a garrison of one serjeant, a gunner, and
fourteen men,) to be assured that the lame horse had safely carried
their provisions, and to see that the defences had not been washed away
during the last spring tide. After a toilsome walk of no inconsiderable
distance, along a dyke, overrun with long grass nearly up to my middle,
I returned, well tired, and perfectly cooled in my governorship.
The next day I made towards the hamlet, being determined to summon up
resolution, and make inquiries at some cottage, or to endeavour to find
out from whence came the sole object of my thoughts. On my accosting an
old woman, who very civilly answered all my inquiries, she communicated
that the young lady was a gentleman farmer's daughter; expatiating
upon her beauty and amiability, and concluded by remarking, that she
supposed by this time she must have returned to school beyond Lincoln,
as she had not seen her for some days. She then informed me that, when
at home, the young lady resided in the large mansion already described.
Having now gained the long wished information, I wandered towards the
spot, and espied a figure clad in white standing at the door of a
cottage, at no great distance from the large house.
I instantly made my way across the field, full of doubts and fears,
and when, within a short distance, I could distinguish the same
figure, and the charming countenance I was in quest of,—I hesitated,
being fearful that the object of my search might vanish. At length
with a palpitating heart, and extremely confused, I found myself
opposite the _brunette_. I attempted to speak, but, alas! my words
were unintelligible; she smiled, and I was rooted to the spot,—she
retreated backwards; her eyes, acting like load stars, drew me forward.
I stumbled over the doorsill, and found myself in a small room in the
interior of the cottage. At the extremity of it sat an ancient dame
at her spinning wheel, who, looking through her spectacles at me,
regarded so small a figure, in a rich scarlet uniform, with a degree of
good-natured surprise.
Some moments elapsed before any one of this trio broke silence. My
_incognita_ blushed and cast the kindest regards towards her old nurse,
who looked alternately towards us for some explanation; but, finding
little chance of any from our confusion, she broke the awkward silence
by requesting to know my pleasure? In reply, I stammered out, that I
had lost my way; she instantly arose, and offered the assistance of her
son, to conduct me into the right road; but my _chère amie_ now found
her voice, and stopped her short, by offering her services to point
out the way for me herself; and, almost in the same breath, asked me
if I did not feel considerably fatigued after so long a walk? Then,
entering into conversation, the hours flew away imperceptibly, until
the old dame reminded her of her unusually long absence from home,
which might induce her mamma to send some one in search of her; we
thereupon parted seemingly equally pleased with each other, and with
an agreement to continue our acquaintance. To my eyes the marsh now no
longer presented a dreary waste; my heart was as light as a feather; I
bounded over planks and ditches, for hedges there were none. Even the
odious twenty-four pounders I could have turned to use, by loading them
up to the muzzles with grape shot, against all pirates or rivals; and
I do verily believe that had it not been for the presence of an old
steady gunner, I should really have fired a salute on the occasion.
I ordered tea to be prepared, and my fire made up. I then opened a
box filled with books that day forwarded to me from Hull with a note
from my brother, saying, that according to my wishes he had sent some
novels, and also a few volumes of the _Roman History_, with his strict
injunctions not to neglect the perusal of the latter in particular.
The first book I extracted was a deep romance; and the pages were
eagerly devoured with all those transports so natural to youthful
minds. It was soon conveyed for the perusal of my _chère amie_; for in
truth the _Roman History_ had never entered my head.
A fresh supply being soon necessary, the box was returned, and the
history kept as a reserve, and, like many other reserves, it was never
brought into action. After a short acquaintance, my little _belle_
intimated to me, that I might expect an invitation when her papa (who
abominated the red coats, great and small) should make his annual
excursion. It struck me that a dark lantern might be of great utility
during such parties as I might chance to attend. I therefore begged of
my brother that one might be purchased for me, which was accordingly
done, although such a request somewhat excited his surprise; however,
on reflection, the extensive prospect he had previously surveyed the
day he conducted me to my lonely abode, soon convinced him that a
nightly tramp would be out of the question, and he set my request down
to the effect of the romances I had recently perused. At length the
time of papa's departure was announced to me, with an invitation from
mamma to take tea with her: and, on the appointed night, having secured
my barrack room door, I walked a short distance, and turned my dark
lantern, to enable me to explore my way over a path intersected by
numerous ditches.
On my arrival near the gate at the end of an enclosure, leading to the
house, the rays of my lantern fell on a figure all in white. I made a
sudden stop, and opened my eyes to their full extent, to satisfy myself
what so strange an appearance could be, so late, and at so lonely a
spot; for various confused ideas crossed my mind, my fancy was worked
up to the highest state of excitement, and a cold chill ran through
my veins,—when suddenly the ground gave way, and I was immersed
above my middle in water in a ditch, the edge of which had given way.
During my alarm, while I was endeavouring to extricate myself from my
awkward situation, the figure moved towards me and I scrambled out of
the ditch, covered with duck weed. As a last resort I summoned up my
remaining courage, and demanded in a loud voice, or rather screech,
"What are you?" when a plaintive voice answered, "It is I." and the
speaker instantly vanished.
After looking cautiously around, in apprehension of making another
false step and getting a second ducking, I explored my way with
considerable difficulty to the house, absolutely following the
direction of the supposed phantom. There I found my new friend waiting
for me at the door much alarmed, who informed me she had seen the
light of my lantern gradually approaching, and had ventured to meet me;
but the hearing the souse, and such a strange salute in total darkness,
had so terrified her, that a hasty flight had been the consequence.
Her mamma had waited tea some time, and on entering the room I
perceived that she was in full dress and highly rouged; I was
introduced to her, wet through, and covered with a green weed, like
some sea monster. She laughed immoderately. What was to be done? A
change was necessary: the husband's clothes would not do. A huge
country girl being called in, while divesting me of my coat, suggested
that I should be attired in one of her young lady's dresses. This
proposal afforded mamma much diversion, who agreed to the proposal,
and I was led into the kitchen, to a rousing wood fire, blazing on the
hearth, under a spacious chimney. Here I was unceremoniously stripped
by the maid, who appropriated so much time to the adjustment of my
female attire, that her _jeune maîtresse_ demanded the reason of my
person being kept so long in custody by this Amazonian wench. My
toilette being arranged, tea and coffee were served up, and the time
passed in the most agreeable conversation. The night had far advanced,
when an unexpected rapping was heard, with the butt end of a riding
whip, heavily applied to the oaken doors, while a hoarse voice demanded
admittance in the well known key of papa: but to my ears the notes were
like the roaring of a lion. All lights were instantly extinguished, and
the back door was thrown open, out of which I was led into a poultry
yard, and from thence into a loft, where, seating myself on a truss
of hay, I waited in much suspense, while the heavy bars were removed
from the gate of the farm yard, to admit the squire and his horse.
His gruff voice soon died away; the gates were again closed and all
became quiet. Shortly afterwards a rustling noise and gentle footsteps
struck on my ear, when my _belle_ again made her appearance accompanied
by the before mentioned Amazonian _fille de chambre_, with my dried
_paraphernalia_ under her arm.
Meanwhile mamma was left to conduct her bloated spouse grunting to
bed, quite overcome, after his devotions to Bacchus and the malt tub.
Soon after I had assumed the attire of my own sex, the crowing of the
feathered tribe announced the time for my departure, when, bidding
tender adieus, I rapidly stole across the meadow, and just before the
sun arose, I found myself once more within my camp bed—_minus_ my dark
lantern.
I often bended my steps during these May days towards the peaceful
hamlet far removed from any neighbouring village, from whence a green
sod, hedged on each side, was the sole outlet or vestige of a road
winding into the interior, through a rich pasturage country; it was in
these rural shades, and unbeaten tracks, that my blooming companion
and I rambled at large, and, when fatigued, her old nurse would place
before us her best China service, and seem to participate in our
happiness. The summer months flew away, and my indescribable departure
was announced. I presented the hospitable old dame with a new pair of
spectacles, and she wiped her eyes. The Yorkshire-men buckled on their
knapsacks, the wind was fair, the bark cut through the water, the old
church vanished from my sight, and I again landed at the busy and
trafficing town of Hull.
Here the merchants entertained the military with turtle, and such
feasts as their rapidly accumulated wealth enabled them to spread out
in gorgeous abundance. The card parties were crowded to excess, and
very high stakes played for; more particularly as many of the officers
were possessed of large landed property, and also displayed most
splendid equipages.
The venerable Earl Fitzwilliam, who was the Colonel of the regiment,
was there, and when I was introduced to him, he asked me whether I
did not find the colours very heavy in my hands? My face instantly
coloured up; the fact was, I had been blown down, colours and all,
while at a field day at Ashford in Kent. The amiable nobleman, with his
characteristic kindness, took care that I should see my name in the
next gazette as a Lieutenant.
After a very short stay at Hull, we were ordered to Whitby, Burlington,
and Scarboro', situated on the sea coast. I had the good fortune to
march to the latter town, with which I was much struck on entering.
It is compact, and situated in a valley, with the fine old castle
rising abruptly and commanding a bird's eye view of the town, and the
beautiful and extensive sands, which become so hard, that at low water
horse racing used to take place, and with great safety, as there is
hardly a pebble to be seen.
This was a grand place of resort, where the healthy dames and their
daughters from the North, came to sip the spa, to flounder in the sea,
to see and be seen, and to listen to the mild sayings of strangers from
the south, while hurrying down fifty couple at Donna's rooms, with
rosy cheeks, and hair somewhat out of curl. One whole year passed at
this place in a continual round of amusements, such as balls, parties,
picnic excursions, gay promenades, and horse-racing. The band was
magnificently attired in green and gold; in fact, Earl Fitzwilliam gave
up the whole or the greater part of his pay for the benefit of the
regiment.—The volunteering into the line continued from time to time;
the greater portion of the men, being of large stature, entered the
foot guards, the artillery, and marines.
The _route_ at length arrived; and on the morning of our departure the
band struck up, the bass drum beating the marching time, a signal for
windows to be hastily thrown open by many fair ladies _en déshabille_,
waving their white handkerchiefs and delicate hands, until a wind of
the road concealed them from our admiration. The sun shone brightly,
and, as we cast a lingering look behind, the venerable white turrets of
the castle and the sparkling blue sea foaming at its base receded from
our view. We had proceeded about ten miles over the bare wold, when,
our appetites becoming rather keen from the sea breezes, we began to
cast our longing eyes towards a small sequestered village, surrounded
by stone walls, and a few scattered trees, which proved a welcome
sight. On entering, we drew up opposite a small rustic inn, for the
purpose of taking breakfast:—the chubby cherry-cheeked maids flocked
around us, and became so elated at the sounds of the music, and at the
sight of the red coats, that in their hurry to lay before us such
provisions as the place afforded, they pushed and jostled their rustic
swains out of their way, who, while resting on their pitchforks looked
uneasy, as if doubting for the first time in their lives the true
constancy of their sweethearts.
After partaking of a most excellent breakfast, we resumed our road,
and at the expiration of three days again entered Hull, when we soon
received an order to proceed to Bristol; we passed through Beverley to
Hull, then to Doncaster, Birmingham, Derby, Litchfield, Gloucester, and
Worcester, besides many towns of smaller note interspersed through this
highly cultivated country. Having accomplished a march of three hundred
miles, we reached Bristol. While passing through a town, an old woman
perceived the officer of the light company with a knapsack on his back:
she hobbled towards him, and addressed him by the familiar appellation
of "Sergeant;" he answered with a smile, "My good old lady, serjeants
do not carry knapsacks in this regiment," at the same time casting a
glance towards a few of that rank who had left theirs on the baggage
waggons:—the officer loaded himself in this way for the comfort of
a speedy change, on the march during wet weather. A number of French
prisoners were confined at Stapleton prison, about five miles from
Bristol. This duty we found unpleasant, having to tramp over a dirty
road in the winter, in white kerseymere breeches, for the purpose of
mounting guard. A most fatal affray happened here betwixt four French
prisoners, owing to a dispute which arose out of a trifling gambling
transaction. The two principals first engaged, having split a scissars
into two parts and tied the points to the end of canes, with which they
fought, one was soon killed, the seconds then engaged, when another
fell mortally wounded; in fact, both the friends on one side fell.
We frequently visited the village of Clifton within a mile of Bristol.
It is beautifully situated, overlooking the river Avon, which
romantically winds at the base of steep declivities, decorated with
overhanging shrubs.—The promenades and balls were very fashionably
attended, and it was surprising to observe the superiority of manners,
costume, and dancing, compared with those of the company attending the
assemblies at Bristol.
Early in the summer of 1808, we again moved, and passed through the
counties of Somerset and Devon to Plymouth, there to do duty over the
arsenals and more French prisoners.
I had now reached my seventeenth year. One evening while rambling
about, I accidentally met an officer, and entered into conversation
with him, when I was not a little surprised at his making use of my
elder brother's name, in no very complimentary strain, and, as I was
aware that such sentiments could not be used unintentionally by a man
of the world, I made a suitable retort, and left him. On reaching my
brother's barrack room which was adjacent to mine, I found him poring
over a volume of Shakspeare, with his usual _theatrical_ delight, and,
not wishing to disturb his transporting meditations, I bade him good
night and retired to my bed, having given my servant directions to call
me the next morning early, which being duly executed, I sent a friend
with a message to the officer already alluded to, which he instantly
accepted; but, as the regiment was under arms much earlier than usual,
to fire ball cartridge at a target, it was agreed that we should manage
to get leave with our seconds, and fall out one at a time, so as not to
create any suspicion of our intentions.
Our uniforms having been thrown aside, four of us proceeded some
distance before we could find a spot to suit our purpose. The usual
distance being measured, we tossed up for sides. I lost, and stood with
my face towards the sun, as no other level spot could be found at hand.
Having taken our ground, the usual distance (by word), we both fired
without effect: the pistols being re-loaded, a second discharge was
about to take place, when my adversary addressed me by my Christian
name, and said he wished the affair adjusted, so that all that had
passed between us should be forgotten, and that we might be the same
good friends as heretofore,—the seconds then interfered, and all was
amicably adjusted[8].
A general order appeared about this period, exploding hair-powder and
tails throughout the army. But, previously to its coming out, a most
ludicrous occurrence happened. An officer who possessed a very good
figure and a fine head of hair, had shown a great antipathy against
wearing powder, so much so, that it was only by a repetition of orders,
that he could be induced to use the puff, and even then it was so
sparingly put on his crown, as to be scarcely visible. One morning as
usual he appeared on the parade, with his head unwhitened; the captain
of his company not a little roused, at having so frequently reminded
him of his neglect of duty, again remarked that he was without powder;
when he carelessly answered, that he supposed a puff of wind must
have blown it out; which so incensed the captain that he forthwith
reported the circumstance. The whole of the officers being assembled
to the front, the culprit patiently heard the accusation against
him, and as coolly received the slight reprimand from the commanding
officer, who had no sooner finished what he had to say than the accused
officer fixed his eyes steadily on his captain, and, without uttering
a syllable lifted his cap slowly from his head at arm's length,
showing a head as white as snow, while his accuser stood petrified and
confounded, to the no small amusement of the surprised circle who burst
into an unrestrained laugh, joined in by the senior officers. The fact
was, that the rear of the company was close to the soldiers' barrack,
and, while the captain was in the act of reporting his junior officer,
the latter had run into one of the men's rooms, seized a flour tub
(used by the soldiers) and, with its contents, had covered his head,
leaving the side locks untouched as before.
About this time, the expedition to Portugal put into Plymouth, and as
there appeared some probability of an opening for the British army on
terra firma, I felt an anxiety to enter the line. A commission was
promised me in a light infantry regiment, which I soon after obtained;
at this time Plymouth was crowded by Portuguese officers, that had fled
from their native country with the royal family of Portugal, who had
departed for the _New World_. Portugal being cleared of the _French_
and _Spanish invaders_, the British entered Spain to threaten the right
flank of the French army under Napoleon, in the depth of winter, which
ended by Sir John Moore being killed, and the whole of the English army
re-embarking at Corunna. The different regiments landed in England in
the most deplorable condition, having been overtaken by a tempest,
which had scattered them over the face of the waters.
The inhabitants of Plymouth received these troops with open arms, and
threw wide their doors for the benefit of the suffering officers; they
watched over their sick beds in the most assiduous manner, and supplied
them gratis with every comfort; such as shirts and shoes, and crowned
all this magnanimous hospitality, by advancing money to many of the
convalescent officers to enable them to reach their far distant homes,
in England, Ireland, and Scotland. But how different was the treatment
of the army (who had freed Portugal) elsewhere! A young and handsome
officer had landed at another port in a wretched state, bare-footed,
his feet tormented with gravel, suffering from a fever, and supporting
himself against a wall: then, creeping along in an exhausted state, he
was unnoticed by the passers by, until a sailor said, "Why, soldier
officer, you are aground, come lay hold of my arm: I will take care of
you."
In March[9] 1809, I obtained my ensigncy in the line, and proceeded to
Colchester to join the second battalion of the 43rd light infantry.
When an officer entered this corps it was an invariable custom to
send him to drill with a squad, composed of peasants from the plough
tail, or other raw recruits, first learning the facings, marching,
and companies' evolutions. That being completed, the officer put
on cross belts and pouch, and learned the firelock exercise; then
again he marched with the same: and when it was considered that the
whole were perfect, with, and without arms, they began to skirmish in
extended files, and last of all learned the duties of a sentry, and to
fire ball cartridge at a target. The officer after all this was not
considered clear of the adjutant, until he could put a company through
the evolutions by word of command, which he had already practised in
the ranks. It generally took him six months in summer at four times a
day (an hour at each period) to perfect him in all he had to learn.
The drill was never kept more than an hour under arms, when, to a
minute, the time beater rolled his drum, the only one, (light infantry
regiments used bugles) in the corps; and the recruits were instantly
dismissed.
The orderly officer of each company made out the daily morning state
with his own hand. Subalterns inspected squads on parade: the company
was then formed and given over to the captain, who, with the rest of
the officers, never quitted their company to lounge about, so long as
the soldiers continued under arms. The corps paraded twice a week in
heavy marching order, and the mess was equally well conducted, in a
system of style and economy happily blended.
[Footnote 1: The grenadier company was composed of more than one
hundred men, and only contained _eleven men_ so _short_ as five feet
eleven inches.]
[Footnote 2: Their code of military law, their pay, provisions, arms
and accoutrements were the same as in the line; and they often marched
three or four hundred miles at a sweep! In summer they went into camp,
or did garrison duty; and each company possessed a _bat-horse_ with a
pack-saddle, to carry the _iron camp kettles_.]
[Footnote 3: Now the rifle-brigade.]
[Footnote 4: Sir John Moore offered commissions to Lieutenants Booth,
Temple, and myself of the York. The two former joined the 52nd; but,
as my brother fancied that I was too young and as I was not my own
master, I was obliged to submit to his decision. Lieut. O-Reilly also
entered the rifle-corps and was subsequently killed on the river Coa
in Portugal; and Lieut. Booth was killed at the storming of Badajoz in
Spain.]
[Footnote 5: The pelisse was subsequently introduced, and a soldier
clad in (green tartan) the highland costume, carried a small standard.
The three light regiments increased to seven battalions during the war;
43rd _two_; 52nd _two_; rifles _three_.]
[Footnote 6: Trafalgar and Austerlitz.]
[Footnote 7: Now hussars.]
[Footnote 8: My brother and the same officer had a dispute eight
months after this affair. They met; and at the first fire my brother
received his adversary's hall through the upper part of his thigh, but
eventually recovered.]
[Footnote 9: In that month the first battalion marched from Colchester
to Harwich to embark for Portugal with the 52nd and the Rifle corps,
under Major General R. Craufurd, and joined the army in Spain the day
after the battle of Talavera de la Reyna, having made a forced march
in good order, in hopes of participating in that sanguinary battle,
where they found the remnant of those men who had been left sick or
wounded (in the battalion of detachments) in Portugal after Vimiera,
and who had been engaged at the passage of the Douro near Oporto, and
at Talavera. The 43rd had upwards of one hundred men killed in that
battle; and of officers, brigade Major Gardner killed, and Lieutenant
Brown wounded,—the latter now commanding the second battalion Rifle
brigade.]