ARMY REFORM, 1871-85.
Effect produced in England by the military successes of
Prussia—Short service and the reserve system
introduced—Abolition of army purchase—Abolition of the double
rank in the Foot Guards—Substitution of the rank of
Sub-Lieutenant for that of Ensign or Cornet—Manœuvres and
summer drills—Changes in the drill-book—Illness and recovery of
H.R.H. the Prince of Wales—Death of Surgeon-Major Wyatt, and of
Field-Marshal Sir W. Gomm—General Sir W. Codrington appointed
Colonel of the Coldstream Guards—Death of Captains Hon. R.
Campbell and R. Barton—Company training—Pirbright Camp
established—Medical service in the Brigade—Change in the
establishment of the Regiment—Death of Sir W. Codrington, and
appointment of General Sir Thomas Steele as Colonel—Troubles in
Ireland—Alarm in London—The Royal Military Chapel 319