THE PRINCE INSPECTS THE MANCHESTER REGIMENT.
On coming forth from the church, Charles and his attendants found the
newly-formed Manchester Regiment drawn up in the churchyard.
The corps numbered about three hundred men; most of them being fine
stalwart young fellows, averaging six feet in height. Till that
morning none of them had donned their uniforms, or even shouldered a
musket, but by the exertions of Colonel Townley, the Chevalier de
Johnstone, and Sergeant Dickson, they had been got into something like
order, and now presented a very creditable appearance.
The officers looked exceedingly well in their handsome uniforms--red
faced with blue. On this occasion each wore a plaid waistcoat with
laced loops, a plaid sash lined with white silk, and had a white
cockade in his hat. In addition to the broadsword by his side, each
officer had a brace of pistols attached to his girdle.
Though all, from the colonel downwards, were fine, handsome men,
unquestionably the handsomest young man in the corps was Captain Legh.
The flag of the regiment was borne by Ensign Syddall. On one side was
the motto--LIBERTY AND PROPERTY; on the other CHURCH AND COUNTRY.
The standard-bearer looked proud of his office. Nothing now of the
barber about Ensign Syddall. So changed was his aspect, so upright his
thin figure, that he could scarcely be recognised. To look at him, no
one would believe that he could ever smile. He seemed to have grown
two or three inches taller. His deportment might be somewhat too
stiff, but he had a true military air; and his acquaintances, of whom
there were many in the crowd, regarded him with wonder and admiration.
The ensign, however, took no notice of any familiar observations
addressed to him, having become suddenly haughty and distant.
With the regiment were four field-pieces.
Their chargers having been brought round, Charles and his suite rode
slowly past the front of the line--the prince halting occasionally to
make a commendatory remark to the men, who responded to these
gratifying observations by enthusiastic shouts.
"I am glad the flag of the regiment has been entrusted to you,
Syddall," said Charles to the new ensign. "No one, I am sure, could
take better care of it."
"I will defend it with my life," replied Syddall, earnestly.
This hasty inspection finished, Charles quitted the churchyard with
his suite, and rode back to his head-quarters.
The Manchester Regiment soon followed. Elated by the commendations of
the prince, which they flattered themselves were merited, the men
marched through the market-place, and past the Exchange to St. Ann's
square, in tolerably good order, and in high good humour, which was
not diminished by the cheers of the spectators. Colonel Townley then
gave them some necessary orders, after which they dispersed, and
repaired to their various quarters.