We were now approaching the enemy's shore for soldiering in reality, and about to find out whether the sons of Albion had degenerated since the days of their forefathers, who had carried our proud flag into all parts of the world, and had proved victorious both by sea and land. The honour of old England was, we realised, now in our hands. One good look at the older men was quite enough, they meant to do or die; while our commander, Lord Raglan, inspired us with confidence that he would lead us on to victory. * * * * * The reader may now prepare himself for some rough, hard soldiering and fighting. * * * * * A TRUE BRITON WHEN THE HONOUR OF THE NATION IS AT STAKE. "Tis much he dare: And, to that dauntless temper of his mind, He hath a wisdom that doth guide his brain To act in safety."--_Shakespeare._ CHAPTER II. Disembarkation in the Crimea--First night in the Enemy's Country, a night long to be remembered, no shelter--March to the Alma--The Battle--The Fusiliers leading the Van--Letter from the Heights to my Parents--A fair description of that Terrible Fight--March from the Alma--Balaclava easily taken--We take up our position in front of Sebastopol--First Bombardment--The Battle of Balaclava--Charge of the Light and Heavy Brigades--Poem by Tennyson--Little Inkermann--Letter home, 27th October, 1854--Trench Work--The Battle of Inkermann, the soldiers' fight--Am Wounded--Description of that Fight--Aspect of the Field after the Fight--My Letter Home--Sent on to Malta--Letter from Her Majesty--Notes on a Norfolk Hero at Inkermann, Sir T. Troubridge--Who first landed in the Crimea?