An Historical Review of the Royal Marine Corps, from its Original Institution down to the Present Era, 1803Gillespie, Alexander, Major
History
An Historical Review of the Royal Marine Corps, from its Original Institution down to the Present Era, 1803
Gillespie, Alexander, Major
Great Britain. Royal Marines -- History
After a tedious, fatiguing, and spirited train of operation, upon
which I am now precluded from remark, General Barrington effected
the conquest of Guadaloupe on the 2d of May, and with it the
neighbouring islands of Marigalante, Deseada, and The Saintes.
Every one conversant in the military obstacles which present in
that inhospitable country, cannot restrain his applause of the
distinguished perseverance of the Commander in Chief, and the
gallant Subordinates during the whole course of their arduous
duties. It exhibits a powerful example of what may be achieved by
the talents and active spirit of one man; but they are inherent in
that noble family, whose virtues I cannot enhance by any panegyric
of mine.
Wherever we cast an eye the most glorious achievements appear
before us. The conquest of Canada and its Capital, was a most
conspicuous event, but it was dearly purchased with the life of
one man whose exalted genius and patriotic soul were fitted to
turn the scale of Empires. The Plains of Abraham will be a lasting
memorial of the superior steadiness and valour of British Soldiers,
when led by courage and ability. The fatigues and services of the
navy throughout the whole of this campaign were severe and highly
honorable.
This leads me to notice a very ludicrous circumstance that occurred
on the morning of the 13th of September, previous to that battle
which decided the fate of Quebec.--A number of Tars who had been
employed in dragging the cannon to the heights upon which they were
planted, when returning to their ships, observed the army drawn up
in battle array, instead of continuing their route, they fell into
the ranks with the Soldiers, some having cutlasses, others sticks,
and a few having nothing in their hands. General Wolfe remarking
their zeal, addressed them with that complacency which was so
familiar to him, thanked them for their well meant spirit, urged
them to go on board, and pointed out the probable bad consequences
from their mingling with the soldiery at so critical a moment. To
this request some of them answered, "God bless your Honour, pray
let us stay and see fair play between the English and French."
The General could not help smiling at these brave but thoughtless
fellows, and again repeated his wish for them to withdraw. With
this some complied, but others swore, immediately on turning his
back, "that the Soldiers should not have all the fighting to
themselves, but that they would come in for a share of it some way
or other."
It appears that a number actually continued in the ranks during
the progress of the day, and whenever a Soldier dropped they
alternately put on his accoutrements, charged, and fired with
perfect coolness.
Nothing peculiarly active fell to the lot of the Marines, excepting
an affair of diversion on the 12th of September, with a view to aid
the more material operations of the army.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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