Notes and Queries, Number 226, February 25, 1854: A Medium of Inter-communication for Literary Men, Artists, Antiquaries, Genealogists, etc.Various
History
Notes and Queries, Number 226, February 25, 1854: A Medium of Inter-communication for Literary Men, Artists, Antiquaries, Genealogists, etc.
Various
Questions and answers -- Periodicals
The prose description of the charge is clear and vivid:
"When we advanced to decide the destiny of the day, our right squadron
was in front, led on by the brave Major-General Sir. H. Vivian,
commanding our brigade; Lord Robert Manners commanding our regiment;
Major Howard commanding the right squadron; and I, the adjutant, in
front with those officers. Just as we began to advance, I said, 'Major,
what a grand sight we have before us!' 'Yes, it is,' said the major.
These were the last words he spoke, for in half a minute afterwards we
were right amongst them, slashing away; then there was no time to talk.
We quickly made them turn their backs towards us; but there was one
square of infantry that stood firm. That square made sad havoc among
us. The major was killed by that square. He was not six yards from the
muzzles of the French firelocks when he was shot. He fell off his
horse, and, I believe, never moved a finger; but I had not a moment's
time to stop, for we had not then cleared the field. This, my lord, is
a true account of the last moments of your lordship's late son, and one
of the best friends I ever had."--P. iv.
"We then drove their cavalry past a solid square mass;
This mass stood firm against us, like solid brass.
{177}
This is the place where Hon. Major F. Howard was killed,
That grieved my mind sorely and my poor heart thrilled."--P. 19.
Then follow some reflections which I abstain from quoting, as the way in
which they are expressed would produce an effect quite contrary to the
author's intentions. The burial is thus described:
"I ordered the party to mount their horses,
And proceed to carry off and bury all our losses.
The party assemble here, now instantly move forward:
Serjeant, take care where you bury Major Howard.
Take two objects in view, or three if you can,
Then you will be sure to find him again!
He lies in the hollow, not far from the French guns.
Bury him by their side, but not where water runs."
P. 21.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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