ViNVS O I nC LIDK AN T \jr o o inc urtivcroiii q i: I i ^r ' 1 ! M " U£J « Asvaan 3hi " K / ■i X ^ f 1 1 i^-i- -^' ^ > v^ MI J > i •aRY of o c z < y o THE \ / o viNaojiivs JO o / T^ o z » THE UNIVERSITY o Z- *'»ir-'— r% i I 3iv ° dO xsvaan '4RY C « viNsojnvs i- I L o viNaodiivD d( THE UNIVERSITY o m SANTA 8/ • / ■n^- ° AiisaaAiNO aHi ° o OF CAUFORNI- y ° dO Aiivaer. 3h V8V9HV9 VINVS o g 5Fi AUSaiAINO 3H1 o. §* o OF CAIIFORN' i /^r o do A.avaan an > vavgava viNVS o St;! 3S MISiOAINn 3Hi o o OF CALIFORNIA o > Z Z> Ui I / o JO Asvaan 3Hi <> > \ c THE UNIVERSITY 4 S¥ O SANTA BARBARA ° o THE LIBRARY C upy ^5- ||W-'|V - THE LIFE OF LORD HILL. London : Pi-irted by A. Spottiswoode, New- St reel- Square. .Hichmoaa. THE LIFE or LORD HILL, G.C.B. LATE COMMANDER OF THE FORCES. THE EEV. EDWIN SIDNEY, A.M. AUTHOR OF THE LIVES OF THE REV. ROWLAND HILL AND SIR RICHARD HILL, AND CHAPLAIN TO THE VISCOl'NT HILL. SECOND EDITION. S WiLLiaW: Lord HiIVs Column at Shrewsbury. LONDON: JOHN MURRAY, ALBEMARLE STREET. 1845. IJIIKARY UJSIVERSi ; OF ( ALIFORNIA SANTA EARBAKA TO THE QUEEN'S MOST EXCELLENT MAJESTY, BY HER SIAJESTY's GRACIOUS PERMISSION, AND WITH A VIVID SENSE OF THE HONOUR CONFEKRED ON THE MEMORY OF THE LATE LORD HILL, BY SUCH A DISTINGUISHED MARK OF HER MAJESTy's ESTIMATION OF HIS lordship's SERVICES, ^bis iSarratib£ of jbis Hife IS MOST HUMBLY DEDICATED, BY HER majesty's DEVOTED SUBJECT AND SERVANT, THE AUTHOR. A 3 PREFACE TO THE FIRST EDITION. The papers of the late Lord HiU having been con- fided to my discretion with a view of presenting the public with the narrative of his Life, I have endea- voured to produce a faithful delineation of his rare and estimable character. I have reason to believe that my being selected as his biographer is, in a great measure, due to the friendly approbation expressed by his Lordship himself, and his nearest relatives, of the manner in which I had discharged a similar duty with regard to his two uncles, the Reverend Rowland Hill and Sir Richard Hill. Thus encouraged, I ven- tured on the task proposed to me, and with the more readiness, because the history of the military achieve- ments of Lord Hill has been already written in the Despatches of the Duke of Wellington and the official accounts of the battles in which he was engaged. My endeavour in the present volume has been to compile, from the materials preserved by himself and supplied by his friends, an authentic detail of his own life, and to make himself the principal narrator of his own interesting career. Enough of his corresj)ondence and memoranda has been preserved for this purpose, the chief attraction of which will be found in that sim- plicity of style whereby his own accounts of the transactions in which he was engaged are rendered intelligible to every class of readers. A 4 viii PREFACE. I trust I have sufficiently acknowledged in the progress of the work the assistance I have derived, and the communications I have received, from the friends and admirers of Lord HiU. Not a single ap- plication was made to any one of them, of whatever station, that did not receive the most kind and favourable attention. I have now only to hope for the indulgence of the pubhc, and trust it will be found that I have not, in the discharge of my office as a biographer, forgotten the higher and more solemn one of a minister of the Gospel. EDWIN SIDNEY. Acle, near Norwich, Marcli 19. 1845. SECOND EDITION. The favourable reception afforded to this Memoir has brought it to a reprint. I have found it necessary to make only a few slight corrections, for which I am principally indebted to those who accompanied Lord Hill in his campaigns, and who have encouraged me by their approbation of my volume. I have now only to offer them my thanks for this assistance, and to claim the kindness of future readers. EDWIN SIDNEY. Acle, near Norwich, August 29. 1845. CONTENTS. CHAPTEE I. Characteristics of the Hill Family. — The First Sir Rowland Hill. — His Namesake Lord Hill. — His Parentage and Birth. — His Brothers and Sisters. — Compliment of George IV. — Mr. John Hill. — Lord Hill's Memoranda of his early Life. — His Conduct at School. — His Modesty and delicate Health. — His Sensibility. — Anecdotes. — Chooses the Army. — His own Account. — Obtains an Ensigncy in the 38th Regiment. — Goes to a Military Academy at Strasburg. — Lieutenant in the 53rd. — Returns to Strasburg. — Tour. — The Bottle of Champagne. — Scotland. — Popularity in his Regiment. — Made Captain. — L*eland. — L'ish Toilet and Wedding. — Toulon. — Prediction of General O'Hara. — Action at Toulon. — Narrow Escajie. — Lord Mulgrave and Captain Hill. — Wounded. — Takes Home Despatches. — Major in the 90th. — Mr. Graham. — Lieu- tenant-Colonel of the 90th. — Robespierre and O'Hara. — Events of the Day. — Stadtholder at Hawkstone. — Isle Dieu. — Gibraltar. — General O'Hara. — Sir Ralph Abercromby. — Plans, and their Alteration. — Remarks - - Page 1 CHAPTER II. Change in Colonel Hill's Plans. — His Pocket Journal. — General Whitelock. — Voyage. — Gibraltar. — General O'Hara. — The Pegasus. — Curious Dinner. — Indisposition of Colonel Hill. — The "Diversion." — Malta. — Proceeds to Egypt. — Lord Keith. — The Landing. — Battle of the 13th of March. — Colonel Hill wounded : saved by his Helmet. — Taken on board the Fou- droyant. — Battle of the 21st: mortal Wound of Sir R. Aber- cromby: he is carried to the same Cabin with Colonel Hill. — His Death. — Capitan Pacha. — Presents. — The brave 90th. — X CONTENTS. Campaign continued. — Colonel Hill's Notes. — The Grand Vizier in the British Camp. — Evacuation of Egypt by the French. — General Hope. — Congratulations. — Joseph Wil- loughby. — Conduct of the 90tli. — The Wet Carpenter. — Death and Character of General O'Hara. — Results of the Egyptian Campaign Page 31 CHAPTER in. Colonel Hill arrives in England, April 1. 1802. — Fete at Hawk- stone. — Letter to Mr. Winfield. — Increase of the 90th. — Ireland. — Colonel Hill made Brigadier- General. — Leaves the 90th. — His Proceedings in Ireland. — Alarms. — Empty Casks. — The Galway Volunteers. — Precautions against the expected Invasion. — Disaffection, and consequent Measures. — Signals. — More Alarms about the French. — Activity on this Account. — Ai-rears. — Lord Cathcart's Commimication. — Rumours, and their Contradictions. — Vexatious Obstacles. — Disputes. — Another Look-out for the French Fleet. — Impartial Character of General HilL — He leaves Galway.— Amicable Society. — Verification of a Remark of the Earl of Buchan - - - . 5 CHAPTER IV. Preparations for the Continent. — Letters of the Duke of York and Lord Cathcart. — Expedition to the Weser. — Christmas- day, 1805. — General Hill's first Interview with Sir Ai'thur Wellesley. — The Return from the Weser. — Pilot's News off Yarmouth. — Death of General Hill's Mother. — Encampment on Shorn Cliff. — Made Major-General. — Ireland again. — Remains thci-e till ordered in 1808 to join Sir Ai-thur Wellesley. — First Peninsular Campaign. — Pi-eparations. — Correspond- ence. — Departure. — Voyage. — Landing in Mondego Bay New Arj-angements. — Noble Bearing of Sir Arthur Wellesley. — His Instructions for the first Movements of his Troops on the Continent. — Battle of Roli^a Battle of Vimeiro. — Conven- tion. — Sir John Moore. — His Campaign Battle of Coruiia. — General Hill brings home Troops to Plymouth. — Kindness of the Inhabitants. — Death of Sir Richard Hill. — General Hill appointed to the Third Garrison Battalion. — Sent to Portugal. — Anxiously expected by Sir J. Cradock. — Letter of Sir J. Cradock. — Sir Arthur Wellesley arrives at Lisbon - 67 CONTENTS. XI CHAPTER V. Soult at Oporto. — Movements of Sir Ai-tliur Wellesley. — General Hill commands the 3rd Division of Infantry. — Operations at Lake Ovar. — Passage of the Douro. — Paget wounded. — General Hill takes the Command. — His Success at the Semi- nary. — Flight of the French towards Vallonga. — Letter of General Hill. — Coolness of his Brother Clement. — Dido. — Abrantes. — Victor. — IVIistake of Lord Castlereagh. — IMr. Mackworth. — Movement towards Spain. — Cuesta. — Talavera. — State of Affairs. — Sudden Attack of the French. — Battle at Nio-ht. — Battle in the Morning. — General Hill's own Accounts of both. — His Escape. — Conduct of Cuesta and the Spaniards. — ■ Letter from Merida. — Letter from Montijo. — Lodgings in the Farm-House. — Rural Pleasures. — Badajos very gay. — Major-General Hill made Lieutenant-General. — Huntsman. — Offer of Lord Wellington .... Page 91 CHAPTER VI. Abrantes. — "Works. — Portalegre. — Hostess. — General Hill's Movements. — Firmness of Lord Wellington. — General Hill and the INIarquis de la Romana. — All quiet. — Letter of Mr. Clement Hill. — Instructions for crossing the Tagus. — Sur- render of Ciudad Rodrigo. — Regnier. — Letters of Romana. — Movements. — Sarzedas. — Regnier not near enough. — General Hill receives Lord Clinton in a Chapel. — Mutual Politeness of English and French. — Almeida. — General Hill quits Sarzedas. — Fearful Array. — General HiU ascends the Mountain of Bu- saco. — Splendid Scene. — Battle on the Mountain. — Lord Wellington and General Hill. — Regnier too near. — Services of General HiU at Busaco. — Grand Spectacle by Night. — The French decamp. — Movements of General Hill. — Lines of Torres Vedras. — General HiU's Position. — Parties of Pleasure from Lisbon. — Letters of General Hill. — His severe Illness. — Sir W. Beresford commands for him. — General Hill goes home. — Recovers. — His Anxiety to return to the Army - 123 CHAPTER VIL General Hill's Return to the Army. — He arrives at Head- Quarters. — His Welcome. — Extracts from his Letters. — Makes the Xll CONTENTS. Acquaintance of the Prince of Orange. — Villa Vi^osa. — Por talegre. — Letters of General Hill. — Portuguese Troops. — General Hill operates against Girard. — Ai-royo de Molinos. — Surprise of Girard. — General Hill's Hurrah. — Humour of the Highlanders. — Panic of the French. — Pursuit on the Sierra de Montanches. — Triumph of the Day. — Escape of Girard. — Prince D'Aremberg and other Prisoners. — Lord Wellington's Satisfaction at this Achievement. — Recommends General Hill to the Prince Regent. — General Hill's Popularity with the Ai*my. — His own Description of Arroyo de Molinos. — Flat- tering Congratulations. — Captain C. Hill takes home the De- spatches. — His Reception in England. — Letter of Prince D'Ai-emberg. — Lord Mulgrave. — General Hill promised the Order of the Bath. — New Movements. — Estremadura. — Ciudad Rodrigo. — Gallantry of Colonel T. N. Hill. — New Plans. — Speech of the Prince Regent. — Investment of the Order of the Bath. — Sir Rowland Hill's Repugnance to be called by his new Title. — Supporters. — Fall of Badajos. — New Projects. — Almaraz -------- Page 157 CHAPTER Vni. Major Currie at Head-Quarters. — His Letters to Sir Rowland Hill. — Reception of the News from Almaraz in England. — The Guerillas. — Letter of Joseph Bonaparte to Drouet. — Sir Rowland Hill prepared. — Sir Rowland arrives at Albuera. — His Caution and Judgment. — Letters to Lord Wellington. — His Lordship's Wishes anticipated. — Zafra. — Prudent Consi- derations. — Lord AVellington enters Madrid. — Soult alarmed. — Movements of the French. — Sir Rowland crosses the Tagus. — Examination of Mirabete. — Letter from Carpio. — General Alten. — Sir Rowland "well posted to stop King Joe." — Ara- vaca. — Sir Rowland marches to join Lord Wellington. — Re- ports. — Sir Rowland reaches the Plains of Old Castile. — Close Communication with Lord Wellington. — Sir Rowland elected Member of Parliament for Shrewsbury. — Rolleda Coria. — Winter Quarters 197 CONTENTS. XI 11 CHAPTER IX. Lord Wellington's Circular. — Neglect of Religious Instruction in the Army. — Remonstrances. — Religious Soldiers. — Sir Row- land Hill's Personal Influence. — Striking Description of it. — Lord Wellington goes to Cadiz. — Sir Rowland in command. — Ballesteros. — News from Russia. — Effect on the French. — Officers' Reports. — Plundering prevented. — Bejar. — Captain Egerton. — Sir Rowland Hill's Account of the Enemy's Force. — Long Marches. — Dinner al-fresco. — March. — Castle of Burgos blown up. — King Joseph enters the Basin of Vittoria. — Route of Sir R. Hill. — Splendid Scenery. — Starving Portuguese. — Battle of Vittoria. — Pampeluna. — Approach towards France — Sir Rowland ascends the Pyrenees. — The first to drive the Fi'ench out of Spain. — Letters concerning Officers. — Soult in command of " the Army of Spain." — The Battles in the Passes of the Mountains. — Tei'mination of the Conflicts of the Pyrenees. — Roncesvalles. — St. Sebastian. — Sir T. N. Hill. — Sir Rowland watches the Movements of Soult. — The Conde de L'Abispal's Thirst for Glory. — Deep Snow on the Mountains. — Letters to Sir George Murray _ - . - Page 225 CHAPTER X. Strength of the Enemy. — Battle of the Nivelle. — Sir Rowland's Position. — Attack on him foreseen by Lord Wellington. — Battle of the Nive. — Compliment of Lord Wellington. — Major Clement Hill sent home with the News. — French Boats on the Adour. — Intimacy between the French and English Soldiers. — Patten and his "Pawn." — Admirable Conduct of Sir Rowland. — Stx'atagems of the Enemy. — New Movements of the Army. — Lord Wellington's Design effectually concealed. — Successes of Sir Rowland. — Orthez. — Lord Wellington reconnoitres. — Battle of Orthez. —Battle of Aire. — Death of Colonel Hill. — Battle of Tarbes. — Arrangements for passing the Garonne. — Sir Rowland in the Suburbs of Toulouse. — Battle of Toulouse. — Arx'ival of Colonel Cook. — Abdication of Bonaparte. — Armistice. — Sir Rowland made a Peer _ _ . 263 XIV CONTENTS. CHAPTER XI. Loi-d Hill arrives in London. — Proposal for his going to America. — Breakfast at the Hanover Hotel. — Spoils of Vittoria. — Heaphey's Picture. — Presentation of a Sword by the City of London. — Shaking Hands. — Lord Hill at Hawkstone. — The Bii-mingham Sword. — Rejoicings at Shrewsbury. — Sir John HiU. — Scene in the Quarry. — Lord Hill obliged to fly from his Friends. — Column at Shrewsbury. — Chester, — ]\Irs. Winfield. — Letter of Lord Bathurst. — Letter of the Duke of York. — Spring of 1815. — important Mission. — Listructions. — Interview with the Prince of Orange. — The Duke of Wel- lington arx'ives at Brussels. — Lord HiU's position at Grammont. — Troops of Prince Frederic. — Lord Hill's Information re- specting the Enemy. — Orders. — "Waterloo. — Lord Hill's Part in the Battle. — Night in the Cottage. — Memorandum on the Spot by Sir Digby Mackworth. — Finance. — Letters. — Guelphic Order. — Gold Clasp for Orthez. — Paris. — Lord Hill's Party fired at. — Gaieties. — Bois de Boulogne. — Remarks. Page 288 CHAPTER XII. Entail of Lord Hill's Peerage. — He goes to Cambray. — Trying Event. — Noble Letter of the Duke of Wellington. — Sportsmen at Cambray. — Boar-huut. — Chateau Maniers. — Severe lUness. — Kindness of the Duke of Wellington. — Mont St. Martin. — Tour in the Netherlands. — Lord HiU visits Waterloo. — Gaieties at Cambray. — Lord Hill in his Family Circle after leaving Cambray. — His Country Life. — Southey's Peninsular War. — Lord Hill's Nephew elected M. P. for Shropshire. — Death of Sir John Hill. — The young Sir Rowland Hill moves the Address in the House of Commons. — Letter of ]VIi'. Wilberforce. — Lord HiU offered the command in India and the Master Generalship of the Ordnance. — He declines both. — The Duke of Wel- lington Prime Minister. — Proposal to Lord Hill to take the Command in Chief of the Army. — He accepts it. — General Orders. — Horse Guards. — Room with one Chair. — Lord Hill unwell. — Kindness of George IV. — His Majesty's last Act in favour of Lord Hill. — William IV. — Letter of Sir Herbert Taylor. — Lord Hill's Dinner to the King. — His high Sense of Duty. — The Steam Coach. — The Officer that could not ride. — Note to the Lord and Lady Mayoress. — Observations - 318 CONTENTS. XV CHAPTER XIII. Private Thoughts of Lord Hill. — Dinners at Lord Teignmouth's on the Anniversaries of the Bible Society. — Lord Hill's conduct with regard to the Reform Bill. — Letter to Sir RoAvland Hill. — Conversation with the King. — The " Crown " won and preserved. — Uniform of George HI. — Fete at "Westboui-ne House. — Death of Sir Noel Hill. — Lord Hill's Attention to his County. — Anec- dotes. — Death of the Rev. Rowland Hill. — Lord Hill attends his Funeral. — Instances of Lord Hill's Prudence and Firmness. — Carries the Banner at the Funeral of William IV. — Queen Adelaide. — His first Audience with Her present Majesty. — Lord Hill and Marshal Soult. — Canada. — The Duke of "Wel- lington's Love of Truth. — Monmouthshire Riots. — Royal George and Colonel Pasley. — Mrs. Winfield. — Fire at the Tower. — Westminster Hall saved by Lord Hill. — Compliments of the Duke of Wellington. — Remarks of Lord Hill on the Whig Government. — His Motives of Action - - - Page 349 CHAPTER XIV. Failure of the Health of Lord Hill. — Goes to Richmond, and calls on Lord Sidmouth. — Remarkable Conversation. — Unwell at Hardwick dui'ing the Visit of the King of Prussia. — Regret expressed at his Inability to go to Windsor. — Death of Sir Francis Hill. — Lord Hill exhausted by his Business. — Dinner with the Duke of Sussex. — Fulham. — Determines to resign. — Speaks to the Duke of Wellington. — Letter of Resignation to Her Majesty. — The Queen's gracious Reply. — Answer of Lord Hill. — Takes leave of the Horse Guards. — General Order. — Colonel Egerton. — Secretaries at War in office during Lord Hill's Command. — Letter of Sir Henry Hardinge. — General Order of the Duke of Wellington. — Lord Hill made a Viscount. — His declining State of Health. — Last Letter to Colonel Egerton. — Loi-d Hill's last Illness. — His Devotion and Penitence. — His Death. — Condolences. — Funeral. — Death of Mrs. Hill. — Her Character. — Sir Robert Hill. — Death of General Clement Hill. — Concluding Remarks - - 367 LIFE OS" LORD HILL. CHAPTER I. CHARACTERISTICS OF THE HILL FAMILY, — THE FIRST SIR ROWLAND HILL. HIS NAMESAKE LORD HILL. HIS PARENTAGE AND BIRTH. HIS BROTHERS AND SISTERS. COMPLIMENT OF GEORGE IV. JUR. JOHN HILL, — LORD HILL's IVIEMORANDA OF HIS EARLY LIFE. HIS CONDUCT AT SCHOOL. HIS MODESTY AND DELICATE HEALTH. HIS SENSIBILITY, ANECDOTES, CHOOSES THE ARMY. HIS OVrS ACCOUNT. OBTAINS AN ENSIGNCY IN THE 38tH REGIMENT, GOES TO A MILITARY ACADEMY AT STRASBURG LIEUTENANT IN THE 53rD. RETURNS TO STRASBURG, TOUR, THE BOTTLE OF CHA3IPAGNE, SCOTLAND. — POPULARITY IN HIS REGIMENT. — MADE CAPTAIN. IRELAND. — IRISH TOILET AND ^VEDDING. TOULON. PREDICTION OF GENERAL o'hARA. — • ACTION AT TOULON. NARROAY ESCAPE. LORD JIULGRAVE AND CAPTAIN HILL. WOUNDED. — TAKES HOME DESPATCHES. MAJOR IN THE 90tH. 3IR. GRAHAM. LIEUTENANT-COLONEL OF THE 90th. ROBESPIERRE AND o'hARA. E^T;NTS OF THE DAY. STADTHOLDER AT HAWKSTONE. ISLE DIEU. GIBRAL- TAR. GENERAL o'hARA. SHI RALPH ABERCROMBY. PLANS, AND THEIR ALTERATION. REMARKS, The patriotism and benevolence so admirably blended toiretlier in the character of the late Lord Hill, were the fruits of a rare union of firmness and kindness which has distinguished other eminent members of the same family, and may be said to be a property B 2 THE GREAT HILL. Chap. I. of tlieir race. It obtained for Ricbard " tbe Great Hill" tbe confidence of bis sovereigns, respect in coiu-tl)- circles, success in his diplomatic under- takings, influence witb tbe army, attention from the legislature of his native realm, and the esteem of all classes of society. The same excellence raised the first Sir Rowland Hill — a column to whose memory adorns tbe romantic park at Hawkstone — to tbe enviable honour of being the first Protestant Lord Mayor of the city of London. He was truly desig- nated "a grave and worthy father of tbe citye," for by his munificence he added to its approaches, and by his charities enriched its hospitals. AYlien sheriff, be was committed to the Tower for a defence of what he belie^•ed to be its privileges, against tbe power of Parliament; but his high reputation quickly moved the Speaker and the Commons to give him his release. He embellished bis native county with religious and useful erections, and made the homes of bis tenants happy by his liberality as a landlord. The exemplary and illustrious nobleman whose life will form the sub- ject of these pages was the inheritor of his name, and of bis virtues, with a wider scope for their develop- ment. Li my biographies of two eminent members of his family*, I have shown the antiquity of his descent, and exhibited the claims of his ancestors and cotem- porary relatives, to the respect of the nation and the gratitude of their own county. I shall therefore proceed at once to trace that brilliant and modest career, wliicb terminated in his elevation to the com- * The Rev. Rowland Hill, and Sir Richard Hill, M.P, for Shrop- shire. Chap. I. FAMILY OF LORD HILL. 3 mand in chief of the forces of Great Britain, and led to the rank of Viscount in the peerage, Avith descent to the representative of the elder branch of the house of Hawkstone. The retired village of Frees, in Shropshire, has the honour of being the birth-place of this amiable and brave man, where his father, Mr. John Hill, who succeeded to the title and estates of his brother Sir Richard Hill, occupied the Hall, till the decease of the latter placed him in possession of the mansion of his family. He married Mary, the youngest daughter of John Chambre, Esquire, of Petton, in the county of Salop, and was the father of no less than sixteen children. Their names and order of birth are as follow: — John, Mary, Jane, Rowland, the subject of this memoir, Richard, Elizabeth Hannah, who died in infancy, Elizabeth, Harriet, Robert Chambre, Francis Brian, Emma, Clement, Charles, who died an infant, Thomas Noel, William Henry, who died while yet a child, and Edward. Such was the numerous progeny of the parents of the late Lord Hill, five of whom the aged father was permitted to see survivors of the great conflict of Waterloo, while he himself was welcomed at court by George the Fourth, then Prince Regent, with the gratifying salutation, "I am glad, indeed, to see the father of so many brave sons." It appears, from the list just given, that Lord Hill was the second son and fourth child of his attached parents. He was born at the Hall, in the village before mentioned, about three miles from Hawkstone, and in the same county, on the 11th of August, 1772, and was nearly three years junior to his brother John, whose birth- B 2 4 MR. JOHN HILL. C«^^p- ^^ dav was the lOtli of October, 17G1). The character- istic quaUties of their minds were extremely similar, and both commenced life with the choice of the profession of a soldier. ^Ir. John Hill entered the Ko)-al Horse Guards, Blue, and was engaged on foreign service in Flanders, under the command of his late Royal Highness the Duke of York. His brother Row- land said'^of him that " he was sure if Jack had fair plaij, he would manage half a dozen Frenchmen;" and that those in office entertained the same opinion, is demonstrated by the fact of his being promoted to the rank of field officer in the 25th Light Dragoons. On liis marriage to Ehzabeth Rodes, daughter of Philip Cornish, Esquire, of Exeter, he yielded to the earnest solicitations of his relatives, and quitted tb j army, but employed his military knowledge in rais'ng and organ- izing an effective regiment of Volunteer Cavalry in his native county. At the same time he discharged the various duties of a country gentleman, in a manner that won him the respect of all classes, exhibited in gratifying testimonials while he lived, and in unequi- vocal marks of universal regret when it pleased God to remove him. This unhappy event happened hi the month of January, 1814; and his loss was most sin- cerely lamented. He left a widow with five sons, the eldest of whom is the present Viscount Hill, and two daugliters. Their bereaved mother, a person of much energy and true piety, found comfort, while she dis- played consummate judgment, in daily vigilance over her children. J sludl reserve further particulars of tlie interesting group now presented to the notice of tlie reader, until the appropriate periods pass under Ghap. L lord HII.L at SCHOOL. 5 review in the course of this narrative, and at once resume the history of the opening day of Lord HilL The charm of biography is in making the subject of it speak as much as possible for himself; and fortunately Lord Hill, in the quietude of peace, drew up a memorial of his early life, from which I shall frequently have the advantage of quoting. It is dated March 25, 1822, and is entitled " Memorandum from Authentic Papers and Recollections." He commenced it thus : " I was born August Uth, 1772. At the age of seven or eight I was sent to Ightfield School, where I remained about one year. From thence I was sent to Mr. Vanburo;h's and Mr. Winfield's * schools at Chester, where I continued till I was seventeen." Both at Ightfield, which is a village in Shropshire, where he was under the instruction of a clergyman named Edwards, and at Chester, for a time, he had the advantage of numbering his brother John amongst his schoolfellows. Young Rowland manifested at this stage of life those attractive qualities of heart and manner, which caused him to be the object of such extensive esteem both in private and public during his lono; and arduous career. He was a o-reat favourite with Mr. and Mrs. Winfield, and his straightforward disposition gained him the confidence of the whole school. Major Cotton of Chester, who was one of the boys there with him, says, " He was extremely good- natured and amiable, ever ready to assist a lad out of * Mr. \V'infield was a clergy- Hills^ John and Rowland, with man, and second master to the some other boys, were removed and Rev. Robert Vanburgh. When Mr. placed under his care. Winfield married in 1 783, the two B 3 6 LORD HILL AT SCHOOL. Chap. I. a scrape, and never tumbled into one himself." He also pleasantly describes him as " toiling through the week's work, without ever coming in contact with Doctor Birch or his partner Supple Jack^ The Dean of Bangor, who was also at school with him at Chester, of which place his father was Dean, testifies, " He was a boy of gentle, unaifected manners, beloved by all the younger boys, and ever the friend of the op- pressed." He was naturally diffident and reserved, but always wilhng to join in school sports, and to contribute to the amusement of others, cheerfully assisting his juniors in any little objects they had in hand. This diffidence was not the result of timidity, but was only part of that gentleness of nature which rendered iho, contrast of his heroism the more brilliant, just as the simplest setting displays to most advantage the beauty of some precious jewel. It was not fear, but keen sensibility, in regarding the troubles of others ; and being coupled with a delicate constitution, it caused his friends some solicitude. He required many little indulgences, which brought him under the constant notice of Mrs. Winfield, whose almost mater- nal kindness he never forgot as long as he lived. She was spared to see him in the high situation of Com- mander-in-Chief ; and his attentions to her at that time Avill be mentioned when we arrive at the proper place for their introduction. Miss Winfield, in an interesting communication of what she had heard her parents relate of him, says, " He was remarkable for the mildness and equanimity of his temper, and his kindness and sensibility to the feelings of others were evident upon all occasions. His dehcate health fre- Chap. I. HIS PURSUITS AND SENSIBILITY. 7 quently prevented him joining in tlie athletic exercises of his more robust companions ; but his little garden, and his numerous pet animals, testified his systematic care and attention, by their succeeding better than those of his schoolfellows. My mother used to say, ' Every thing that Rowland Hill undertook pros- pered.'" With regard to his fondness for his garden, and his love of animals, if Miss Winfield had written the account of his rural pleasures in later life, she could not have hit upon subjects more characteristic of him. His garden at Hardmck was the most pro- ductive for its size I have ever seen, and he constantly won the best prizes at the Salop Horticultural shows ; while his fondness for tame animals of all descriptions, and his delight in exhibiting them and watching them, are notorious to his friends. With respect to the tenderness of his spirit, Miss Winfield further ob- serves, " His sensibility was almost feminine. One of the boys happened to cut his finger, and was brought by Rowland Hill to my mother to have it dressed ; but her attention was soon drawn from the wound to Rowland, who had fainted." Mrs. Winfield, happening to see him on a visit to Chester — for he invariably sought her out at every opportunity — after one of his achievements in the war, brought this fact to his recollection, remarking that she wondered how he could have acted with such coolness and vigour in the midst of the dreadful scenes of carnage surrounding hun. " I have still," he replied, " the same feelings ; but in the excitement of battle all in- dividual sensation is lost sight of." Just before he joined his regiment for the first time, he sickened at B 4 8 HIS CHOICE OF THE AKMY. Chap. I. the sight of a human heart preserved m spirits, shown him by his medical attendant ; and after he had en- tered on his miUtary duties he was unable to look at a prize-fight between Humphries and Mendoza, near the windows of his lodging, and was taken out fainting from the room. No common observer would have imagined for an instant that the army could have been his choice; yet as every one knows that bully and coward may be almost placed in the list of synonyms, so gentleness and bravery, sensibility and courage, and we may add humility and piety, are capable of a similar classification. In the spring of the year 1790 his parents sug- gested to him the choice of some profession, and seemed desirous that he should adopt that of the law. His reply still remains in the original letter he ad- dressed to his mother from Chester, on the 6th of March in that year. An extract from it mil exhibit his own view. " Last Wednesday," he wrote, " I re- ceived your very kind letter, in which you desired I would let you know Avhat profession I should really like best. I know it is your's and Papa's wish that I should be in the law, but I hope you will forgive me if I say I should not like that line of life ; for, indeed, I have a dislike to the law, and am sure I should neither be happy nor make any figure, as a lawyer. The profession which I should like best, and 1 hope you and Papa Avill not object to, is the army." To this letter, which was transmitted to his father, that kind-hearted and affectionate parent replied in the following terms : — Chap. I. LETTER OF HIS FATHER. 9 " My dear Rowland, "Your mother sent me the letter you wrote her, whereby. I find you wish to decline folloAvlng the line of life we had chalked out for you, and expressing a wish to go into the army. Now, my dear lad, do not think me in the least angry with you for coming to this resolution, but rather glad that you have declared your sentiments, though I wish they had been for what was struck out for you, as I think your pro- sjDcct of comfort and happiness, and perliaps cutting a figure in life, would have been much greater in the former than in the latter line. You know my situation, and that I can do very little more for my numerous family than jDutting them in a way to get theii* living, and giving them the best advice in my power. "Immediately on seeing your letter, I consulted those Avliom I thought most likely to inform me on the best plan for a young man to pursue who went into the army. What is most recommended is to go to a foreign academy for about two years, where strict attention to the several studies neces- sary to cut any figure in the profession must be attended to. By great favour, a commission may be purchased before you go abroad, with leave of absence, whereby you may stand a chance of creeping a little forward towards rank, the same as if you was w ith the regiment. This, to be sure, is a more expensive plan than I can Avell afford ; but as I have not a doubt but you will make every proper return, I will exert myself to put it, or something of the sort, into execution (provided you continue in your present resolution); for I much dread the idea of a young man starting in any line of life without his being determined to use his utmost endea- vours to advance in it, which I am well assured no one can in the military line, any more than any other, without a pro- per previous education. It is true, a commission may be purchased for a few hundreds: but what a miserable situation for a young man of spirit, with scarce any thing but three and sixpence per day, to saunter about from town to town, unless he has a good prospect of advancing from it. I re- turned from London last night, but shall go back again in 10 ENSIGX IN THE 38X11. — STKASBURG. Chap. I. the Easter week, when some plan for you must be cletermuied on. In the meanwhile seriously reflect upon what I have said above, and believe me to be " Your sincere friend, as well as " Your most affectionate father, "J. H. " I think I will ask jNIr. Winfield to let you come over to Frees for a very few days at Easter. It is, at all events, probable you will not leave him before Midsummer. Do attend as much as possible to your French." After this judicious statement of his views, Mr. Hill speedily obtained the desired commission for his son. It is stated in Lord Hill's own memoranda, " I got an ensigncy in the 38th Regiment, and obtained leave of absence to go to Strasburg, where I remained till the 24th of January, 1791, on which day my commission as Lieutenant in Captain Broughton's Independent Company is dated. During the time I was in this company I was quartered with it at Wrotham in Kent. On the 16th of March, 1791, 1 was appointed Lieutenant in the 53rd, or Shropshire Regiment of Foot. On receiving this appointment I obtained leave to return to Strasburg, and had not been there many weeks when Sir Richard Hill, Reverend Brian Hill, and my brother John came to Strasburg on their return to England from Italy. France at this time Avas much disturbed, and it was thought advisable that I should accompany Sir Richard to England, which I did, by a pleasant tour down the Rhine through Holland, Flanders, and the Netherlands. We arrived at Hawkstone the end of the summer." The 38th Chap. I. TOUK. LIEUTENANT. 11 Regiment, in which Lord Hill commenced the duties of a soldier, was commanded by Sir Robert Pigot : and he was exceedingly esteemed by all his brother officers. His worth}^ uncle and godfather. Sir Richard Hill, placed him in a military academy at Strasburg, with a view to his improvement in the knowledge of the profession which he had now embraced ; and it was for this purpose, and not for any object of ease or pleasure, that his leave of absence was procured. As he advanced, it was not by favour but by service, for he added twelve men to Captain Broughton's Inde- pendent Company before he was promoted to a lieu- tenancy under that officer.* At this time the rela- tions alluded to by Lord Hill were on an extensive continental tour, and had left him engaged with his military studies, and gone to Venice. Before they parted they were all put into high spirits by an amusing accident to Mr. Brian Hill. Their landlady, to do them honour, insisted on bringing forth a bottle of special Champagne Mousseux from her own vine- yard. Mr. Brian Hill happened to be close against the mouth of the bottle at the instant the cork was unloosed, and out it flew with the fury of a pistol- shot, and half the contents spirted over him. He looked as most men would, completely wetted, with no change of clothes unpacked, while the landlady, instead of making apologies, laughed vociferously, and cried out with evident dehght, " Monsieur, comment vous trouvez-vous ?" The good-natured sufferer then said, " I have the advantage of you all now, for I can * Since Sir J. D. Broughton, Baronet. 12 THE 53llD. — SCOTLAND. Chap. I. boast of wearing a dress that has been washed in cliampagne." This cheerful party had scarcely reached A'enice, before the subject of this incident wi'ote to his sister to mention that directions had been given to young Rowland to return home. His words are, " The same post that brought yours brought one from Frees with information of Rowly's preferment. It was sent immediately to Strasburg with directions for him to return to England, where I presume he will go directly, unless he receives a letter from his father in the mean time to forbid him." He did return to England, and, as he has stated, was quartered in Kent. On his removal into the 53rd Regiment, at that time commanded by Major Mathews, his return to Strasburg was permitted for the sake of perfecting himself in miUtary knowledge, until he was taken home, as he has recorded, by his relatives. His own account proceeds — " I remained in Shropshire till the January following, and joined my regiment (the 53rd), on the 18th of that month, in Edinburgh Castle. We marched from thence about Midsummer to Ayr, where I was stationed about two months, and was then sent on detachment with a command of eighteen men to Ballantrae, where I remained till the end of 1792." During this time of service in the North the ami- able young officer won the regard of the whole regi- ment, and gave many indications of those meritorious qualities which shone forth so conspicuously as his star •of fortune rose to a higher elevation. A letter from Major Mathews to Sir Richard Hill has been pre- Chap. I. LETTER OF MAJOR MATHEWS. 13 served, which gives testimony to the truth of this assertion. It is as follows: — " Sir, "Ayr, 12th Sept. 1792. " Tempted by the opportunity, and encouraged to embrace it by the assurance of Lord Balgonie that it would not be disagreeable to you to hear from me, though I have not the honour of being known to you, I presume to take this liberty in justice to your nephew, Mr. Hill, of the 53rd Regiment, whom I have had under my particular observation and direc- tion since he joined the regiment at Edinburgh, and who, desirous of paying his duty to you, accompanies Captain Houghton, of the 53rd, who will have the honour to deliver this to you, to Buxton. You, sir, are sufficiently acquainted with the many good qualities of this excellent young man, not to be under any apprehensions for his conduct when at a chs- tance from you. I nevertheless think it will be satisfactory to yovi, and to Mr. Hill, his father, to learn from me that, as an officer, his talents, disposition, and assiduity are of the most promising nature ; and that his amiable manners, sweet- ness of temper, and uncommon propriety of conduct, have not only endeared him to the regiment, but procured him the most flatterino; attentions from an extensive circle of the first fashion in this country. And with regard to the regiment and myself, in a selfish point of view, it is with much regret that I look forward to the probability of our losing him ere very long ; for, with the advantages which he possesses, it is scarcely to be expected that he will wait the common course of pi'omotion in any one regiment. Whenever this shall hap- pen, it will be very much lamented by us all, and by no one more than him Avho requests your forgiveness for the hberty he has taken, and who has the honour to subscribe himself, sir, " Your most obedient and most humble Servant, « R. Mathews, Maj. 53rd Rcgt." It has rarely happened to any one to be endowed with an equal firmness of purpose in pursuit of his 14 1793. — CAPTAIN. — IRELAND. Cuap. I. own designs, combined with the same forgetful- ness of self, whicli marked the conduct of him to wliom such a tribute of regard was paid by his com- manding officer. Throughout life his attention to others was as remarkable as his vigilance over his o"\vn interests. When invited, as a boy at school, to the deanery at Chester, his chief object was to divert the children of the family, who were younger than himself; and, though manly for his age, he would pass his afternoons in helping them to swim their little ships in a cistern on their father's premises, and in raising mimic storms for their enjoyment, evidently best pleased when he could most amuse others. Hence his presence always afforded gratification, and his departure was viewed with regret; while all re- flecting persons who regarded his talents, marked him out in their opinions as one born to rise to eminence, and adorn it. The prognostication of Major Mathews was soon verified. Determined to advance himself. Lieutenant Hill made a successful effort to raise his rank in the army. His own account continues — "In the beo'in- ning of 1793 I raised an independent company, and on the 23rd of March in that year I got my com- mission as captain." The men were raised chiefly in Shropshire : they were approved of by General Fox, at Chatliam. On the 12th of April I embarked with this company in the Aurora transport; arrived at Cork in the course of one week ; marched from Cork, by orders from Sir David Dundas, about the end of April, to Belfost, Avhere I delivered the men of my company over to the 38th Regiment, and returned to Shrop- Chap. I. IRISH TOILET AND WEDDING. 15 sliire about June." During the short time he was in Ireland, where he was much noticed, he paid a visit to an eminent literary gentleman, well kno^vn as one of the most brilliant sons of Erin. I remember his tell- ing me, that, on going to his house to pass a night, he was shown to his room before dinner, and being about to dress, he looked round for the usual washing ap- paratus, but could see nothing of the sort. Just as he was on the point of making an effort to obtain these requisites of the toilet, he heard to his great surprise and amusement a creaking in the floor, and a trap- door gradually opened, through which ascended, by a steady invisible movement, wash-hand-stand, basin, towels, hot-water, and all other due accompaniments. He used to say he never met with a parallel to this, except in the house of a gentleman Avho had a rail- road made from his kitchen to his dining-room, to send in the dishes quick and hot. Among other invitations in Ireland, he received one to a wedding of a Pro- testant gentleman to a Roman Catholic lady. It happened to be a Popish fast- day, but the bridegroom, not thinking it necessary to keep it, permitted the Protestant guests to help him to a variety of good things on the table ; but as soon as the bride perceived that any of them contained animal food, she desired a servant to take his plate away from him. The com- pany were highly excited by this commencement of a wedded life ; and at last one of them proposed a reso- lution, that if Papists and Protestants chose to wed, their friends in that neighbourhood at least should protest against its being on fast-days. Lord Hill used to tell this story with great humour. The lady her- 1 6 TOULON. — GEXEEAL O'hARA. CiiAr. I. self only gave a specimen of wliat her mother church would do in higher matters, if the half-Romanist move- ments of the age should induce any alhance with her. Soon after he left Ireland, not being attached to any corps. Captain Hill accompanied Mr. Drake to Genoa. " Thence," he says, " I proceeded to Toulon, and was employed as aid-de-camp to Lord Mulgrave, General O'Hara, and Sir David Dundas." The impression he made on these officers, while on the staff of each in succession, was of the most favourable kind ; and General O'Hara emphatically predicted his future dis- tinction in the service. One day as he quitted the room this general said to those present, " That young man will rise to be one of the first soldiers of the age." Captain Hill's first active services commenced at this period, and I give his own reminiscences of the pro- ceedings in which he was engaged : — " Lord Hood took possession of Toulon, August, 1793. On the 6th of September Lord Mulgrave ar- rived there. About a Aveek afterwards I joined his Lordship, who, at my earnest request, appointed me his aid-de-camp — a situation I preferred much to being an assistant-secretary to Mr. Drake. On the 30th of September the enemy got possession of the important port of Faron. This information was brought to Lord Mulgrave by Mr. Graham.* His Lordship, with great quickness and decision, attacked and drove the enemy back amidst great difficulties. On this occasion I was aid-de-camp. On the 8th of October we destroyed the batteries in the Hauteur de Reiniere. On the 9th * Afterwards Lord Lynedoch. Chap. I. PROCEEDINGS AT TOULON. 17 a spirited sortie by our troops ; on the 15tli the enemy- got possession of Cape le Brun. About this time General O'Hara arrived to take the command, Lord Mulgrave returned to England, and I remained with General O'Hara as his aid-de-camp. I remember General O'Hara being much displeased at the favour- able report made by Lord Mulgrave of the state of affairs at Toulon, the general adding that it was quite impossible to keep the place — that is, Toulon and the harbour — with so small a force. The French hav- ing erected a battery against the port of Malbourqiiet, General O'Hara, on the 30th of November, prepared to destroy it ; for which purpose Sir David Dundas marched in, before day-break, with two thousand men, composed of five nations, British, French Loyalists, Neapolitans, Spaniards, and Piedmontese. Sir David succeeded in obtaining full possession of the height and battery ; but the impetuosity of some of tlie troops led them to pursue the flying enemy, whilst others were occupied in plundering the enemy's camp. In this scattered and irregular state, the enemy, who had collected in great force, made an attack, and obliged us to relinquish the advantages we had gained. General O'Hara arrived at the redoubt as it was taken ; and, perceiving the disorder of the troops, was extremely displeased at their having left the hill. He used every exertion to form the troops, and sent me to bring up the artillery-men, and order these to spike the guns, and destroy them as effectually as possible. This was the last time I saw General O'Hara*; for * He means, on this occasion. C 18 o'nARA PrvISONER. — TEOVIDENTIAL ESCArE. Ciiap. I. before I returned to the battery he received a wound, and was taken prisoner. During the time General O'Hara was prisoner, he was treated very ill. On our return to the town, which we did with great haste, Sir David Dundas assumed the command, and I was appointed one of his aids-de-camp." The conduct of Captain Hill, modestly passed over by himself, was, on all these occasions, the subject of high encomium from those under whom he served. Lord Mulgrave wrote thus to Mr. Drake on the sub- ject: — "For the particulars of our action of the 1st of October, I must refer you to your relation and my friend and aid-de-camp. Captain Hill, who was in the midst of it, and whose intelligence, activity, and cou- rage rendered him of great service to me." He had a most providential escape just at the time when General O'Hara was taken prisoner. He was called doAvn by that general from a tree, into which he had climbed to make observations, and Captain Snow, his brother aid-de-camp, having ascended to replace him, was instantly killed. Captain Hill was, however, wounded slightly in the right hand, which he does not notice, nor the fact of his having had committed to him the direction of the retreat to Toulon, which he conducted in the most satisfactory manner. His talents gained confidence, and his unpretending demeanour won affection, so that no one seemed ever to regard him with jealousy. How his superior officers felt towards him, though still so young a man, will be easily collected from a letter of Lord Mulgrave, who had left liim at Toulon : — Chap. I. LETTER OF LORD MULGRAVE. 19 " Dear Hill, " Harley Street, Nov. 28, 1793. " I have this morning seen Sir Kichard Hill, who is very much delighted with your conduct at Toulon, and happy to hear that you are in General O'Hara's family. I enclosed your letter to your father, and wrote him an account of you. I shall be happy to hear from you when you have any good news to send me from Toulon. Pray speak to Barailly about the drawing of Mount Faron, which IMichel, of the INIarinc Engineer corps, was to make for me, and send it by the first favourable opportunity, and let me know if there is any thing I can send Monsieur Michel from England, in return for his trouble, that may be useful to him, and which is not to be got at Toulon. Pray remember me to Kud swell. Smith, &c. " Yours sincerely, " MULGKAVE." On tlie 13th of December, 1793, Lord Hood and Sir David Dundas sent Captain Hill with despatches to England, where he arrived on the 13th of January, 1794. Sir David observed, in his despatch, " This will be delivered by Captain Hill, a very deserving young man, who has been aid-de-camp to Lord Mulgrave, Lieutenant-General O'Hara, and myself." "These de- spatches," we learn from Lord Hill's own memoranda, "contained the difficulties of the situation of our navy and army. The evacuation of Toulon took place on the 18th and 19th December, 1793. On my return to England I saw the Duke of York at Ghent. His Eoyal Highness commanded the allied armies in Flanders at this time. I breakfasted with him and his secretary, and reported the accoimts from Toulon." Amongst those who witnessed the admirable con- duct of Captain Hill at Toulon was the veteran Lord Lynedoch, then Thomas Graham, Esq., ser\dng as a c 2 20 MR. GRAHAM. — THE 90tH. Chap. I. volunteer, and gaming great honour. His admira- tion of our young officer was such as to create m him a desire that he should serve in the same regiment with hivnself. Accordingly, Lord Hill has made the followiQ- entry of this circumstance in his own notes: _"In the early part of 1794 Mr. Graham raised a re-iment of infantry, and oifered me the majority of it on raising a certain quota of men." With his usual simplicity and conciseness, he merely added to the record of the proposal, "This I did." This regnnent was the brave 90th, in which he was destined to win so many honours, and to gather the laurels of the hiohest achievements. It was afterwards augmented to°a thousand strong, when he became the heutenant- colonel on the usual terms. The year in which this body of men was first formed, was an epoch of re- markable events on the face of afflicted Europe. It was the period of the Duke of York's operations near Cambray and Tournay, while the arrival of Lord Moira at Ostend preceded those in the Netherlands. France was agitated by the insurrection in La Vendee, and by Robespierre's brutal administration. That talent- less monster—cunning without genius, and a tyrant without a single quality calculated for wholesome rule, as well as ferocious without a spark of courage —found his sole element in fiendish cruelty. Under his hands, the captive general suffered most unworthy hardships. Lord Hill alludes to the subject thus : — "General O'Hara was treated with the utmost rigour and barbarity by him. The general has told me that he was placed in the common gaol, and was fed on artichoke leaves and bullock's liver." The ills which Chap. I. ROBESriEERE AND O'hARA. 21 desolated the French nation, and tins barbarism to- wards a brave and honourable captive, convey to the whole world a great practical illustration of the trutli, that there is no such thing as infidel magnanimity or atheistical virtue ; and that wherever God and his Gospel are rejected, every production of nature that promotes the health of the social system, becomes stunted in its growtli and bitter in its essence, while all that is destructive assumes a giant form of rank luxuriance, poisoning the air and veihng the light, whence a darkness covers the heavens, broken only at intervals by the lightning-flash and thunder-peal of anarchy and woe. From Christianity alone spring the elements of high national character, and the sources of high-minded actions; from nothing else can we ever hope to derive a wisdom we can venerate, an authority we can regard as parental, a goodness we can love, because we experience its blessings. The well-known occurrences of the time now occu- pying our attention, are thus briefly adverted to by Lord Hill ; and as enlargement upon them would be foreign to the object before us, I shall merely give his own words: — " The hard frost which marked the close of 1794 and beo;innino- of 1795, enabled the French to cross the Waal. The Duke of York departed for England. On the 6th of January the British army retired, or, more properly speaking, made a hasty re- treat through HoUand, suffering extreme hardships. The Stadtholder and Prince of Orange came to Eng- land. The French took possession of Holland. In April the British troops returned to England." While the, Stadtholder was in this country, he was most C 3 22 THE STADTHOLDER AT HAWKSTONE. Chap. I. splendidly entertained by Sir rdchard Hill at Hawk- stone, where that excellent baronet drew around him the most illustrious men of his age; while his chanties succoured the poor, and his protection shielded the pious, who were forgotten or opposed in those extra- ordinary times. The summer of 1795 was passed by the 90th regi- ment, and its young lieutenant-colonel, on foreign service. It was one of the regiments which, under General Doyle, took possession of Isle Dieu, where they remained unmolested by the French till the fol- lowing December. Colonel Hill, who never could be inactive, and had always a keen enjoyment of field diversions, amused himself and brother officers by coursing, keeping greyhounds for that purpose. He and his senior and friend Lord Lynedoch were km- dred spirits in this respect ; and the veteran in one of his letters to Lord Hill, still preserved, coimnissioned him to procure pointers and setters from Shropshire for shooting— a pursuit he keenly relished throughout his very long and distinguished life. In December Colonel HiU gladly quitted Isle Dieu, where there was so little scope for the developement of his military genius. "I embarked," his words are, "from Isle Dieu in the Artois, Sir Edmund Nagle's frigate. At night we were on the rocks near Quiberon, and were in^'considerable danger. The ship, however, reached Portsmouth in safety about Christmas-Day. The regiment afterwards was quartered at Poole for some months." The anxious spirit of Colonel Hill could not reconcile itself to the narrow bounds of a small Chap. I. ISLEDIEU. GIBRALTAR. — O'lIARA. 23 ii^land, while the whole continent of Europe was in a state of agitation at the progress of Napoleon, then in the vigour of his days, a'ld the excitement of his amazing projects. At this time his aspiring energies were encaged in the Isle Dieu, and had scarcely any thing to occupy them but field-sports. In 179G Jjona- parte's Italian campaign was the wonder of the nations and the theme of every discourse, and quickened in the minds of the brave a desire for active employ. Colonel Hill, accordingly, gladly welcomed an oppor- tunity of going abroad. " I went," he has recorded, "with the 90th to Gibraltar in the summer of 179G, where I found my old general, O'Hara, in command of the garrison. I had not seen him since the day he was taken prisoner. He received me most kindly, and gave me a house of his o^vn as a quarter." The terms on which Colonel Hill was with this veteran, ■sviU be perceptible from a laconic epistle to the former, who had sent his esteemed general a comfortable cloak or wrapper of some kind, as a mark of his gratitude. The letter, too, is quite that of the old soldier. " My dear Hill, " Convent, 26th of July, 1796- "I am much obliged by the very comfortable present you made me yesterday. I shall, however, put off being a swaddled old fellow as long as I can. " Yours ever, most sincerely and faithfully, "CiiAS. O'Haka." General O'Hara's kind disposition towards Colonel Hill was founded upon a much firmer basis than a mere value of his attentions or pleasure in his society: he entirely confided in the clearness of his under- c 4 24 COLONEL HILL SENT TO LISBON. Chap. I. standing and the soundness of his judgment ; and, young as he was, he selected him for the discharge of a dehcate duty. What this was, we learn from Lord Hill's own notes : "In the beginning of October, 179G, General O'Hara entrusted me with a verbal communication to convey to the British ambassador at Lisbon. This communication was the expected war with Spain. It proved correct ; for, before I could return, hostilities had commenced, and it was with difficulty I got back to the garrison of Gibraltar — not only from the declaration of war, but also in con- sequence of the illness occasioned by great exertion to accomplish the duty I was employed on for my respected general." The same spirit which breathes in tliis sentence, animated its worthy writer through the performance of the infinite number of arduous trusts reposed in him as he rose in the army, and brought him into the same confidence with the Duke of Wellington, that he inspired in his superiors before he was called upon to serve with that illustrious leader. He knew not only how to command, but how to obey ; and both by those to whom it was his province to give, and by those from whom it was his duty to receive orders, he was equally beloved. On Colonel Hill's return to Gibraltar he found himself almost as much confined as he was in Isle Dieu, for the declaration of war between Spain and England prevented any communication with the country. Still it was the scene of much that was interesting, and the focus of tidings respecting the events of the day. In February, 1797, the news of Chap. I. SPANISH SHIP AND THE CUTTER. 25 Lord St. Vincent's victory over the Spanish fleet on the 14th reached the garrison to their great joy. Colonel Hill, who had a truly keen sense of the lu- dicrous, was extremely amused by the account given of one of the Spanish ships which was making her escape into Cadiz, and the way in which his old friend General O'Hara received it. The captain of a cutter came and told the general that he had come across her with his vessel as she was getting away. " She is wonderfully damaged," he exclaimed, " and has a hole in her side big enough to run my cutter-into." " Then why on earth," replied the general, drily, " did you not do so ? " During this year England was threatened Avith the boasted French invasion, and what was much more to be dreaded, a mutiny in the navy ; but the absence of Colonel Hill allowed him no acquaintance, except that of distant report, with these serious affairs. In July, 1798, the mission of Lord Malmesbury to Lisle, to negotiate a peace with the French, proved a failure ; and Bonaparte took possession of Malta, and sought to make Egypt the scene of his conquests. The check he received from Nelson's victory at Abou- kir is fresh in the recollections of a grateful nation. Colonel Hill, however, still remained with the 90th regiment. The events of that period arc thus briefly summed up in his manuscript: — "In August, 1798, the French landed at Killala, under the command of Humbert. This force did not exceed 844, officers and men. I remained in arms till the 8th September. I remained with the 90th regiment, which was under 2G ACCIDENT. — EriTOME OF EVENTS. Chap, I. the command of Lieutenant-Colonel MoncriefF, the whole of this year." He then mentions various cir- cumstances which induced him to apply for leave of absence, "which," he adds, "was granted ;" continu- ing:, "I came to Endand in 1799, and remained till the expedition sailed from Portsmouth, under Sir Ralph Abercromby. My leave, on this occasion, was prolonged in consequence of an accident, occasioned by Clement's setting fire to spirits of wine, which I used for chilblains. The year 1799 exhibited a strange picture of the world turned upside do^vn, — Turks, Mahometans, Roman Catholics, Protestants, all at war, and supporting each other. Bonaparte continued in possession of Egypt ; various battles took place in that country between Mamelukes, Turks, and French. Sir Sidney Smith at Acre. In August, 1799, Sir R. Abercromby landed at the Helder. Lord Duncan commanded the fleet. The Duke of York afterwards took the command of the army." This brief epitome of events requires no further expansion, as they are notorious matters of history, and contain no particulars illustrative of the career of Lord Hill beyond the re- flex eflects they had upon his movements. When he came to London he was much struck with the noble bearing and generous spirit of Sir Ralph Abercromby, and had the privilege of conversing with that gallant officer before he sailed. He used frequently to men- tion Sir Ralph's liberal feelings towards his sons, of whom he said, " They ought, as soldiers, never to want money. I wish them to have what is handsome, which both causes them to spend less, and never to be embarrassed by appearing needy." For himself, Colo- Chap. I. SIR R. ABERCROMBY. 27 nel Hill had, notwithstanding his services, never re- ceived any remuneration from the government beyond his pay, at which several officers, who knew and appre- ciated his exertions and successes, were exceedingly surprised, and did not hesitate to say so. Still he was in no degree disheartened, and quietly determined to persevere in his efforts for advancement in his pro- fession. Tor this purpose he was anxious to see the service of the troops on the Continent, and applied to the Duke of York for leave to accompany his friend Mr. Drake, who was about to depart on a diplomatic journey to Switzerland, and was willing to take him. Colonel Hill made application to the Horse Guards through the secretary of his Royal Highness, to whom he wrote the subjoined letter : — « Sir, " I shall be extremely obliged if you will lay the following request before his Royal Highness the Commandcr-iu-Cliief : " Mr. Drake, who is going into Switzerland in a diplomatic line, has offered to take me with him ; and as I am desirous of accompanying him to the Continent, with a view of seeing some more service with the Austrian and Russian armies, I shall esteem it a very particular favour if the Duke of York will grant me permission to go with him. And if I find, after a short residence on the Continent, that my endeavours to serve with the armies are of no avail, I will in that case immediately proceed by way of Leghorn to join my regiment at Minorca. I beg to assure his Royal Highness that the sole motive of my making such a request is an ardent wish of improvmg myself in my profession. " I have the honour to be, " Your obedient servant, " R. Hill, Lt. Col. UOth Regt/' 28 COLONEL HILL AND MR. DRAKE. Chap. I. The leave sought in this letter was readily granted ; and how near he was going out with Mr. Drake, will appear in a summons to prepare himself from that gentleman. « My dear Sir, Wells, lAIarch 12, 1800. " Sir liichard informed you of my having received orders to prepare for my immediate departure for the Continent, and of the necessity of your being ready to come to town on the shortest notice. As my instructions could not be prepared until the arrival of the Hamburgh mails, which are now ice- bound in the Elbe, Lord Grcnville permitted me to return hither upon condition that I should be ready to set out at forty-eight hours' notice ; and as the thaw has now begun, it is pi'obable that the mails Avill soon be released, and conse- quently that I shall very soon be called upon. I therefore beg to apprise you that it will be necessary for you to be prepared to set out for London, the moment you receive an intimation to that eifect from Sir Richard. It might, perhaps, be ad- visable for you to forward immediately by the waggon to London, such things as you may wish to carry with you be- yond what you may have daily occasion for. Francis is very well ; and we all join in kind regards to your father, mother, and family. " Believe me to be, " Yours, very sincerely, " Francis Drake." Thus it seems that Colonel Hill was on the very eve of departure for the continent of Europe : and if this intention had been carried into effect, the whole future current of his life would have probably been altered, and the distinction placed within his reach, and won by him so well and so early, more tardily, if ever, awarded to the judgment, sagacity, hero- ism, and inihtary talent he had soon an opportunity Chap. I, CHANGE OF TLANS, 29 of exhibiting to admiring superiors and a devoted soldiery. We have now traced the progress of his life up to the momentous period which will form the subject of the next chapter. Notwithstanding his natural sen- sibihty, arising, not out of a pusillanimous constitution, but an amiable spirit, deeply affected by the ills of others, a latent and decided consciousness of his quali- fications for such a choice, led him to select the army as the sphere for their development. His indulgent and amiable father yielded to his wish, but evidently without the least conception that the germ of eminence could be effectually matured, in the midst of traits of character the very reverse of such as are usually sup- posed requisites for a soldier. Mr. Winfield his worthy tutor, his schoolfellows, his general acquaintances at Chester, all regarded gazette after gazette, each con- taining in succession stronger and stronger testimonies to his triumphs and gallant conduct, with perfect amazement, when they remembered his placid temper- ament, gentle bearing, and quiet demeanour, which made him the subject in boyhood of more than ordinary tenderness and care. For these attentions he cherished, from his entrance upon a military life to tlie latest period of his existence, a vivid gratitude. Before he went first to Toulon, when expecting to be called soon into active service, he wrote to Mr. Winfield, "Nothing, I assure you, w^ould give me greater pleasure than to have it in my power to make you any return for the great kindness and attention you showed me during the time I was under your care," — the sincerity of which profession he manifested on several occasions. 30 KEMAKKS. Chap. I. The secret of his constant advance at every step and on every occasion was this — that to the most endearing goodness of disposition there was added a fixed, simple determination to do his duty according to the ability he possessed, and, above all, the zeal and devotedness to his country of a patriotic and courageous heart. 31 CHAPTER II. CHANGE IN COLONEL HILL's PLANS. — ms POCKET JOURNAL GENERAL "VVHITELOCK. VOYAGE. GIBRALTAR. GENERAL O'hARA. THE PEGASUS. CURIOUS DINNER. — INDISPOSITION OF COLONEL HILL. THE " DIVERSION." MALTA PROCEEDS TO EGYPT. LORD KEITH. THE LANDING. BATTLE OF THE 13th of IMARCH. COLONEL HILL WOUNDED: SAVED BY HIS HELMET. TAKEN ON BOARD THE FOUDROYANT. — BATTLE OF THE 21ST : MORTAL WOUND OF SIR R. ABERCROMBY : HE IS CAR- RIED TO THE SAJIE CABIN "WITH COLONEL HILL. IHS DEATH CAPITAN PACHA. PRESENTS. THE BRAVE QOtH. — CAMPAIGN CONTINUED. COLONEL HILL's NOTES THE GRAND VIZIER IN THE BRITISH CAMP. EVACUATION OF EGYPT BY THE FRENCH. GENERAL HOPE. CONGRATULATIONS. — JOSEPH WILLOUGHBY. — CONDUCT OF THE 90tII. — THE WET CARPENTER. DEATH AND CHARACTER OF GENERAL o'hARA. RESUXTS OF THE EGYPTIAN CAIVIPAIGN. On the 1st of January, 1800, Lieutenant- Colonel Hill was made full Colonel ; and the year itself was destined to be spent by him in very diiferent scenes from those he had contemplated visiting under the auspices of Mr. Drake. Thus, while we turn the thread of our existence in one way, according to the best of our im- perfect judgment, the supreme hand of Providence often reverses its direction. Mr. Drake did not go out, and this was the cause of Colonel Hill's finding in Egypt such an arena of military glory. His own narrative is written with his usual simplicity, both in the memoranda quoted in the last chapter, and in a small pocket journal kept amidst the sands of the desert and on the banks of the Nile. The latter re- 32 FOCKET JOURNAL. CiiAr. II. cord commences thus : " Having procured leave from the Duke of York to accompany Mr. Drake, and jom my regiment by way of Italy, I waited in London some months ; but finding it uncertain when he was to set out, and hearing the 90th Regiment was to be actively employed with Sir Ralph Abercromby, I determined to join my regiment as soon as possible ; therefore on May the 15th set out with Admiral Hol- lo way for Portsmouth." This diary continues : " Saturday the 24tli May, embarked at Spithead on board the Pegasus, 28 guns, fitted up as a troop-ship, and having on board about 200 men and 30 officers, and I, being senior officer, gave out orders necessary to be observed on board — 25th dropped down to St. Helen's — 26th sailed, fine breeze — 2 7th fine — 28tli placed the men at the guns according to the directions of Captain Pingelly." Here all the officers seem to have looked up to Colonel Hill with the greatest deference. Amongst these were Lord Blaney and others, forming the personal staff of Sir Ralph Abercromby, who had become acquainted with Colonel Hill at Portsmouth, where they were all detained several days together. •' During this time," he says, " the pompous Lieutenant-Governor, General AYhitelock, showed attention to all the officers except myself, which I could not account for, until his aid- de-camp told me the reason, which was, because I was not in uniform when I waited on him." This individual was the only person in jDOwer, who ever appears to have shghted one whom all others con- curred in valuing and commending both for efficiency and conduct. Chap II. VOYAGE. 33 Though Colonel Hill was gentle in the extreme, he never permitted any deviation from discipline. An in- stance of this occurred while he was in the Pegasus. An officer on board that ship was reported to him, on the 28th of IMay, as having been the previous night intoxicated. This charge being fully substantiated, he says, " I assembled all the officers, and before them told that his conduct had been highly improper, and that if he behaved in like manner again I should report him to the Commander-in-Chief. promised to conduct himself in future as an officer ; and by the approbation of all the officers he was re-admitted to their society." After passing a few more days at sea, the party landed at Mevagissy, in Cornwall, and made an expedition to see a tin-mine, and then sailed again with a fair wind. " Sunday the 1st of June " they were " off Scilly, and fell in with the outward-bound East India fleet. The commander reported the French fleet to be at sea, and imagined Lord St. Vincent was between us and it. In the evening placed the men at their quarters, two to each gun." He also arranged that three captains and six subalterns with sixty men should act as marines, and put every thing in the ship into the most complete order. On the 4th of June they fell in with Captain Legg, who also informed them that he had heard the French fleet was out ; and the very next day they came across an enemy's vessel, which they chased and fired at for four hours, but could not come up to her. After the usual occurrences of a sea voyage, they made the Straits of Gibraltar on the 10th of June; but the gun- boat not coming out to them as was expected, they did D 34 CURIOUS DINNEE. Chap. II. not go on shore till early the next morning. Colonel Hill found his old friend General O'Hara up and on parade, and went home to breakfast with him, when " a very satisfactory conversation " ensued. After this he " walked about the garrison, and saw the works at Landport," but " at one got under way, and with a fair wind and large convoy waited on Sir Ealph Abercromby." In the evening a ship ran foul of the Peo'asus, but nothino' disastrous was the result. She does not seem to have been a good sailer, for on the 15th chase was given by her to four vessels, all of which escaped. During this time Colonel Hill was not negligent as to improving himself in his profession, and was paying studious attention to the theory of field fortification, reading diligently on that subject. The 24th found him near Cabrera, where they were much distressed for provisions. At this place he mentions that " a pair of boots were dressed, boiled, and roasted with lemon, for dinner in the gun-room ; " but he does not state with what appetite they were eaten, nor the cause of this burlesque upon their scanty fare. On arriving at Majorca, they were informed by "the commander that Genoa had surrendered, and was re- taken by lionaparte, and that Sir Ralph had sailed with 3000 men." They made the utmost expedition to join him ofi" Leghorn, and were becalmed near Corsica, but reached that port on the 8th of July, when they found the place in a state of disturbance, and Sir Ralph gone to Malta. Lord Hill's remarks on Leghorn are very brief. — " 10th, went on shore. Saw Lord Keith. The Queen of Naples, with Sir William and Lady Hamilton, on board the Alexander, Lord Chap. II. THE " DIVErtSION." 35 Nelson. Most of the shops and public places shut up." It was on the 21st of July that he reached Minorca, where he remained till the 27th of August, when he embarked with Sir Kalph Abercromby and " an army of 12,000 men." A brief entry in his journal shows that though he had the satisfaction of joining his general, he was tried by indisposition, "lltli Sep- tember, I was taken very unwell, and so ill, not able to keep a memorandum. Got to Gibraltar. Day after dined with General O'Hara, but was so very ill at dinner, I was obliged to leave the room. Two days after I came on shore and lived with General Wemyss." Sir James Pulteney at this time arrived at Gibraltar with 5000 men. Soon after, the whole fleet, with an army of 25,000 men, sailed for Cadiz, off which place they remained three days. " The troops were ordered to land, and General Moore's division was embarked in the boats; but before they reached the shore, they were recalled and the landino- abandoned. Sio'ual made to return to Tetuan Bay. 10th October, much better. Off the Straits of Gibraltar." These various ma- noeuvres were performed with the intention of de- ceiving the enemy ; but General O'Hara, who was labouring under impaired health and spirits, and whose tactics were all of the straightforward order, became furiously enraged at the whole proceeding. " What is the meaning of all this pretence of landing at Cadiz, passing backwards and forwards, and all the rest of it ?" " It is a diversion. General," was the answer given to the brave and blunt veteran. " Diversion /" he exclaimed. " 'Tis a diversion^ for all Europe is laugh- ing at you. Why, your commander cannot see the D 2 36 HIGH TRICE or PROVISIONS. Chap. II.' length of his nose; and as for your fighting-cock Moore, he has trimmed his tail ! Pretty doings ! " This ebullition of the worthy veteran was in allu- sion, in the first instance, to the well-known near- sightedness of Sir Ralph Abercromby ; and certainly the general could not regard the rendezvous at Gibraltar with much personal satisfaction, since the price of pro- \asions had been enormously augmented by it. Lord Hill used to mention, that being forbidden, on account of his ilhiess at that time, to eat anything but fresh meat, he was obliged to give three pounds twelve shillings sterling for a turkey, and a guinea for a fowl. Of course General O'Hara could not think this increase in the expenses of his own very hospitable board, by any means a diversion. And then, in those days of all-prevailing powder and pomatum. Sir John Moore had actually dared the innovation of a crop, and ap- peared unfrizzled and unfloured upon parade. This was the source of the second remark of the harassed old soldier, who no doubt considered, as many of his years would have done, that, with the curls and the pigtail the age of chivalry was gone.* On the 10th of October Colonel Hill was so much better as to be able to proceed to Tetuan. " Stayed * Probably the authorities were and Cadell tells us, " As soon as of the same opinion, for it was not they had finished on board the till the arrival of Sir John Moore head-quarter ship, the adjutant, from Stockholm in 1808, that an Lieutenant Russell, proceeded with order reached his troops to cut off them and a pattern man to the their queues. It was dated 24th other troop-ships. The tails were July, and gave universal delight, kept till all were docked, when, by Tlie signal was made for all hair- a signal, the whole were hove over- cutters to proceed to head quarters: board with three cheers." Chap. II. ILLNESS. — MALTA. 37 there," he says, " till a violent gale of wind from the east obliged us to leave our anchor and come off Cape Spartel. The fleet very much scattered ; all officers on salt provisions." He then continues, " Monday, October 20th, at anchor off Cape Spartel. 21st, Sir Ralph joined the fleet, after being separated in the last gale. Miserably bad ; no provisions ; all tired with being on board so long ; very ill ; returned to Gibraltar." There seemed to be no end of this passing to and fro, while various untoward circumstances, and above all the illness ^vhich affected a constitution never robust, threatened a far different termination to those hopes of service and distinction which animated his heroic breast, than fortunately for himself and his country he was at last permitted to realize. But we will let him teU the brief tale of his OAvn pro- gress : — " 27th, sailed from Gibraltar : contrary ■winds. Off Cape Gata till the 7th of November, when we made ^Minorca, and anchored. Still unwell. Remained at ]Minorca till the 16th of November; was on shore most of the time for -the benefit of my health. Sailed 17th, fine wind, for Malta." There they arrived on the 20th, after a quick passage, but " blowing a gale of wind," and " the regiment disembarked, and remained on shore till the 13th of December," In his notes on this celebrated island he makes allusion to the shipwreck of St. Paul, in a manner that shows he had been an attentive reader of his Bible. The im- portance of this duty was often urged upon him by more than one member of his family ; and hence it was he derived the solace he experienced when the D 3 38 STORM. — LORD KEITH. Chap. II. light of God's Word cheered the brief evening of his long and eventful day. The 1st of January, 1801, presented to his ad- miring view the noble harbour of Marmora ; and better health enabled him to hear with cheerful spirits, the sounds of preparation for the campaign in Egypt. His own note runs thus : — " January 1st, 1801, Mar- mora ; all well ; wrote to Frees ; preparing for our expedition against the French troops in Egypt." Here they passed the whole month. " February 1st," he continues, "still at Marmora; dined with Lord Keith. Preparation for our departure." On the 9th there arose a " tremendous storm, accompanied with most violent thunder and lightning, and hailstones the size of a pigeon's egg.'^ They did not sail for some time after this, as appears from his own record : — " 2 2d, sailed from Marmora, or Marmorice, with a fleet of about 200 sail, some Turkish, some Greeks. 23d, fine wind, steering for Egypt." A more magnificent sight than the fleet under Lord Keith can scarcelv be ima- gined ; but these notes of Colonel Hill plainly prove that the noble Admiral knew better than to venture its safety by bringing it out of Marmorice harbour in a gale of wind, as has been stated by some writers. At the same time, his determination to convey the brave army on board to the coast of Egypt, manifested the most cool and masterly seamanship; for it was taken in the face of the opinion of all the pilots, who designated the attempt no less than madness, and proclaimed the landing impossible till the equinox was past. The progress is thus shortly mentioned by Colonel Hill : — " March 1st, saw Alexandria ; 2d, an- CiiAF. II. LANDING. BATTLE OF MARCH 13. 39 cliored in Aboukir Bay ; 8tli March, the landing was gallantly made." Thus opened that effective cam- paign, and with it opportunities for the display of those high qualities in Colonel Hill, which brightened each time they were exhibited, and at length com- manded universal applause, blended with what is still more valuable, universal respect. The narrative of events in Egypt has been often enough told. I therefore proceed with Colonel Hill's modest notes of his own share in them. " 12th (March), moved on towards Alexandria; 13th March, attacked the French, defeated them, and gained a glorious vic- tory. AVas wounded, and went on board the expe- dition." This short extract is from his diary kept at the time ; but the following cjuotation from the later memoranda will give fuller particulars : — " On the 2 2d February, 1801, the expedition under Sir R. Aber- cromby and Lord Keith weighed. On the 27th it blew tremendously. On the 1st March we anchored in the celebrated bay of Aboukir. On the 8th we landed in Egypt. On the 12th the army advanced, skirmishing with the enemy till dusk. At night, the 90th, which I commanded, and the 92d, were placed along the front of the army. On the morning of the 13th, at six, the British army began to move, the 90th regiment as its advanced guard. At this moment a considerable body of cavalry made a spirited and im- petuous charge on the 90th, who, as Walsh says, with the coolness and intrepidity of veterans received them, unbroken, upon the points of their bayonets. The French were obliged to retreat. I was wounded by a musket-ball, which struck the peak of the hehnet, now D 4 40 COLONEL HILL WOUNDED. Chap. II. at Hawkstoiie. After being wounded I was taken on board Lord Keith's ship, where I remained about three weeks, and then returned to the regiment." Colonel Hill's escape was truly providential; and the helmet is still kept as a memorial of his danger and his merciful deliverance. In the general orders of Sir Ralph Aber- cromby, issued the next day, was contained this un- equivocal praise of the conduct of the 90th : — " He desires that Major-General Cradock will assure the officers and men of the 90th Regiment, that their meritorious conduct commands his admiration." The description of the gallantry of the 90th by Sir Robert Wilson, plainly shows that this encomium was well de- served. He says, " At the same time the cavalry, under the orders of General Bron, charged down a height on the 90th Regiment, forming the advanced guard of the right column. This regiment, undismayed, firmly maintained its ground, and, allowing the cavalry to approach, fired such a volley as completely altered their direction, and compelled them to retreat." Though Colonel Hill was rendered insensible by the violence of the concussion from the ball, which his helmet was mercifully permitted to arrest, he speedily revived, and was much consoled by the friendly in- vitation of Lord Keith to come on board the Fou- droyant. "Dear Hill, " l6th M (arch), 1801. " I am happy to hear you are so Avell, and I think you will be more at ease here than where you are. I beg you will come, and I will do all I can to make the ship comfortal^le to you. I wish my poor friend Erskine were able to come also. " Yours ever, « Col. Hill, 90th Rco-t., Cyclops. " Keith. ''Keith:' Chap. II. DEATH OF SIR R. ABERCROMBY. 41 The clay after the elate of this invitation Colonel Hill removed to the Foudroyant. AVhile there, still weak from the effect of his wound, he saw with grief his brave commander brought from the battle-field of the 21st of March, to die in the same cabin where he himself was gradually recovering. He says, in his diary, " Remained on board the Foudroyant till 14th April. The glorious 21st of March, poor Sir R. Abercromby was brought on board. He was in the same cabin with me, and lived one week: his lady sent to Malta in the Flora." While Colonel Hill was confined in the Foudroyant, the Capitan Pacha, who came to that ship, presented him with a sabre, a gold box, and a handsome shawl, as a testimony of admiration of the gallant manner in which he had led the 90th Regiment on the 18 th of March, and invited him to pay a visit to the Sultan Selim. It was the misfortune of this brave army, which first taught Frenchmen under Bonaparte the sur- passing skill and excellence both of our men and officers, to have lost Sir Ralph Abercromby, the ad- mirer of Colonel Hill, and his companion in the cabin of the wounded, where the latter was obliged to remain till the 14th of April. But the conflict of the 13th, and the decisive victory of the 21st of March, had rendered it impossible for the French to maintain themselves for any great length of time in Egypt. Though many that were arrayed against the English had crossed the Alps with Napoleon, they confessed that they had never fought till now. And who gave the first re- pulse to their hitherto undaunted assaults and vie- 42 SKIEMISH. — CAPTURE OF RAMANIEH. Chap. II. torious movements ? It was the 90th Regiment, com- mancled by Colonel Hill, on whom the opening on- slaught was directed, and whose conduct became the first omen of victory, brilliantly achieved, and only clouded by the loss of Sir Ealph Abercromby, whom every soldier loved as a father, and confided in as a leader. On the 19th of April Colonel Hill commanded the camp at Hamed, and on the 4th of May orders were given for the British and Turkish army to march for- ward. From Colonel Hill's Diary it appears that "the British army consisted of Major-General Cra- dock's brigade, Brigadier-General Doyle's part of the reserve, four three-pounders, four six, two howitzers, and a few cavalry." As the British advanced, the French receded before them, till, on the 10th of May, the former marched towards Ramanieh. " About four miles," he states, " before we reached that place- the enemy came out, and with cavalry and light troops skirmished with our advanced guards and light troops. Our loss was about thirty killed and wounded ; that of the Turks more considerable ; that of the French may be about sixty or seventy. The French at night evacuated their position. I was on duty, and, from the noise I heard, I imagined they were moving off. I reported the same to General Cradock. On the 11th the fort of Ramanieh sur- rendered. The same day a party of dragoons, coming from Alexandria to Ramanieh, were taken, not know- ing we were in possession of the place." Ramanieh itself was by no means a strong fort, and the village was filthy, but the produce of the surrounding coun- Chap. II. CONVOY TAKEN. CAIRO. 4 Q try in corn, was such as to cover the land like the years of plenty in the days of Josepli. The army continued marching on without any en- counter till the 1 7th, when, says Colonel Hill, "a convoy, consisting of 600 French, 400 camels, and 200 cavalry, &c., coming from Alexandria, were heard of in the desert. The whole army was under arms, and pro- ceeded in diiferent directions in three columns, and after a fatiguing march in the desert, General Doyle's brigade came up with the convoy, which surrendered. At night I had the command of the guard over them." Colonel Hill proceeds: — "1st of June, the army changed its ground, and moved forward four miles. 2d, Osman Bey, with his noble cavalry, came into our camp. 4th, the army moved forward, the band of the 90tli playing ' God save the King.' " A few more changes occurred, and on the 16th the army " en- camped before Grand Cairo;" and the next extract from the diary will inform us under what circum- stances. — " During the march from Hamed to Grand Cairo the weather was extremely hot, and the fatigue the soldiers endured, I believe to be unparalleled. One day, about the 20th of June, the thermometer was at 120°; some say 128°: it was generally near 100°. The country we passed through was covered Avith corn, the finest possible. The villages were nearly the same, and all equally miserable. In gene- ral there was one mosque in each ; the houses built of mud ; the inhabitants naked, wretched, and savage. If the country had not been plundered by the French and Turks, we might have had plenty of provisions. Buffaloes in great abundance. On our march every 44 CONFERENCE. — ALEXANDRIA. — THE 90tH. Chap. IT. preparation, though slow, was making to bring up the heavy artillery for the siege of Cairo." The result of all these demonstrations is thus mentioned : — " On the evening of the 21st I was Colonel for the day. The next morning a French officer came out with a letter for the Commander-in-Chief, in consequence of which a conference took place, and ended in the French agreeing to evacuate Egypt, and surrender the citadel of Cairo in twelve days." " July 6, the Grand Vizier came to the British camp. On the 15th of July the army began its march from Cairo, the Turks in front, then the British, and afterwards the French." The march from Cairo to Hamed occupied fourteen days, when the French, who had left the former place, moved off by divisions and embarked for France, and the British encamped among the date-trees near Rosetta. From this place General Hope's brigade marched to Alexandria ; and, on the IGth of August, Colonel Hill and the 90th were placed once more in the front of the line, and soon had the pleasure of seeing the last remnant of the enemy de- part from Egypt. On the 8th of September General Hope inspected the 90th Regiment, and thus addressed Colonel Hill: — "Sir, considering the service your regiment has gone through, it is impossible a regiment can be more complete than it is at present. I have minutely inspected every part of it, and it is with pleasure I tell you that the whole corps does you and the officers the greatest credit." He also Avrote in the most commendatory terms of tlieir gallant conduct to General Hutchinson, who succeeded Sir Ralph Aber- cromby in the command of the British army in Egypt. Chap. II. LETTER OF SIR RICHARD HILL. 45 But Colonel Hill had the happiness of receiving congratulations on his escape and distinction, dearer to him than all besides. These were letters from his family and friends in England. One particularly from Sir Richard Hill, is eminently characteristic of that deservedly -popular and pious man. "My very dear Rowland, " London, May 12. 1801. " With the most inexpressible pleasure and satisfaction have I this day received your letter mentioning your truly providential escape on the 13th of March, for Avhich we can never be sufficiently thankful to Him who screened your head in the day of battle. God knows that my prayer for you, my very dear lad, has been that you may return to your anxious friends and relatives, whole in body and renewed in soul ; and that the many wonderful instances you have experienced of sparing mercy, may be crowned with that greatest of all mer- cies, converting, sa\ang mercy. " As soon as I received the most welcome epistle, I made its contents known to many who had made frequent incpiiries after you ; and the account has rejoiced them. Maria will have told you that some of the newspapers had stated that you were killed. However, a letter which I got from kind Mr. Addington dispersed, or rather prevented, our appre- hensions on that account, as it was the first which we had from any quarter, and, indeed, was written before any other accounts had transpired. " I beheve that all the letters vou have forwarded to Eng- land have been received. Yours written to me from Malta came duly to hand. ****** " Maria has no doubt sent you what httle domestic news may be stirring. However, that certainly is not much. The best piece of news you can send us in return, is that we may venture to entertain hopes of seeing you l^efore long In Eng- land ; and I hope you will not fail to bring with you the 46 DOMESTIC NEWS. Chap. II. friendly helmet which first received the ball, and prevented the stroke from being fetal to the wearer. ****** " Our stay in town will be very short ; and indeed the country is now so delightful, that I care not how soon I visit the romantic scenes at Hawkstone. " As it is by no means certain when this may reach you, or, indeed, whether you will get it at all, I will add no more but that my best Avishes and prayers follow you whithersoever you go, and that I remain, with love from all here, the Tud- ways, &c. &c., " My very dear Rowland, " Yours most affectionately and truly, « R. H." All the domestic news was sent to Colonel Hill in the way Sir Richard supposed, and that in a most engaging and talented style of writing. One piece of intelligence his sister made known to him was the determination of his servant, who had been ill at Hawkstone for some time, to set off at all hazards to attend him in Egypt, the instant he heard of his being wounded. She also communicated to him the deep concern of other humble individuals in the em- ployment of the family, whose attachment his kind and condescending treatment had won. Nor did she forget to mention the state of his pheasants and his poultry, which were the subjects of his amusement when at home. Nothing was more remarkable in his rare and winning disposition, than the contrast exhi- bited in his indulgence to dependants, and fondness for tame animals, to the vigour of his military com- mand, and the splendour of his victories. On the latter, as regarded the campaign now before our view, Chap. II. LETTER OF MR. GRAHAM. J. WILLOUGIIBY. 47 he was tlms congratulated by the gallant founder of his regiment : — "Dear Hill, London, May 23. 1801. " I rejoice to hear you are doing so well, and most sin- cerely congratulate you on tlie conduct of the regiment, which I never doubted would distinguish itself, though cer- tainly the occasion was the most trying possible, and its beha- ^'iour has estal)lished its reputation for ever. I am extremely hurried, and have only time to request you will assure them all of the pride and satisfaction I have felt on this glorious occasion. With the best and sincerest wishes, I remain, " Ever most truly yours, " Thos. Grahajvi. " Col. Hill, 90th Regt. "&' These letters reached Colonel Hill in the midst of his arduous duties ; and the care with which he preserved them in after-life, best proves the com- fort they conveyed to him amidst the sands and conflicts of Egypt. Notwithstanding his military occupations, he found time to visit every object of curiosity in Cairo, Alexandria, and the Pyramids. He quitted Egypt on the 23d of September, carefully superintending the embarkation of his regiment, and on the 9tli of October anchored at Malta. Here he lost the faithful servant, who had left the comforts of Hawkstone to attend his wounded master. His name was Joseph Willoughby, and he died on the 18th of October. The regiment stayed at Malta till the 28th of February, 1802 ; and this honour- able testimony to its conduct still remains in the handwriting of its beloved Colonel : — " On the regi- ment quitting Malta every one spoke highly of the 48 DEATH OF GENERAL o'HARA. Chap. II. corps, particularly General Valette, who expressed regret that it was leaving his garrison. No soldier of the 90th was punished on the public parade ; — two tried, but both acquitted. Received great civilities from Lord Keith, General Fox, and all the general officers." On the passage from Malta to Gibraltar they were twice in the most imminent danger, but had what Colonel Hill very appropriately calls, each time, " a most providential escape." On the Uth of March they encountered a tremendous storm. The sea " broke in upon the quarter-gallery of Colonel flill's vessel, and nearly covered the cabin." Observing the car- penter putting in the dead-lights, he inquired of him, in his usual quiet manner, " Any damage done. Car- penter?" " iVo," said he, coolly, '"'■ 07ily looor carpenter ivet.''^ On the 12th the storm abated, and the rock of Gibraltar once more met his eyes. There he had hoped to see the countenance of his esteemed friend General O'Hara lighted up with joy as he recounted to him the adventures and conquests of Egypt. But this pleasure was not awarded to him ; the first news he heard being that of the death of the excellent Governor, — " his worthy, good, and ever-to-be- lamented friend." He has thus expressed his sen- timents towards him : — " His abilities as an officer, and his character as a man, never were surpassed. Some say he was passionate ; — those who have deserved censure have received it strongly from him ; — those who have not, never. He was charitable and generous to a degree, and none knew his gene- rosity but the individuals who benefited by it." No one would more cordially have rejoiced at the non- Chap. IL CHARACTER OF GENERAL O'hARA. 49 fulfilment of his prophetic forebodings as to the result of the expedition, than this respected old officer, whose eulogium was so justly pronounced by his grate- ful friend. His more deliberate impression as to the future eminence of that friend, as was likely, had its accomplishment, rendering this tribute to O'Hara's merits a memorial worthy of his name. At the termination of this arduous service, the army of Egypt received the thanks of both Houses of Parliament, and of the Corporation of the City of London, which were communicated to each officer in command of a regiment by Sir John Doyle, in a cir- cular couched in very flattering language. General Hutchinson received the order of the Bath, and the entire conduct of the army merited and won the admiration of all men. The achievements of the expedition were of extreme importance ; the Arabs were astonished at deeds of arms, of which they had not the remotest conception, and still more at the de- portment and integrity of the high-minded victors who obtained their confidence, and with it an ample supply of provisions. The glittering Mamelukes came again upon the scene, brilliant in costume and marvellous in their feats, and even the dull Fellahs roused themselves into energy under the exciting in- fluence of the soldiers of Great Britain. The sleepy Grand Vizier also, and the Capitan Pacha advanced to meet our troops as friends. Though the army of India, under Major-General Baird, appeared at Jeddah, on the Red Sea, and was joined by a divi- sion of infantry and horse from the Cape of Good Hope, their aid was not required. The triumph had E 50 REMARKS. Chaf. II. been won, and Egypt was cleared of tlie invaders, before any union took place between the first army and tliese forces ; and the whole world was taught that Britons knew how to conquer, and how to win respect even from the vanquished, while the uncivil- ized spectators of their career reposed the utmost reliance on their honour, as on their strength and their sagacity. Nor were individuals overlooked by the observers of these movements ; and it is no slight testimony to Colonel Hill that the presents of the Capitan Pacha, who expressed great regret that he had no worthier offering to make, were the result of the high reputation he had obtained, and the coolness and courage which so fairly won and preserved it. 51 CHAPTER III. COLONEL HILL ARRIVES IN ENGLAND, APRIL 1. 1802. — FJ^TE AT HAWKSTONE. LETTER TO BIR. WINFIELD. — INCREASE OP THE 90th. IRELANT). COLONEL HILL IMADE BRIGADIER-GENERAL. — LEAVES THE 90tH. HIS PROCEEDINGS IN IRELAND. ALARMS. E3IPTY CASKS. THE GAL WAT VOLUNTEERS. PRE- CAUTIONS AGAINST THE EXPECTED INVASION. — DISAFFECTION AND CONSEQUENT MEASURES. SIGNALS. — MORE ALAR3IS ABOUT THE FRENCH. ACTIVITY ON THIS ACCOUNT. ARREARS. LORD CATHCARt's COMINIUNICATION. RUMOURS AND THEIR CON- TRADICTIONS. — VEXATIOUS OBSTACLES. DISPUTES. ANOTHER LOOK-OUT FOR THE FRENCH FLEET. — IMPARTIAL CHARACTER OF GENERAL HILL. HE LEAVES GAL WAT. — ■ AJMICABLE SOCIETY. VERIFICATION OF A REMARK OP THE EARL OF BUCHAN. On the 1st of April, 1802, Colonel Hill, after a voyage in which he encountered several dangerous incidents, found himself comfortably anchored at Spithead, where he " received very pleasant letters from Sir Richard," breathing gratitude in all the writer's fer- vour for his rising nephew's preservation. They were not released from quarantine till the 6th, when he and his companions trod once more on their native land, an honour to its name. In Colonel Hill's diary, this event is thus marked : — " 6th, released from quaran- tine f went on shore at Portsmouth. ' Well has thy bark o'er life's uncertain main 'Scaped the rough storm, and found the land of rest.' " The regiment was landed at Chatham on the 15tli of April, and "marched immediately to Chelmsford, where E 2 52 F:^TE at IIAWKSTONE. Chap. ni. it remained a few months ; then proceeded to Scotland, under the impression that it was to be reduced at Fort George, where every necessary arrangement was made for its being disbanded." In the month of June, Colonel Hill visited his relatives in Shropshire, and was received at Hawkstone with the honours due to the high merit which reflected so much lustre on his family. Sir Richard Hill gave a splendid fete in the park, where the magnificent tent of Tippoo Saib, ob- tained by Colonel Hill in Egypt*, was erected to receive the numerous guests assembled to welcome his return. When his health was given, and the helmet that had so providentially saved his life was handed round, the genuine simplicity of his bearing, and the quiet shrinking of his manner, manifested a disposition so unassuming, that those who saw him could scarcely believe he was the same gallant officer, under whose undaunted leadership the heretofore invincible cavalry of Napoleon had been repelled and vanquished. " Dis- play was of all things the least in unison with his nature, retiring in quietude because never ostentatious, active in emergencies because absorbed in fulfilment of duty. His genuine simplicity and urbanity are agreeably evidenced in a letter written to his tutor, Mr. Winfield, during this pleasurable sojourn at Hawkstone : — " My dear Sir, *' Hawkstone, July 5th. " I cannot delay a moment returning you my sincere thanks for your kind and affectionate letter, which would have afforded me the greatest pleasure if it had not contained * From the army returning by the Red Sea from India. Chap. III. BRIGADIEE GENERAL. — IRELAND. 53 such an indifferent account of yourself ; but I trust and hope you will soon be restored to perfect health. " Since I saw you, I have been in various parts of the world, and have had an opportunity of seeing several interest- ing countries, and must acknowledge I have had some provi- dential escapes ; but, thank God, I am returned to the best country in the world, in health and safety. I imagine the reduction of the 90th regiment will soon take place. I shall then have time to visit all my old acquantances, and be as- sured, my dear Sir, I shall never pass through Chester with- out calling on you. I beg to be kindly remembered to all your family, and believe me, " My dear Sir, " Your sincere and obedient " K. Hill. " Rev. James Winfield, Chester." The expectation expressed in this letter was not to be realized, and the reason is thus given in his own words: — " At the end of 1802 the affairs of Europe were unsettled; rumours of wars made it advisable to increase the army, and the 90th, instead of being reduced, had orders to use every exertion to get men, in consequence of which I sent out various recruiting parties in England and Scotland. I remained with the regiment the greater part of the winter of 1802, and beginning of 1803. In the spring of 1803 we received orders to proceed to Ireland ; sailed from Portsmouth, and were quartered at Belfast till August following. During the period we were at Belfast, Ire- land was in a very disturbed state. In August we were ordered to march to Ballinasloe. On arrival at Mullingar, I received an otficial letter informing me that I was appointed a Brigadier-General on the staff in Ireland, and was to be stationed at Loughrea." This E 3 54 ADDRESS ON QUITTING THE 90tH. Chap. III. letter was dated August 20. 1803 ; and, of course, produced the trying separation between Colonel Hill and the distinguished corps he had so effectively and acceptably commanded. How much his removal was felt by his brother officers, is abundantly testified in the address presented to him with their unanimous concurrence, and which is here inserted from the original : — " The officers of the 90th regiment, in expressing to Colonel Hill their unfeigned and heartfelt pleasure on learning of his appointment of Brigadier-General to the Forces, must, at the same time, assure him that his resigning the command of the regiment fills them with sentiments of the most lively and deep regret. " On their taking their farewell of an officer who has ever stood so high in their estimation, they feel themselves called upon to declare that the discipline he maintained In the regi- ment, has ever gained it the distinguished praise and approba- tion of all the general officers they have ever served with, — a discipline so tempered with mildness that must have en- deared him to every individual in the regiment, as well as his general attention to their private Interests. " But their gratitude and private feelings must now give Avay and be subordinate to the public service, and it is only left for them to indulge the hope that it may be their good fortune to serve under his command, and eventually in his brigade. " They are proud to think and reflect on the distinguished honours they gained in Egypt, when he gloriously fell wounded at their head, and hope under his command they may acquire additional glory in future and no less important services. " They finally beg leave to assure him that tlielr best wishes for his welfare and happiness ever attend him ; and that In every honour he may acquire they will, though absent, always participate. Chap. III. PROCEEDINGS IN IRELAND. 55 " Signed, in the name and at the request of all the oflEicers of the 90tli reghiient, " RUTHVEN, " Major Commandhig 90th Regt. "Athlone, 1st September, 1803." The duties performed in Ireland by General Hill were of various kinds, partly arising out of the internal disaffection which at that time prevailed, and partly out of the threatened danger of a French invasion. The latter was in some degree connected with the former, through the conduct of certain Irish exiles in France, during the bubble peace of Amiens, blown by the deceitful breath, of Napoleon, only to glitter and to burst rather sooner than suited either his own schemes, or those of the wily Talleyrand. At this time the services of General Hill in Ireland, performed with cool sagacity, tended to confirm the previously high opinions he had won on the sands of Egypt. The outline of his proceedings is thus sketched by himself, Avith his usual simplicity: — " On being ap- pointed a Brigadier-General in Ireland, I was stationed at Loughrea, having under my immediate command some fine light infantry corps formed from the militia of Ireland ; also having charge of the whole western part of the country. Ireland at this period was threatened with the invasion of the French, and was much disturbed by disaffection in the country. On the 20th of October, 1803, Lieutenant-Colonel Skinner, who commanded at Galway, informed me that he had received by express an account of an enemy's fleet E 4 56 EMPTY CASKS. — GALWAY VOLUNTEEES. Chap. III. being seen off the coast, in consequence of which the troops were kept in readiness to move on the shortest notice. Eeports of this kind, many without founda- tion, kept us on the alert. General Dalrymple, on the 20th of October, sent a report of the enemy's actual landing at Killala Bay. This report originated from the circumstance of two English frigates coming in to water. Their empty casks were all floated to the shore, and each was considered a boat full of French troops." This imaginary alarm of the Irish- men who were on the look-out, is probably witliout parallel in the category of blunders, and must have afforded infinite amusement at their expense, especi- ally as the report stated " they were landing very fast !" Lord Hard wick was at this time Lord Lieute- nant, and General Fox commander of the forces, and General Hill was soon brought into more useful ser- vice than attending to summonses to repel incursions of empty water-casks. " About the 10th of Novem- ber, 1803," he says, " I was ordered to Galway, and arrived two days afterwards at that town, to take the command of the western district. On the 10th of December, made arrangements for the police of the town, which was badly managed. Orders were also given to the commanding officers of corps, to be in readiness to march at the shortest notice. Various orders and regulations for the yeomanry corps, which were in general in a bad [state]. The Light Com- pany of Galwa}^ volunteers laid down their arms ; and other troops behaved in nearly the same unmilitary manner." Li these difficulties, General Hill manifested the most admirable tact, the result of which was that Chap. III. COURT OF INQUIRY. 57 the Light Company, who had acted so disgracefully, confessed their error with shame and regret. He con- sidered that his duty was to ascertain the causes of this conduct, and then to deal with them accordingly, in the spirit of that mild but firm dignity which adorned his character and office. His first step, there- fore, was to order " a Court of Inquiry, comprised of respectable yeomanry captains, to investigate the con- duct of the men, and to inquire into the cause of their complaints." General Hill, considering the affair one of great delicacy, submitted their report to the inspec- tion of Sir Eyre Coote, asking either his private advice or official directions. He was anxious to heal the matter in a wise and proper manner. His remark to Sir Eyre Coote was, " It appears to me that Govern- ment have not been regular in their disbursements to the corps in this to-svm ; but the conduct of the com- pany in question is not the less reprehensible on that account, which they are indeed fully sensible of, and promise to atone for their past irregularity, by future obedience and observance of discipline. But notwith- standing their present contrition, I have some hesita- tion in restoring their arms." At the same time he ordered two ringleaders into confinement, tiU Sir Eyre's answer should arrive. This prudent line of conduct had an admirable effect. On the 1st of Ja- nuary, 1804, he had the pleasure of making a favour- able report on the state of Ireland, yet, as usual, took no merit to himself, but said, " This reformation pro- bably may proceed in some degree from a failure of promise from the French, who it was generally be- lieved would visit their friends here six or eight weeks 58 EXCURSIONS. — CAPTAIN CURRIE. Chap. III. ago, and from the present conviction in the minds of the people of the improbability of an enemy making any strong impression, from the vigilance and activity of Government in the rebellious counties, and from the rigorous military measures adopted in the coun- try." In his own memoranda his proceedings are thus recorded: — " In the beginning of January, 1804 detailed instructions were given to the yeomanry corps for their conduct in the event of the enemy's landing on the coast, which was expected. I also examined all the places on the coast likely for the enemy to land, and visited more than once the wild country of Conne- mara, which chiefly belongs to Mr. Richard Martin, of Galway. In all these excursions I was accom- panied and assisted by my friend and aid-de-camp, Captain Currie." The precautionary measures which were the judicious result of this inspection, will be seen in the following letter, addressed by this officer to Mr. Martin : — « Sir, " Galway, 5th Jan. 1804. " In the absence of Brigadier-General Hill, who is gone to meet Sir E}a'e Coote, I am directed to inform you that, in the event of an enemy's effecting a debarkation to the west of the Connemara country, he recommends to your immediate consideration to destroy Tindella Bridge, nine mQes to the west of Ougliterard ; as also to occupy an important hill, three miles west of the last-mentioned place, over which the road runs, and which may be considered as a very strong hold in the hands of a small number, and capable of stopping the progress of an enemy advancing upon that quarter from Gal- way. There are also three small bridges to the Avestward of Ballynahinch, which it would be of importance to break up and destroy. Chap. III. GUARDS OF NATIVE IRISH. 59 " It is unnecessary to point out to you the impracticability of an enemy's advancing with artillery, &c., if these pre- cautionary measures are adopted in time. The natural ob- stacles which the country presents, and the facility with which the road, the only road of approach, can be destroyed, must be obvious to every person possessing your local know- ledge of it. " I have the honour to be. Sir, " Your most obedient humble Servant, "E. CURRIE. "Kichd. Martin, Esq., &c. &c. &c." General Hill, by various important steps, did ef- fectual service, civil as well as military, in those trying times. His proceedings are little known, because eclipsed by the splendour of his Peninsular glory; but they will be duly appreciated by all who trace the satisfactory gradations of his rise to the highest pinnacle of military honour. At this time, the vigilance he exercised and the plans lie adopted commanded great admiration ; and one of them was, the raising effective bodies of native Irish, to act under their superiors, as guards of passes. A gentle- man of the name of Ireland may be given as the example, and General Hill wrote respecting him in these terms to Sir E. B. Littlehales : — " Mr. Ireland is a Protestant, and a very respectable loyal subject ; and I conceive a corps of such people of his own per- suasion as he would be enabled to associate together, might be rendered extremely useful in guarding the pass of Cong, and thereby cutting off the communi- cation of the disaffected with the Connemara coun- try." In order to be prepared in case of necessity, General HiU opened a communication between Lough- GO TELEGR^iPHS. ' Chap. III. rea and Galway by signal, and how carefully he arranged the necessary preparations, appears from what he Avrote on the 9th of January, 1804, to Sir Eyre Coote: — " Captain Trench, Royal Navy, has been employed for some days in preparing a dictionary containing every word that can possibly be used. Each word is numbered ; and as the ten signals agreed upon are capable of expressing any number whatever, you will perceive the facility with which the most detailed information may be communicated, and that ivith the most prof ound secrecy ^ After this, the follow- ing account will be read with surprise : — "In this month (January) I also estabhshed a telegraph between Loughrea and Galway, and had considerable trouble in recovering the expenses incurred on the occasion. I also had a survey of the country made." This money was advanced out of his own private resources ; but he bore this conduct on the part of the Govern- ment with his usual placidity, and obtained a reim- bursement at last, after a long and tiresome corre- spondence. Towards the end of February, the disloyal portion of X\\q Irish people were firmly persuaded that the French would come, and General Hill's view of their expectations is thus expressed in a private let- ter : " I cannot avoid remarking that it is too evident that disaffection has not yet subsided ; and although it is not possible for me to speak positively on a sub- ject of so much delicacy, yet I am led to believe that the disaffected, particularly of the middling class, rather begin to show themselves, and look forward with nujch confidence to the invasion of this country, ^vhich they pretend to say will take place in the course Chap. III. TRECAUTIONS. ATHLONE MILITIA. Gl of this month. " The mstructions from the Lord Lieutenant were to keep a vigilant watch, and to com- municate all the information that could be acquired. He had scarcely received these injunctions, when an intimation was conveyed to hira that " the country was laid out in departments, and commissioners of various ranks assigned to fill those departments," and also that the French would probably land in two or three places, and the conflict be very severe. The precautionary measures he took in consequence of this information, to which he attached some credit, were extensive and decided. He issued a circular of pri- vate instruction to the captains of yeomanry, so to dispose of the boats on Lough Carib that they could not be available to an enemy, and himself paid a visit of inspection to the isles of Arran, as being " particu- larly well situated for a look-out post on the western coast." He likewise issued orders how to deal with those who appeared disposed to welcome the invaders ; and having still in remembrance the empty-cask bugbear, gave instructions for preventing false alarms. Li these laudable measures General Hill was cordially assisted by the well-disposed Irish of all grades and persuasions, while the Athlone militia tendered their services in any way, and in any place in the United Kingdom, that might be deemed expedient; nor was there the slightest rea- son to apprehend that attempts made to tamper with the yeomanry would be of any avail, so well were they organized and disposed. The result was, tliat on the 9th of May he was enabled to report to the Lord Lieutenant that " nothing had occurred in the district 62 SIGNALS. — REPORTS. Chap. III. under his command to interrupt the pubhc tran- quillity;" and further, on the 1st of June, "the country is perfectly quiet, and I have no reason to think that there are any improper meetings held." The same also was stated in his official communica- tions in July. But General Hill was not inactive ; he was engaged on an important work. His own account states, " in the summer I was employed by Government to build towers for signals on the coast. This duty gave me considerable trouble and anxiety, which was greatly increased by the irregular manner in which Government made their payments." This irregularity embraced every department, and was the subject of harassing correspondence, especially on behalf of the arrears due to the yeomanry, in which General Hill was warmly supported by General Pigot, who had taken the command of the western district. Lord Cathcart was commander of the forces ; and on the 9th of August General Hill received from him the subjoined secret communication relative to the long anticipated arrival of the French, who were again sus- pected of an attempt to land in Ireland : — " Camp^ Curragh of Kildare, 9tli August^ 1 804. " Dear General Hill, " There is a tolerably well-grounded report that nine sail of the French fleet have got out of Brest, destination said to be the Mediterranean, hut of course that is quite uncertain. " We must keep a good look-out. " Any report to me will be forwarded either by the Secre- tary's office or Adjutant General's office, Boyal Hospital, if I am not there. " Yours, dear General, truly and faithfully, " Cathcart." CiiAP. III. CONTRADICTIONS. — DIFFICULTIES. 63 This, however, was altogether a false alarm, for two days afterwards he received another letter on the sub- ject from General Pigot in contradiction of the report. " My dear Sir, " Ballinasloe, August 11. 1804. " I have received a letter from Colonel Anstriither, inform- ing me that Government have received advice that the report of a French squadron having escaped from Brest is unfounded. The whole of the French fleet in Brest harbour remained on the third, in the same state in which they have been for some time past. " Believe me " Most truly yours, , " H. Pigot. " P. S. Be so good as to inform Captain Trench of this, and make it known where you may think necessary." Thus, between alarms and their contradictions. General Hill was at this time kept in a state by no means enviable, while his patience was tried to the utmost by obstacles of the most reprehensible kind, raised by proprietors to the erection of the signals on their properties, which became a source of great annoy- ance to him. He overcame all these difficulties with the most praiseworthy forbearance, and manifested in- finite tact and kindness in settling certain disputes between Irish officers of yeomanry, commencing in bluster and ending in mutual apologies made under his directions, who never in his life seems to have had a dispute with any man. Besides these unpleasant circumstances, he had to submit to a continual cliange of aids-de-camp. His own narrative of events at this time makes mention of these circumstances. " I was," he says, " deprived of the services of Captain Currie, G-l MORE TROUBLES AND RUMOURS. Chap. III. in consequence of the embarkation of the 90th Regi- ment to the West Indies. On November 17th Brigade- Major Foster repaired to Galway, for the purpose of being attached to me in the situation held by Captain Currie as Brigade-Major. In the early j)art of this year (1805), I was chiefly occupied at Galway in the erection of Naval Signal Posts. Mr. 's opposition to the erecting a post near his house in Connemara, was most reprehensible and troublesome to me. On the 26th January I received a letter from the Adju- tant-General, informing me that a large ship full of troops had been seen ofi" the coast of Scotland, and de- siring me to take every possible precaution." As usual nothing came of this announcement, while General Hill was obliged to write thus to head-quarters : — " I have to request that his Lordship will be pleased to recommend the payment of the money advanced by me upwards of a year since." This letter was crossed by one of an official character to the effect described by himself. " On the 25th of April I received a letter from head-quarters informing me that a large French fleet with troops on board had been seen near Gibral- tar, and desiring me to keep a good look-out." Then came another change of aid-de-camp. " On the 14th of May, Brigade-Major Foster, who was afterwards kiUed in action, was ordered to join his regiment. He was, at my request, replaced by Ca2:)tain Palmer of the 15tli foot." At the same time General HiU wrote to Sir Eyre Coote, under whom Major Foster was about to serve, recommending him to his friendly attention as having been "unremitting in his duty as an officer, and circumspect in his behaviour as a gentleman." Chap. III. DEPARTURE ERO.M GALWAY. 65 He manifested in all his recommendations the same impartial patronage of merit, and merit alone, which enabled him when at the head of the army to repel every insinuation of political opponents. An officer applied to him, while in Ireland, on the score of relationship, for a vacant company, alleging at the same time that several officers junior to himself had received this promotion. His answer was, " Al- though it is my wish to serve every deserving officer, and particularly those I have the honour of being related to, yet, in your case, I am sorry I do not feel myself warranted to recommend you for promotion, as I could only do it on the plea of your merit, with which I am not acquainted." He then added, that he had never seen him as a soldier, and that if his pretensions were just, his own commanding-officer would not overlook them. In October, 1805, General Hill joined the camp on the Curragh of Kildare, with which he remained till it broke up, and then returned to Galway, after which he finally departed from that town, to the great regret of the inhabitants, who were unanimous in presenting him a most gratifying and justly-merited address. This address, and General Hill's reply, were pub- lished in the Dublin Post and Connaught Journal. The Amicable Society, of which he had been elected President in the month of November, 1804, enrolled him in the list of their honorary members, and addressed to him a most touching farewell. Under his influence, they said, they had " experienced all the advantages of the strictest military discipline, without any of its austerities." Thus General Hill quitted the district F 66 REMARK OF THE EARL OF BUCIIAN. Chap. III. in which he had commanded, leaving the impression which a tender heart, a most courteous bearing, and a firm hand could not fail to make on the well-disposed of all ranks. The Earl of Buchan, who first saw him in Scotland in 1792, remarked in a letter to Sir Richard Hill, " By all the rules of Lavater, as well as my own, I should have augured well of that young gentleman from his appearance and manner." The same impression was made upon every individual, of whatever grade, who had the good fortune to have intercourse with him, while experience more than confirmed the highest expectations. 67 CHAPTER IV. PREPARATIONS FOR THE CONTINENT. LETTERS OF THE DUKE OF YORK AND LORD CATHCART. EXPEDITION TO THE ^VESER. CHRISTMAS-DAY, 1805. GENERAL IIILl's FIRST INTERVIEW WITH SIR ARTHUR WELLESLET. THE RETURN FROM THE WESER. pilot's news off YARMOUTH. — DEATH OF GENERAL HILl's MOTHER. ENCAMPMENT ON SHORN CLIFF. MADE MAJOR- GENERAL. IRELAND AGAIN. REMAINS THERE TILL ORDERED IN 1808 TO JOIN SIR ARTHUR AYELLESLEY. FHIST PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN. PREPARATIONS. CORRESPONDENCE. DEPARTURE. VOYAGE. — LANDING IN MONDEGO BAY. NEW ARRANGEMENTS. NOBLE BEARING OF SIR ARTHUR WELLESLEY. HIS INSTRUC- TIONS FOR THE FIRST BIOVEMENTS OF HIS TROOPS ON THE CON- TINENT. BATTLE OF ROLI9A. BATTLE OF VUMEIRO. CONVEN- TION. SIR JOHN MOORE. HIS CAMPAIGN. BATTLE OF CORUNA. GENERAL HILL BRINGS HOME TROOPS TO PLYIVIOUTH. KINDNESS OF THE INHABITANTS. DEATH OF SIR RICHARD HILL. GE- NERAL HILL APPOINTED TO THE THIRD GARRISON BATTALION. SENT TO PORTUGAL. ANXIOUSLY EXPECTED BY SIR J. CRADOCK. LETTER OF SIR J. CRADOCK. SIR ARTHUR WELLESLEY ARRIVES AT LISBON. The cause of General Hill's departure from Galway will be seen in a letter addressed to Lord Cathcart, by his Royal tlighness the Commander-in-Chief. "My Lord, " Horse Guards, Oct. lg. 1805. " Having caused it to be intimated to your Lordship tliat a force of 5000 men would be immediately ordered to embark from Cork for this country, in consequence of the intention of Government to send a considerable force from hence to the Continent, I have now to desire that your Lordship may be pleased to direct the under-mentioned regiments to be im- mediately embarked on board of such transports as have been provided for their reception, and to sail for England with the F 2 68 PKEPARATIONS FOR THE CONTINENT. Chap. IV. first fair wind. The regiments will take with them respect- ively their battalion guns, camp equipage, and as much spare ammunition as will complete them, if possible, to 300 rounds per gun, and 300 rounds per man. " As it is very probable that the Middleton transport, which was ordered to proceed with Sir Eyre Coote to Jamaica, with camp equipage and medical stores for 6000 men, may yet be at Cork, your Lordship yvWl be pleased to cause her to be de- tained, and to return to England with the regiments hereafter mentioned. " The battalions to be embarked are as follows: viz. 1st battalion 8th regiment, ditto 9th, ditto 28th, ditto 30th, ditto 36th, ditto 89th. " The General Officer whom your Lordship will be pleased to embark with the above force, will be Brigadier- General Rowland Hill, and the whole to be placed for the present under the command of that Brigadier-General. " I am, my Lord, « Yours, " Feederick, " Commander-in-Chief." In consequence of this letter, Lord Catlicart addressed the subjoined friendly notice to General Hill: — " Royal Hospital, Oct. 21. 1805. " My dear General Hill, " I have directed the Adjutant-General to forward to you by express, the copy of a letter which I have this day received from his Eoyal Highness the Commander-in-Chief. You will, therefore, be pleased to report by express to Lieutenant- General Lord Rosslyn, and to acquaint Brigadier-General Stuart, at Cork, and the officers commanding at Ballinasloe and at Loughrea, as well as at Athlone, of your motions, and proceed as expeditiously as you can to Cork, in order to superintend the embarkation of the troops. " There being no battalion guns on this establishment, there is considerable difficulty in suj^plying the demand on that sub- Chap. IV. LETTER OF LORD CATIICART. 69 ject. If, however, I can muster twelve guns, they will he prepared at Cork, and due attention shall also be paid to the stowage of the spare gun and musket ammunition on board the transport. " I have to request that you will give to Brigadier-General Stuart what information you can in regard to Galway, as he will probably, for the present, command there ; but you must not delay your departure on any account relating to the ser- vice here, as you are entrusted with a command, by order of the Commander-in-Chief. " I will use my best endeavours to procure for you the price of your map. " I am myself under orders for departure, having received a notification that I am appointed ambassador to the Emperor* of Russia ; but I have as yet no mstructions relative to making over the command here, and I do not expect to leave this place before the middle of the week. " AYlierever you may go, my dear General, you will carry with you my sincere regard, and you will be followed by my best wishes for your health, honour, and happiness ; and I beg to assure you of the grateful sense I shall always entertain of your active assistance and attentions since I have been in this command, and of the very great regard Avith which I remain, " My dear General, " Your faithful and obedient Servant, " Cathcaet. " P.S. The ladies of my family send you their compliments and best wishes." I have inserted these letters as evidences of the just impression made in the highest quarters, as well as on the inhabitants of his district, by the military talent and private demeanour of General Hill in Ireland. The map alluded to by Lord Cathcart, was a survey he had caused to be made according to instructions ; * Lord Cathcart did not at this time go to Russia, but to the Weser. r 3 70 GENERAL HILL AT THE WESEE. Chap. IV. and though he had advanced a considerable sum in payment for it, he could not obtain a reimbursement, and was obhged to memorialize the Commander of the Forces on the subject. General Hill lost no time in proceeding to Cork according to order. His own memorandum contains the following notice of events at this exciting period : — " On the 30th of October Lord Cathcart, as Com- mander of the Forces, took leave of the army, being ordered on service. The armies on the Continent at this period were in active operation. Bonaparte crossed the Danube. The capitulation of Ulm was signed by General Mack, and not a vestige of the Austrian force was left in Suabia. This armament from Ireland and England was hurried to the Weser, with the view of assisting the Continental powers to check the rapid success of the French. — 21st of Oc- tober: Lord Nelson's victory off Trafalgar. — In the early part of December the great armies of the Con- tinent were engaged near Olmutz. The uncertain accounts of these operations which came to England, induced Mr. Pitt to risk every thing to send troops to the Continent, and notwithstanding the season of the year, and the dangers of the North Seas, we were ordered to proceed. After a tremendous passage, and serious losses, some of us had the good fortune to arrive in the Weser on Christmas Day, 1805." And a miserable Christmas it was, clouded with disasters and ill-tidings. " When I reached that river," says General Hill, " the head-quarter ship of every regiment beloiio'ino; to me was missins; ; some were wrecked on the Dutch coast, and many souls perislied on the Chap. IV. FIRST IMEETING WITH SIR A. WELLESLEY. 71 Goodwin sands." No sooner had the General and his lively aid-de-camp, Captain Peebles, stepped on shore, than they were met by an old sugar-refiner who had re- sided in England, who told them, in the most grotesque attempt to speak their native language, of the triumphs of the armies of Napoleon. Such was the unhappy Christinas of 1805 ; but General Hill had one consola- tion, that of having made the acquaintance, on his w^ay from Cork, of the illustrious leader destined by Providence to be the conqueror of Europe's scourge and England's enemy, who had as yet to learn that a nation whom God protected was as invincible by land as she was triumphant by sea. " On our voyage from Cork." he says, " we put into Falmouth, where we remained about a week. General Houghton was under my orders in command of his regiment. We also anchored off Deal, where 1 first saw Sir Arthur Wel- lesley. He dined with me at my lodgings at Mrs. Chitty's, and was much amused with Captain Peebles. Sir Arthur took the command of the troops collecting for the Weser."* General Hill modestly leaves un- * This expedition was fitted out in Ireland. It was in allusion to under the command of Lord Cath- Sir Arthur's being only in com- cart, and Major-General Sir Arthur mand of a brigade on the Weser "Wellesley commanded a brigade in expedition^ that this true patriot it, and on this occasion General soldier said, " I am nammukwallah, Hill first served with him. On the as we say in India; I have eaten the arrival of the tidings of the battle king's salt, and am therefore ready of Austerlitz, they were recalled, to serve my king in any capacity." and the troops were placed on our These are memorable words, which own coast for defence in case of an have indeed been proved to be sin- invasion. Sir Arthur Wellesley cere by the whole course of the commanded a brigade at Hastings Duke of ^V^ellington's life, spent in after this, and General HiU was at willing devotedness to his sovereign Hythe, whence he went to the staff and country in and out of office. F 4 72 YARMOUTH PILOT. Chap. IV. noticed the impression he himself made on the sa- gacious mind of that illustrious man, an impression which became more and more confirmed in each suc- ceeding year of intercourse in war and in peace, and was evinced under every possible modification that could exhibit admiration, gratitude, and confidence, as worthy of the breast whence they sprung as of the noble spirit towards which they were directed. The great successes of the French in 1805 caused the return of the forces mth which General Hill had gone to the Weser, and at the end of January, 1806, he found himself, once more at Deal. On his voyage to that port he anchored off Yarmouth, and as was natural, the first question asked of the pilot was, " What news ?" His reply was truly in accordance with the quaint ignorance and roughness of his class in those days, " Billy Pitt is dead, and Charley Fox come into Parliament.''^ " This news," General Hill says, " we soon found to be true. Pitt died on the 24th of January, aged 48, and Fox was placed at the head of the Government. Bonaparte at this time was triumphant over all the armies of the confederates. These calamities deeply affected Mr. Pitt, and it was supposed that the successes of the French at Austerlitz had hastened his death." From Yarmouth this small British force proceeded to Deal, and thence to Rams- gate, where General Hill received the melancholy tidings of the death of his mother. This event, hap- pening at a period Avhen, for the first and last time, he had come back from foreign service without distinction, tried to the full his calm and resigned spirit; but he who received his laurels with meek- Chap. IV. SHOKN CLIFF. 73 ness, knew how to wear the cypress with submission to the will of Him, who gives and takes away ac- cording to the wisdom of his supreme and gracious Providence. He thus announces his next movement : — " On the 17th of April I arrived at Brabourne Lees to take the command of the troops in that neighbourhood, establishing my quarters at a small house between Brabourne Lees and Hythe. Lord Moira was ap- pointed to the command of the Southern district on the 15th of April, 1806. Sir John Moore was sta- tioned at Canterbury, and I was directed to report to liim until the 5th of June, when he and General Mackenzie Frazer were removed to the staff of the army serving in the Mediterranean, v/hen Sir George Ludlow was appointed to the command at Canterbury. On the 23d of June, my brigade, consisting of the 9th, 45th, and 62d, marched and encamped on Shorn Cliff. I encamped with the troops on a beautiful spot immediately above the Rev. Mr. Brockman's house." There he lived a true soldier's life, under canvas, and produced by his exertions and example such perfec- tion in the brigade, that the highest commendations were passed on it by Lord Moira and the Duke of York in two successive inspections. He had pre- viously been advanced to the rank of Major-General, and was now appointed on the staff; and his brother, Captain Thomas Noel Hill, became his aid-de-camp. In October they went into cantonments, and remained at Hythe till the end of December, when they were ordered to Ireland. Before their departure General Hill had the satisfaction of receiving a flattering com- 74 IRELAND. Chap. IV. munication from the mayor, to which he replied with his usual courtesy. He next went to Ireland, where he remained the whole of the year 1807. The Duke of Bedford was Lord-Lieutenant, and Lieutenant-Colonel Stewart was Chief Secretary and Military Secretary, to whom General Hill's principal communications of an official character were addressed. His routine of duty was very similar to that assigned him before the expedi- tion to the Weser, except that he had not to deal with alarms of French invasion. He was stationed at Fermoy, and the chief objects of his attention appear to have been the suppression of local disturbances, and precautionary measures against banditti infesting the mountains, in both of which he was eminently successful. Every thing reported to the Yice-regal Court and the Commander of the Forces, was carefully sifted by him and represented in its proper light, which occasioned considerable trouble, for the slight- est insubordination, even a disturbance on a market day, or a quarrel about leases and lands, was construed by the vivid imagination of his reporters into insur- rection and hostility to Government. He managed to quiet all these false alarms, and allayed private animosi- ties between the officers, as he did during his previous residence amongst the sensitive people he had to deal with. In this way he proceeded, to the admiration of all parties, till, in the year 1808, he was ordered to join the then Chief Secretary of Ireland, Sir Arthur Wellesley, on his first campaign in the Peninsula, where his military talents had full scope for their exercise, in a series of achievements equally honour- Chap. IV. EXPEDITION TO PORTUGAL. 75 able to himself and serviceable to his country. Happily for General Hill, with a change of government there arose a change of projects, or he might have been sent on the proposed Quixotic expedition to Spanish South America, instead of going to reap victory and honour on the fields of Europe. The ministers who succeeded " the Talents" had the sense to relinquish this scheme ; and guided principally by the advice of the deputies who had arrived in England from the Asturias and Galicia, they bade adieu to the projects of the adventurer Miranda, and changed the destina- tion of the troops in Ireland from South America to Portugal, appointing Sir Arthur Wellesley to com- mand them. These troops, amounting to about 9000 men, formed at that time the most disposable army of this country, whose soldiers and treasure had been alike scattered without judgment. Sir Arthur Wel- lesley soon opened his correspondence with General Hill, respecting the brigading and embarkation of the forces. In his first letter* on these subjects, dated " Dublin Castle, 23d June, 1808," he says, " My dear Hill, I rejoice extremely at the prospect I have before me of serving again with you, and I hope we shall have more to do than we had on the last occasion on which we were together." After giving him the necessary instructions. Sir Arthur added, " You may readily believe that I have plenty to do in closing * The principal part of the let- ten by the former, and Lord Hill's ters which passed between the own copies of the latter, are in my Dukeof Wellington and Lord Hill, possession, and from therh I have during the Peninsular War, have made such extracts as I have been already published by Colonel thought it expedient to introduce Garwood. But the originals, writ- into the present volume. 76 LETTER OF SIR ARTHUR WELLESLEY. Chap. IV. up a government in such a manner as that I may give it up, and taking the command of a corps for service ; but I shall not fail to attend to whatever you may write to me." Nor did General Hill fail to attend to every particular of the directions he received from Sir Arthur Wellesley, relating to the embarkation of the troops on board the transj)orts in which they were to sail. The most anxious care was taken of their health and comforts, and the men were occasionally ordered on shore for air and exercise. Sir Arthur prepared for sailing with his usual promptitude, and on the receipt of his instructions, wrote to this effect: — " My dear Hill, " Dublin Castle, July 3d, 1 808. " I have received my instructions, and I understand that the cavalry and some ships to receive the 36th and 45th regi- ments sailed from the Downs and Portsmouth on the 30th. I shall be at . Should the enemy return to this part of the frontier, I am in as good a situation to defend the passes from Sabi'era Formosa as from Sarzedas, as your Lordship observes. " I have, &c. " Viscount Wellington, K.B. " R. Hill. "&c. &c. &c." 140 ESPINHAL. — BUSACO. Chaf. VI. Sarzeclas was left with regret by the household of the General; but they had given up all hope of coming in contact with liegnier for some time. "I do not wonder," observed Lieutenant Hill, in writing to his sister, " at your anxiety about us ; but I wish you would think no more of our danger than we do. To be sure, as Mr. Moore says in his Almanack, 'when armies are in the field, a battle may be expected,' and such an event may take place ; but I assure you we have no more prospect of it than we have had for some time, nor so much, for the enemy certainly show no disposition to come near us." When Genera] Hill arrived at Sarzedas,the village Avas completely deserted, except by the priest, their landlord ; but the inhabit- ants soon found out that they might return in con- fidence of protection, and even profit by the sale of provisions ; so that a forsaken and desolate place became speedily converted into a luxurious market, supplied not only from the neighbourhood but from Lisbon itself- The enemy's whole army had, by the 17th, entered the valley of the Mondego, and on that day General Hill was directed " to collect his corps at Espinhal, &c., and remain there till further orders." He arrived at Espinhal on the 20th, and was at Foz d'Aronce on the 21st. Lord Wellington occupied the Convent of Busaco — a formidable position. From the lofty summit of that mountain he bade defiance to the o-atherins: hosts of the veterans of France, — firm in his purpose, clear in his calculations, and full of assurance that a day of reward for his unexampled patience was at hand. Nearly 70,000 of Napoleon's conquering CiiAP. VI. GENERAL HILL ASCENDS THE MOUNTAIN. 141 troops were a fearful array, commanded as they were by three Marshals of France, — their chief Massena himself, whose life had been one perpetual success. But WeUington had counted the cost of being at- tacked by such assailants in his stronghold, and had decided that the loss should not be his, but theirs. The eventful moment was daily approaching. He wished to have an interview with General Hill, but neither could quit their post. On the 24th the former wrote from Busaco, — "I was not able to go to you as I intended;" and the communication of the latter was as follows: — "My Lord, "^ Villa Chem, September 25, 11 p.m. " It was my wish to have waited on your Lordship, but the circumstances of our present situation will, I trust, plead my apology for not having done so. My brother is the bearer of this, and wiU take charge of any commands your Lordship may send me. " I was in front this day, with General Fane, posting his cavalry, and returned by the bridge of Val del Espino. I cannot learn that any thing but a few parties of cavalry had crossed the Mondego, and they appear to have gone back. This is confirmed by Captain Cox, who has joined General Fane. " I have had several reports of firing being heard this day at the left of General Leith, and am anxious to know the result of it. " T have, &c. " Lord Viscount Wellington, K.B. " K. HiLL. &c. &c. &c." A few hours after this letter was j^enned its writer moved across the Mondego, and led his gallant soldiers up the steep mountain of Busaco, where he quickly disposed them on the right of Lord AYellington's army, 142 BATTLE OF BUSACO. Chap, VI. in order of battle. " Our position," says Major Sherer, " extended nearly eight miles along tliis mountainous and rocky ridge, and the ground on which we formed, inclining with a slope to our own rear, most admirably concealed both the disposition and numbers of our force." At the foot of this position reposed that even- ing the forces of Portugal, who were wont at sunset to gather in circles round their officers, and chant forth their vespers. Their eyes now first beheld the seventy thousand invaders of their fatherland — an appalling spectacle, as the rays of the setting sun were reflected from their arms. Only twenty-five thousand Portuo-uese were about to eno-ao-e with them in their first great combat ; but they were aided by an equal number of British, commanded by Wellington and Hill. The dawn of the 27th ushered in the decisive day. While yet the grey mists rested on their moun- tain couch, the enemy came on. The watchful picquets had heard their preparation, and the British were standing silently to arms. Regnier with two columns, and Ney with three, rushed up against the convent, and the well-known battle of Busaco ensued. The whole corps of General Hill was thrown into open column, and moved to its left in the most perfect order and in double quick time. The effort of Massena was directed against the right of Lord Wellington, which he expected to turn ; and, ignorant of the presence of Generals Hill and Leith, he imagined that his troops were engaging with its extremity. To the surprise of the French, the forces under these officers suddenly emerged from their previous concealment, and halted at the spot whence the brave 74th had just driven CiiAP. VI. REGNIER TOO NEAR. 14 Q back a column of the enemy, and were retiring in line, regular, compact, invincible. The only signs of recent encounter were their colours ragged with the shot of their opponents. Soon after the British Commander and his staff galloped to the spot. " Hill," said he, in a decisive tone, "if they attempt this point again, give them a volley and charge bayonets, but do not let your people follow them too far down the hill." But they had had quite enough. Regnier now found what it was to be near the British ; and the French, instead of returning to the onslaught, occupied the remainder of the day in removing their wounded ; and some of them actually shook hands with the English soldiers as they slaked their common thirst from a narrow rivulet that ran at the bottom of the hill. The Portuguese behaved valiantly; while on Marshal Beresford and the English officers, amongst whom was Colonel Thomas Xoel Hill, rested the high honour of their discipline and military bearing. General HUl's division was, as has been seen, ready in the exact place where it was needed, but was not engaged ; still his presence rendered essential service. Every other general's conduct also, including the names of Picton, Pack, Cole, Crawfurd, and Leith, was worthy of their leader, their country, and the cause in which they fought. The night which succeeded this memorable day, afforded to the victorious occupants of the moun- tain scenes of indescribable grandeur. The whole country beneath them glowed with countless fires, showing thousands of shadowy forms of men and horses, mingled with piles of arms glittering amidst the flames. These gradually subsided into glowing patches 144 THE FRENCH MOVE. Chap. VI. of red embers gemming the black bosom of the earth, and all seemed to threaten another mighty conflict at the dawn of day. The men under Hill were kept in their full accoutrements, and each with his musket by his side, front and rear ranks, head to head, lay upon the mountain, awaiting the morn, and expecting that an assailable gorge near at hand would be the point of attack. This expectation was not realized. Towards evening the French moved with the design of cutting off the allies from Oporto, or bringing on an action where the ground was more in their favour. Lord Wellington, foreseeing this intention, withdrew from the Serra de Busaco, and General Hill, crossing the Mondego, marched on San Miguel, where he endea- voured to ascertain the movements of the French. " If you find," said Lord Wellington, " that the enemy cross the Mondego, send Le Cor immediately to Ar- ganil, and depend upon my being with you, with the whole army, in a few hours. If they try our left instead of our right, I shall give you instructions for movements corresponding with ours." To this letter, dated " Tormes, 29th September," he thus replied: — " St. Miguel, 30th Sept., 1810, 10 a.m. " My Lord, "I have received your Lordship's letter of the 29th from Tormes, and have issued orders accordingly. By the enclosed reports you will see that the enemy had not shown near the river yesterday, and that the bridge of Tabra may he destroyed if thought necessary. " I have, &c.. "R. Hill. " P. S. The movements of yesterday were well executed, and the guns got off without any material injury." Chap. VI. MOVEMENT TOWARDS LISBON. M.', In consequence of his anticipations respectin^r tlic enemy's proceedings, Lord Wellington wrote to ( ie- neral Hill, " Your movements therefore become a subject of some anxiety to me. I understand lialf, possibly the whole of your infantiy will be at Saii- tarem this day. Everything that arrives at Santarem this day should march in the morning to Azanibuja. Any part of your corps which makes a sliort march into Santarem to-morrow morning must move on t(j Cartaxo, and the whole must move early the next morning upon Villa Franca." To this and another letter of the same import he replied the next day from Santarem: — " I hope your Lordship will have received the letter I Avrote last night, in answer to 3^ours of yesterday morning, informing your Lordsliip that the whole of the infantry and artiller}' luider my command had arrived here yesterday, with my inten- tion to pass Azambuja this day at least. I will, how- ever, halt on the Villa Franca side of that place. T shall be ready to proceed further if your Lordship should deem it necessary." The next communication from Lord Wellington informed him, — " Your whole corps, even including that part of Fane's cavalry which will not leave Santarem until to-morrow morn- ing, will be in good time." On the afternoon of the 8th they entered Alhandra, about four leagues from Lisbon. From this place, on the 12th, Lieutenant Element Hill sent home tidings of himself and his •others. " You will probably," he wrote, " before u get this have heard of the army having fallen ^.k to near Lisbon, which, no doubt, people in igland will be disappointed to find, after the victory 146 POST AT ALHANDKA. Chap. VI. at Busaco. It certainly was always Lord AV.'s in- tention to do so in the event of the enemy advancing in force, as of course the farther they are drawn on the more difficulty they will meet with when defeated, which most certainly they will be if they are mad enough to attack us in our strong position, which extends from this place, on the Tagus, to Mafra, on the sea, the whole country between which is fortified ; and I believe Lord W. has now as many troops as they have. He seems quite confident of success. They made a show of following the army during our retreat ; but I beheve it is not yet ascertained whether their whole force is come on. Our giving up so much of the country has certainly distressed the inhabitants dreadfully. They are all ordered, on pain of death, to leave their houses and to destroy all the property they cannot carry away with them; and very few having means of transport, you may imagine what misery it causes. But they all submit with the greatest patience, knowing it has the desired effect of completely annoying the French. Our post is at this place, about eighteen miles from Lisbon. We are in every respect well off, get all the good things from Lisbon, and live in a palace. We are both quite well. Tom is not far from us ; but I have not seen him lately. We hear almost every day of his being well. I hope you received my letter, [written] as soon as I had an opportunity after the battle of Busaco. Row- land and I were not much in the fight, but had the pleasure of seeing the French get a drubbing, in which Tom's regiment helped. Marshal Beresford and Lord W. have not forgot his name amongst others Chap. VI. LETTER OF GENERAL HILL. 147 that are mentioned." The strong position here al- luded to was on the lines of Torres Vedras. Lord Wellington had carried on these celebrated works silently but perseveringly, for the defence of the seat of government and capital of Portugal, that he might there achieve the deliverance of a nation, and crown his own and the British name with imperishable honour. At this time the rains had commenced, and the men suffered much from the want of tents, whicli had been ordered, but had not arrived ; on which Lord Wellington observed, drily, " They swear they have been sent from Lisbon." General Hill found time for a short letter, descriptive of his position ; — « My dear Sister, " Alhandra, Oct. 13. 1810. " The enemy, finding he could make no impression at Busaco by force, endeavoured to get round our left, which obliged Lord W. to fall back. AVe now occupy a position about 20 mUes in front of Lisbon ; it is strong, but rather too extensive for our numbers. The enemy followed us pretty close upon our march, and is now immediately in our front, and I have no doubt will soon briug matters to a crisis. We are confident of success, and I trust you will soon receive favourable accounts. My post extends from the Tagus about four miles to the left, and I am, as you may suppose, a good deal occupied ; but hearing there is an opportunity of sending letters, I will not miss it. 1 thank Sir John for his very kind letter, which I will answer in a few days. * * * Tom and his regiment distinguished themselves much in the late action at Busaco. " Most affectionately and truly yours, " K. H." On the 14th the general's old friend Regnier was near him again, of which he apprised Lord A\'el- L 2 148 THE FRENCH FOILED. Chap. VI. lington. " I have," he wrote on the 15th, " to inform your Lordship that the enemy reconnoitred us on the high ground in front of our position yesterday about noon, having obliged our picquets to fall back. His force appeared to consist of about three battalions of infantry and some squadrons of cavalry. An officer and a large suite were observed in front." After mentioning the successful result of some skirmishing, he continued, " A prisoner, brought in late yesterday evening, states that the officer who reconnoitred us was Regnier, and that the whole of his corps is in our front, the main body being near Yilla Franca, where our armed boats observe considerable smoke and the appearance of encampments." During the remainder of this month, several changes of position took place in consequence of the marches of the enemy, who retired without venturing on any attack, completely foiled by the strength of the lines and the skill of their opponents. On the 27th, by desire of his gallant brother. Lieutenant Hill sent word home from Alhandra : — " We have now not the least idea of their attacking us here, and they must give up all thoughts of getting Lisbon. I realty believe they never have been more deceived or were in a greater scrape than they are at present, and they will have some difficulty in getting out of it. They cannot remain near us much lonoer without beinsf starved, as they have very few supplies here, and the Spaniards and Portuguese are intercepting all from their rear : in fact, part of their army has already begun to retreat. We are all three quite well. Tom is about ten miles from here : he made us a morning Chap. VI. PARTIES OF LADIES. 1 49 call yesterday, and to-day we expect him to dine and sleep. The people in Lisbon have now quite got rid of their alarm, and the ladies begin to come up by water to look at the French. Our house is near the river, and Rowland is just gone down to do the civil thing to the Admiral's family, who are come up on a party of pleasure, or he intended writing himself." The worthy Romana had once more joined the allied forces in front of Lisbon mth a considerable detach- ment of Spaniards, and Lord Wellington found him friendly and attentive. The subjoined letter of General Hill to his father affords very interesting information : — " Lobral Pequena, near Alhandra, " My dear Father, " Nov. 3. 1810. " Clement, I know, wrote by the last packet, and I sent a few lines the w eek before. A^T^ien I wrote, I expected the enemy would not have remained many hours without attack- ing us ; but not having done so at that time, I think it is pretty certain they will not meddle with us now, at least in our present position, and with their present force. It is difficult to foresee the result of this contest : it is, however, evident the enemy did not expect the resistance he has met with from the Portuguese troops; indeed, an intercepted letter from Bonaparte to Massena shows that he holds the Portuguese very cheap. I have not seen the letter, but know that it gives Massena a tolerably correct statement of the British force, and directs him to attack it, making no mention of the Portuguese; and adding, that with his 65,000 men he cannot fail to drive the British 30,000 into the sea. At the same time, he directs Massena to press on. Massena has accordingly endeavoured to obey liis Emperor's commands, and foolishly attacked the strong position of Busaco ; and although the battle at that place was by no means so desperate L 3 150 LETTERS OF GENERAL HILL. Chap. VI. as the battle of Talavera, yet the enemy's loss was consider- able : and findhig he could not force the position, he turned it, and obliged Lord Wellington to fall back to this line, where he has his left on the sea, and his right here on the Tagus. On our march, Massena did press on as fast as he could, and I verily believe he and his army thought we were off to our ships, and consequently were a good deal disappointed when we halted here to meet him, in which situation I thought he would have attacked us. He has, however, given us so much time, that we are now twice as strong, from the works con- structed, as we were w^hen we first arrived ; therefore, as I said before, I do not think he will have any thing to say to us here at present. The enemy give out that they expect considerable reinforcements; and, although I believe there can be none near, yet I dare say Bonaparte will, when he finds he has not sufficient troops, send more. Many are of opinion that Massena will not be able to keep his ground, and must either quit the country or surrender. I must own I am not quite so sangvdne as they are; but, at the same time, I think he is rather in a scrape if he does not get more troops soon. Clement and Thomas are quite well. The former writes by tliis day's packet, as I told him I thought I should not have time. I return you a thousand thanks for your kind attention to my aifairs. Believe me, my dear Father, to be your ever obliged and dutiful "K. Hill. " Sir John Hill, Bart." Another letter also explains the proceedings of the two armies. " Lobral Pequeiia, near Alliandra, " My dear Sister, " November 10. 1810. " On this day week I wrote to Sir John, since which time nothing of consequence has occurred. The two armies re- main as they were, the British in the position I mentioned in my last, w^ith the right on the Tagus, and the left on the sea near Torres Vedras, a distance, probably, of about 25 miles. The French advanced regiments are close to us ; that is. Chap. VI. LETTERS OF GENERAL HILL. 151 some of them not more than a mile and a half from the place where I am now writing, with the sentries within musket shot of each other. In this situation we have been for the last month, and I dare say it will appear rather extraordinary when I tell you that we are perfectly good neighbours, and never think of molesting each other. On the conti-ary, I have been obliged to put a stoj) to the intimacy which was going on. It was by no means uncommon to see the soldiers of each army getting grapes out of the same vineyard, water from the same well, and asking each other to drink wine. Indeed, I know of some instances, though not quite correct, of our officers sending to Lisbon for boots and shirts for some of their friends at outposts. By this intercoiu'se, however, we have procured some information. The French certainly seem tired and dissatisfied with the war, and say that Massena's intelligence must have been very bad. They, how- ever, hold out; at least, are told that reinforcements are coming to them, and that they shall be able to keep their ground until they arrive, and will then drive us into the sea. The only reinforcements I have heard of are about 10,000, said to be on the march. It was supposed by some that the French could not remain where they are for want of provi- sions : it is, however, a difficult matter to starve a French- man ; and although the destruction and misery have been very complete in the great towns, and on the line of the great roads, yet I fear the Portuguese, with all their boasting, have been very deficient in the essential point of clearing the country we have left of its provisions and cattle. * * * ***** I trust the day will come for us all to sec our dear friends at Hawkstone. God bless you all ! " I am, " Yours ever most affectionately, " Miss Hill." " R. H. A third letter soon succeeded the other two. " My dear Sister, " Villa Nova, 18th Nov. 1810. "On the morning of the 15th, at daylight, we descried that the enemy had retreated during the night. They have L 4 152 RETREAT OF THE FRENCH. Chap. VI. continued their march to their rear, ever since followed by our army. What the real situation of the enemy is I cannot pretend to say ; it is, however, the general opinion that they are going to quit Portugal. It is certain the French army has suffered a good deal in this country, ■ — what with losses sustained at Busaco, the desertions, sickness, and want of comforts. I cannot, however, help thinking they are not in tliat state to justify their going off altogether. Some of their troops were in Santarem last night, and I dare say are gone from thence this morning. Our light troops are close after them, and have taken some prisoners, about a hundred a day, in general, weakly sick men, which shows that the enemy is rather in a hurry, when they do not wait to protect their sick. " I am going to cross the Tagus this day with my corps, and shall move up the south of the river towards Abrantes. I saw Tom yesterday. Kind remembrances to all. " I remain, " Most affectionately yours, "R. Hill. " Miss Hill." General Hill had been instructed to cross the Tagus, but Lord Wellington wrote to him on the 19th, to say that a letter from General Fane had almost induced him to believe that he had made a mistake in sending him over that river at all. He added, " I am certain that you should proceed no further up that river than Chamusca at present, Avith the head of your corps." Accordingly his next letter is dated " Chamusca, Nov. 23d, 5 p. m." It states, " I wrote on Saturday last, and told you that the enemy had retired from the front of our former posi- tion. They continued retreating till they arrived at Santarem, where they now are in considerable force, and from whence I think it ^vill be difficult to drive Chap. VI. ILLNESS OF GENERAL HILL. 153 them if they are inclined to remain. My corps passed the Tagas on the 17th with the view of recrossing at Abrantes, should the enemy retire into Spain by Castello Branco. They either intend to retire by that road, or by Espinhal and the Ponte Marcella, or to remain in the country till they get reinforcements. I am inclined to think the latter, though the former is the general opinion. Clement has of course told you our present position, which at this moment is very safe, having the Tagus between us and the enemy." Towards the middle of December, General Hill Avas obhged to retire to Lisbon by a severe attack of fever, which at first gave hopes of speedy abatement. His illness had been communicated to his family by his brother, and he wrote himself on feeling somewhat better. "My dear Sister, "Lisbon, December 15. 1810. ** Clement will have informed you of my having been in- disposed. The feverish attack which I had is by no means unusual in the interior of the country, and particularly on the south bank of the Tagus, where we have been lately. The fever is seldom attended with fatal consequences, and a change of air to the neighbourhood of the sea, has almost always an instantaneous effect for the better. I Avas therefore re- moved to Lisbon, and since my arrival here have been daily recovering. I have just been out riding for nearly two hours, and do not feel the least fatigued ; on the contrary, I feel myself better. I liave received your last kind letter. No- thing, I assure you, would give me greater pleasure than to obtain permission to visit Shropshire, which, if I were to ask, I am sure I could procure ; but under present circumstances, in my mind, it Avould not be right to think of it, pi'ovided my health will admit of my returning to my post. Surely affairs in this country cannot long remain in a state of uncertahity. I do not, however, think the French have sufficient force in 154 HIS INDISPOSITION CONTINUES. Chap. VI. Portugal to drive us out of our strong position, nor do I think Lord W. has sufficient strength to drive them out of the country. It appears as if Massena was waiting either for instructions or reinforcements. It is certain that his ad- jutant-general was despatched to Paris about three weeks ago ; it is also certain that some small reinforcements, about 4,000, which were on the march to Massena, have returned into Spain. I am now Hving in Lord W.'s house here. He was here about a week ago ; he is in high spirits, and seems very confident. He goes out hunting about twice a week. ******** ** We are anxiously ex- pecting the arrival of the next packet from England ; its contents must be very interesting to us, as we have heard nothing since the 27th of last month. Kind remembrances to all friends, and believe me, my dear Sister, " Most aifectionately yours, " R. H." By the 22d he was so much better, his brother expressed a hope that in about a fortnight he would return to his corps at Chamusca. These expectations were not realised, and he could not regain his strength, which he reluctantly acknowledged in writing to his sister. "My dear Sister, Lisbon, 30th December, 1810. "• Clement wrote to you by the last packet, and I must send you a few lines by this day's. I find it is much easier to lose one's strength in this country than to regain it. I have not for some time had the least fever, but I feel the effects of it, and cannot get appetite or strength. I do, how- ever, hope soon to be better ; but if I find I do not recover in this country, I shall leave it. General Fane, who has been all along with me, sails to England in the packet which takes this ; he was ill about the time I was, and with nearly the same complaint, but his attack was severer than mine. " Things are again becoming interesting in this country. When Massena went from before Alhandra, it was generally Chap. VI. KINDNESS OF LORD WELLINGTON. 155 supposed that he was off altogether. I think I then told you that I thought he would not go far, which turned out to be the case. It now appears to he certain that the whole of the 9th French corps, about 15,000, has entered Portugal to re- inforce Massena, and that the junction once effected, which I think will be in the course of a week, it is probable he will carry into immediate execution one of the following operations — a general attack upon the position before Lisbon, or the passage of the Tagus, and the occupation of the province of Alemtejo. ****** X fear I shall not be able, at all events, to join the army for a fortnight at least. Excuse this hasty letter, and believe me, " Most truly yours, "K Hill." Major-General Stewart filled for a time the post of General Hill, but was extremely desirous that he should himself return to the command. As he was unable to do so, Sir William Beresford crossed the Tagus and took charge of affairs ; and the kind letter of Lord AYelling- ton, announcing this to General Hill, expressed much anxiety that he might soon resume his situation, but urged him not to attempt it till quite able. He also wrote to him in the most friendly manner, advising frequent change of air ; but all was of no avail ; and the physicians recommended his going home for a time, to which, on the strong solicitation of Lord Wel- lington, he became willing to yield, the more especially as he had been visited with a severe attack of jaundice. Accordingly, after a passage of three weeks, he reached Falmouth on the 6th of February, 1811, and was at Exeter on the 9th. On the 11th he arrived at Wells on a visit to his uncle, Mr. Tudway. Before he left Exeter he heard of the " sudden death of his friend Romana," by an officer just come from Portugal. A 156 GENERAL HILL RECOVERS AT HOIME. Chap. VI. very few clays in his native country proved the ex- cellence of the advice given him, for he began rapidly to mend, and was very anxious to proceed to Hawk- stone, accompanied by Lieutenant Clement Hill and Captain Currie. " I mean," he wrote from Wells, "to go by Bath, and as I really have no coat except a uniform one, I believe I must halt there one day for the purpose of getting one made, and to purchase a few necessary articles." Although much better, he was still unable to encounter the evening air, and therefore proposed to take three days in going from Bath to Hawkstone. His arrival was a source of much comfort to his friends, who saw him daily ad- vancing towards a renovated state of health. But he was most anxious to return to the army, which, by the blessing of God on repose and the comforts of home, he was enabled to rejoin in May, almost immediately after Marshal Beresford's desperate battle of Albuera. 157 CHAPTER YIL GENERAL HILL S RETURN TO THE ARMY. HE ARRIVES AT HEAD- QUARTERS. HIS WELCOME. — EXTRACTS FROM HIS LETTERS. — MAKES THE ACQUAINTANCE OF THE PRINCE OP OR.XJfGE. VILLA VICOSA. PORTALEGRE. LETTERS OF GENERAL HILL. PORTU- GUESE TROOPS. GENERAL HILL OPERATES AGAINST GIItARD. ARROYO DE MOLINOS. SURPRISE OF GIRARD. — GENERAL HILL's HURRAH. HUMOUR OF THE HIGHLANDERS. PANIC OF THE FRENCH. PLTtSUIT ON THE SIERRA DE MONTANCHES. — TRIUMPH OF THE DAY. ESCAPE OF GIRARD. PRINCE D'^UiEMBERG .VND OTHER PRISONERS. LORD AVELLINGTOn's SATISFACTION AT THIS ACHIEVEMENT. RECOMMENDS GENERAL HILL TO THE PRINCE REGENT. GENERAL HILL's POPULARITY WITH THE ARMY. MIS OWN DESCRIPTION OF ARROYO DE MOLINOS. FLATTERING CON- GRATULATIONS. CAPTAIN C. HILL TAKES HOME THE DE- SPATCHES. HIS RECEPTION IN ENGLAND. — LETTER OF PRINCE d'aREMBERRG. LORD MULGRAVE GENERAL HILL PROMISED THE ORDER OF THE BATH. NEW MOVEMENTS. ESTRE.MADURA. CIXJDAD RODRIGO. GALLANTRY OF COLONEL T. N. HILL. NEW PLANS. SPEECH OF THE PRINCE REGENT. IN-\-ESTMENT OF THE ORDER OF THE BATH. SIR ROA\'LAND HILL's REPUGNANCE TO BE CALLED BY HIS NEAV TITLE. SUPPORTERS FALL OF BADAJOS. NEW PROJECTS. ALMARAZ. General Hill, on reaching the Peninsula, was wel- comed by the following letter from Lord A^'elIi^gt<)Il : — « My dear Hill, " Elvas, May 27. 1 81 1 . " I am very glad you are returned in good hcaltli, and I hope that wc shall see you soon. " You will have heard of events here, which I hojie will enable us to obtain possession of Badajos, upon which wc arc busily employed. " Believe me, &c. " Wellington." 158 GENEKAL HILL'S RETURN. CiiAr. VII. He proceeded at once to head-quarters, and wrote to his sister, to apprise her of his arrival. " My dear Sister, " Elvas, May 3 1 . 1811. " I have the pleasure to acquaint you that after a prosper- ous journey, we arrived here yesterday, and as I have heen but one fortnight coming from Spithead to this place, little time has been lost. Indeed, I believe few ever made the voyage and journey in less time. Beresford's battle, which you will have heard of long before this reaches you, has been a bloody one, and as the French retired, we claim the victory, but alas! it has been a dear bought one. "When I was in England, and heard that the French had possession of Badajos, I said I thought I should be in time to see it re- taken. The opportunity exists, and the enemy seems deter- mined to keep it as long as he can, in consecpience of which preparations are making to besiege it, and it is the general opinion that it will fall in about ten days. In the mean time my corps, which I shall resume the command of to-morrow, will prevent the enemy from relieving the place. I saw Lord Wellington yesterday, and shall dine with him to-day. He is, as usual, very civil, and expressed pleasure at my return. I assure you, I never felt in better health than at present, and trust I shall continue well. Clement* joins in kind remembrance to Sir John, and all at Hawkstone. " I remain, " Yours very affectionately, « R. H." The return of General Hill not only gave pleasure to Lord Wellington, but excited, as is truly stated by Napier, " the eager rejoicings of the army." After various movements, which it is not essential to trace, he arrived at " Torre Moro, one league from Campo Mayor." On the 20th of June he sent home news to * Mr. Clement Hill was promoted to the rank of captain in April, 1811. Chap. VII. BADAJOS. 159 this effect : — " My last letter to you was from Elvas, on my way to Almenclralejo, to assume the command of my corps, which I did about seventeen days ago. I had scarcely been there a week, when accounts from every quarter confirmed what had been for some time expected, the advance of the French from the North as well as the South towards Badajos, for the purpose of relieving that place, and in doing Avhich they have completely succeeded. Lord Welhngton, not '^vishing to risk a battle to save it, sent orders for me and all the troops in front, to fall back upon the approach of the enemy. We accordingly came here, and as the enemy was bringing all his force towards this point, Lord W. ordered the whole of his army from the North to march in this direction, and to this neigh- bourhood, where the whole will be assembled in the course of two or three days. The enemy, on their part, have concentrated nearly all their force about Merida, and having gained their first object, the rais- ing of the siege of Badajos, it is thought they will not at present make an}^ further attempt on Portugal." He had, on the same day, been taking a long ride with Lord Wellington, and when he came home, could not help congratulating himself on having had nothing to do with the unsuccessful siege of Badajos. But he perfectly coincided with his chief as to the wisdom of not risking a battle in the open plains near that place, " where the enemy was bringing the whole of his force, and which force in cavalry was far superior to ours." On the 11th of July he observed, in another letter, " The enemy, having now completely succeeded in their object of relieving Badajos, and throwing 160 PRINCE OF ORANGE. Chap. VII. abundant supplies of provisions and ammunition into the place, do not appear desirous, nor, indeed, I ought to say equal to undertake any further operations against us at present." Besides, the French had said, in their official papers, that none but madmen would continue in the unhealthy spot they then occupied, during the hot months, which being a just remark, he concluded they would retire, and expected Soult was going to Seville, and Marmont about to recross the Tagus. The same reasons also operated on the mind of Lord Wellington, who marched to Beira, leaving the troops under Gene- ral Hill cantoned in Alemtejo. The Prince of Orange had just joined the army, and General Hill had met him at dinner at head-quarters, when his Serene High- ness and himself commenced an acquaintance, which afterwards ripened into mutual esteem and confi- dence. Soon after. Lieutenant Mackworth, whom the General had taken as his extra aid-de-camp, was made prisoner by the French patroles, but was very well treated by them, and eventually, after a long cor- respondence, exchanged. This affair, and the nature of his position, are noticed in a letter to Miss Hill, which will preclude the necessity of tracing his move- ments at any length, during a period comparatively dull. Villa Vi90sa, August 28. 1811. " My dear Sister, " Your letters have duly arrived, and I beg to thank you for all you have been kind enough to write to us. If you received a letter I wrote from Torre de Moro, you will find that my prognostics have in some degree been verified. The French retired to a short distance for the purpose of giving Chap. VII. VILLA VI9OSA. IGl their army a little rest. The army of Portugal, as it is called, was in consequence cantoned with its right off Placentia, and left at Truxillo, where they were enjoying the comforts of the towns on that line, when Lord Wellington marched the main part of his force towards Ciudad Rodrigo, where it now is, and which I imagine will oblige the French to make a move on some point ; but whether it will be directly upon his lord- ship, or more in this direction, I cannot tell. I do, however, find that they are preparing for a march : at the same time I do not apprehend they can do any thing serious against us at present. My principal object is to watch the 5th French corps, which is at and about Zafra. It consists of about 10,000 infantry and 2000 cavalry. My corps is stronger than that. The 5th, however, may be joined by some others from Truxillo and Seville. " Nothing could exceed Lord W.'s attention to my request respecting Mr. Mackworth ; and it has been the means of pro- curing his release from the hands of the French, where, in justice to our enemy, I must say he was extremely well treated. ****** I am fully persuaded that if I had not gone home at the time I did, my health would not have been established ; at least, if I may jvidge from others who were ailing at the time I was ill, and were kept lingering in the country without doing duty, and in the end have been obliged to quit. " Yours very truly and affectionately, " R. H." The division of General Hill remained at Villa Vi90sa till the 3d of September. It is a handsome town, distant about five leagues from Elvas, and there was much in the place and its environs to render it very agreeable, particularly the hunting palace and preserves, together with the picturesque rides and walks in the park, which had in former days caused it to be a favourite country residence of the royal family. The confidence reposed in our troops brought M 162 LETTERS OF GENERAL HILL. Chap. VII. abundant supplies as usual to tlie market, and within two miles lay the famous vineyards of Borba, afford- ing the best wine of Portugal. The Chapel Royal was also an attraction to some of the otficers, from the excellence of the music, which was, however, fre- quently of a description iU suited to the sanctuary. Early in September they removed to Portalegre ; but nothing of an exciting nature occurred for some time. Three letters of the General give every requisite ex- planation of his own circumstances, and events affect- ing the army. The two first are to Miss Hill ; the third to his elder brother. " My dear Sister, " Portalegre, Sept. 17. 1811. " I have nothing particular to communicate to you by this day's post ; I will however send you a few lines to tell you we are all well. The enemy are, I think, concentrating their force in the direction of Ciudad Kodrigo, with the intention of preventing Lord W. from meddling with that place, and I should not be surprised if they succeed. The French army is certainly weak and sickly. Marmont is, I am told, assured that he shall have reinforcements of 40,000 from France, and he is now enabled to draw some of the troops to this side, in consequence of the fall of Tarragona and Figueras, and Soult's late success over Blake in Granada. General Castanos tells me the Spaniards in Galicia have had some advantage over the French. Castanos is in my front, and when you hear so great a name, you will imagine I am well protected by a large army. The following statement of Castanos' force, contained in an intercepted letter from the French General at Merida, to Marmont, now before me, is a pretty correct one : — ' Mo- rillo, commander of the Spanish infantry, and the Count de Penne, commanding the cavalry, in all about 3000 mauvaises troupes mal armees sont a Caceres. Hill, commandant d'une division Anglaise, est entre Villa Vi90sa et St. Olia. Casta- nos, avec sept ou huit cent officiers, et fort peu de soldats, a son Chap. VII. LETTERS OF GENEPxAL HILL. 16 qiiartier general en Valencia d' Alcantara.' The troops at Caceres belong to Castanos ; but, as the French say, he has very few soldiers at Valencia, not more than two or three hundred." * * * "My dear Sister, " Portalegre, Sept. 24. 1811. " Clement is gone to Lisbon, and I dare say will Avrite to the Colonel from thence to thank him for his kindness regarding some hounds which have arrived safe and well. Things are becoming interesting again in this country. Lord Wellington has a large army in his front, and by an inter- cepted letter, and the movements of the enemy, we are not likely to be idle this side. The 5th corps has advanced to Merida, and by the above-mentioned intercepted letter it appears that it is to manoeuvre upon me, to prevent our going to Lord Wellington. I do, however, think it probable Lord W. Avill give up the idea of attacking Ciudad Rodrigo, with which the enemy will for the present be satisfied. Kind re- membrances to all, and believe me " Yours very affectionately, " R. Hill. " Miss Hill." " My dear Brother, " Portalegre, Oct. 1. 1811. " Cii'cumstances have a good deal changed since I wrote to Maria on tliis day week. Lord W. was then in a position covering Ciudad Rodrigo, and Marmont was on his march to relieve it ; and the question was, whether Lord Wellington would risk an action to prevent supplies being thrown into it. The question has now been decided by his Lordship's declining it ; a measure deemed most advisable, considering the force of the enemy. Lord W. has, in consequence, fallen back towards Sabugal, and yesterday it was supposed the enemy were also on their return to the quarters from whence they came, hav- ing succeeded in their object of supplying Ciudad Rodrigo. You will perceive from Avhat has happened, that the enemy is not so weak as we were inclined to suppose him to be last year, when he was running out of Portugal. I am, however, M 2 164 LETTER OF GENERAL HILL. Chap. VII. of opinion, that although he probably would have no great objection to meet us in an open country, yet I do not think he is sufficiently strong to undertake offensive operations against this country. Therefore, under all circumstances, it strikes me that Marmont will be perfectly satisfied with having gained his object at Ciudad Eodrigo, and that we shall remain for the winter quiet. Next spring will probably decide the campaign in favour of England or France, according to the reinforcements which may arrive to either army. With respect to my situation, I have been rather on the alert the last ten days. Marmont sent a request to the Commander of the 5th French corps, Girard, to manoeuvre on this side, while he marched upon Ciudad Rodrigo ; at the same time telling him that the English had very few troops in the Alemtejo. Girard, who does not belong to Marmont's force, called the army of Portugal, so far complied with the request, and came as far as Merida, and I made a disposition of my troops in hopes of falling upon him should he have come much nearer. He, however, knew better than Marmont respecting the force on this side, and is again returned to Zafra. Soult, who commands all the troo])s on the south of the Guadiana, has been employed, as you will see by the papers, in destroy- ing Blake and Freere's people, and he is now near Malaga, collecting troops to attack Ballesteros, who has landed at Alsrezix'as. Thomas has been moving a good deal lately with Lord W.'s army: I dare say you will hear from him. Clement returned last night, and tells me that he did not write to you from Lisbon ; but he jiromised to do so by this day's packet. If I had thought he had not, I should not have so lightly mentioned in my last my best thanks to you for your kind attention respecting the hounds, which have arrived safe and well, are now within four days' march of this place, and I am sure will afford great amusement to the officers of this part of the army, who, I am persuaded, are entitled to every recrea- tion circumstances will admit of. ^ Tp ^ ^ 7f! ^ " Kind remembrances to all at Hawkstone, not forgetting Chap. VH. DESIGN OF GIRAUl). 1 (J5 Rowland and John.* Pray tell tlic former I will ni.l,.avonr to procure him a beautiful S[)ani.sli horse: they are in jTrncral much handsomer than the rortugucse. " Yours ever most affectionately, "K. 1 1 ILL." On the 25tli and 27th of September the conihats of El Bodon and Aldea Ponte took place, when Lord AYellington had much reason to be satisfied witli the Portuguese soldiery trained by British officers; and the Prince of Orange also manifested a spirit and intelli- gence, which confirmed the anticipations of General Hill on meeting his Serene Highness at Lord A\'el- lington's table. Li the despatch announcing those aflPairs his Lordship observed, " General Girard had collected at Merida a small body of troops, I believe with the intention of making an incursion into Por- tugal, under the notion that I had withdrawn Licu- tenant-General Hill's corps from the Alcmtejo for the pui'pose of maintaining the blockade of Ciudad Kod- rigo. But I imagine that he will break uj) this col- lection again, as soon as he shall hear that General Hill is at Portalegre." In reference to this. General Hill remarked in a letter to Hawkstone, dated Sep- tember 8., " Lord Wellington's despatches will, I dare say, make you acquainted with the events which have taken ]Aa.ce in the north. Marmont has, I believe, fallen back to the cantonments he occupied previous to his relieving Ciudad Rodrigo, and Girard is gone to his former quarters at ZafV:i. A\'e are, however, a little on the alert again on this side, in consef|Ucnce of the return of Soult to Seville ; and it is sup|>osed he * The present Viscount Hill, and his brother the Ilcv. .lohn Hill. M 3 166 HILL OPERATES AGAINST GIRARD. Chap. VII. is coming to Estremadura ; in consequence of which, I am getting back some of my troops which I lent to Lord W. when he was threatened by Marmont." ToAvards the middle of October Girard's division crossed the Guadiana at Merida, and inflicted the greatest annoyances on the northern district of Es- tremadura, in consequence of which. General Hill pro- posed to operate against him in conjunction with the Spaniards under Castanos. His principal objects were, first, to drive the enemy from Caceres ; secondly, to force him to re-cross the Guadiana ; and thirdly, to endeavour to cut off the retreat of the whole or part of the hostile forces posted at Caceres, before they could be augmented or supported. As no ulterior advantage could be derived from the first object with- out the accomplishment of the second, this became the chief consideration in the General's disposition of his troops. Lord Wellington fully approved his de- sign, if it could be undertaken " without risking the safety of Campo Mayor and Orguela," which he was assured might be done, as both these places were considered secure from assault ; but the General was instructed not to pass Caceres with his head-quarters and main body ; and when he had driven off Girard, he was to replace the Conde de Penne Villemur at Caceres, and bring back his troops, who had endured the greatest sufferings from the weather, towards the frontier. The French retired from Caceres on the 26th ; but their pursuers had no certain tidings as to the direction they had taken, and therefore the suffer- ing British and Portuguese soldiers were halted by Chap. VII. CAUTIOUS PURSUIT. I(j7 their considerate leader for that night at M!il|);irti(l;i, while he himself used efforts to discover the route of the retreating enemy. His information rendered it certain that they were gone to Torremocha, and he endeavoured, by taking a shorter road than theirs, to intercept and bring them to action. While on his march, General Hill discovered that Girard was at Arroyo de Molinos, and not aware of his movements, which at once induced him to decide on overtakinir and surj^rising the whole force of the French, or at all events compelling them to an action. The weather was wretched in the extreme ; but the soldiers did not fail in a long forced march instantly undertaken in the most perfect quietude, that no symptom of their approach might alarm the enemy. By the evening of the 27th they were at Alcuescar, within four miles of their unconscious foes. Every conceivable precaution was resorted to. The light companies were thrown into the villages to prevent the natives from alarming the enemy ; and the cavalry, artillery, and infantry were disposed of in the neighbouring fields, with the strictest orders not to cheer the cold and gloomy night with a single fire, the flickering of which might give indication that they were near. The wind blew furiously; the rain fell in torrents; and the patient soldiery had no protection from the storm, except tlie drenched coverings of their tents, which the gale h;id thrown down ; but their patience and confidenee in the leader they loved deserted them not. They were warmed by the flush of expectation that the morning would recompense them for all their toils; and the M 4 168 SURPRISE AT ARROYO DE MOLINOS. Chap. VII. first streaks of dawn had not appeared in the hori- zon, when the various columns fell in, without a single note of a bugle or the beat even of one solitary drum. The ground was admirably chosen with a view to concealment : they filed quietly through the village, and having crossed an inter- vening mountain, found themselves, just as the day began to break, within half a mile of Arroyo, where Girard was yet in security, ignorant of their presence and his own danger. At this instant a violent hail- storm, pouring on the rear of the allies, caused the faces of the French picquets to be turned from them ; but just as they were ready to make the decisive movement the clouds cleared away, the sky became serene, and the hostile corps was preparing for their march, in expectation of a propitious day. The de- cisive moment had arrived. General Hill was himself inspired, as was every brave man he commanded, with the enthusiasm of the scene. The usual calmness of his demeanour, rendered even more than commonly striking by the precautions he had taken for silence, became suddenly converted into an animation that cheered and almost amused every witness of his ardour. It seemed kindled in an instant. He drew his sword, — gave a loud hurrah, — spurred his horse, — arid led the charge on the astonished ranks of the French, then forming without a thought that he was so near at hand. The first brigade, headed thus vigorously by himself, moved at once on the village of Arroyo, and the Highlanders catching up the humour of the hour, were heard playing on their bagpipes " Heigh^ Johnny Cope, are you waiting yetV^ Chap. VII. ATTACK. — CIIASK VV THE MOUNTAIN. ICO The second brigade, under iJuneral Il(nvard, moved quietly round to the other side of tliu i)lace, to iiith. The French infantry, nevertheless, having emerged from the town, tried to form into two squares witii cavalry on their left; but the 71st lining the garden- walls of the town, poured into them an awlul lire, which was soon succeeded by that of artillery. Tiiey fled in utter confusion, and the capture of prisoners, cannon and baggage, rapidly followed. Then came the memorable pursuit of that extraordinjiry day. Just behind the routed forces of Girard rose the rocky and steep Sierra de ^lontanches, up which they clambered in a state of utter confusion, throwing away their arms, anmuuiition, and knajisacks, and yielding their persons as prisoners to tlieir ])Ui-suer8 at every step, ^n the excitement of such a chase tlie British, the Portuguese, and the Spaniards, seemed all to forget that they had been without rest, and soaked with rain and mist all the night befon-. They laughed, shouted, jumped in their hea\T ac- coutrements, or caught the scrambling horses of the fuo-itives, who could not ride them over the mountain, 170 BRILLIANT SUCCESS. Chap. VII. and came down mounted in triumph, till fatigue caused some to desist, and the rest being too much scattered, were judiciously stopped on the summit of the Sierra by General Howard. Nearly fifteen hun- dred prisoners were taken, and some of them of high rank. Lieutenant Blakeney, of the 28th, leaped over a wall, and seized the Prince D'Aremberg in the midst of a group of officers. General Brun was also taken, with a colonel of cavalry, an aide-de-camp of Girard, two lieutenant-colonels, a commissaire de guerre, and no less than thirty captains and inferior officers. Girard himself, with a handful of men, es- caped by the bridge of Medellin, declaring he would rather die than surrender. It was altogether a most brilliant achievement, and is thus eloquently adverted to by Major Sherer in his Recollections of the day. " One thing in our success at Arroyo de Molinos gra- tified our division highly ; it was a triumph for our General — a triumph all his own. He gained great credit for this well-conducted enterprise ; and he gained what, to one of his mild, kind, and humane character, was still more valuable, a solid and blood- less victory ; for it is certainly the truest maxim in Avar, ' that conquest is twice achieved, where the achiever brings home full numbers.' " Indeed, the loss in his division was most trifling, while a deep blow was inflicted on the enemy. Girard was wounded before he escaped, and Soult afterwards arrested him, and reported him to Bonaparte, who, knowing that he was, notwithstanding this misadventure, a tho- roughly brave soldier, pardoned him in the expect- ation of future services. In his official reports to Chap. VII. LORD WELLINGTON'S SATISFACTION. 1 7 1 Lord Wellington, General Hill did the utmost jusiice to the officers under his command, and rtjoind in tlic opportunity of bringing into notice his aid-de-canip, Captain Currie, who was rewarded by sul)se(iuciit promotion. Lord Wellington received tlie announce- ment of this distinguished service with uncciuivocal tokens of satisfaction ; and in n letter to Lord Liver- pool thus expressed his sense of the merit of liiin to whom the success was due: — "It would be particularly a^rreeable to me if some mark of the favour of his Royal Highness the Prince Regent Avere conferred upon General Plill ; his services have been always meritorious, and very distinguislied in this counlr}-, and he is beloved by the whole army." He adverted to his various gallant acts, from the passage of the Douro to the last operation at Arroyo, and continued, " In recommending him, as I do most anxiousl}', I really feel that there is no officer to wh(jm an act of grace and favour would be received by the army witli more satisfaction than on General Hill." Lonl Wel- lington justly described the sentiments of the army towards the subject of these deserved connnendatious, whose name was never mentioned by those who served under him without some affectionate expression. (Ge- neral Hill gave a brief account of thr action in a letter to his sister. « ^ly dear Sister, " Portalcgre, Nov. 5. 1 S I 1 . "I am sure my dear friends at Ilawkstonc will rt'joii-c to hear of my good fortune, and share with me the witis^fuetiun I feel, in having, under the will of Divine Providence, givm a severe blow to the coinm.jn enemy, and. thank (iod, ahMO}.t without loss on our side. My oilieial rei.ort uu the l.udinc&«, 172 LETTER OF GENERAL HILL. Chap. VII. whlcli I dare say Clement will carry to England in the same ship which Avill take this, will give you a detailed account of what has happened ; but in case it should not, I have time merely to inform you that on the morning of the 28th, at day- break, I succeeded in surprising, attacking, and anniliilating the French corps under General Girard at Arroyo de Molinos. The enemy's force when attacked consisted of about 3000 infantry, 1600 cavalry and artillery. The result is the cap- ture of one General, Brun, one Colonel, the Prince D'Arem- berg, thirty-five Lieutenant-Colonels and inferior ofificers, 1400 prisoners, and probably 500 killed. The others dispersed, having thrown away their arms : Ave have also got all the enemy's artillery, baggage, and magazines — in short, every- thing that belonged to the corps. " Clement, I am pretty certain, will go in the ship that carries this, otherwise I Avould send you a more detailed account, although I should lose my dinner, which is noAV going on the table. The Prince and most of the French officers dine with me. The British here have been very kind to the French since they have been in our possession, and they seem very grateful for it. " Clement behaved very gallantly, as indeed did all. " Yours most affectionately, " R. H. " Clement is now gone to Lord W. with my report." The congratulations received by General Hill from his brother officers were numerous and flattering. General Murray wrote, " I feel a peculiar pleasure in this fortunate affair, as it concerns yourself personally, and assure you that I only repeat the sentiments which are in the mouth of every one whom I have heard speak upon the subject." Marshal Beresford re- marked, "I confess I did not think Girard would have allowed himself to be overtaken ; but you com- pletely out-manoeuvred him, and the thing is com- Chap. VII. CONGllATLLATIONs. 17;^ plete." Lord Wellington, after tlie un-ivi.l ..l" ( "aptain Clement Hill nt head-quarters, addressed u Ijrief l)ut gratifying letter to the General. " My dear Hill, " Freneda, Nov. [) \H\\. " I have not written to you since the 22(1 ; as I havu Iiail nothing new to interest you, and I would not interrupt your operations. Nothing could be more satisfactory to nic than all you did ; and I am happy that I had determined to .^cnd home your brother with the report of your tran.sactious, before I had heard that it was your wish that I should do so. " He and Churchill will tell you how we are going on licre. " Ever yours most sincerely, ""Wellington. "Lieut. -General Hill." His old friend, General (Jraluun's note Avas kind and characteristic. " My dear Hill, " Lagiosa, Nov. 12. 1811. " I rejoiced most truly on hearing of your success, but 1 delayed writing to congratulate you on it, till I should see your despatch with the particulars. Lord AVcUington sent me your letters two days ago, at the same time exprestfin<; hi.s high approbation of your conduct, a testimony more valuable than any other, but one which in every body's opinion is most justly deserved by the judgment, activity, and adniinible arrangements which produced so brilliant a result with so trifling a loss. Currie has been good enough to send mi- ii sketch of the ground and disposition of the troops, which I prize much, and which perfectly explains the movements described in your report. I beg you will make him my lx"»t thanks, and pray remember me too to S(piire, wli«», I am happy to see, is such a favourite with you. I hope your health has not suffered by the fatigue and bad weather. Adieu. — I hear you have got hounds, and have you a tolenible o.untry and good sport? At head-(iuarters I am told ihcy have 174 RECEPTION OF THE NEWS IN ENGLAND. Chap. VII. already clone up all their horses. Here we have only a little coursing and shooting, neither in much perfection. Once more adieu, and believe me ever most faithfully yours, " Thos. Graham. " Pray remember me to Sir W. Erskine." Captain Clement Hill, who carried the news of his brother's success to England, had a very bad passage of eighteen days' duration, so that on arriving he found the tidings had preceded him; but happily the accounts, instead of having been exaggerated, fell short of the reality. Captain Hill described his own reception in a letter dated, " Mr. Codd's Office, Horse Guards, 2d December." He says, " I got here yesterday with the despatch. Lord Liverpool was at his country house at Coomb, where I went to him. He read the con- tents of it, and then sent me on with it to Oatlands for the Prince to see. His Royal Highness is still confined to his bed, and I did not see him. I saw the Duke of York and a great many other of the great people there, and every one spoke in the highest terms of the business. I returned to Lord Liverpool's at night, and dined there : he was uncommonly kind, and, like every body else, pleased. In short, I am sure nothing that has been done during the war has given so much satisfaction." General Hill's proceedings were worthy of all the admiration they excited. He gave the artillery he had taken to the Spaniards, for which he received a glowing letter of thanks from Castanos; and he treated his prisoners not only with the courtesy of a gentle- man, but with the kindness of genuine heroism. Lord CiiAP. VII. LETTER OF THE TRINXE D'AUEMIJEUC. 175 Wellington attached mucli importance to tlic cajjiurc of the Prince d'Aremberg, from his connection witl» the Imperial Family, and enjoined strict vigilance over him ; yet General Hill executed this delicate duty so as to elicit from his illustrious charge the warmest expressions of gratitude. VCc have seen liow his friends wrote to him: the letter of his prisoner just before he was sent to England equally deserves at- tention : — " Mon General, " Lisbonne, ce 3 Xbrc, 1811. " Au moment do m'embarqucr pour 1' Angletcrro, jc regjirdc comme un devoir do vous renouvcller nics renicrciinfn8 jK»ur toutes les bontes dont vous m'avez conible pendant le ti-rns que j'ai ete avec vous. Croycz, mon General, (pie je t^crai.s heurcux, si roccasion se prescntait, d'etre utile a (pielipies officiers de votre division; ils pourront partout me rcclamer avec confiance. " J'ose de vous prior de faire passer les lettrcs ci-jolntcs u Badajos; c'est une aifaire d'interet que je desire tenuineravee mon chef d'escadron. " Veuillez agreer I'assurancc du profund respect avec lequel j'ai I'honneur d'etre, mon General, votre tres liuinl>le et tres obeissant serviteur. " Le Due d'Aukmuekg." Much reason, indeed, had the writer and his fellow- prisoners to thank General Hill, who not only showed them every civility while A\ntli him, but provided for their kind reception in England, as ajypcars from a sentence in a letter of Lord .Mulgrave. His L-.r-bbij) said "If your prisoners should come to London, I ^vill show them every attention in my power, and will take care that they shall know tli.-y owe it to your favourable report and reconnnendation of tlu-m." 176 APPEOBATION OF THE PRINCE EEGENT. Chap. VII. Lord Mulgrave added to this, " You have nothmg to wish beyond the impression you have made on the public mind." A second letter was also addressed to him from the same quarter : — « Dear Hill, " Harley Street, Dec. 5. 1811. *' I had written and sealed my last letter immediately on the receipt of yours, and before it was in my power to con- gratulate you, as I do most cordially, on the professional dis- tinction which awaits you, as soon as it can be bestowed on you. It will be satisfactory to you to know that in the letters which I have receiyed from the part of the army which is inunedlately under the command of Lord WelHngton, your brother officers all do justice to the mode in which the service was conducted and success prepared, and appear to rejoice at your victory almost as much on personal as on pubUc feehngs. ****** " Believe me with the greatest regard, *' Ever yours most faithfully, " Mulgrave." The honour referred to in this letter was thus an- nounced to General Hill by Lord Liverpool : — *' {Private.^ " Sir, " Downing Street, December 4. 1811. " I have had particular satisfaction in transmitting to Lord Wellington, by the mail of this day, the Prince Regent's most cordial and decided approbation of your conduct in the late operations against the French force under General Girard. His Koyal Highness does the fullest justice to the distinguished ability with which you have conducted this important service, and I can assure you, that his Majesty's confidential servants, and the public in general, most entirely participate in the Prince Regent's feelings upon this occasion. I have great pleasure in being enabled further to add, that the Prince Regent has authorised me to assure you that as soon as the restrictions upon the regency have expired, it is CiiAr. VII. ORDER OF TIIK haTH. I77 his intention to confer upon you the OnK-r ,,|- il,,. Hatli j.h u proof of the sense which Lis Koyal liiglmos i-nicrtain'H of your services. " As it may be a satisfaction to you to be in possession of the original document, containing his l{oyal HigIuK-s«H assurances upon this point, I have the lionour to neml it to you, together with an extract of my note, to which it Wiw an answer. "I am, with great truth, Sir, "Your very faithful and obedient luunble servant. " LlVKlU'OOL." The approbation of his Ptoyal IIi;:]iiicss tli.- (.'..i,,- mander-in-Chief, was conveyed to liim l»y Culuiicl Torrens, the Military Sccretaiy : — " Private. "My dear General, " II, Guards, Dec. 8. IM 1. " I beg your acceptance of my most sincere congratuhitiuii> upon the brilliant success which has attended your expcditi(»n against the French force under General Girard. After the- flat- tering testimony which has been borne of the public appmlta- tion, I shall not render myself liable to the imputat i< >n ( if tlal t rrv, by the expression of my individual o])ini(iii that the pn-Nious arrangements of the sur])rise of the enemy, and the promjititudr of execution, reflect upon you a degree of credit as a (ienerai which few indeed have had the good fortune to attain. The whole country are united in diie voice of appi'oval ; and I heartily I'cjoicc that such a distinguished reward has attendinl your um-emitting and laborious services. The pul)li«' ap- probation, though inconstant ancl whim.«ical, has cliann.s iu it, which, as a soldier, 1 should ajiproeiate much bivontl any favour unsupi)orted by general and well-earned a|iphiu.-e: and therefore I take doid)le i)leasure in the justice which is uni\er- sally done to your distinguished conduct. "Captains Currie and Stpiire will be promoted, on your earnest recommendation, to the rank of Maj(»r, and your •brotlier also, upon the expiration of his pericKl of .service, will N 178 LETTER OF COLONEL TORRENS. Chap. VII. be advanced to the same rank. I assure you his Royal High- ness had great pleasure in giving effect to your wishes respect- ing Captain Currie; and he will also be ready to show every possible attention to the other officers whom you have re- commended to notice, when he has the means of facilitating their advancement. " I imagine that this cowp on your part will close the scene of any active operations, until the opening of the spring. " I beg you will command my services here in any manner in which you think I can contribute to the accomplishment of your wishes ; and when you have time to write a line upon what is going on, I shall be most grateful to you to think of me. " His Royal Highness's official letter to Lord Wellington, will sufficiently show the extent of his approbation to render any further assurance on my part quite unnecessary, to con- vince you of the high sense his Royal Highness entertains of your distinguished conduct. " Believe me, my dear General, to be, " Ever yours most faithfully and sincerely, " H. TORRENS." In reflecting upon this exploit, so many excellences present themselves to the mind, that it seems disposed to rest on each till another is exhibited to its view. First we see a quick conception of an advantage, fol- lowed by an efl'ort in the face of fatigue and the elements, that placed his enemy in his hands without a sound of his approach ; then the silence of the approach itself was succeeded by a burst of heroic animation that cheered on his wearied followers to new energy; the achievement completed, his generous sp)irit applied every possible alleviation to the con- dition of his captives ; and at last, when his honours were accorded to him by a grateful country, the meek- ness of his bearing raised the estimation of his merits, Chap. VII. ESTUKMAin HA. I7«.» and augmented tlie interest ^vith which lie was rcfranl- ed by all men, citizen and soldier, friend and loc Not many weeks elapsed alter this blow to tlie hostile army, ere tidings of new movements on the part of the French reached General Hill in his canton- ments, and he was directed by Lord \\'ellington to move also. The object will be found described in a letter written to his brother, then hi En^dand: — " My dear Clement, " Portalcgrc, Dec, 26. 1811. " We are again in motion, not on account of the cnt-my being near us, but because he is pre.^^ing liallcsteros and the town of Tarifa ; and it is hoped that my movement upon Merida and Ahnandralejo may make a diversinn in favour of our friends in the South. I shall l)e at Alhuipicrque tt»- morrow, and move directly upon IMerida. " A courier arrived here yesterday, hrlnging me a letter from Lord Liverpool, and a correspondence between him and the Prince, full of flattering expressions. The jiurport of the correspondence is ' the Prince's most cordial and decided ap- l^robation of my conduct ;' and he assures me, that as soon an the restrictions upon the Kegcnoy have expired, it is his intention to confer upon me the Order of the 13ath.* "You cannot possibly be in time for this march, therefore you need not hurry. "Yours very faith full v, •• K."llii.i.." On the 27th of December General Hill j)assed into Estremadura, and discovering some lack of vigilance * A similar intimation had been for you, as I have acted in a Himil*r received by Lord Wellington, who, cajtacity in respect to olliers ; l»ut I in communicating it to General assure you that I shall lurfiinii this Hill, observed, " It may fall to my duty, if it should devolve upon me, lot to be the instrument of con- with at least as much satisficlion m veying to you the honour intended 1 have on any former occasion." N 2 180 RETREAT OF DOIMBROWSKI. Chap. VII. on the part of the French, he meditated giving them another surprise, and had ahnost hoped to have gained a inarch on Dombrowski as he did on Girard. A patrole, however, from a detachment discovered his advanced guard on the 29th; and though he used every effort to prevent this small body from retiring to Merida, the retreat was effected by the skill and gallantry of Captain Neveux, who knew the nature of the country, and how to take the fullest advantage of it. Our cavalry could only inflict upon him the loss of about forty men. But General Dombrowski, not relishing the idea of the approach of General Hill, retired from Merida in the night, leaving a magazine of bread, and 160,000 lbs. of wheat, besides several unfinished works. On the 1st of January, 1812, General Hill marched on to Ahnandralejo, in hopes of coming up with Count D'Erlon. The Count, how- ever, moved off as soon as he was apprized of his danger. But a portion of the allies under Colonel Abercromby — a worthy son of the hero of Egypt — had a small affair of great brilliancy with a strong party of the French cavalry at Fuente del Maestre. The subjoined letter gives an account of all these proceedings : — " My dear Sister, " Merida, Jan. 6. 1812. " The mail arrived here last night, bringing your letter of the 12th, for which I beg you will accept my best thanks. I wrote to Clement on Christmas-Day to tell you that I was on the point of making a movement to draw the enemy's at- tention from Ballesteros, who was hard pressed near Gibraltar. On the 30th I entered this town, from whence the enemy retired on our approach, leaving some stores of corn, I having obtained a little advantage over him the preceding day. CiiAF. VII. KETIIEAT 01. COUNT d'kuloN. IS) "On the 1st I marched to AhnuiKh-altjo, in 1„,jk.h that Count D'Erlon would liavc given mc an opportunity of coniiufr in contact M'itli him. lie, however, retreated, and was yes^ terday in full march towards and near Llerena. The dread- ful state of the weather and the condition of the loads, render any further oi^crations on my part impossil)le without incur- ring great risks, and exceeding my instructions. I returned here two days ago, and my stay will depend chiefly on my supplies. "I must conclude, as it is post-time. Kind remend)rancc to all. « Yours very affectionately, "T^. II. " My movement has occasioned great alarm to the enemy, and I trust I have effected the object in view. Clement will be glad to hear that Aljcrcromby has had an opportunity of doing something. The affair of Fuente del Maestro does him and all engaged great credit." On the 19th of January Lord AVellington terminated the celebrated siege of Ciudad Rodrigo, in -which Colonel Thomas Xoel Hill behaved most gallantly. The General was too happy to apprize his family of his brother's distinction. "My dear Sister, "Niza, Jan. 23. 1812. " Before you receive this you will have heard of the taking of Ciudad Rodrigo. Things seem to have been very well managed there by all concerned in the capture ; and I am happy to find that Tom and his regiment had an opportunity of distinguishing themselves. "Lord W. having conceived that my late movement to the southward of the Guadiana had created every diversion in favour of Ballcsteros and Tarifa which could have been expected from it, he directed me to return to Portugal, and take up a position with my right at Portalegre, centre here, and left at Castello Branco. The object of taking up this position Avas the probability of the enemy making an attcmjit N 3 182 COMMUNICATION FEOM LOED WELLINGTON. Chap. VII., on this side to draw Lord W.'s attention from Ciudad Rodrigo. " Clement has not yet arrived : by his last letter we may, I think, expect him daily. Lord W. sent me his despatch to Lord Liverpool to read, and by it I am glad to find that honourable mention is made in it of Colonel Campbell and the 94th, for their conduct at the storming of Ciudad Eodrigo. Kind remembrances to all, and believe me to be, " Yours very affectionately, « K H." On the 28tli of January Lord Wellington addressed a letter to General Hill from Gallegos, the original of which is marked secret and coiifidential ; but as it ap- pears in Gur wood's eighth volume, a quotation from it is all that is requisite. After informing him that the enemy had not advanced from the Tormes, that the re-establishment of Ciudad Eodrigo was proceed- ing, and that it was proposed to replace the army in their old cantonments, his Lordship acquainted him that he was " turning his mind seriously to Badajos." He then proceeded, — " When we shall attack Bada- jos we must expect that the army of Portugal, con- sisting of eight divisions of infantry, the whole of which are now in Castille, and the army of the South, will co-operate to oblige us to raise the siege. The army of Portugal would naturally cross the Tagus by their bridge at Almaraz ; and they would be obliged, at the season of the year in which I propose to under- take this operation, to go round even by Toledo, if we could destroy their bridge and other establishments at that place. This is what I wish you to attempt." The General's reply to this communication shows how thoroughly he entered into all the plans of Lord Chap. Vir. SrEECII OF TIIK I'lUNfH HKCJENT. 1H3 Wellington, and what grounds tlierc were for tlie confidence reposed In lilm: — "My dear Lord, "Niza, Jan. .'}(». isi'j. " I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt (»!' ydur Lordship's letter of the 28th, marked secret and nwjidrntiftl, and will use my best endeavours to fulfil the instructions which it contains. Your Lordshij) will perceive, Ity Mr. Ilillier's report on Almaraz, dated the Ifith instant, that I have not been inattentive to your wishes on the subject of the destruction of the enemy's works at that place. You will likewise observe, that on the 16th the enemy had oidy two boats on the river, and the others, nine in number, were on the north bank of the river, mounted on carriages, and two spare carriages. I have, &c. " Viscount Wellington, K. B., " K. llii,i.. &c. &c. &c." The report of Lieutenant llillicr was called in Lord Wellington's answer a " very clear " one ; and he proposed to supply General Hill with the means of sending a detachment to the right of the Tagiis, to cut off the retreat of these boats, which was the principal object of his expedition. At this time General Hill had the satisfaction of seeing in the English papers the complimentary allu- sion to his exploit at Arroyo de Molinos, in the speech of his Royal Highness the Prince Kegent at the open- ing of Parliament. It was tlius deservedly <'>m- mended: — "The successful and brilliant enterprise, which terminated in the surprise, in Spanish Kstrcma- dura, of a French corps by a detachment of tiie al- lied army under Lieutenant-General Hill, i> higbly creditable to that distinguished ofhcer, and the troops under his command, and has contributed materially N 4 184 OPINION OF MR. WELLESLEY. Chap. VII to obstruct the designs of the enemy in that part of the Peninsula." In writing home on the 30th of January, he alluded to this honourable mention of his name with evident gratification, and also to a letter he had received from Mr. Henry Wellesley, tlien at Cadiz, relative to his diversion in favour of Ballesteros and Tarifa. Mr. AYellesley, in allusion to the loss of the French at Tarifa, assured him that it " was cer- tainly not less than 2000 men, leaving behind them all their artillery, ammunition, &c." Then he pro- ceeded, — "It is probable that your movement in Es- tremadura contributed greatly to this event." In quoting this passage. General Hill himself observed, " I confess I think it is most likely that it did, for on the 1st, 2d, and 3d we advanced rapidly, the alarm of which must have reached Tarifa on the 5th, the day the enemy retired suddenly from before the place." By the 10th of February General Hill had formed an opinion that the expedition against the enemy's boats on the Tagus near Almaraz, was not practicable ; and Lord Wellington entirely concurred in the reasons he assigned. He was, however, fully prepared to make any attempt deemed advisable, " at the shortest notice." Eight days after this he wrote from Portalegre, — " The greater part of Lord Wellington's army is march- ing to this side of the Tagus ; I therefore think we shall soon try what can be done with Badajos." By the 3d of March he was enabled to say, " Things are becoming a little interesting again in this quarter. Lord W. is on the point of undertaking the siege of Badajos, for which purpose the whole of the army is on its march to this side of the Tagus, and the enemy Chap. Vir. INVESTMENT OF TIIK 15AT1I. 185 have not at present shown any disposition to oppose him." Shortly after this announcement of tlic state (»f things around liim, he received from Lord W'cHin^rton the insignia of tlie Order of the Batli, accompanied by an invitation to Elvas for investment. "My dear Hill, " Portalcgu-, March 10. 181'2. " I send herewith the letter from the Secretary of State, and the insignia of the Order of the Bath, and the coj)y of a letter to me, directing me to invest yon tlierewith. "I am going to Elvas to-morrow; and as I l»elieve the earliest occasion will be on every account tlic most suitahle, I would invest you there on the next day, tlie 12th, if you can make it convenient to come over. "Pray invite the General and Staff of the 2d Division to come over to Elvas to be present on the occasion, and \o dine with me; and likewise General Hamilton and General Long, if they should be near you. " I'll take care that you shall all be quartered in Elvas. " Ever yours most sincerely, "Wellington. " I understand that you wish to know by what roauiricicntly i«si- tive as to his actual force to feel certain, in the event r 210 LETTEIl OF SIR ROWLAND. Chap. VIII. of taking up a favouraljle position, that I should be able to gain any important advantage over him. Therefore, for the present, I propose keeping the troops in cantonments, with as much reference as possible to their health and convenience, and shall watch for a favourable opportunity of acting. The Count D'Erlon's head-quarters being at Hornachos would rather indi- cate a forward movement on their part, and I shall be prepared accordingly. I am disposed to think, how- ever, he has no such intention^ but that his object is only to keep us in view." In the same letter he gave an account of a little skirmish between the outposts. A few days previously he had reported what Lord Wellington called " a very handsome aifair " with the enemy's horse, on the 24th of July, by the division of cavalry under Sir W. Erskine. His time was so fully occupied that he had little leisure to write to his re- latives in England ; but this brief note from Zafra contains much in a few words : — " My dear Sister, " Zafra, Aug. 4. 1812. " I wrote the accompanying letter last post-day; but owing to my being obliged to go out in a hurry, the letter was not sent. It is of little moment whether you receive it or not ; it shall, however, go by this day's post. Since I wrote it we have received accounts of the defeat of Marmont's army near Salamanca. It has been a most glorious event, and I trust its consequences will be most advantageous to the cause. It appears, however, to have had very little effect on my im- mediate opponents. Count D'Erlon continues in a strong situation In my front, and Soult remains at Seville with about 4000, and more at no great distance ready to move upon me should I follow Drouet. Therefore for the present I shall remain where I am, and watch for a ftivourable oj^portunlty of acting. Lord Wellington still continues advancing; and Chap. Vlir. llErORT TO LORD \VKhLlX(/ro.\. 'J 1 1 if he is able to keep his forward position, Soult will be onhrcil to reinforce the King. Indeed, I tliink Suult must quit tliis part of the country entirely if matters do not mend with them. Every thing looks well at i)resent. The last accounts from the North of Europe are of the greatest consequence to us. " Yours ever most affeetionatelv, "K. illLL. " Clement Avrites a letter by this post : you will consider this as a mere memoraiidinn." The movements of Drouet were still closely watclied by Sir Rowland, and regularly reported to head- quarters. " My dear Lord, " Zafra, Aug. 12. (noon) 1812. " Di'ouet has withdrawn his troops from Guerena; but lie still occupies Hornachos, keeping the troops and l)aggage out of the town every night. I hope your Lordship has received the intercepted letter I sent on the 8th, from Drouet to Jour- dan, by which we see that on the 6th the former had rcceiveil no official account of INIarmont's defeat. AVe also see that Soult expected the King in Andalusia. The late glorious event must, however, frustrate all his intentions. Your Lord- ship will see by your returns that we continue very healthy. There w^as a little fever in the oOtli. I have in consequence moved that regiment to Feira, which is reckoned a rcmarkalily healthy place. " I have, &c. «K. IIii.i.. " P. S. I have not heard from Seville or Rallcsteros since my last. " General the Earl of "Wellington, K.15., « &c. &c. &c." On the 13th Lord AVellington entered the capital of Spain, welcomed by tears of joy as the IViend of the p 2 212 LORD WELLINGTON AT MADRID. Chap. VIII. oppressed inhabitants, who hailed him as their de- liverer ; but they were so dispirited by their sufferings, that no heart remained in them for tumultuous exul- tation. From this scene of one of the purest triumphs ever resulting from arms, his active mind took a sur- vey of the whole condition of the afflicted country. He first directed the blockade of Cadiz to be raised, expecting this would enable him to relieve Ballesteros and Sir Rowland Hill. Soon after, in consequence of the retreat of Joseph into Valencia, and the certainty that it was not intended to join the troops under Drouet to the army of the centre, while reinforce- ments under General Maitland had landed at Alicante, he ordered Sir Rowland to move on Drouet, to drive him out of Estremadura, if possible, and to threaten to enter Andalusia. At the time of receiving these instructions Sir Rowland informed his friends pri- vately, " Soult is evidently a good deal alarmed, and is certainly about to move, and it is generally sup- posed he will retire by Granada. We are ready for a start whenever the period shall arrive for us to ad- vance." On the 19th the enemy made a strong reconnoissance with nearly the whole of his cavalry, but only drove in some picquets, and then retired at a trot towards Llerena. Sir Rowland observed to Lord Wellington, that his own proceedings ought to depend, in a great degree, on those of Soult. " If," he said, " Soult gets rid of his encumbrances, and re- mains at or near Seville in force, it will not, I should think, be advisable for me to follow Drouet far. I shall, however, give him every annoyance I can, and if circumstances permit I shall make a direct move- Chap. VIII NEW MOVEMENT. 2 1 3 ment upon him to-morrow.* It was my iiitciitioii to have surprised the post of Plornachos, l)Ht I iind tlie troops which are there in the day, march out and bi- vouack at least one league from the to^vn on the road. Therefore to have attempted to have surprised that place would, in my mind, have harassed my troops, and have been attended Avitli no advantage." Jlis further movements are thus detailed in a letter to England, dated Berlanga, August 31st : — "(in the 27th my corps broke up from its cantonments at Zafra, and reached Assuaga and this place yesterday. The Count D'Erlon has evacuated Estremadura, and is in full march upon Cordova, at which place there is every appearance of a general union of the army of the South. I propose making an immediate move- ment to my left to the Guadiana, from which point I shall be in the way to make a movement to the Tagus, should it be necessary to form a junction with Lord AYellington. The joy of the people at this moment is great indeed, and I trust it will have the best effect." By a letter of the same date, sent by a trusty peasant in duplicate on account of the slowness and uncertainty of the post, he acquainted Lord A^'el- lington that Soult, with his whole army, was making " a rapid and decided movement upon Cordova, with a view, probably, of uniting vritli the King." He there- fore proceeded towards Medellin, Truxillo, and Al- maraz, where he crossed the Tagus. As he passed the famous fortress of Mirabete, now evacuated by the French, he had the satisfaction to find that it wouM • August 26th. r .3 214 STRENGTH OF MIRABETE. Cuap. VIII. have been impossible to have escaladecl it, for besides the outworks, it consisted of an enormous circular tower, the door of which was half-way up, entirely beyond the reach of any ladder. " Hill's corps," said the great commander of the army, now deservedly raised to the rank of Marquis, " will soon be across the Tagus, and 1 shall have the whole army together, or in close communication. The blockade of Cadiz is raised, Seville evacuated, and Soult retiring through Andalusia." Sir Rowland moved on by Naval Moral, Oropesa, and Talavera, and Major-General Charles Alten was placed under his command. On his route hs despatched the follomng account to Hawkstone : — " My dear Sister, " Carpio, Sept. 28. 1812, " Soult left Granada on the 15tb, and Ballesteros entered it on the 17th. Soult has taken the direction of Guadin to Caravaca. Before evacuating Granada and Jaen, the works and guns were destroyed by the French. Joseph is stiU at Valencia, but it is said he is going oif to France. The castle of Consuegra has surrendered to General Elio. It was an important post for the enemy to occupy; and if it had not fallen I should have attacked it. The whole of my corps is on its march towards Toledo and Aranjuez : the head of my column will be at the former town to-morrow. " The enemy has evacuated the town of Burgos, and Lord WeUington has carried some of the out- works before the place ; the castle, however, still holds out. Tom is at Burgos ; he was quite well a few days ago, since the storming of the fort at Burgos. I thank you for your letter of the 25th of last month. Kind remembrances to all. " Yours most affectionately, «R. H." He reached Toledo at the time he expected, and re- ceived a report from General Alten, who wrote as follows : • — Chap. VIII. LETTER OF GENERAL ALTEN. 215 " My dear General, " Madrid, Sept. 29. 1812. " I have the honour to transmit to you the enclosed, received from Don Carlos d'Espana, and from a gentleman who has been long employed by the Marquis of Wellington for the pux'pose of obtaining information. I also received yesterday, from an officer of the 1st Hussars, whom I had sent in front, a letter dated Genesta, 25th instant, informing me that on the 23d instant King Joseph and Suchet had joined at Almanza, after having made some demonstrations towards Alicante, and on the 24th had advanced as far as Villar and Bonete towai'ds Albacete. This officer also says that the advanced guard of Marshal Soult was, on the 14th instant, at Hellin, and that it was expected he would form a junction with Suchet on the 27th or 28th instant. I have the honour to be, " My dear Genei\al, " Your very obedient and faithful servant, " Chas. Alten, M.-General. « Lieut.-General Sir R. Hill, KB. &c., &c." The same information was sent to head-quarters, but Lord Wellington remarked on it to Sir Rowland, " The movements and intentions of Soult and the King do not yet appear to me to be quite clear." He also expressed his fears of not being able to take the castle of Burgos. Sir Rowland's own impressions were given as usual in his family correspondence. He said, in writing on the 12th from Aranjuez, where he had advanced from Toledo, " The castle of Burgos vfas not taken when the last accounts came away. Lord Wellington tells me it is the most difficult job he ever had in hand. Tom has his share of the fatigue, and was quite well when I heard from him on the 6th. In my last I told you that the armies of Joseph, Soult, and Suchet were united in Murcia and Valencia ; they have ap- 1' 4 216 SIR ROWLAND AT AR.\Js^JUEZ. Cuap. VIII. proached a little nearer to Madrid, their advance being at Albacete. If tliey do advance upon Madrid I think they will run great risks, though at the same time it does not seem very unlikely that they may attempt it, either with the view of bringing Lord Wellington back from Burgos, or in hopes of getting hold of the capital again. If these three armies do not advance with tlieir whole force they can do nothing ; and if they do bring the whole they must abandon their possessions in Valencia, and will be followed by General Maitland, who is at Alicante, and Ballesteros, who is coming up by Granada from Seville. I msh we had possession of Burgos, and hope you will hear of its surrender by the time you receive this. I rode over to Madrid a few days ago : it is a beautiful city. You will see by the map that this place is on the Tagus, where I am tolerably well posted to stop King Joe should he try to return to his capital." Lord Wellington's views and those of Sir Rowland Hill coincided in every particular : and though his Lordship sent him directions, he observed, " I write all this, as I always do, to provide for every event, not believing that these instructions are at all necessary." Nor were they ; for in almost every instance he had anticipated his commander's intention ; and whenever the peculiarities of his situation led him to deviate from the strict letter of his orders, that deviation was acknowledged to have been an improvement. By the 18th of October he had sufficient intelligence of the proceedings of the enemy to be able to say in a private letter, " The King, Soult, and Suchet, having Chap. VIII. LETTER TO LOED WELLINGTON. 217 united their armies, are on the frontiers of Murcia and Valencia, and appear to be moving this way. It is certain that a considerable force is advancing towards Madrid ; but I think it very doubtful whetlier they will attempt to force their way to the capital." This he also made known to Lord AVellington, who com- menced his famous retreat from Burgos, the sieo-e of which place he raised on the 21st. Sir Eowland re- tired from the Tagus in order to join his Lordship, and on the 30th moved from the position of the Jarama and destroyed the bridge of Aranjuez. How he proceeded may be gathered from his correspondence with Lord Wellington : — *' My dear Lord, " Aravaca, October 31st, Noon. "I have just received your letter of the 29th. We com- menced our retreat yesterday, and it was my intention to have moved every thing off by daybreak in the morning, but the failure of the mine at the Puente Largo obhged me to keep the troops at that point until after dark, when tliey also commenced their retreat; and I have reason to think, that until daylight this morning the enemy was ignorant of our movement. It appears to have been the enemy's intention to have gained the bridge yesterday, as they had collected a considerable force in front of it; and after they discovered the failure of the mine they made a vigorous attempt to get possession of it, but were repulsed in a very handsome man- ner by the 47th regiment and a detachment of the 95th, under Colonel Skerrett, placed there by Lieutenant-Gencral Cole, who had charge of the rear -guard. The conduct of Colonel Skerrett and the detachment of the 95 th was very conspicuous on this occasion. I am sorry to say they suffered some loss. " A great part of the infantry will reach the Escurial this night, and I shall endeavour to have others forward agreeably to your Lordship's expectations. 218 SIERRA DE GUADARAMA. Chap. VIII. " I communicated your wishes to General Elio, and have received no answer to tliem ; but General Alten tells me he believes it to be his intention to head the Tagus and pass by the enemy's rear. " I have, &c. " E. Hill. " General The Marquis of Wellington, K.B., " &c. &c. &c." The next morning found him at the Escurial, pressing on to join Lord Wellington, who congratu- lated himself on having " got clear in a handsome manner of the worst scrape he ever was in." Sir Rowland sent an express, at ten o'clock, to head- quarters, to say he had heard that four squadrons of the enemy had entered Yalde Moro on the previous day. At night a report arrived from the officer in observation, that the advance of the French had entered Madrid ; but at five o'clock the next morning it was signified that a Spanish officer, leaving that city at the same hour the evening before, had not seen them there. In the front of Lord Wellington they were very quiet, but had sent to Toro to repair the bridge destroyed by the British, and orders were given to Sir Rowland to send an officer into the valley of the Tagus to observe their movements. He next ascended the Sierra de Guadarama, over which the passage was rendered easy by the excellence of the royal road. The scene was magnificent — column de- filing after column, all in siglit of each other, through the road windino- alonsf the brown rockv mountain, studded here and there with thick coverts of fir-trees, or patches of the greenest herbage blending with Chap. VIII. FRENCH DESCENDING THE HEIGHTS. 219 silvery torrents darting down their beds, while below lay the wide plains of Old Castile, covered with towns, villages, and well-cultivated farms. Into these they descended, followed by the enemy, of which Sir Row- land immediately sent tidings to Lord Wellington. '' My dear Lord, " Villa Neuva, Nov. 4. 2 p. m. "I have this instant received the enclosed report, by which it appears that four regiments of the enemy's cavahy and two regiments of infantry, were advancing this morning up the pass of Guadarama at eight o'clock. " I have no information of what may be moving in their rear. " I shall continue my march, as far as the Incumbrances of the sick and baggage will permit me, to Fontiveros, about which place I hope to have every thing collected to-morrow. " I have, &c. "R. Hill. " General the Marquis of Wellington, K.B., « &c. &c. &c." The reply to this was that his Lordship did not think the enemy were following him in force, but had merely sent out these regiments to see what he was doinof. From Fontiveros, which Sir Rowland reached on the 5th, he reported — "The enemy's column, which I mentioned to your Lordship by Lieutenant Hay, advanced this morning at nine o'clock. I could see them descend the heights, and I do not think the number which descended the hill could exceed from 8000 to 10,000 men ; but there were other troops in their rear. When I came away, at half-past two, about three regiments of cavalry advanced as far as Blasco Sancho, the remaining infantry halting about the bridge of Almaza." It turned out that the hostile 220 INSTKUCTIONS. Cuap. VIII. cavalry which had shown itself was nearly 3000 strong ; and Sir William Erskine had withdra-wn General Alten's horse from the Adaga, and brought them nearer to Fontiveros, Sir Rowland also thought of falling back, as the ground he occupied afforded no good position. His instructions were, " Do not allow the enemy to come too near you with a small advanced guard. Move upon them immediately, and make them keep a proper distance." This, he said, he was C[uite ready to do. Sir Rowland was now in close communication with Lord Wellington, who was retiring on Salamanca, followed by Clausel, and he pro- ceeded to Alba de Tormes. On the 9th at two o'clock A.M. his Lordship wrote to him from Salamanca — " I think you will do well to move in the morning to your left to jMachaon with the second division, ex- cepting one British brigade, leaving Hamilton's divi- sion and that brigade at Alba. Take Slade's brigade and the Spanish troops and Portuguese cavalry vnih you, leaving Long's brigade looking out in front of Alba. Have a good garrison in the Castle of Alba. You should not load the mine of the bridge, because we must keep a communication with the garrison. If the enemy should attempt to cross either of the fords of Huesta, Ml upon the first who cross." His answer was speedily sent : it was a crisis of no ordinary interest. '' Alba de Tormes, Nov. 9- half-past 10 a. m. " My dear Lord, " Your Lordship's letter of two a. m. reached me about nine. The second division will commence its march as soon as pos- sible, and proceed according to your du-ections. General Chap. VIII. ALBA. 221 HoAvard's brigade remains here with General Hamilton. Captain Goldfincli is now employed in repairing the front of the lowest work of the castle, which had been destroyed by the Spaniards, and a garrison will be put into it. I do not know whether your Lordship has been at this place ; I there- fore think it right to mention that the castle, with only a small garrison without artillery, would but imperfectly cover the bridge, unless the town was held also, which would re- quire a considerable force. " I have, &c. "R. Hill. " General the Marquis of Wellington, K.B., " &c. &c. &c." At four o'clock on the same day he reported the advance of the enemy towards the river Tormes. By a quarter before six Lord Wellington replied that lie had never been at Alba, and asked for correct informa- tion respecting the garrison and castle. Almost at the same time Sir Rowland transmitted to him the news that the enemy threatened the place. He added, " The mine is all ready, and the powder on the spot, if your Lordship should think fit to give directions about it." He said, too, that he had seen " large bodies of cavalry and infantry moving over the heights towards the villao-e of Babalfuente." Lord Wellington's opinion was that the French could not take the town of Alba — nor did they ; for when they made the attempt on the 10th, they were most gal- lantly repulsed by the troops under General Hamilton. Sir Rowland was himself on that day at Calvarassa de Abaxo, and continued to w^atch and report all the manoeuvres of the great force now threatening the allies. 222 SIR EOWLAND ELECTED M.P. Chap. VIII. While proceeding to effect this junction with Lord Wellington, Sir Rowland received the flattering in- telligence that he had been elected member of Par- liament for Shrewsbury. This caused him to write home. '' Rolleda, near Ciudad Rodrigo, " My dear Sister, Nov. 25. 1812, 8 a. m. "Last night three packets arrived at my head-quarters, two of which have been wandering about the country for some time. They contain all your interesting letters, and my father's, as well as the papers relative to the late election at Shrewsbury. It is my intention to answer the whole of them this evening, and to Avrite to you more fully on all subjects, and send my letters by the post. This I send by a private hand, which sometimes travels quicker, but is often more un- certain than the post. " The public despatches will have informed you of the late events in this country. You may imagine that I have had my share of anxiety on the occasion. " The overwhelming force which the enemy had collected made it necessary for Lord Wellington to retire, and for him to send me orders to the same effect. Thank God, I com- pleted my junction with his Lordship at Salamanca without any material loss, though pressed by a very superior force. " Lord W., I believe, would have made a stand on his old ground near Salamanca, but the enemy declined a contest thei^e, and obliged Lord Wellington to quit it by marching round our right and towards our rear. The enemy's force collected is so superior to ours, being, it is supposed, near 90,000 men, with 200 pieces of artillery, that Lord W. thou2;ht it advisable to continue his retreat to this strong frontier, where we arc now cantoned, and where I think the enemy will not follow us, at least at present. The last five days they have done nothing. The dreadful weather we have had has been very much against us, and our army has, I am sorry to say, suffered a good deal, particularly our cavalry Chap. VIIT. CORIA. 22 Q and horses. Clement is quite recovered. Tom was with ua a few days ago; he wrote to you from Alba de Tonnes: and if you receive this before the post, tell Sir Jolm and my bro- ther I wa'itc to them by that conveyance. In haste, " Yours ever, " R. Hill." The incessant occupations of this eventful march prevented his writing the letters he proposed until he reached Coria, where his whole corps was directed to proceed on the 28th. The scenery of his route was grand in the extreme; and as he passed the lofty Sierra de Gata, and descended by the rugged road to the plain, the sun chased away the mountain mist, and displayed the lovely plains below. Sir Rowland's head-quarters were in the small to-svn of Coria, beau- tifully seated on the river Alagon, having a cathedral and some interesting remains of a Moorish tower and castle. At this place he did every thing in his power to make the winter quarters of his officers and troops comfortable, after their late privations and fatigues. He now found time to write the promised letter to his father : — " ]My dear Father, " Coria, Nov. 30. 1 8 1 2. " I enclose a few lines to the electors of Shrewsbury, ex- pressive of my thanks for the honour they have done me in electing me one of their representatives in Parliament, whioh I request you will take the earliest ojjportunity of communi- cating to them. " My present occupations have prevented me from addrcss- injr the electors at that lcn";tli Avhich I otherwise mi^ht have wished, and the same cause precludes me from addressing my- self individually to INIr. Edward Burton and other gentlemen amongst the electors, who have most particularly exerted 224 WINTER CANTONMENTS. Chap. VIII. themselves to procure my return. I am not, however, the less sensible of their kindness, and must beg of you or my brother to take an opportunity of personally assuring them of my gratitude. ** I beg you will accept my warmest thanks for your kind- ness and exertions on this occasion, and believe me to be, my dear Sir, " Your ever dutiful son, "KoAVLAND Hill. " Sir John Hill, Bart." " I think," he said in another letter, " we shall be quiet here for some time." Lord Wellington had, in fact, disposed his whole army in cantonments, waiting only for the burst of spring and its supply of green forage, to take the held again with the largest and most efficient body of troops he could collect. 225 CHAPTER IX. LORD WELLINGTON S CIRCULAR. — NEGLECT OF RELIGIOUS IN- STRUCTION IN THE ARRIY. REMONSTRANCES. RELIGIOUS SOLDIERS. SIR ROWLAND HILL's PERSONAL INFLUENCE. STRIKING DESCRIPTION OF IT. LORD WELLINGTON GOES TO CADIZ. SIR ROAYLAND IN COJEMAND. BALLESTEROS. NEWS FROM RUSSIA. EFFECT ON THE FRENCH. OFFICERS' REPORTS. PLUNDERIJ^G PREVENTED. BE JAR. CAPTAIN EGERTON. Sm RO^VLAND hill's ACCOUNT OF THE ENEJUY's FORCE. LONG MARCHES. DINNER AL FRESCO, MARCH. CASTLE OF BURGOS BLOWN UP. — KING JOSEPH ENTERS THE BASIN OF \aTTORIA. ROUTE OF SIR R. HILL. SPLENDID SCENERY. STAR\TNG POR- TUGUESE. BATTLE OF "VTTTORIA. PAMPELUNA. APPROACH TOWARDS FRANCE. SIR ROWLAND ASCENT)S THE PYRENEES. THE FIRST TO DRIVE THE FRENCH OUT OF SPAIN. LETTERS CONCERNING OFFICERS. SOULT IN COJIMAND OF " THE ARMY OF SPAIN." THE BATTLES IN THE PASSES OF THE MOUNTAINS. TERMINATION OF THE CONFLICTS OF THE PYRENEES. RONCES- VALLES. ST. SEBASTIAN. — SIR T. N. HILL. SIR ROWLAND WATCHES THE MOVEMENTS OF SOULT. — THE CONDE DE l'abIS- PAL's thirst for glory. DEEP SNOW ON THE MOUNTAINS. LETTERS TO SIR GEORGE MURRAY. The army had scarcely settled in mnter quarters in 1812, before the appearance of Lord Welling- ton's memorable circular, relative to its discipline and its moral condition, created extreme sensation. There were many who felt it the more deej)ly, because conscious that the sweeping charges of irregularity it contained, were not applicable to their conduct. The troops under Sir Rowland Hill were restrained by his influence, from the excesses so feelingly de- plored by the commander of the whole. If com- Q 226 S:\IALL RELIGIOUS ADVANTAGES. Chap. IX pared also with French soldiers, the patience of the English under privations may be said to have been exemplary ; though, as their wants pressed and tempt- ations offered, they were led away into occasional irregularities. Circumstances did undoubtedly occur at times to tarnish their reputation ; but the real secret of these evils was the negligence of the men in power at home, as to providing due religious in- struction. The Gospel is the only genuine source of virtue in the many, and the only check to the un- blushing demonstration of the hideous qualities of the base minority, by whom in all great collections of men barbarous crimes are committed, out of which arises the ill report of the whole. In the army of Spain, the tradesmen, the manufacturers, the me- chanics, the rural labourers of Great Britain, were all represented by the men who, for five succes- sive years, maintained the supremacy of the British arms against the renowned soldiery of invading France ; and the name of Hill naturally suggests the inquiry — what was done for their spiritual welfare ? What provision was there throughout this long and life-destroying war, that they might worship God from Sabbath to Sabbath, or for their instruction in Divine truth, while in stationary camps or in winter quarters ? Where could they look for ministers to comfort and direct them, when perishing by disease or wounds on straw pallets or in hospitals ? Little, indeed, were their advantages in these important respects ; so little, so inadequate to the wide and mournful exigency of the case, that none might be almost recorded as the honest rej^ly. Nor was this Chap. IX. LORD WELLINGTON'S REPRESENTATIONS. 227 melancholy destitution of the means of grace viewed with indifference by Lord WelUngton, who twice made urgent representations to the government. It is true that on one of these occasions he allejied that Methodism had appeared, and was spreading very fast in the army. Each time also he ex- pressed himself anxiously ; but neither respect for his wishes, mercy for the souls of men, nor dread of irregularity, which often acts when every other in- ducement fails, moved the ministry of that day to those efforts in the matter which were due to God, to the soldiers, and to the country. Undoubtedly, the efficient and active clergymen asked for by Lord Wellington, would have been far more desirable in- structors than the instruments of another kind then appearing amongst the soldiers, to arouse them to reflection on the truths of religion ; but, nevertheless, the leaven which spread amongst them at this period was hallowed, and the dispensation pregnant with mercy, as it was a rebuke to those Avho ought to have cared for their souls. The influence of a few jjious individuals became extended, because their efforts were sincere. Men who cared for their eternal in- terests banded together to seek amongst themselves in private, the privileges they could not enjoy in public ministrations ; and numbers of them breathed their last sighs upon the fields and in the hospitals of Spain, looking unto Jesus. Officers who during the campaign regarded these proceedings with dis- approbation have, though deeply attached to our own excellent Church, with its order, discipline, and doc- trine, since spoken of the leaven then working in the Q 2 228 CAUSES OF SIR Rowland's influence. Chap. ix. ranks with wonder and respect, and with grief at the apathy of the government and the sneers of thought- less or hcentious comrades. Whatever Sir Rowland Hill may have thought of these proceedings at the pe- riod referred to, it is certain he never offered any op- position to them ; and his own troops were under a discipline marvellously efficacious, considering the sufferings they endured and the triumphs they won. No general ever used less severity, yet the fear of offending him acted on the minds of his soldiers far more effectually than the dread of punishment, which was recklessly braved when unsparingly ad- ministered. An officer of his division wrote of him thus eloquently and justly in a recent letter : — " The great foundation of all his popularity with the troops was his sterling personal worth, and his heroic spirit ; but his popularity was increased and strengthened as soon as he was seen. He was the very picture of an English country gentleman. To those soldiers who came from the rural districts of Old England, he represented home — his fresh complexion, placid face, kind eyes, kind voice, the total absence of all parade or noise in his habits, delighted them. The dis- pleasure of Sir Rowland Hill was Avorse to them than the loudest anger of other generals ; and when they saw anxiety in his face that all should be right, they doubly wished it themselves ; and when they saw his countenance bright witli the expression that all was right, why, they were glad for him as well as for them- selves. Again, the large towns and manufacturing districts furnished a considerable body of men to the army. Now these soldiers were many of them fa- Chap. IX. CORIA. 229 miliar with the name and character and labours of his pious and devoted uncle, Rowland Hill, who was, perhaps, of all the preachers of the Gospel in the past century, the one best known, best loved, and most talked about amongst the common people all over England. His sincerity, his boldness, and his many strange sayings and doings, were known and reported in the ranks ; and the men did not like Sir Rowland the less, for being the nephew of this celebrated and benevolent individual. Also his kind attention to all the wants and comforts of his men, his visits to the sick in hospital, his vigilant protection of the poor country people, his just severity to marauders, his generous and humane treatment of such prisoners and wounded as at times fell into his hands — all con- sistent actings of a virtuous and noble spirit — made for him a place in the hearts of the soldiery ; and wherever the few sur\'ivors of that army may now be scattered, in their hearts assuredly his name and image are dearly cherished still." Coria, where Sir Rowland's winter quarters were established, was a favourite place with the officers, who passed their leisure time in coursing, shooting, and a variety of amusements which he liberally pro- moted. Lord Wellington's departure on business of importance to Cadiz left him in a most responsible situation. " Lord Wellington," he says in one of his communications to his relatives, " having set off for Cadiz, the command of the armies is left in my liands. It is not his Lordship's intention to be absent more than a month. Li the mean while there does not ap- pear any great likelihood of active operations. The Q 3 230 BALLESTEROS. Chap. IX. enemy, however, are at no great distance, and it is possible we may have something to do." Sir Rowland also mentioned in the same letter, dated December 15., the appointment of his Lordship to be Generalissimo of the Spanish armies, which he considered " as likely to have the best effect, notwithstanding Ballesteros's opposition to it." He further observed, " That General's conduct has been rather extraordinary. I have many letters from him, and indeed I have received one this day (of the 26th of October), expressing his anxious desire to comply with my wishes and Lord Wellington's, in which I believe him to have been sincere. But sub- sequently finding from his own government that Lord Wellington was to command him, Ballesteros said no." On the 12th of January Sir Rowland wrote again. " I do not wish to be too sanguine, but there is every appearance of the enemy's army in this country being on the point of making a general move to the rear. They seem to be fully aware that things are not going on well ^vith thom in Russia ; but the troops in general are kept in ignorance as to the real state of affairs there. I have, however, endeavoured to set them right, and to let them know how matters stand, by sending to their outposts some copies of Lord Cath- cart's late despatches. For some time past the enemy have been sending off their sick and raising immense contributions — measures which indicate retrograde movement." Seven days later he stated, " The troops that were nearest to us marched off" about a week ago, and appeared to be going to their rear ; they have, however, taken the direction of Toledo, and been re- jjlaced in our front by troops from Astorga and Leon, Chap. IX. OFFICERS' REPORTS. 231 the whole of that country having been evacuated by the enemy. Upon the whole, it appears that the French in this country have collected the greater part of their force in the centre of Spain. I do not mean to say that they have brought troops forward from their rear, but have closed those on their flanks more to the centre. This may be an arrangement prepa- ratory to retiring, or a measure of precaution ; but I cannot conceive that it means any thing oftensiAC on their part at present." The movements of the hostile forces at this time were viewed with great anxiety by the British officers ; and it may be interesting to see a report at such a juncture sent to Sir Rowland Hill from officers in observation. First Officer. " It is incalculable [what] the enemy are levying in all the villages. On the 7th 3500 men entered Madrid ; the 8th they marched out for France. They took with them a convoy of 300 carts, and many persons made prisoners. In the hospitals at Madrid they have 756 sick; and they have given orders for a quantity of biscuit to be baked ; it is not known for what purpose." Second Officer. " On the 5th 1000 Polish cavalry marched from Madrid for France ; on the 7th 4000 to 5000 infantry marched also from Madrid for France ; on the 8th 400 cavalry marched for France ; on the 9th also left Madrid some troojDS of the Confederation of the Rhine. Joseph has dismissed many domestics of the palace, and it is said he is going to Guadalaxaran. On the 11th 800 men left Madrid for France. Count D'Erlon is at Agreda, Soult's head-quarters at Toledo, Q 4 232 TOUR OF INSrECTION. — BEJAE. Chap. IX. with 4000 men. The enemy continue their exactions of enormous contributions. " On the 21st every thing was quiet at Talavera, when in the night an officer arrived, which produced a great bustle. An embargo was laid on all transports, and all the posts were called in. The idea amongst the people at Talavera and the French troops was, that they were going to retire in consequence of the accounts from the North of Europe." These reports, when they were found to have come from the enemy. Sir Rowland treated with due sus- j)icion. He made a tour of inspection to his own posts northward, and found them generally healthy and in a satisfactory state. Measures also were taken by him to prevent the French from plundering Pla- centia, where the inhabitants were in great terror from rumours of their approach. He next had what he called " a little affair, which he had no doubt would be magnified in England." This happened at Bejar, and he gave his own version of it thus: — " The enemy have for some time been plundering the neighbouring country in a most shameful manner ; and in order to protect some of the towns, I moved troops forward, and placed two regiments in Bejar, a large town, the most advanced. On the night of the 19th the enemy collected about 12,000, and made a night march upon Bejar, in hopes of surprising the garrison. Our troops were, however, on the alert, and repulsed the enemy." On this occasion he re- ported with great pleasure to Marshal Beresford, the gallant conduct of the Portuguese. About this time Sir Rowland added to his staff an Chap. IX. CAPTAIN EGERTON. 233 officer who was destined to be his companion, secre- tary, confidant, and friend to the last moment of his public life. This estimable man was Captain Eger- ton*, of the well-known and respected Cheshire family of the same name. Sir Rowland had by the permission of Lord Wellington taken him as extra aid-de-camp, and thereby contributed to the happiness of his circle at Coria, as well as to the advantage of the public service. As spring advanced, the chieftains of the British army glowed with anticipations of their coming suc- cesses, and collected the most accurate accounts they could obtain of the enemy's force and proceedings. A letter from Sir Rowland Hill to his father shows what intelligence they had obtained. " My dear Father, " Coria, March 23. 1813. " Yesterday Captain Erskine came over here, and left your letter of the 28th of January. What you have said to Lord Erskine on the subject of Lord Buchan's attention to me is perfectly correct, and I trust I need not say that I shah on every account he glad to show his son any attention in my power. " The enemy have witlidrawn their troops from La Mancha, and I am inclined to think they are about to evacuate Madrid, perhaps not with the intention of quitting Spain altogether, but more with the view of concentrating their troops in the direction of ValladoHd. They continue to exact enormous contributions in every part of Spain they occupy; and I have been kept a little on the alert of late, in order to preserve the neighbouring country from being plundered by them. " I believe I have got pretty cori-ect returns of some of the French armies ; and as I know you are much interested in all military matters, I annex a memorandum from them for the private information of the Hawkstone family : — * Now Colonel Egerton, of Eaton Banks, near Tarporley. 234 STRENGTH OF THE FRENCH ARMY. Chap. IX. " The army of Portugal, as it is called, is commanded by the Comte de Reille, aid-de-camj3 to the Emperor, and con- sists of 8 divisions ; 8 generals of divisions ; 1 1 generals of brigade; 31 regiments of infantry, amounting to 31,256 infantry. " Cavalry. — 1 general of division; 2 of brigade; 9 regiments, amounting to 3256 men. Artillery, 1775 men. " The above army is cantoned in Avila, Valladolid, Toro, and Salamanca. *' The army of the South, lately commanded by Soult, is now commanded by the Comte de Gazan, and consists of 8 divi- sions of infantry, amounting to 30,785 men; 3880 cavalry ; and 500 artillery. " This army has its head-quarters at Toledo, and is imme- diately in front of my corps. " The army of the Centre is commanded by the Comte D'Erlon, Drouet, has its head-quarters at Madrid, and amounts to 7081 infantry, and 4022 cavalry, besides artillery. "The army in Valencia, from 13,000 to 14,000, is com- manded by Suchet. " The army of the North, I believe, does not exceed 12,000. " The above includes all the sick, and was made out before Marshal Soult left the army for France, taking with him the selected officers and men to complete the imperial guards. I do not know the exact number he took with him, probably eiffht or ten thousand. " With respect to our army, I believe it is very effective. The second division of infantry never was so strong in the field as we are at j)resent, and the cavalry are recovering from their weak state. I am induced to think the enemy have sent no reinforcements into Spain." * The British forces at this time were in a state of great efficiency, and Sir Robert Chambre Hill, the brother of Sir Rowland, was highly commended by Lord Wellington for his efforts in the household * This letter, like some others, had no signature. Chap. IX. BANQUET AL FRESCO. 235 brigade of cavalry, which he commanded. As the month of April was drawing to a close, Sir Rowland sent word to his friends, " All our troops in the rear are closing up to be more a port'ee to the move- ments we may have to make, and I imagine by the time you receive this that the whole will be moving forward." He said also, " If it was the enemy's intention to quit this country as we advance, they would be taking the steps they are now adopting. It is, however, possible they may make a stand ; but I do not think it will be before we get to the Douro or the Ebro. Our army is now in very fine order, and never was more effective since we have been in the Peninsula. That of the enemy cannot be so strong as it was; for although they have received about 7000 recruits, they have of late sent to France up- wards of 20,000 of their best men, and a great num- ber of officers." In the long marches which Sir Rowland's troops had now to make, and during the various halts which occurred, he endeavoured to afford them all the relief in his power from the monotony of a camp life. The whole corps was concentrated at Galisteo on the 4th of May, where it remained till the 21st. While here the 28th Regiment, which had signalized itself in Albuera, determined, on the 16th, the second anni- versary of that battle, to give a dinner to Sir Rowland and the Staff of the second division. But they had neither tables nor chairs. This did not deter them from their purpose, and ingenuity, never wanting where there is inclination, soon invented a mode of giving a banquet al fresco. Lieutenant Irwin selected 236 TABLE AND PROVISIONS. Chap. IX. the softest and most even piece of turf lie could find, on which he marked out the due length and breadth of a table for no less than one hundred guests. The turf was carefully pared off, and a trench was dug round it large enough for all the company. The table was formed in the centre of the sods and mould, duly levelled, and excavated to give ample room for the legs, and then the green turf was once more gently laid on, and supplied the place of a table-cloth. Each officer invited was desired to bring his own knife, fork, and plate, and not to be particular about having them changed. The cookery was of the substantial order, the heavy artillery of field cuisine. There were ponderous joints roasted and ponderous joints boiled; there was soup in abundance, in which the shreds of meat gave assurance that it was, at least, unsj)aringly concocted; there were pies baked in camp-kettles turned upside down, of dimensions and quality Friar Tuck would not have disdained. Then came the cordial welcome of the chief guest, the man who never had an enemy but on public grounds, whose bland smile set the company at ease, while his genuine dig- nity prevented in his presence every word and every act that did not perfectly become it. It was nearly the end of May before Sir Rowland's corps arrived at Salamanca. As they crossed the plains that lay in their road, the ofiicers let loose their greyhounds to course the hares along the columns, and many of them were killed in the midst of the marching ranks. By the 4th of June they were near Burgos. On the 12th, at five o'clock in the morning. Sir Rowland's corps moved forward in two columns, Chap. IX. JOSEPH IN THE BASIN OE VITTORIA. 237 the right on Celada, the left on Hornillo. The enemy, after skirmishhig a little to favour the retreat of the main body of their rear-guard, retired up the heights above Hornillo. There, for a time, they presented a front to the pursuing British ; but, at length, being alarmed, they passed the river Arlanzon, and joined Reille, the entire body taking the road towards Burgos. At early da^vn on the 13th the picquets left on the heights saw the distant castle of Burgos enveloped in a thick white smoke, followed by a tremendous sound. The French themselves were destroying the fortress which baffled the genius of Welhngton, and resisted his victorious army. In a few minutes more came a second explosion ; shortly all was again clear, and the yawning ruins told their own tale. At length King Joseph brought his army and all its appurtenances into the basin of Yittoria. In that direction Sir Rowland's troops passed on with the rest, and no particular event interrupted their march. The Asturian mountains were on their left. The scenery on their route was worthy of the season and of Spain. One portion of it is beautifully described by Major Moyle Sherer. He says, " On the 16th we descended by a steep and rocky road into a low se- cluded valley, through which the Ebro, here narrow and inconsiderable, winds its way, and crossing the river by a stone bridge of five arches, turned to the left, and followed a road running for nearly two miles alono- the bank of the Ebro, and almost on a level with its waters. The view of this valley on your descent to it, the vale itself, and the singularly pic- turesque road by whicli you pass out from it, are 238 SCENERY. Chap. IX. amongst the most enchanting scenes it has ever fallen to my lot to contemplate. Here you may imagine yourself transported to the happy retreat described in Rasselas. On every side mountains enclose and shelter this favoured spot ; all the passes leading to and from it are concealed from you ; the fields all teem with cultivation, and the orchards all blush with fruit. The ash, the beech, and the poplar, the woodbine, the rose, and a thousand shrubs shade and adorn the rural dwellings. The narrow wheel tract by which you leave this elysium runs curving at the foot of im- pending precipices, so bold and varied in their forms and the character of their beauties, that no pen could describe them justly. Here they are clothed with rich and shaggy brushwood ; there naked to their blue or grey summits, which frown above you : and here, again, from the rude clefts and fissures of the rock grow solitary trees and plants, where no hand can ever reach them, while in some places thick wreaths of ivy half cover the projecting crags. The river brawls along between these cliffs, often impeded by huge masses of mountain stone, which have fallen in some wintry storm, or been detached by some violent convulsion of nature, and now form islands in its bed. In a scene so lovely, soldiers seemed quite misplaced, and the glittering of arms, the trampling of horses, and the loud voices of the men, appeared to insult its cheerfulness." The bivouacks here for the next three days were delightful beyond all conception, and those that had food were cheerful and contented. But the poor Portuguese were, by reason of the negligence of those appointed to supply them with provisions, in Chap. IX. STARVING PORTUGUESE. 239 a starving condition ; so that, notwithstanding the stern but just command of Lord Wellington that they should look to their legitimate sources for their sup- port, Sir Rowland could not refrain from addressing him on their deplorable state. " My dear Lord, " Barquiseda, June 20. "I am sorry to have occasion to address your Lordship again on the subject of provisioning the Portuguese division under my orders, after the instructions which I have received from you ; but they are at present in so destitute a state that I feel it my duty to make your Lordship acquainted with it. They for some days have been on very reduced rations. The day before yesterday they had only three quarters of a pound of meat, and yesterday nothing, and have no prospects for this day. To give them bread I am aware is out of the question, but I beg to know whether your Lordship will permit me to give them some meat ? "I have, &c. '' E. Hill. " Marquis of Wellington, &c. &c." This application was irresistible, and elicited the following reply : — "June 20. 1813, half-past 1 p.m. « My dear Hill, " I have just received your note of this morning. You may assist the Conde d'Amarante as you please, but let the Conde know that it is an exception to a rule to which I am determined to adhere, and that he must make his commissaries exert themselves. " Ever yours most faithfully, " Wellington. « Lleut.-General Sir R. HiU, K.B., &c." On the morning of the 21st hints from staff-officers, 240 BATTLE OF VITTOKIA. Chap. IX. bustle in the bivouacks, the sadclhng of Sir Rowland's black charger, and other significant proceedings, in- dicated that something was expected to occur beyond the ordinary events of a march. The moving masses of our General's division were excited about nine o'clock by some skirmishing in the mountain, and a league farther on, the defile formed by the high lands and the river opened to their view the splendid sight of the hostile army, all in battle array, with the spire of Yittoria in their rear. There were 70,000 fighting men and 100 pieces of artillery opposed to the ad- vancing allies, who were disposed by Lord Wellington in three corps. The right was commanded by Sir Rowland Hill ; two columns in the centre received orders from the chief himself ; and the left was placed under Sir Thomas Graham. Sir Rowland commenced the work of victory ; and the first fruits of his exer- tions were the heights of La Puebla, gained to him by Spaniards well led by Murillo. This advantage was maintained in spite of great efforts on the part of the enemy, but at the cost of the life of the brave Cadogan, when the British soldiers were brought into the fray. The possession of the important village of Subijana de Alava next rewarded the skill and efforts of our General. The hostile troops filled the ravines in the heights above, and a wood on the left, and strug- gled, Avith no ordinary fury, to recover the ground they had lost. The allies in front of the wood suffered greatly, till the head of a column sent by Sir Rowland along the lofty ridge which ran from the Puebla Mountain, came irresistibly upon the flank of the French. Coin- cident with this skilful movement, were the energetic Chap. IX. BATTLE OF VITTORIA. 241 operations of Cole, Pictoii, and Dalliousie. At length the four divisions formed quickly on the left of the Zadarra, and advanced against the right and centre of the enemy. Their left gave way under the successful flank attack of Hill, who followed up the retreat with his customary vigour and decision. At last the entire French army was driven back by the allies in one helpless confused mass, flying like a frightened mob, and leaving their cannon, with all the rich, curious, and ill-gotten spoil of the usurper Joseph. Xothing was wanting to the most decisive victory even AVel- lington had then ever gained, except more prisoners ; but they fled so fast. King, Marshals, Generals, and men, that the allies, who had been sixteen hours under arms, and had marched three leagues since the day dawned, had no chance of overtaking them. Man 3^, also, could not resist the temptation of stopping to revel in the unprotected treasures of the fugitives which covered the ground — a heterogeneous wreck of hoarded plunder. Some soldiers, and the followers of the army in general, thickened upon the spoil like bees upon the honeycomb of some prostrate hive, and seized it with tumultuous exultation. They hung in clusters on the cars, waggons, and carriages, scrambled for the money scattered from the chests, searched the gilded coaches of the court, and drew forth, with shouts, robes, uniforms, court dresses, stars, jewels, plate, pictures, once the pride of the grandees and hierarchy of Spain. One solitary gun, and one howitzer, were all that were carried away in the head- long scamper of the overthrown army. Even the baton of Marshal Jourdan was left on the field, for E 242 THE FOUR BROTHERS HILL. Chap. IX. which the champion who laid it at the feet of his prince, received that of England in exchange. Lord Wellington had foreseen this great victory, and kept the secret in his own breast. While near Medina, four days before the battle, Captain Clement Hill observed, in writing to his friends, " England will, I think, be a little astonished at our rapid march. The whole of our army got over the Ebro yesterday, and continues to advance. What Lord Wellington's plans are, I believe nobody knows but himself We all feel confident of great success, and you may expect to hear of the French being fairly turned out of Spain. We have driven them so far almost without the loss of a man, and they find themselves completely out- manoeuvred. After they destroyed the Castle of Burgos, we did not venture to march in the line by which they retired ; but, by rapid marches to our left by a difficult road which they could not have expected us to attempt, we crossed the Ebro before them, and expect to continue moving, and get between them and their communication with France, which will bother them a good deal." The forces of Reille, which rallied on the 2 2d at Salvatierra, soon found the pursuers were approach- ing ; and the next day Captain Clement Hill wrote to Hawkstone : — " Salvatierra, 23d June, on the road from Vittoria to Pampeluna. — I hope you wiU receive this in good time to assure you of the safety of the four brothers after the battle of Yittoria. We are all at this moment together in the same room, and in perfect health. I have not time now to send you an account of all that happened during the action. Never Chap. IX. LETTER OF LORD WELLINGTON. 243 was an army more completely routed and defeated than the French. Rowland's corps were prhicipally engaged during the first part of the action, and have suiFered more than any other. The Blues were in the fire, but not engaged. Tom had a good deal to do, which was well done." The next duty on which Sir Rowland was employed was the blockade of Pampeluna. He received a letter of concise and able directions from Lord Wellington. " My dear Hill, " Caseda, June 28. 1813, 8 p.m. " I am anxious that some measures should be adopted for the more close and strict blockade of Pampeluna, and I suggest the following for your consideration. " First, that the water which supplies the town by' the aqueduct should be cut off. It will not be difficult to effect this object without mischief to the country, by cutting the aqueduct at any place at which there may be a channel through which the water might run. " Secondly, in order to complete the annoyance of this measure, it will be necessary to establish posts upon the river, and fire day and night at any persons who may approach for water. These posts should be covered by a trench ; a re- doubt should likewise be constructed at the distance of mus- ket shot from each of the bridges ; each to hold a sufficient number of men to supjDort the posts on the river, in case the enemy should make a sortie upon them. There should be a gun or two in each of these redoubts, which we can bring from Vittoria. " Thirdly, there is a wood to the westward of the place, on the same side of the river, and that should be examined, and if possible an abattis should be formed in it to protect the blockade on that side, which should be brought as close as possible. "Fourthly, the remainder might be occuj)ied by pickets at the usual distance communicating well with each other, having support at liand in redoubts armed with artillery. R 2 244 INVESTMENT OF TAMPELUNA. Chap. IX. " Fifthly, measures should be takeu without loss of time to cut and carry away, or if that cannot be done, to burn the corn between the posts and the place. These measures must be well considered, and must not be allowed to fail. " I beg that all this may be done without loss of time, and the sooner it is done the sooner I shall be able to relieve your troops entirely from this blockade, and give it in charge to the Spaniards. " I don't think we shall be able to do much against Clausel. He has passed Tudela on his march to Saragossa. I propose to try him on the road to Jaca. " Ever yours most sincerely, *' Wellington." The four gallant brothers were now constantly meeting each other, and one or other of them was deputed to convey tidings of events to their family. From Orcoyen, two miles from Pampeluna, July 1st, 1813, Mr. Clement Hill wrote: — "We have been four days investing Pampeluna with Rowland's corps, which we expected to have had the siege of had there been one, but I believe it is determined only to blockade the place, and I am not sorry we are reheved from that tiresome duty by other divisions. To- morrow we push on towards the frontier, and I hope in a few days to write from France. We move to- wards San Estevan : General Graham is also in that direction. Lord Wellington will be near here to-day, but we imagine will not remain long, and leave the blockade to the Spaniards. The army we so gloriously beat at A-^ittoria has been in France some days. They ran so fast, having lost every incumbrance, even their last gun, that we made but few prisoners on their retreat. Lord Wellington, mth four divisions, has Chap. IX. GOOD SUPPLIES. 245 been some clays in chase of a French corps under General Clausel, which was prevented joining the main army in time for the battle of Yittoria. He could not catch them, and retires from the pursuit to-day. They will probably join Suchet's army. We are in the most delightful part of Spain I have ever seen for summer ; but it must be bad in winter. The weather has been quite cold even now, and for the last fort- night almost constant heavy rains. The country is very mountainous, with fine valleys covered with corn and good villages. We get well supplied with every thing : amongst the luxuries, excellent French butter. The Blues are at Logrono on the Ebro, and I fancy will not move up at present, as cavalry are not of much use in the country we are in." From the day on which this letter is dated till the sixth, the corps of Sir Rowland Hill was constantly skirmishing with the enemy, but always drove them from their various positions. Still he found time, amidst these mountain conflicts, to write hastily to Hawkstone. " Lanz, three leagues from France, July 3. 1813. " My dear Sister, " I am told that a mall will be despatched in the morning via Santander, for England, I therefore avail myself of the opportunity of sending you a few lines. The public de- spatches and the letters from my brothers, will have informed you of our late proceedings in this country. Nothing could have been better managed and executed tlian our recent operations, and there is every prospect of our doing well, pro- vided matters go on tolerably in Germany. " The enemy in this country have halted on the frontiers of France. The country they occupy is strong, but they do not appear to have taken up a position to risk another battle. R 3 246 LETTER OF SIR ROWLAND. CnAr.IX If we can get a good position on the frontiers of Spain, I imagine we shall be satisfied for the present. To-morrow I expect to be with my corps on the borders of France. Some of my people are at this moment at Arriege, which village is in France. " The enemy have left a good garrison in Pampeluna : it is a strong fortress, and it is said that it is well supplied with ammunition and provisions. " I have now the pleasure to inform you, that your four brothers in this country are well. Tom, as usual, has had his share of the fatigues and fighting ; he and his regiment have invariably conducted themselves well. Clement is with me, and he tells me he wrote to Hawkstone two days ago ; he is not looking very stout, but is well. Robert, whom I saw about a week ago, is in perfect health. Lord Wellington is much pleased with the conduct and appearance of the Blues. This not being a cavalry country, Robert and his brigade are, I believe, to remain, for the present, in the neighbourhood of Vittoria. ********* " Ever yours, most affectionately, "R. H." On the sixth of July the French ascended the moun- tain which forms the key of the entrance into the valley of Bastan, and took possession of it. The next day Sir Rowland first encountered the lofty steeps of the Pyrenees, and was met by Lord Wellington. They had been reconnoitring together the previous even- ing, and orders had been issued for dislodging the French from their several positions ; but on this oc- casion a dense fog veiled the enemy from their view, and they spent the night amidst the mountain mist, sharing the fatigues and privations of the men. From the pinnacles of this range of mountains Wellington Chap. IX. PYRENEES. 247 exhibited to Europe the full grandeur of his plans; and Sir Rowland Hill, who gave the first check to the French cavalry in Egypt, had now the honour of first driving the soldiers of Bonaparte from Spain. This he accomplished on the 8th of July, and took possession of the various passes of the Puerta de Maya. Often have these achievements been acknowledged and com- mended ; but I believe they will yet be enhanced in public opinion by the simple unaffected way in which they were announced by his brother, to those who anxiously awaited news from the Pyrenees at home. On the 9tli of July he wrote from Elizondo : — " We have gone through a very interesting part of the campaign, having completely driven that part of the French army to which we were opposed over the Pyrenees. Great part of Rowland's corps being detached from him, his force has been inferior to the enemy's, and they have always had the advantage of strong posi- tions. The troops have been engaged, more or less, with some hard fighting every day, for the last five days ; but I do not think, during that time, we have lost more than one hundred men. The last position they took was in the pass of Maya, which is very strong. We were to have attacked them yesterday morning. However, at daylight, we saw the last of them move from the pass. Our troops pursued them, and we had the pleasure of seeing them driven out of Spam." He continued : — " We have been marching constantly over mountains rising amidst some of the finest valleys I ever saw, with good towns ; and the people in no part of Spain have appeared more happy to see the English. I think we had one of the finest R 4 248 FRENCH DRIVEN OUT OF SPAIN. Chap. IX. sights yesterday I ever saw, on arriving on a high hill, from which, for the first time, we had an extensive view into France, and saw the French driven into it." All the officers of merit in Sir Rowland's corps ex- perienced almost equal joy with his own brother, at the honour thus gained by their General ; and such regard for him was his just due, for he had looked upon their reputation as his own. There exist two letters written at this time, so illustrative of his con- sideration towards them, that I cannot refrain from inserting them. The first was written to a distin- guished general officer on Lord Wellington's stafi*, who had made a complaint, the nature of which Avill be sufficiently apparent in the letter itself. " My dear General, " Elizondo, July 9. 1813. " I have received your letter of yesterday relative to the orders given for the march of the Ca^adores, and on the subject of the interference which you say you have ex- perienced from my and . The order given by yesterday, for the march of the whole of the Ca9adores, in- stead of part of that corps as previously ordered by me, was in consequence of information he had received, of which he was before ignorant. His having done so, which he reported to me immechately afterwards, met my entire approbation. Having spoken to on the subject, he begs me to explain to you that the circumstance of his not having communicated the order for the march of the Ca^adores direct to you, j^ro- ceeded entirely from a Avish to execute the order with as little delay as possible, not knowing that you had retui'ned to your quarters, and a desire to lose as little time as possible in carrying into effect the movement of the Ca^adores, which, from the report he received, was certainly required. " With regard to the interference of the two staff officers above mentioned, in general, I cannot say that I am aware of its having ever been improperly exercised, or of inconvenience Chap. IX. LETTER OF SIR ROWLAND. 249 having arisen to the service from it. I certainly by no means wish the staff officers attached to me to be giving orders to their superiors in their own name, but there are times when the superior staff officers who are acquainted with my views and intentions may, with advantage to the service, give orders in my name, and they have my authority to do so, acquainting me, of course, by the earliest opportunities of their having done so, and being responsible to me for the same. Indeed, I am sure if staff officers Avere to be only the mere messengers of my orders, they would be of little advantage to me. By the situations they hold, I consider them to be officers of discretion, and, as far as I am at present aware, I think you will find that the same degree of interference which is exercised by them, is exercised by the officers at the heads of their departments in this and most other aniiies. In saying these staff officers are not to give orders in their own name, I must make an exception. With what concerns the details of their own department they are responsible for those details, and I conceive they may communicate in what manner they please with the officers acting under them. I write this in ignorance of the particular instances of the interference of my and which have led to your complaint. I beg leave to assure you, however, that I shall be ready to attend to any further representations you may have to make on this or any other subject. " I have, &c. « R. Hill." The next letter was addressed to Lord Wellington himself, in defence of an officer of lower rank, who imagined he had fallen under his Lordship's dis- pleasure. « My dear Lord, " Elizondo, July 10. 1813. " I only yesterday received the enclosed letter from ■ and although it did not appear to me from the conversation which I had the honour to hold with your Lordship on the subject, that you felt any displeasure towards on the 250 LETTERS TO LORD WELLINGTON. Chap. IX. occasion alluded to by him, I think it my duty in justice to that officer to state, that the very moment your instructions for the closer investment of Pampeluna were received, he pro- ceeded to make the necessary examination of the ground, and reported to me without loss of time. And if there was any improper delay in carrying your Lordship's wishes into effect, it rested entirely with me, and I feel myself fully satisfied with 's desire to exert himself on that occasion, and should be sorry if your Lordship thought otherwise. " I have, &c. «E. Hill. " Marquis of Wellington, " &c. &c. &c." The perusal of these letters will be the best pos- sible clue to the sentiments entertained towards one, who was looked upon as the friend of his officers and the father of his troops. On the 11th Lord Wellington, having reason to think that the whole army of the South between Ainhou and Urdax was in Sir Rowland's front, in- structed him to examine the passes of the hill from the high road, and to open a way for the artillery along the height to the post which had, on the 7th, been occupied by General William Stewart. His ac- tual situation and proceedings are stated in his reply to his Lordship : — "My dear Lord, "Elizondo, July 12. 1813. " Yesterday I had the honour to receive your letter of the 11th, 6 A jr. The enemy are certainly in force in front of the Maya pass ; but it did not appear yesterday that it had been increased since the day your Lordship saw them from the heights. " The peasants say the King arrived at Ainhou yesterday. Chap. IX. SOULT IN COMMAND. 251 I have directed all the roads and communications mentioned in your letter to be examined and repaired without loss of time. ****** " I have, &c. " R. Hill. " Marquis of Wellington." On the very day this letter was penned, Soult took command of the three armies now organized into one body, and called the army of Spain. Lord Wellington two days after was at San Estevan, whence he thus addressed Sir Rowland Hill relative to his movements and designs : — " My dear Hill, " St. Estevan, July 14. 1813, 7 p.m. ** I arrived here this afternoon, and have opened your letter to Murray. "It would appear that the enemy have reinforced their left towards St. Jean de Pied de Port ; and I should besides conclude that Clausel, who was in the valley of Anso on the 9th, has by this time passed on to Oleron, and is in commu- nication with St. Jean de Pied de Port. " I ordered General Clinton two days ago to march to Lanz with the 6th di\asion, where I believe he has arrived this day ; and I have ordered Sir Lowry Cole with the 4th division, to move from the blockade upon the road towards Roncesvalles. He may march to-morrow, but probably not till next day. Sir Thomas Picton likcAvise, with the 3d division, will march to Olagre, on the road to Lanz, and to Usrui as soon as he will be relieved in the blockade by the corps under General O'Donnell, which is at Puerta la Regna, three leagues from Pampeluna, and is ordered to take the blockade. " The truth is, that having two objects in hand, viz. the siege of St. Sebastian and the blockade of Pampeluna, we arc not so strong on any point as we ought to be. These move- 252 LETTER OF LORD WELLINGTON. Chap. IX. ments, when effected, will render us full strong enough for any thing. " I shall not complete the movement upon Vera to-morrow, unless I should be able to see well, however necessary it may be to complete the siege of St. Sebastian, that we should have the command thei-e. Considering how ticklish our affairs are to the right, I think you had better not yourself quit Elizondo ; and endeavour to have an early communica- tion with Campbell and Byng ; and let me hear from you by Echelar. I shall be with the light division in the morning, but think that my quarters will be to-morrow at Sambilla, or perhaps here. " I write to General Clinton at Lanz to desire him to en- deavour to find a road to Ugui from Lanz on to Ronces- valles. I know that he can go to the former from Olagre. " If you should find that Byng is attacked, order General Clinton to move upon Roncesvalles by Ugui and Espinal. " Ever yours most faithfully, " Wellington." For some time after the receipt of this letter, but few movements of importance were made by the enemy, within the observation of Sir Rowland, who remained at Elizondo. A portion of his troops were in the mountains, where, for several days, no sounds reached their ears but the rush of falling waters and the scream of eagles, emblems of the fury and swift- ness of the attacks which awaited them. On the 25th, at Lingoen and at Maya, the enemy made tremendous onslaughts, disastrous to the allies and to the French themselves. On these occasions, Napier well observes, the stern valour of some of our troops would have graced Thermopyla3. The advantage gained by the Count D'Erlon cost him 1500 men and a general. The loss inflicted on our ranks at Maya amounted to Chap. IX. MAYA PASS. 253 1400 soldiers and four guns. Although the over- whelming force of the assailants obliged the defenders of the pass to fall back, Sir Rowland liill recovered the key of the position in the pass before night-fall. General Byng was attacked with prodigious impe- tuosity, and though he resisted with all the energy of his distinguished valour, he was unable to stand against the overpowering weight of numbers, and was forced up the mountain. His letter to Sir Rowland Hill, on the following day, gives a most correct ac- count of the affair : — " Dear Sir Rowland, " Lingoen, July 26. 1813. "Enclosed with this I send you a copy of my report to Sir Lowry Cole, of what occurred yesterday. I cannot ex- press the regret I feel in having been obliged to retire from the passes entrusted to my defence. I trust you will have the goodness to inquire into particulars from Sir Lowry Cole, and that inquiry will satisfy you that no blame attaches to myself or the troops I commanded ; that for nine hours we maintained our position against five times a superior force to ourselves ; that when we did retire, it was done in good or- der; that we had not a man taken prisoner, except those whose wounds were such that it Avould have endangered their lives to remove them — all that could be removed were brought away ; and, lastly, we occasioned the enemy so severe a loss, that he neither ventured an attack on our second posi- tion, nor to molest us in our retreat. These, Sir, I assure you, are facts which any inquiry will corroborate. ** Believe me, " Respectfully and truly yours, "J. Byng. " I really believe the force of the enemy opposed to me was little short of 20,000 men, and that opposed to Sir Lowry Cole's division 12,000. "J. B." 254 MOVEMENTS OF SIR ROWLAND. Chap. IX. In his report to Sir Lowry Cole, General Byng said : — " An officer who was prisoner to us, but who was too dangerously wounded to bring off, stated that the enemy had increased their force at St. Jean de Pied de Port the preceding day by every possible means ; that he knew their force was full 22,000 men, and believed it to be more ; that Marshal Soult was ex- pected there that morning, but was uncertain if he was in the field ; that General Moncey commanded the troops to which I was opposed." The General ere long made ample reprisals. The only retrograde movement of Sir Kowland in consequence of these checks in the passes was a withdrawal on the 25th ; and we have seen that he recovered the important position before night. All the other movements made were dependent on those of the corps on his right flank, and were by order. They were not in any degree forced on him by the enemy in his immediate front. The mthdrawal in consequence of the attacks was considered eminently skilful ; and Lord Wellington, in his despatch to Lord Bathurst, observed, " I beg to draw your Lordship's attention to the valuable assistance I received through- out these operations from Lieutenant-General Sir Rowland Hill." On the 29th Soult, who had been foiled in his attempts against the allied position the two previous days, decided to try the relief of Pampeluna by an attack on Sir Rowland Hill, which was destined to turn the left of the allies. All these efforts were effectually repulsed, and severe losses were inflicted on the enemy. Sir Rowland took advantage of a Chap. IX. PASS OF DONNA MARIA. 255 movement of Count D'Erlon to place his troops on a mountain ridge, about a mile in his rear, where he kept his ground the whole day with a coolness never surpassed. The French, thoroughly discomfited, were compelled to retire in the night, and were followed the next morning. In the pursuit the allies came in contact with two hostile divisions, in the pass of Donna Maria. They were quickly dislodged by the joint efforts of our General and Lord Dalhousie. General Byng, also, now triumphed over his late op- ponents by capturing a large convoy in the town of Elizondo. On the first of August the pursuers fol- lowed the retreating French into the vale of the Bi- dassoa, and took many prisoners, as well as a great quantity of baggage. The evening of this day found the army posted on the frontier, in nearly the same positions as they occupied on the 28th of July. Thus ended the often recounted conflicts of the Pyrenees. Sir Rowland Hill immediately assured Lord Wel- lington, that though not present at the action in the Maya pass, he was " thoroughly satisfied that every exertion was made for the defence of the post, and that it was only abandoned when the superiority of the enemy's force would have rendered it impossible to have maintained it longer." To General Stewart, who was wounded on the 25th in this pass, he wrote thus : — " My dear General, "■ Arizain, August 4. " Having been much occupied during the last two days, must plead my excuse for not having written to you sooner, to thank you for your gallant exertions and zeal during our late operations, and to express my regret at being deprived 256 FEATS IN THE MOUNTAINS. Chap. IX. of your services. I am, however, glad to find that your wounds are not of a dangerous nature, and request you will not again think of taking the field until you are perfectly recovered. " I am, &c «K. Hill. " Lieutenant-General Stewart." He also assured General Byng of his entire satis- faction, and that he should take the first opportunity of speaking to Lord Wellington of his gallantry in the mountains, and of his valuable services in the battle of Yittoria. Xor did he forget his aids- de-camp. Captains Egerton and Churchill, on both of whom he passed, in recommending them for pro- motion, the most distinguished encomiums. The former he described as " a very active and zealous officer of fifteen years' standing in the army — nine of them as captain," by whose promotion he should be particularly obliged. Thus he encouraged and en- deavoured to reward all his gallant friends ; but they were never admitted into that favoured circle unless the privilege was well deserved. The British of all grades, as if inspired with the romance as well as peril of their wild position on the mountains, performed marvels of strength and daring in these contests. The Rev. Charles Frith, chaplain of the brigade composed of the 28th, 34th, and 39th Regiments, during the conflict of Maya, actually carried three or four wounded officers down the rugged steeps into the village, a distance of a mile and a half, at separate times, and gently deposited his gallant burdens where they were secure. The loss of the enemy was probably 15,000 men ;-^ — but may the rocks of these glorious mountains never again be tinged with Chap. IX. LETTER OF SIR ROWLAND. 257 blood, nor the vultures find their prey on the carcasses of the brave ! May peace reign throughout these scenes of nature's majesty, and the bold summits of the Pyrenees overshadow the rich valleys of the na- tions they divide, without again having their echoes awakened by any sounds save those which call forth peaceful emotions, saddened, perchance, with the thought that they had ever responded to the disso- nant cries and murderous thunders of war ! In the beginning of August, Lord 'WeUiiigton deemed it expedient that Sir Rowland Hill should be on the extreme right of the army. He accordingly encamped near Roncesvalles ; and towards the middle of the month, found leisure to tell his friends at home what difficulties he had encountered in the Pyrenees. Camp near Roncesvalles, " My dear Sister, August 17. 1813. " Before this time, I imagine, the Pi-ince of Orange will have reached England with the accounts of Soult's attempt to relieve Pampehma, the action near that place, and the re- treat of Soult ao-ain to the frontiers of France. Durino- the whole of these operations you will observe that we had a good deal of fag and fighting ; and although the small force I had with me was not, at all times, able to withstand the over- whelming numbers that were bruuglit against us, yet I am sure we contributed very essentially to tlie glorious result of the business. The fact is. Lord Wellington found it necessary to desire me to send from my corps to the main army, the divisions of Morlllo and the brigades of Generals Campbell and Byng, amounting to about 7000 men, leaving me with not more than 5000 to occupy a very extensive line of country, which was liable to be attacked in any point by a superior force. Li this situation the whole army of the centre, commanded by the Count D'Erlon, consisting of at leas S 258 LETTER OF SIR T. GRAHAM. Chap. IX. 17,000 men, attacked one of my posts, while Soult, with his main army, moved by this road towards Pampehina. The public despatches will have given you details of all these events ; and I shall merely add that, during the whole of the above-mentioned operations, the entire corps of the Count D'Erlon was employed against my 5000 men, which circum- stance made a considerable diversion in favour of the battle near Pampeluna. "We have again taken up a position on the frontiers of France, and I am on the right, having the whole of my corps with me. The country I have to defend is strong, but the position is very extensive. Soidt must have lost a very con- siderable number of men during the last three weeks. I think it cannot be less than 15,000. One would imagine he cannot be in a state to act offensively, but he is near his re- sources, and it is possible he may make another effort to relieve Pampeluna and St. Sebastian. The former, I am told, may hold out till the beginning of October ; the latter may be expected to fall sooner. The French officers talk very much of a general peace, which they seem very anxiously to wish for. " Clement is quite well. Kobert and Thomas, I believe, are also well. I have to thank you for your letters of the 7th of July, and remain " Yours very affectionately, " K H." The terms " fag and fighting," were evidently sug- gested by his gallant friend Sir Thomas Graham, who had written to him a few days before from the vicinity of San Sebastian. " My dear Hill, " Ozarzun, August 12. 1813. " I profit by Dr. Ferguson's passing here in his way to the second division to send you two lines. You have had a great deal of fag and fighting of late, which I was glad to hear you had escaped safe from. We are Avaiting for ordnance ships to bring ammunition and more guns, to enable us to renew the Chap. IX. SIR ROWLAND AT RONCESVALLES. 259 attack against St. Sebastian, which we tried to storm un- successfully on the 25th ult. But the defences were un- touched, and the enemy made too good use of them against our column of attack, confined to a very naiTow front between the river and the foot of the left line wall, where it was left dry by the falling of the tide. Adieu. "I hope you received the box sent by Lieutenant-Coh Colburn of the 5 2d safe, with the coffee essence from Lord Mulgrave, in the top of which I sent an old map of yours which has been travelling about with me for years, in order to be returned. " Ever faithfully yours, " Tho. Graham. " Remember me to Currie. I have been suffering again a good deal from my eye and stomach." Sir Noel Hill was engaged in the siege of San Se- bastian, and was by no means delighted with his post. " We are still," he said, " detained here by this abominable place ; but as another battering train is arrived from England, the siege will now be carried on with some prospect of success." When the town did fall at last, he was reported for distinguished services. Soult, after his repulse, had resumed his former posi- tion, and the work of fortifying it was carried on with much assiduity. During September and October Sir Rowland occupied the camp near Roncesvalles, and kept up a constant observation of the proceedings of the hostile army. Every clear day he was actively em- ployed with a glass in endeavouring to make out their plans and intentions ; nor was he less attentive to his own defences. On October the 8th, Lord Welling- ton attacked the enemy's right, " with the view of s 2 260 THE CONDE DE l'ABISPAL. Chap. IX. obliging them to go a little farther back on that side." Pampeluna still held out ; but Sir Rowland felt persuaded that it could not stand much longer. O'Donnell, Conde de I'Abispal, who had been stationed near that place, and co-operated with him during the battles of the Pyrenees, was gone ; but his Andalu- sians and Don Carlos D'Espaiia had blockaded the place till the middle of September ; — still it was not till October that the surrender was made, under pres- sure of intolerable disease and misery. The Conde was always looking out for some opportunity of dis- tinction. On one occasion in the Pyrenees, when Sir Rowland had obtained an advantage, O'Donnell became exceedingly angry at not having been called out into a more effective position, and considered himself deprived of the glory he should certainly have acquired. " O'Donnell is in such a rage," said Sir Rowland quietly to Lord Wellington. " Never mind, I'll find plenty for him to do another day," was his Lordship's reply. The day came ; he was put forward with his troops in a ravine ; the French enfiladed them ; O'Donnell did not flinch, but was angry no more. " From that day," Lord Hill used to say, " I never saw him nor heard from him." About the middle of October, it was suggested from home that Sir Rowland should go and take the command of the armies of Catalonia. With regard to this proposition he remarked, " Lord Wellington expressed a wish to the contrary ; consequently I re- main here, which I am glad of." At the end of the month he thus described his situation to Sir George Murray : — Chap. IX. FALL OF SNOW. 261 " My dear General, " Roncesvalles, Oct. 29. 10 a.m. " We have had a great fall of snow yesterday and this day, and from what I have heard this morning, I fear it will be impossible to keep our troops on the height, at least while the snow continues to fall, for it drifts to such a deg-ree as to endanger their being buried. Indeed I understand that three men are missing this morning. I send this in the hope of its being able to reach you, which I think by no means certain. I have desired General Pringle to report to you also the state of the country in his neighbourhood. I expect General Byng down from the mountains; I shall then be able to judge what is best to be done. " I have, &c. "R. Hill. " Sir Geo. Murray, " to be read by Gen. Pringle." To a friend he also wrote, " Dreadful weather for the troops on the mountains ; snow, rain, and such tremendous winds that no tents can be used." Lord Wellington proposed shortly after this time to confer with him, and desired both Marshal Beres- ford and Sir George Murray to inform him of his intention, and to appoint the spot where they should meet. His answer to the latter shows the difficulties he had to contend with : — " Roncesvalles, Nov. 5. 1813. (Noon.) " My dear General, " I have received your letter of yesterday in duplicate. The road from hence to Alduides is still bad, but I believe there is no doubt as to its practicabihty for the troops and bago-ao-e and commissariat. Our movements will therefore commence to-morrow as directed. I have no doubt we shall be collected in the valley of Maya on the day following. I go myself to Elizondo to-morrow, and will meet Lord s 3 262 LETTER TO SIR G. MURRAY. Chap. IX. Wellington at noon on the 7th, at the place pointed out, ' Colonel Browne's quarters in front of Urdax.' In a letter I wrote to you a few days ago, I mentioned that we had buried three of Captain Maxwell's guns on the mountains, owing to the impossibility of withdrawing them on account of the snow. I am happy to say that we have, by the great exertions of the artillery and troops, been able to extricate them. " I have, &c., "E, Hill. " Sir George Murray." Lord Wellington w^as now preparing for the battle of the Nivelle, where Sir Rowland established new claims upon the gratitude of his country. The nar- rative of this important event will make an appropriate opening for the next chapter. 263 CHAPTER X. STRENGTH OF THE ENEMY. BATTLE OF THE NH'TILLE. SIR ROAVLAND's position. AN ATTACK ON HIM FORESEEN BY LORD WELLINGTON. BATTLE OF THE NIVE. COMPLIMENT OF LORD A\T:LLINGT0N. MAJOR CLEMENT HILL SENT HOJIE WITH THE NEWS. FRENCH BOATS ON THE ADOLTl. INTIMACY BETAVEEN THE FRENCH AND ENGLISH SOLDIERS. PATTEN AND HIS " PAWN." ADMIRABLE CONDUCT OF SIR ROWLAND. STRATA- GEMS OF THE ENEMY. NEW MOVEMENTS OF THE ARMY. LORD Wellington's design effectually concealed. — suc- cesses OP sir ROWLAND. ORTIIEZ. LORD AYELLINGTON RE- CONNOITRES. BATTLE OF ORTHEZ. BATTLE OF AIRE. DEATH OF COLONEL HILL. BATTLE OF TARBES. ARRANGE- MENTS FOR PASSING THE GARONNE. SIR ROWLAND IN THE SUBURBS OF TOULOUSE. BATTLE OP TOULOUSE. ARRIVAL OF COLONEL COOK. — ABDICATION OF BONAPARTE. ARMISTICE. — SIR ROWLAND MADE A PEER. The French spared no pains in fortifying their position. In front of St. Jean de Luz their right rested on the sea, and their line covered the town, stretching from the shore twelve miles inland^ crossing the Nivelle, and ending behind the village of Ainhoue. The approach to their left was pro- tected by works on a mountain fronting that village, and their centre was on the left of the river, which takes a sinuous course northwards. The bridges above and below Ascain were strongly defended, as was the space enclosed by the curve of the river. On a range of elevated ground behind Sarre was the grand defence of the centre, strengthened by two redoubts, and by a mountain called La Petite la Rhune, which had s 4 264 BATTLE OF THE NIVELLE. Chap. X. been retrenched. Nature and art combined to afford security to the enemy, but Lord Wellington had decided, in defiance of both, to force their centre and turn their right. Before one o'clock on the morning of the 10th of November, the allies descended from the mountains by moonlight. Sir Rowland Hill commanded the right wing, which emerged from the rocky passes, and arrived Avithin reach of the French about seven o'clock. While victory was being achieved by our other gallant officers, Sir Rowland moved against the heights of Ainhoue, and cleared the nearest redoubt. He afterwards led two divisions on Espelette, forced the enemy from the works in front of Ainhoue, and obliged them to retreat. The combined successes of the allies at length established them in the rear of the enemy's right, and ere sunset terminated the dread fight of the Nivelle. Soult was completely manoeuvred out of the designs of his long labours. Though his numbers were seventy thousand, and he had every advantage that mountains, whose intricacies were well known to him, could afford, fifty guns and fifteen hundred prisoners were taken from him as the spoils of the day. Four days after the battle of the Nivelle, Sir Row- land was at St. Pe. He sent a hurried letter home, which he wrote while Lord Worcester and Lord Fitz- roy Somerset were in the room. " I do not see," he said, " any prospect of our having another fight. The glorious news from the North, I trust, will ere long settle Napoleon. The people in France receive us well. I never met with so much attention. The mayor of Ustaritz prepared an excellent dinner for Chap. X. SITUATION OF THE ALLIES. 2G5 me yesterday ; and the people run out of their houses to give our people wine." On the 27th of November, he observed, in writing to his brother, — " Our future operations, I imagine, will depend a good deal upon what is going on in other quarters. We are perfectly prepared to act on the offensive ; and if the allies on the Rhine continue to do so, we shall not be idle. On the other hand, if Bonaparte is not kept well occupied either by internal commotions, or by our northern friends, perhaps it may be well for us to maintain a safe and threatening position. This latter situation we have at present. At the same time, we are very much cramped ; and although we may be able to get our men under cover, the total want of forage for the animals is a serious inconvenience. If you look at the map you will see our present position. My right is on the mountains to the right of this place ; my left at Cambo. Marshal Beresford is at Ustaritz and down the Nive to mthin about a league of Bayonne, from which point, to the sea. Sir John Hope has his corps. The rains which fell about a fortnight ago rendered the river Nive a formidable barrier : the last week's fine weather has, however, made the river fordable in many parts, in consequence of which both parties are kept on the alert. The enemy, notwitli- standing, has much more to fear than we have. The inhabitants, certainly, are not unfriendly to us ; and many are daily returning to their homes, finding they are well treated by the British and Portuguese. The main body of our cavalry is kept in the rear at pre- sent." About the period of this letter, a correspondence 266 LETTER OF xMARSHAL BERESFORD. Chap. X. passed between Lord Wellington and Sir Rowland Hill relative to the passage of the Nive, and consider- able discretionary power was placed by his Lordship in his hands. The second week in December, Marshal Beresford apprised him that it was considered pro- bable an attack would be made upon him. " My dear Hill, " Arouiitz, 1 1th Dec. 1813, 7 a. m. " I have here, on my way to the outposts, received a let- ter from Lord Wellington. He says the enemy made no jDrogress yesterday beyond driving in the outposts and pick- ets, and he does not think he will renew the attack. The prisoners in general say that only one division (of Paris) re- tired towards St. Jean de Pied de Port; one prisoner said two divisions. It appears all the I'est of this army came through Bayonne for the attack yesterday. Lord W. says we must not be surprised if he should turn his attack against you, in which case the 6th division, now at Ustaritz, will pass over to your support; and, at all events, if you want it send for it, and Sir W. Clinton has directions to conform to your wishes. Lord W. says the enemy yesterday brought from your side three, some say four, divisions ; and it is not quite certain if one division was not left in their entrenched camp on your side. " Yours most sincerely, " W. C. I3ERESrORD. " Lt.-General Sir Rowland Hill." The expected attack was made on the 13th; and the same day, " at noon," Lord Wellington had the satisfaction of writing to Sir John Hope, " I have the pleasure to inform you that Hill has beat them com- pletely ;" and also to Sir J. Kennedy, "Sir R. Hill has given the enemy a terrible beating." To General Castanos he wrote, " Vous serez bien-aise de savoir que le General Hill battit I'ennemi terriblement avant- Chap. X. BATTLE OF THE NIVE. 267 hier. II y a long temps que je n'ai pas vu tant de morts sur le champ de bataille. J'ai ma droite sur I'Adour, de laquelle la communication est coupee pour I'ennemi." This great service was thus performed by Sir Row- land. The enemy, who had failed in all their attempts with their whole force upon Lord Wellington's left, withdrew to their entrenchments on the night of December 12th, and passed a large body of troops through the town of Bayonne. With these, on the morning of the 13th, they made a desperate attack on Sir Rowland Hill. This, as has appeared, was not unexpected ; and Lord Wellington had placed at his disposal not only the sixth division, but the fourth division, and two brigades of the third. Soult's objects were to gain the position of St. Pierre, to make himself master of the road to St. Jean Pied de Port, and to break through the allies. For these purposes he put forth his whole strength, and was completely vanquished. Even before the sixth divi- sion arrived. Sir Rowland had repulsed him with prodigious loss; and although he skilfully availed himself of a high ground in retreating, he could not stand against the famous charge of General Byng, and was entirely defeated. It was a battle fought and won by the corps of Sir Rowland Hill alone and unaided. At the instant of victory Lord Wellington came up, and in the ecstasy of the moment of triumph caught him by the hand and said, " Hill, the day is your own." Such were his successes at the battle of the Nive. His gallant brother. Major Clement Hill, was again sent to England with the news. It was 268 LETTER OF SIR ROWLAND. Chap. X. incorrectly reported that he had returned to Passages from stress of weather, which is alluded to in Sir Rowland's next letter. " Vieux Mauguerre, Dec. 31. 1813, 10 p. m. " My dear Clement, " By this time I hope you have reached London in safety. You must have had tremendous weather about the 20th. It was a great satisfaction to us to hear of your getting back to Passages. Soult has not shown any disposition to disturb us in this quarter ; he has moved about six divisions out of the town of Bayonne, placing two opposite to Urt, the others further up the Adour, and on this side towards St. Palais. With respect to our future operations, nothing, as far as I know, is yet determined upon, though we are looking for the best communications for our pontoons towards the Adour. I enclose you a letter from Egerton, who no doubt sends you all the family anecdotes and events. Should it appear that the year 1814 is likely to turn out another year of campaign- ing in this country for us, I think you will do Avell to bring out some canteen dishes, &c., a complete set of saddlery for two or three horses, with cloths, rollers, &c., and any thing else you know will be accej)table. "Jan. 1. 5 P.M. " It was my intention to have finished this letter this morning, but I have been prevented in consequence of a lit- tle expedition on my part to the island opposite to Urt, with the view of preventing the enemy from constructing works upon it." Lord Wellington at the beginning of the new year disposed his forces so as to be in readiness on any emergency ; and Sir Rowland Hill was busily engaged in adopting measures to prevent the enemy's boats from navigating the Adour. Finding musketry ineffectual, he proposed to try rockets, which he thought would, at least, confuse the boatmen ; but Chap. X. PATTEN AND HIS " PAWN." 26 9 Lord Wellington considered that if the French found them almost harmless, they would after the first alarm cease to regard them. At length he sent for some heavy guns. In a note to General Fane re- specting them, he mentioned the detriment to the service which arose out of the intimacy of the French and his own soldiers. " You did," he said, " perfectly right in receiving the flag of truce addressed to me. The intercourse, however, going on between our soldiers and the French has increased to such an extent, that I have been under the necessity of giving out another order upon the subject." The fact was, the officers had become quite intimate with each other, and the men carried on a regular traffic upon a rivulet running between the two armies. A great stone was placed in the stream, and on it a canteen was put containing money. After a time this was found filled with brandy. One evening the French sentry failed to supply the brandy to a man named Patten, who was, as he supposed, tricked out of his liquor. He dashed across the stream in the morn- ing, seized the French sentry, stripped him, and carried his accoutrements in triumph to the picket house. A flag of truce soon afterwards appeared, and the French captain who came with it begged hard for the return of the things taken from the sentry, on the ground that if they were retained, his own commission and the sentry's life would be undoubtedly forfeited. " I have got them in paAvn," said Patten, " for a canteen of brandy;" but he gave them up, and refused to accept money offered him by the officer. Still, poor Patten was sentenced to 270 enemy's boats on the ADOUR. Chap. X. receive 300 lashes. Sir Rowland had the delinquent led out with great parade, as if to undergo this severe punishment, and addressed a remonstrance to all the regiments on the indiscretion and probable con- sequences of such conduct. But, at length, he un- expectedly enumerated many acts of gallantry per- formed by the prisoner, and, in the midst of faces beaming with admiration, remitted the sentence. The enemy's boats still persisted in navigating the Adour. Sir George Murray was consequently directed by Lord Wellington to desire Sir Rowland to fire red-hot shot against them, both from the heavy guns and the four-pounders. Sir George likewise said " it might be expedient to fire some of these shot across the river, in situations where the enemy may be made aware of our using them, as their knowledge of our doing so may be an additional means of deterring their boatmen from the service." He also stated : — " Lieutenant-Colonel Dickenson will be directed to send you some rockets, that you may make use of them whenever circumstances appear favourable." These precautions enabled Sir Rowland on the 21st to report — "I do not believe that any boats have passed Urt since the night of the 16th, when, as Colonel Jackson will have informed you, three went down the Adour. General Fane has fitted out two boats, and has selected for each ten or twelve men from General Barnes's brigade, and given charge of each of them to Lieutenant Law, of the 71st, who was formerly in the navy. He is an active intelligent officer ; and I am inclined to think that if any of the enemy's boats attempt to pass, he is very likely to Chap. X. SOULT AND THE SPANIARDS. 271 get hold of them. The Portuguese officer on picket duty yesterday reports, that in the evening about 3000 men passed over the bridge of Bayonne from the town to the right bank of the river." All the reports at this time were of an exciting nature. On the 25th, 5 p. m.. General Fane reported — "It seems the opinion of the people about here that something is intended against our posts to-morrow. It is said that a number of conscripts have joined, and that biscuit and spirits were to-day given to the troops." On the 26th, General Bjmg reported — " Two regi- ments marched into Bayonne between twelve and one last night. In the night a large boat made an attempt to get up the river, which our picket was able to prevent, and she now lies opposite. Two smaller boats did pass." On hearing this. Sir Rowland took instant measures, and no more boats appeared ; but the French retaliated by attacking his pickets near Urt. The object of Soult seemed to be to throw the allies on the defensive. He also sounded Morillo on the possibility of gaining over the Spaniards. Morillo sent Sir Rowland some curious documents on this subject, including a letter from General Paris stating that he had orders not to attack the Spanish troops. These papers were immediately forwarded to head-quarters. In February the weather was such as to enable Lord Wellington to commence a series of manoeuvres, to draw Soult from his line of defence on the Adour, and important instructions, too technical for insertion here, were sent to Sir Rowland Hill. It was in con- 272 LETTER OF SIR ROWLAND. Chap. X. sequence of these that he was enabled to tell his friends that he was again in motion. " Marshal Beresford's House, Ustaritz, "My dear Sister, Feb. 12. 1814. " I have the satisfaction to inform you that we are again in motion, with every fair prospect of success. The weather has improved, and the state of our commissariat is such that I hope Ave have nothing to fear with regard to our supplies. It appears that my troops are to commence the operations, for which purpose we are this day collecting in the neigh- bourhood of Hasparren, with the view of moving towards Pan. In addition to my troops I shall have Sir Thomas Picton's division with me. Tlie enemy have some force in my front, but I do not expect any serious resistance. I trust you will receive good accounts of our proceedings. "I have received your letter of the 21st of last month, and the Shrewsbury papers up to that period. I perfectly agree with you that the Salopians not only deserve my grate- ful thanks for the manner in which they are manifesting their regard towards me, but I feel I never can use expressions sufficiently strong to convey my sense of their kindness on the occasion. ****** " With respect to the handsome present of beef, I am sorry to say it has not yet reached Passages. Immediately on my recei\'ing your letter on the subject, I sent Robert Sharp to inquire about it. He is returned without it. I do, however, hope the next packet will bring this present. " It is said the French princes at St. Jean de Luz have been waited upon in a private manner by many respectable people, and have received assurances of support ivhen the moment shall arrive. This is indeed a most interesting time, and a few weeks will in all likelihood produce great events. God grant they may be for the best. *' Yours most affectionately." Sir Rowland marched with the right of the army Chap. X. IMPORTANT OPERATIONS. 278 on the 14th. He soon came upon the Frencli pickets on the Joyeuse river, and drove them in. He then advanced against Harispe, whom he obliged to re- treat, with some loss, towards St. Martin. The next day he pursued the enemy in the direction of Garis, where Harispe had been joined by Paris, and by troops from the centre. Towards sunset, after a fatiiruinof march, the soldiers of his division were excited by the sounds of skirmishing, wliich made " the men as fresh as when they started." They proceeded from the Spaniards under Morillo, who were assailing the out- posts of a strong French position on a height. It was nearty dusk when Sir Rowland arrived at the foot of the hill, but he gave instant orders for an attack. Sir AVilliam Stewart led the gallant second division up the steep, dislodged the enemy, and dispersed them in all directions, though they fought most valiantly. In the night they passed over the river at St. Palais, destroying the bridges. These, however, were speedily repaired, so that Sir Rowland crossed on the 16th. The day following, the French were driven across the Gave de Mauleon, and meant to destroy the bridge at Arriverete, l^ut were prevented. In the night the fugitives retired across the Gave d'Oleron, and pro- ceeded to Sauveterre, where they were joined by other troops. On the 18th the allies were established on the Gave d'Oleron, where Sir Rowland had to await the arrival of the pontoon train before he could cross the river. These operations with the right of the army entirely concealed from Soult the design of Lord Wellington to cross the Adour below Bayonne mth his left. T 274 LETTER OF LORD WELLINGTON. Chap. X. AVhile Sir Rowland was waiting for the pontoons, the French took possession of a building called the " Red House." Lord Wellington refers to it in the following letter : — "My dear Hill, Garis, 6a.m. Feb. 19- 1814. *' Churchill has just left me. If you can retake the Red House in the manner you took it yesterday morning, it is desirable to have it ; but I should think the enemy would have covered themselves during the night from the effect of the fire of your artillery, and it will not be very easy then to dislodge them, or to prevent them from working at the tete de pont, as it is most jirobable that our guns in the wood would be under the fire of theirs from the right bank of the river. " If you cannot take the Red House, you had better hold the village of Arriverete, as a tete de pont ; the village on the right of the same river where the Barca was, in the same manner, in order to secure the passages, and St. Gloire, Barrante, &c. as advanced posts from them, " Your position, in this case, would be on the heights on the left of the Gave de Mauleon, and it is a very good one. " Morillo would occupy the upper fords and bridges in the same manner. " I think you had better leave the third division where they are ; those at St. Palais cover you from any movement by Mauleon, and the others your left ; however, you will move them if you think proper. " I mention all this in case the enemy should undertake any enterprise against you, which is not very probable. " Ever yours most sincerely, " Wellington. " Lieut.-Gencral Sir Rowland Hill, K.B. " In the position above mentioned, concealing your troops, and not making any movement of large bodies in sight of the enemy, you will be able to reconnoitre all the passages of the river within your reach." Chap. X. THE FRENCH AT ORTHEZ. 275 In the midst of these eno;a(T;emcnts Sir Uowlaiul wrote briefly to his sister : O^'^ft^ "My dear Sister, St. Palais, Feb. 20. 1814. " I feel thankful for the further success which has attended my troops in our operations during the last week. ****** Lord Wellington was witness on these occasions to our pro- ceedings, and, I have no doubt, was perfectly satisfied with the conduct of all. This is the first day that I have sat down in a house for the last week, and I have now not many minutes to write, but I cannot resist sending you a line to tell you that I am well. I do not see any immediate prospect of my being en- gaged with the enemy; indeed we are in hourly expectation of hearing of peace, as it appears that the Congress has been sitting for some days, and it also appeal's that the ministers assembled at it are on good terms. This is a fine country, and the inhabitants extremely civil. Kind remembrance to Sir John and all at home. " Yours very affectionately." On the 24th the Gave d'Oleron Avas crossed at Villeneuve, and the enemy evacuated Sauveterre, retiring upon Orthez. They were speedily followed, and the Gave de Pau was passed on the evening of the 26th without opposition, though the whole French army was in front of Orthez. On the same day Sir Rowland was thus instructed : — " My dear Sir Rowland, Sauveterre, 26th Feb. 1814. " I conclude the detachment of pontoons ordered to join you will have arrived to-night. If so, Lord Wellington wishes you to endeavour to establish a bridge near Orthez, as early as you can in the morning. I beg you will send a re- port to the left in the morning of the appearance of things in your front. I expect we shall hear from you that the enemy have retreated. " Believe me faithfully yours, " G. Murray, Q. M. G. T 2 276 LORD WELLINGTON KECONNOITliES. Chap. X. " If we get into Orthez every exertion should be made to repair the bridge, that our pontoons may become again dis- posable for other service, for which they will be immediately wanted. G. M." The troops of Sir Rowland Hill occupied the heights opposite Orthez and the road leading to Sauveterre. On the 27th, after the sixth and light divisions had crossed the river, they found the French in strength, and determined to oppose the passage of Sir Row- land. Lord Wellington himself reconnoitred the enemy's disposition for battle. He took his survey from a spot once the site of a Roman encampment ; and without the slightest disturbance of the calm intelHgence of his clear and piercing eye, beheld the two divisions which had crossed coming up from the river. They were impeded by the rocks, and the point of junction mth the third division, to which they tended, was in dangerous proximity to the French. AVhen that point was reached, he connected his wings, formed a central reserve, and deliberately arranged his plans. Though even Picton was agitated, Wel- lington was apparently unmoved. Finding, however, that unexpected difS.culties arose, and that at one moment success seemed to declare in favour of the enemy, he suddenly changed his method of attack. He successfully availed himself of a narrow pass be- hind the village of St. Boes, hitherto deemed imprac- ticable, got through his infantry, cavalry, and ar- tillery, spread his front on the other side, and secured a victory. Two thirds only of the army had been engaged. Sir Rowland, ^Yith twelve thousand men, Chap. X. BATTLES OF ORTHEZ AND AIRE. 277 was before the bridge of Orthez, and at the critical in- stant of Lord Wellington's change of plan was ordered to force the passage of the Gave. This he effected above Orthez, and made a subsequent movement of a nature so threatening, that it determined the retreat of Soult. " This retreat, first made in order, be- came," said Lord Wellington, " at last a flight, and the troops were in the utmost confusion." The re- sults of these victorious operations were the invest- ment of Bayonne, St. Jean Pied de Port, and Xa- varrens, and the long-desired passage of the Adour, The names of Beresford, Hill, Hope, and Cotton were thus mentioned in Lord Wellington's despatch : — " It is impossible for me sufficiently to express my sense of their merits, or of the degree in which the country is indebted to their zeal and abilities for the situation in which the army now finds itself." After a very short interval. Lord Wellington had to acknowledge another important service on the part of Sir Rowland Hill. A corps of the enemy was collected near Aire, " probably with a view to protect the evacuation of a magazine they had at that place." In this direction he advanced on the 2d of March. The French occupied a strong ridge of hills, with their right flank on the Adour, thus covering the road to the town. It was about two o'clock when Sir Rowland approached, and gave immediate orders for an attack. Sir William Stewart, with the second division, assaulted and gained possession of the enemy's extreme right, while General La Costa moved up the heights against their centre ; but his Portuguese troops were repulsed. Sir William Stewart promptly T 3 278 DEATH OF COLONEL HILL. Chap. X. repaired the ill effects of this disaster, by sending a strono; force under General Barnes to the assistance of the Portuguese, and they made such a charge on the French as threw them into utter confusion. Still they rallied again. But General Byng came up with a brigade, and Harispe and Villette, the French generals, were completely driven off, the former to- wards the river Luz, the latter through Aire into the space formed by two branches of the stream. They suffered a great loss in killed and wounded, besides more than 100 prisoners. The troops that fled in the direction of Pau threw away their arms. It was in all respects a signal victory ; " affording," to use the words of Lord Wellington, " another instance of the conduct and gallantry of the troops under " Sir Row- land's command. In the midst of these successes he was yet a mourner. Coincident with this victory was the announcement from home of the death of his eldest brother, Colonel Hill, beloved by his relatives, the favourite of all the county to which he belonged, courteous, mild, benevo- lent, dignified, and the father of a young and pro- mising family. It was from Aire, the scene of his victory, and on the very day when he was obliged to write his official despatch, that he thus addressed his sister on this painful topic : — " My dear Sister, Aire, 3d March, 1814. " No event ever occurred to me that shocked me so much as the receipt of your second letter, on the subject of the decease of our dear brother. I do not know which of us has most reason to regret the sad event. He was beloved by all of us. His amiable wife is greatly to be pitied. Her Chap. X. LETTERS OF SIR ROWLAND. 279 kindness to our family can never be forgotten, and It will be my most anxious wish, as well as my duty, to do all in my power towards her. If I had ever so much time I could not express my real feelings on this melancholy occasion, but under present circumstances I am sure you will not expect me to say much. I am only this moment come into this town, and I understand Lord Wellino-ton will send his de- spatches off early to-morrow morning. You will see that in the midst of my affliction, I have had to attend to important mllitaiy matters. Scarcely a day has passed wdthout our being in the presence and in contact with the enemy: all our operations have been attended with success, and the enemy are now retreating towards Toulouse. Surely Bonaparte can- not hold out much longer. If I have time, I will, in the course of the day, write to you again, but in case I should not, I send this off. I must, however, beg to be kindly re- membered to Sir John and Mrs. Hill, and do most sincerely condole wnth all at home on the late afflicting event which has taken place at Hawkstone. " Yours, my dear Sister, most affectionately. " Two mails missing ! " Major Clement Hill, who had arrived at Hawkstone, reported to Sir Rowland the resignation with which his family submitted to their loss. To this he ad- verted in a letter addressed to one of the mourners : — " Garlin, four leagues from Pau, March 13. 1814. "I have received Clement's letter of the 12th February, by which I am truly happy to hear so good an account of all my friends at Hawkstone, after the melancholy event which has taken place there. Indeed, the more I think of it, the more I lament it. We all, however, must expect death, and ought to keep prepared for it. ****** " I imagine Major Fremantle has i-eached London by this time with accounts of our ojicrations up to the 2d of this month, on which day you will see I had a little aifair of my T 4 280 BATTLE OF TARBES. Chap. X. own, and which, owing to the bad conduct of some Portuguese, was the most critical I had ever to do with. The gallant conduct, however, of a few British soon put matters to rights, and the result was most fortunate for us- " Soult's army is about four or five leagues from hence, and our main force is halting while Mai-shal Beresford is marching with two divisions to Bourdeaux, where it is sup- posed he will be well received by the people. It is a cruel situation for the people. I am sure they would l)e glad to get rid of Bonaparte, and wish well to Louis, but are given to understand that the allies are treating for peace with Bonaparte ; consequently it would be madness in them, and cruel in us to expect them to hoist the white cockade at this moment." On the 18 til, by break of day, the whole army was in motion, and Sir Rowland's corps formed the right, marching from Garlin upon Conchez. Sir Rowland, after a severe skirmish, drove back the French out- posts upon Lambege ; then came the combat of Vic Bigorre, and on the 20th the battle of Tarbes. To the last-named place the enemy retired in the night, and in the morning were seen by the allies with the advanced posts of their left in the town, and their right upon the heights, near a neighbouring windmill. Their centre and left were retired ; the latter in an elevated situation. On Sir Rowland devolved the at- tack on Tarbes, ^vhich was made by the high road from Vic Bigorre. He moved tln-ough the town, and the French fled in all directions with considerable loss. Sir Henry Clinton drove them through the village of Dours, and Baron Alten from the heights above Orleix. In the evenino- Soult retired bv St. Gaudens on Toulouse, the hills blazing with fires for guidance. Chap. X. INSTRUCTIONS. 281 On the 21st Sir Rowland's directions were, " Lonl AVellington desires that you will be so good as to put the troops under your immediate orders in motion to-morrow morning, and advance by the great road as far as Monrejau, rendering a part of your cavalry more forward, and pushing your patroles as far as you can upon the Toulouse road by St. Gaudens. It is desirable to keep up the appearance of the enemy being followed by the army in that direction." On the 22d the instructions were, " The left and centre of the army are to be thrown in the direction of the great road Avhich leads from Auch to Toulouse, point- ing in that direction either upon ITsle en Jourdain or upon Gimont. We shall therefore be in a sort of echellon, of which the left will be towards one or other of the places above named (I'lsle en Jourdain or Gimont), and the right upon the great road by St. Gaudens to Toulouse. It is probable that as the left and centre move on, the left of your corps will be directed to conform to their movement ; but it will be necessary that part of your right should be always in a situation to keep a force upon the great road by St. Gaudens to Toulouse." At length the pontoons arrived, and the following plan was drawn out : — " Portet, March 27- 1814, 3 p. m. " Ari'angement for the Passage of the Garonne. " Sir R. Hill will be so good as to cause the pontoon- bridge to be thrown across the river at Portet this night. He will commence passing the troops under his immediate command, beginning with the infantry, as soon as the bridge is laid. The troops of the centre and left of the army will be moved at day-break towards Portet, and will pass the 282 THE GARONNE. — PONTOON BRIDGE. Chap. X. river after the riglit column has crossed. Sir Rowland Hill will establish himself in strength as soon as possible upon the heights on the right bank of the Garonne, forming a front towards Toulouse and towards the great road which runs from Toulouse by Castanet towards Castelnadaury. " The position of the army will be further extended in proportion as more troops pass over. " Sir R. Hill will be so good as to establish as direct a communication as he can with head-quarters this afternoon, and apprise the Quai'ter-Master-General of the Knc of com- munication established. Sir Rowland will be so good as to order reports to be sent to head-quarters of the progress made in the establishment of the bridge, as also when the troops begin to pass. A communication is also to be esta- blished with Plaisance." The passage of the Garonne was found imprac- ticable, and Sir Rowland's troops were withdrawn to St. Roques. In the night of the 30th a new bridge was laid near Pensaguel, and he passed with two divisions of infantry. He used sometimes in con- versation to mention the great trouble these bridges cost him. " For instance," he would say, " at a point where all seemed most promising, I found we had not enough to cross by exactly one boat, and we had all our work to do over again at a narrower place." I I shall never forget the coolness with which he men- tioned this provoking circumstance ; and some person present remarked, that he was no doubt just as cool when it happened. By the 3d of April he had advanced to Toulouse, and his officers occupied the beautiful villas of the suburbs. On the 3d Lord Wellington thought Sir Rowland would probably be attacked the next day, Chap. X. BATTLE OF TOULOUSE. 283 and instructed him, if there seemed to be any risk in attempting to maintain the position opposite Toulouse, to fall back first behind the Touch river. If he deemed it expedient to retire still farther, he was to do so by the Auch road behind the rivulet between Colomiers and Lequenin. In case the enemy's force moved to his right to oppose the passage of the river, Lord Wellington wished him to make a show of attacking the suburb, and to be informed of it, that he might know the cause of the firing. No movement, however, took place, and a corps was thrown over the right of the Garonne on the 4th. At 10 P.M. on the 9th, Sir Rowland was informed, " It is intended to move against the enemy's position on this side of the river, to-morrow morning soon after day-break. Lord Welhngton wishes therefore that you should make such arrangements, threatening the suburb of Toulouse on the left bank of the river, as circumstances admit of, in order to draw a part of the attention and force of the enemy to that side. You will be able to see the commencement and progress of the operations on this side, and you will be good enough to regulate yours accordingly." The next morning, Easter Sunday, came the battle of Toulouse. While the other operations of Lord Wellington were proceeding, Sir Rowland performed the task allotted to him with his usual vigour and success. He drove the French v/ithin the ancient wall, from their ex- terior works in the suburb on the left of the Garonne. It was a desecration of the Sabbath in every way to be lamented ; for Napoleon had previously abdicated his throne. 284 LETTER OF SIR ROWLAND. Chap. X. On the 12tli Lord Wellington entered Toulouse, and Sir Rowland was directed to move through the town, and to continue his march along the Car- cassonne road. It was a moment of anxiety. " It is impossible," was Lord Wellington's message to him, " to say until Colonel Cook's return, whether we are to be at war or at peace with Marshal Soult." In the mean time he was desired to make his cavalry keep sight of the enemy, but not to move his inftmtry unless the cavalry required support. The arrival of Colonel Cook was joyfully announced by Sir Row- land to his family. " Near Toulouse, April 13. 1814. '• I do most sincerely congratulate you and all my friends upon the glorious event which has just been made known to us. Colonel Cook arrived this morning from Paris with the account of the abdication of Bonaparte. The Colonel is gone in to Marshal Soult, and I have no doubt an innnediate cessation of hostilities will take place, though at this moment there is some little firing at the outposts. Should matters be settled so soon as there is every reason to suppose they will, I may hope ere long to have the happiness of seeing you all. It is indeed most gratifying to find that we have got rid of Bonaparte ; the more so as, only a few days ago, we had every reason to think that a peace would be made Avith him ! The papers will give you an account of our late operations. You will see that my troops had not much fighting at the battle near Toulouse, though we had our share of fatigue and anxiety during the period we were about that place. The joy and enthusiasm of the people of Toulouse when we entered, was, to all appearance, more sincere than any thing of the kind I ever witnessed. Robert is at Tou- louse : I have not yet seen him. I have this instant a mes- sage from my outposts to inform me a flag of truce is there ; CuAP. X. ARMISTICE. 2X5 no doubt upon the subject of Colonel Cook's mission. 1 will let you know the result to-morrow, but send this off in case Lord Wellington's despatches should go off this evenincr, " Yours, my dear Sister, " Very affectionately." Soult, upon the receipt of the important information from Paris, proposed an armistice, to gain time for further tidings, to which Lord Wellington declined to accede. On the 16th it was officially stated to Sir Rowland, — " It is Lord Wellington's intention that no unnecessary or p)artial hostilities should take place previously to the army being closed up. His Lord- ship will then see whether it is necessary to press Marshal Soult further." Two days afterwards they heard as follows : — "Toulouse, 18th April, 1814, " My dear Sir Rowland, " The terms of an armistice have been agreed upon, and as soon as Marshal Soult has signified his assent to them the business will be completed. The armistice includes the allied troops in Catalonia and those under Marshal Suchet, as well as the armies in this quarter, and the fortresses and the troops before them. The army will therefore not make any movement to-day, and head- quarters will be at Toulouse. It is probable that the greater part of the troops will be drawn further back to-morrow, to be cantoned, or encamj)ed in more convenient situations. " I beg yovi will be so good as to let the contents of this letter be communicated to Sir Lowry Cole, and also to the other general officers, whose troops are in communication with those under your own immediate command. " Beheve me, my dear Sir Rowland, " Very faithfully yours, « G. Murray, Q. M. G." 286 PEACE. Chap. X. On the 21st Sir Rowland had the pleasure of writing, — " Soult has acknowledged the present change of affairs; and we are at peace with him." To this he added, — "I have just left Robert at a ball given by the inhabitants to us. The joy of the people at having got rid of Bonaparte is beyond any thing of the kind I ever witnessed." Lord Castlereagh soon summoned the Commander of the Forces to meet him in Paris. He kindly under- took to be the bearer of a letter from Sir Rowland. "My dear Sister, Toulouse, April 30." 1814. "Lord Wellington sets out this day for Paris, and has desired me to remain in command of the army. His Lord- sliii^ talks of returning in a few days; but I imagine arrange- ments will be made in England to get the troops home with as little delay as possible, and that he wiU scarcely have time to come back. " The Due d'Angouleme's reception here has been most gratifying. Several French generals have been to wait upon him. Marshal Suchet came last night. Soult is, I beheve, gone to Paris. " A part of this army is ordered to be in readiness to em- bark on an expedition — I suppose, for America. The General Officer commanding it is not named, but should it be offered to me, I shall not accept it. Indeed I am, as you may imagine, truly anxious to get home, and as soon as I can with propriety, I shall be with you. " I send these hasty lines by Lord W., who Is just going off. Kind remembrance to all. " Yours most affectionately." A few days afterwards he wrote, — "I am just sending off despatches to Lord Wellington at Paris, and by the same opportunity I forward to you a few lines. No instructions have yet arrived for our quit- CuAP. X. SIR ROWLAND MADE A PEER. 287 ting this country, though I am in hourly expectation of hearing from England on the subject. Every thing is going on extremely well in this part of the country. The joy of the people is not at all abated. The Due d'Angouleme is gone to visit the French armies. I have not heard how he has been received by them ; but as Marshal Suchet and several of the French officers have been in here to wait upon his Royal Highness, I have no doubt they will in return pay every respect to him. We have had rather a curious meeting "svith the French officers of late. Two days ago three of their general officers dined with me ; and as they have been my opponents for many years, we had an opportunity of talking over, in the most friendly manner^ events which have occurred in our late cam- paign." Sir Rowland Hill was at this time anxious to return to his family, and declined a lucrative post offered him by Lord Wellington, that he might attend to the comfort of his late brother's widow, and the interests of her children. The Duke of Wellington, now raised to that illustrious rank, soon returned to Toulouse. Peerages were conferred on five of his generals ; in which honoured list appeared the name of Sir Row- land, as Lord Hill of Almaraz and of Hawkstone. 288 CHAPTER XL LORD HILL AKRIVES m LONDON. — PROPOSAL FOR HIS GOING TO AlVIERICA. — BREAKFAST AT THE HAJ^JOVER HOTEL. SPOILS OF VITTORIA. — HEAPHEY's PICTURE. PRESENTATION OF A SAYORD BY THE CITY OF LONDON. SHAKING HANDS. LORD HILL AT HAWKSTONE. THE BIRMINGHAM SWORD. RE- JOICINGS AT SHREWSBURY. SIR JOHN HILL. SCENE IN THE QUARRY. LORD HILL OBLIGED TO FLY FROM HIS FRIENDS. COLUMN AT SHREWSBURY. CHESTER. — MRS. 'SVINFIELD. — LETTER OF LORD BATHURST. LETTER OF THE DUKE OF YORK. SPRING OF 1815. LMPORTAJN'T MISSION. INSTRUCTIONS. INTERVIEW AVITH THE PRINCE OF ORANGE. THE DUKE OF WELLINGTON AERIVT;S AT BRUSSELS. LORD HILL's POSITION AT GRAIMMONT. — TROOPS OF PRINCE FREDERIC. LORD HILl's INFORMATION RESPECTING THE ENEMY. ORDERS. AVATERLOO. LORD hill's part IN THE BATTLE. — NIGHT IN THE COTTAGE. — MEMORANDUM ON THE SPOT BY SIR DIGBY JIACKWORTH. FRANCE. LETTERS. GUELPHIC ORDER. GOLD CLASP FOR ORTHEZ. PARIS LORD HILL's PARTY FIRED AT. — • GAIETIES. BOIS DE BOULOGNE. REMARKS. Lord Hill quitted Toulouse sooner than he expected, and reached London on the 27th of May, 1814. His arrival was thus hastily made known to his sister : — " Devonshire Place, 27th May, 1814, "My dear Sister, " Half- past five p. m. " I have just time to send you a line to inform you of my arrival here. In a letter I wrote to you some time ago from Toulouse, I mentioned that I should not accept the command of the troops going to America. Since then I was told that it was the particular wish of Government that I should go. I therefore thouo-ht it risrht to come here to know the real senti- ments of Government on the subject. I cannot now enter into Chap. XI. BREAK^FAST. — " SPOILS." 289 jjarticulars, not having seen Lord Bathurst, nor have I tune ; but I beg to tell you in secret, which I have from ffood anthorifi/, that I shall not be called upon to go out, though it will be politic to keep up the idea of a large force going to America. Mr. and Mrs. Tudway* are now at dinner waiting for me. You shall hear from me to-morrow. " Yours, " K H." The next letter stated, " I have seen Lord Bathurst this morning, and have the pleasure to inform you, that I am not likely to be called upon to go out to America for some few weeks. In the mean time I shall have the happiness of seeing you, and some changes may take place.'''' Lord Hill in a few days removed to the Hanover Hotel, and I well remember being taken by his uncle, the Reverend RoAvland Hill, to call upon him there. We went early, and found him at breakfast with several officers. He received us with a kindness of manner and gentle tone of voice peculiar to himself; yet his quiet step across the room to meet his uncle, and the beaming of his eye, showed the happiness he felt at seeing his zealous and devoted relative. The conversation at the break- fast table was extremely animated, and amongst other topics Lord Hill's share of the spoils of Yittoria was mentioned. This seemed odd enouo^h, for he prided himself on never having acquired a single item of booty in all his camj^aigns, save one plain china drinking cup. But his man, looking well out for * Mr. Tudway was member for Hill's uncle by marriage. He re- WellSj in Somersetshire, and for ceived Lord Hill as his guest on several years was father of the his Lordship's arrival in London. House of Commons. He was Lord U 290 THE CITY SWORD. — ANECDOTE. Chap. XI. provant^ liad managed to appropriate some dried hams and tongues, wliicli he vowed were from King Joseph's own larder. They added, however, on that day only to the burthens of the mules, for never did his Lord- ship and staff fare worse during the whole Peninsular campaign, than after the battle of Yittoria. With the treasures of Spain scattered around them by their own victory, the conquerors had not necessary re- freshment. After breakfast, Lord Hill went with Mr. Rowland Hill, to see the picture by Heaphy of the he- roes of the Peninsula ; and I shall never forget the kind way in which he described to myself, then a boy, the various personages of whom that group was composed. He thought all the portraits excellent ; but said the Duke of Wellington should not have been painted in a blue frock coat, but a grey one, that being the dress in which he was constantly seen in Spain. On the 1st of June Lord Hill took his seat in the House of Lords. In the midst of all the gaieties con- sequent on the presence of the illustrious strangers in London, he wrote home, " It is not for pleasure I re- main here, but I am told it is quite right that I should attend some of the intended fetes, particularly the Prince's. His Royal Highness was very gracious, and inquired after Sir John. I believe I shall receive my sword on Saturda}^" The sword here alluded to was voted to him by the city of London. On the day of presentation, Mr. Rowland Hill arrived at Guildhall a little before the time appointed, and was cordially welcomed by the worthy Chamberlain. In the course of conversation, reference was made to the motto on the arms of Lord Nelson. The Chamberlain observed. CiiAr. XI. SHAKING HANDS. 201 " There are not many people wlio know that this motto is a specimen of the good taste and accuracy of the King. * It was originally shown to him in these terms, ' palmam quam meruit ferat.' His Majesty said No ; let it be ' palmam qui meruit ferat.' " At length those who had the privilege of admission arrived in quick succession, and presently the cheering of the crowd in the street announced the approach of some person of distinction. It was Lord Beresford, who was most enthusiastically greeted. Shortly after the same sounds of welcome were heard, and Lord Hill came in, shaking hands with every one within his reach. The Lord Mayor and the civic authorities then proceeded, with their gallant guests, to the place appointed for the ceremony. Two swords were placed before the Chamberlain, with a gold box containing the freedom of the Corporation, long previously voted to Lord Beresford. The Chamberlain addressed Lord Hill in a most appropriate manner, neatly alluding to the fact that his ancestor, of the same name, was the first Pro- testant Lord Mayor of the city of London. He then presented the sword, and Lord HiU was completely overcome in endeavouring to return thanks. Lord Beresford next received his sword and the box before mentioned. No sooner were these ceremonies over, than all present crowded round both the heroes, and a hearty shaking of hands took place, such as has not been witnessed since those days of joy at our deliver- ance from a long and awful war. It was carried to such an extent, that old Blucher one day, lifting up * George III. u 2 292 LORD HILL AT SHREWSBURY. Chap. XI. his aching arm, exclaimed, " Me shake at hands none moreT Wherever Lord Hill appeared in the metropolis he met with a similar reception, till at length he quitted the fetes of London for the romantic scenes and beauteous woodlands of Hawkstone. His arrival was the signal for a general burst of rapturous wel- come ; and all the principal towns through which he passed showed him some token of respect. At Bir- mingham he was presented with a sword in these terms : " Take it^ my Lord, a7id it will not fail you^ " Trust it to ?7ze," was his reply, " and I will not disgrace it.''^ His Lordship's visit to Shrewsbury was a triumph. The streets were filled with thousands who came pouring in from every quarter. The trees on the road by which he entered were adorned with flowers, and the very road itself actually strewed with them. Thirteen hundred children of the charity and Sunday schools, were so placed as to be amongst the first whose shouts should hail him as their benefiictor and friend. The veomanry came out to be reviewed by him on his way, and formed part of the procession which accompanied him into the town. Lord Kenyon rode next Lord Hill, who was attended by his gallant brothers and aids-de-camp. Out of respect to the memory of the late Colonel Hill, the trappings of Lord Hill's horse were of black, a marked contrast to the uniforms of fourteen troops of cavalry that followed in his train. The decorated fronts of the houses were occupied by ladies, whose handkerchiefs waved over the heads of the cheering multitude beneath them. A splendid dinner was given at the Guildhall, where the Chap. XL THE QUARRY. 293 venerable lather of Lord Hill was an object of uni- versal interest. He appeared fresh, vigorous, and animated as the youngest of the guests at that festive board, until he rose amidst the plaudits of the com- pany to return thanks for the honours of the day. Then the tears rolled down his aged cheeks ; but at length his manly spirit conquered all emotions, and he expressed in a few brief words his sense of the reception of his name by the Salopians. Amongst those assembled on the proud occasion was India's future bishop, the devoted Heber, A\ho spoke with all the elegance and fervour of his chaste and poetic mind. Nor was the Avorthy Major Egerton forgotten : loud and long Avere the cheers that folloAved the men- tion of his name, and well did he deserve them. There seemed to be no end to the festivities, and the eagerness of the people Avas every moment on the increase. The freedom of the Corporation was voted to Lord Hill and his gallant brothers ; and, in order to gratify the populace, it was determined that the pre- sentation should take place in the beautiful garden of Mr. Rocke, facing the Quarry — a romantic prome- nade belonging to the toA\m, where a prodigious con- course had gathered. When the ceremony was over, his Lordship addressed the crowd from the back of a sunk fence betAveen the garden and the Quarry. But this AA^as not enough. The shaking-hand mania of the capital had reached the provinces. Hundreds of hands were extended over the bank, so he sfood- naturedly knelt upon the top of the fence, and shook heartily as many as he could reach. In the afternoon there Avas a profusion of tea and cake provided for the u 3 294 THE COLUMN. CHESTER. CnAp. XI. women and children. Lord Hill, who dined at Mr. Rocke's, every now and then appeared on the terrace ; but the people were determined to have him out. An escort of gentlemen was formed to attend him; but, seeing the immense throng, he at first declined going into the Quarry. He, however, yielded and went ; but was obliged to retreat, such was the over- whelming rush to get near him. A diversion was tried. " That's Lord Hill," said one of the escort, pointing to another gentleman. Away went some of the multitude who had not seen him ; and the subject of the ruse was obliged to make his escape as fast as he could. Lord Hill acknowledged that he now cer- tainly did run away for the first time — not from his enemies, but from his friends. " I never did," he said, laughing, " fly from the fury of my enemies ; but I have been now obliged to do so from the kindness of my friends." The Salopians did not suffer these and other tran- sient honours to be all they offered. A splendid column was erected near Shrewsbury, which is one of the noblest Doric pillars in Europe. A vignette in the title-page of this volume correctly represents it. It is called Lord Hill's Column, and has been conveyed to his family. While Shropshire gave this distinguished reception to Lord Hill, Cheshire also determined to do honour to Lord Combermere, and the former was earnestly requested to participate in the festivities. Nor did Chester forget that Lord Hill had been a schoolboy within her ancient walls. The two Ofallant heroes entered the city in a triumphal procession, and were Chap. XI. LETTER OF LORD BATIIURST. 295 welcomed with enthusiasm. As they passed along the crowded streets, Lord Hill was perceived to wave his hand with great emotion towards a window filled with ladies, and pointing to one whom his quick eye had caught, he exclaimed, " I shall be -svith you at breakfast to-morrow." All wondered who this could be. It was the lady of his former tutor, Mrs. Win- field. When all these festivities had terminated, the only drawback to the happiness of his family Avas the fear that he might be called upon to go out to America. In August, a letter from Lord Bathurst put an end to their anxiety : — " Downing Street, August 10. 1814. " My dear Lord, " Since I had the pleasure of seeing your Lordship, the in- formation I have received has given me reason to believe that fifreat difficulties would arise from the extended scale of the expedition, which I fouud would not be less than one hundred sail. If we succeed, it must be undertaken more in the shape of surprise, the place presenting no great obstacles, the country and shores many in proportion to the extent of force brought against it. Sir Alexander Cochi'ane's letter received yesterday confirms me in this opinion; as he proposes an attack at a different point, but in fact with the same object, with a force very inferior to any in contemplation when I proposed the expedition to you. " I find also that the collecting such a force as would be fit for your Lordship to command, is attended witli nmch more difficulty than I had imagined, having a regard to the great demand for troops to be stationed in Ireland. " Under all these circumstances I am inclined to give up the thoughts of availing myself of your Lordship's zeal to serve in an exiiedition, which, I am afraid, would have exposed your health more, than, from the little opposition to be ex- u 4 296 THE SFKING OF 1815. Chap. XI. pected, it would have added to your glory; and I shall, pro- bably, do nothing more than detach a very small foi'ce, to be placed under the command of Major-General Ross, now in America. I take the first moment to communicate to you this change ; at the same time, I hope you will allow me to consider your services as available, should any occasion happen which would be judged worthy of your Lordshijs's assistance. I have the honour to be, my dear Lord, " With great respect, " Your faithful servant, " Batpiurst." In September, Lord Hill was offered the command in Scotland. The proposal was made by an autograph letter from his Royal Highness the Commander-in- Chief:— " Brighthelmstone, September 12. 1814. " My dear Lord, " The command iu Scotland having become vacant, in con- sequence of its having been determined that Lord Cathcart should remain as ambassador at Petersburgh, both from duty and inclination, I wish to offer the situation to your Lord- ship, and shall feel much obliged to you if you will com- municate to me your Avishes on the subject at your early convenience. Believe me to be, " My dear Lord, " Yours most sincerely, " FllEDERICK. "The Rt. Hon. Lieut.- General Lord Hill, K.B." Lord Hill declined this appointment, and remained in the midst of his family during the autunm and winter. Early in the spring of 1815, he said one day to his sister*, " Come, now let us go to London, and * Miss Emma Hill. Chap. XI. CONVERSATION WITH LORD HILL. '207 enjoy ourselves," little thinking of the return of Bonaparte from Elba, and all its consequences. In tlie autumn of 1842, I happened to be talking with his Lordship alone one evening, when some reference was made to that estimable diplomatist Monsieur Dedel, the Dutch ambassador, on whom he passed a high eulogium. This led to his mentioning the Prince of Orange; and he then said, " I will tell you something that few persons know. When Bonaparte came back from Elba, I was in London. One day 1 was sent for suddenly to the Cabinet. They told me there was a fear of an action being risked on the frontier of the Netherlands, that might prove disastrous. ' We think,' they said, ' your influence would operate to prevent it — will you go ? ' I answered, ' Yes.' ' When ? To-night ? ' ' No ; not to-night ; to-mor- row morning.' I went home, got ready, and set off; and was able to keep all right till the arrival of the Duke of Wellington. This, I believe, is not generally known." When this conversation Avas told to his sister, she said she remembered that the evening be- fore his sudden departure, he was to have gone to the opera. At dinner, he quietly remarked, " I cannot go with you this evening ; I am. off to-morrow morn- ing ; " but the cause of his rapid movement was not mentioned. He went, leaving his attached aid-de- camp. Major Egerton, to arrange his affairs, and follow him as soon as possible. Amongst his papers I have found the correspon- dence on this important mission. It was towards the end of March that he left England. The first note was the summons : — 298 MISSION TO THE PRINCE OF ORANGE. Chap. XI. *' My dear Lord, " Tuesday morning, 8 o'clock. " Two gentlemen arrived last night from Ostend. Their account is very bad. The King of France has lost Lille, &c., and is in Ostend. Bonaparte is on the frontier, but no large body of his troops yet arrived. Government is anxious you should go out immediately, as it is of the greatest importance that you should prevent any rash action, and also that you should persuade Louis to retreat upon Holland, rather than come to England. Pray call in DoAvning Street at three o'clock. " Yours very truly, " H. E. BUNBURY." As we have seen, Lord Hill lost no time in going out. He was charged to recommend to the Prince of Orange the " utmost caution on the part of the forces under his command ; " and to assure him that it was deemed of the greatest importance that his Royal Highness's " army should be preserved in an efficient state, until a greater mass of force could be brought forward." It was also to be urged, that it was not desirable " to maintain too advanced a position ; and that it was more creditable, as well as more secure, to withdraw before the enemy had assembled such a force as would compel a retreat, rather than to risk the being obliged by their activity and numbers, to retire in such a manner as might produce an unfavour- able effect upon the public mind." Also, it was to be conveyed to him, as the pleasure of the Prince Regent, " that the army under his command should avoid any serious engagement, and should withdraw into more retired positions, Avhich should be closer, with a view both to covering Antwerp and the Dutch frontier, and also to preserving a ready communication Avith the Prussian forces." Chap. XI. LETTER OF LORD BATIIURST. 299 These were the principal points in the instructions Lord Hill was charged with to his Royal Highness the Prince of Orange, for whom he entertained the highest personal respect and esteem. Lord Batlmrst further explained the tenor of his mission : — " My dear Lord, " Downing Street, March 29. 1815. " In delivering to you a duplicate of my instructions of yesterday's date, I think it will be satisfactory to you that I should put down in writing the substance of the explanations with which I have accompanied it. " Your Lordship is aware that the instruction not to main- tain so advanced a position is peremptory ; but you know also that it was given under the impression that Bonaparte was collecting a force on the frontier. In the event of no such force being in progress, the obedience to the instructions be- comes less urgent, if any j^ositive advantage be derived from maintaining that position longer ; but even on this supposi- tion that no force is collecting, the measures for commencing a retrograde movement must be taken, so as to be able to ex- ecute it at any time. If a force be collecting, but no great progress made in it, the obedience to the instruction may be more gradual, but the commencement should not so depend ; first, because the enemy has means of collecting a sufficient force to advance ; and, secondly, because the change of posi- tion will be made with more advantage every way, when it appears to be, and in truth is, voluntary. The object of the instruction being not to risk an action, but not to risk, if it can be helped, the change of position with an enemy in force near you. I am, " My dear Lord, " Yours very sincerely, " Bathurst." The next day Lord Hill was on board his Majesty's ship Rosario, and arrived at Brussels on the evening of the 1st of April. He lost no time in seeing the 300 LETTER FROM BRUSSELS. Chap. XI. Prince of Orange ; and communicated to Lord Bathurst the result of his intervicAv with that gallant personage in the following terms : — " I beg to acquaint your Lordship that I arrived here yes- terday evening, and imniedlately waited on the Prince of Orange, and had a long conversation with his Royal High- ness, on the subject of the instructions which I received from your Lordship. " It appears that the army under the Prince is stationed as follows : Head-quarters at Brussels, the Dutch troops coming up towards Genappe, and the British and Hanove- rians at Tournay, Ath, &c. It also appears that the troops at and about the two last-mentioned places have orders to retire in case of being attacked. Conceiving, however, that the British and Hanoverians are too far advanced, I did not fail to refer his lioyal Highness to the late instructions, and to explain to him the conversation I had with your Lordship on the subject ; in consequence of which, the Prince has or- dered the main body of the troops on the advanced line of Tournay to fall back to-morrow to Enghien, keeping their advance at Leuze and Lens, and occupying Tournay and Mons with garrisons, if they are considered tenable. " This arrangement seems good for to-morrow ; but if the intelligence from the frontier is in any w^ay threatening, I ho]5e the Prince will lose no time in bringing the trooi)s fur- ther back. " The Prince informs me that he does not think the enemy are collecting in force on the frontier, and he does not seem to expect any attack. Your Lordship is aware that the King of the Netherlands is here ; and, from what I can learn, it is the anxious wish of his Majesty to preserve this place — a circumstance, no doubt, very desirable ; at the same time, it ought not to be considered if it is to be eifected by force. Indeed, I am not aware that the Prince has now any inten- tion of making a stand to cover Brussels ; and I shall do what I can to prevent our coming in contact with the enemy in any Avay until we are in a better state to do so. CiiAP. XI. LORD HILL AT GRAMMONT. 301 " By accounts from Vienna, I am told we have reason to expect and hope that the Duke of WelUngton will be here in the course of a day or two. " The Prince of Orange begs me to mention, in case I should write to your Lordship, though he will no doubt write himself, that he never had any intention of fighting a battle on the frontiers near Tournay." " 3d April. " Since writing the accompanying letter, the Quarter- Master-General has infonned me that the movement on En- ghien, alluded to in my letter of yesterday, did not take place this day, but is ordered for to-morrow." Thus Lord Hill's sudden mission terminated most satisfactorily to all parties, and was particularly ac- ceptable to the Prince of Orange, who always showed marked attention to his views, as well as friendship for his person. To the great joy of all parties, the Duke of Wellington arrived at Brussels on the 4th of April in the night, and the influence of his command was quickly diffused over the whole scene of action. Lord Hill was placed at Grammont, where, by a curious combination of circumstances, he found him- self opposite liis old opponent, Girard, whom he sur- prised at Arroyo de Molinos, and close to the chateau of the Prince d'Aremberg, whom he took prisoner on that occasion, and who had been on his parole at Shrewsbury. Lord Hill's pay, at this time, was not sufficient to cover his expenses. " He is," said the Duke of Wellington to Lord Bathurst, " again at the head of what is really an army, composed of troops of different nations, with a large staff attached to him, and great expenses to be incurred, and he is paid only 302 LETTERS OF LOED HILL. Chap. XI. as a lieutenant-general, of whom he has several under his command." His Grace proposed the aug- mentation of his means ; and it was ordered that he should receive the pay and allowances of a general on the staff. But for this, he would have been im- poverished by his services. On the 15th of May he wrote to his sister. Miss Emma Hill, whom he had taken with him to enjoy the pleasures of London : — " My dear Emma, " Grammont, May 15. 1815. " I have received your last letter. The collection of French troo^DS on the frontier mentioned in my last, appears to have been in consequence of an aj^prehension on the jjart of the French that we were about to attack them. Matters are now nearly in the same state as they have been for some time ; the allies are coming up, and in the course of another fortniorht, I imao-ine will be in a state to move forward. The only unpleasant circumstance which has occurred, has been amongst the Saxon troops attached to Blucher's army : nearly the whole of them, about 30,000, declared the other day in favour of Bonaparte, and it was with some difficulty that old Bhiclier made his escape from them. They have been disco- vered, and the ringleaders have been shot. ****** " Love to all, from your ever affectionate brother, " Hill." The troops of Prince Frederick of the Netherlands were sent over to Lord Hill, and his anxiety for the comfort of the men appears in a letter he addressed to his Royal Highness : — « Sir, "Grammont, May 17- 1815. " Your Royal Highness having been pleased to say that you would allow me to see your corps, I shall be happy to have that honour whenever it may be convenient to your Royal Highness for me to do so. Chap. XI. " FATHER HILL AGAIN." 303 " Considering that your corps is rather dispersed, it is by- no means my wish to give the troops a long march, for the purpose of collecting at any particular point. I can ride to their several cantonments, and see them in brigades or divi- sions, or in any manner you may be pleased to fix. I have only to request that your Koyal Highness will have the good- ness to let me know the arrangements you make on the occa- sion, in order that I may be punctual to the time, and not keep the troops waiting. " I have the honour to be, " Your Koyal Highness's very obedient and faithfid servant, "Hill. " H. B,. Highness Prince Frederick of the Netherlands, &c. &c. &c." His great consideration for the soldiers made Lord Hill exceedingly beloved by them. I remember a private of his corps telling me that, on a very hot day, at a review, he was overheard saying to an officer, " Let us shorten these manoeuvres ; it is very hot : you must not fatigue your men." A whisper ran through the ranks, " Bless him ! there he is : Father Hill again ! " On the 22d of May Lord Hill thus expressed him- self, in writing to his brother Sir Francis Hill, then in Eno;land : — "I returned late last nio-ht from an inspection of our frontier. Every thing here is much in the same state as it has been for some time. Bo- naparte is busy in France, and the allies are coming forward, but I imagine it will take a few weeks yet before the latter can be well up. By all accounts, Paris is in a very unsettled state. Many deserters come to this country, but in general they are soldiers of the last conscriptions. General Latour came into 304 THE ARMY COLLECTED. Chap. XI. Mons yesterday while I was there. He has served a long tune with Bonaparte, and is considered a dis- tinguished officer: he is a native of this country. He left Paris two days ago, and confirms the accounts of the capital being in a very disturbed state. If you have nothing better to do, I think you could spend a short time in this country very pleasantly : you could consider my house as your head-quarters." Sir Francis Hill and the Honourable Charles Shore, now Lord Teignmouth, paid Lord Hill a visit at Grammont, where they found an agreeable sojourn until the approach of the French, and the certainty of a battle, caused Lord Hill to recommend their de- parture to Antwerp. Lord Hill was in the constant receipt of information respecting the movements of the enemy, which he communicated to the Duke of Wellington at Brussels. On the 13th of June he was informed that, at one o'clock in the morning, the French outposts and j^ickets all fell back towards Maubeuge, and that it was ge- nerally believed that an attack was intended on the 15th. Marshals Soult and Drouet, it was added, were in command of nearly 120,000 picked troops; but Bonaparte had not yet come down from Paris, and the National Guards were in full march to the frontier. On the afternoon of the 15th information was sent to Lord Hill from the Duke of Wellington that, in consequence of an attack made upon the Prussian posts on the river Sambre in the morning, his Grace had ordered the army to be collected that night. The movements of the army were notified, and Lord Hill sent his instructions to Prince Frederick : — Chap. XL THE NIGHT BEFORE WATERLOO. 305 " Sir, "June 16. 181 T), 3 A. m. " I have this moment received orders from the Duke ol' Wellington to move the troops under my command, and his Grace requests that your Royal Highness will occupy Oude- narde with 500 men, and collect the first division of the army of the Low Countries and the Hanoverian brigade at Sot- teghen. These movements to take place without delay. " I have, &c. " Hill. " His Royal Highness Prince Frederick of Orange." All the orders of the Duke addressed to Lord Hill were executed with his accustomed judgment. His whole mind was filled with the momentous interest of the coming struggle for the destinies of Europe. The history of the fight at Quatre Bras, and the retreat to Waterloo, belongs not to this memoir. Kor need any allusion be made to the ball at Brussels, from whicli the chieftains were summoned to the field, further than to say that Lord Hill was not there. He was at his post, attending to the movements of the enemy and his own duties. The night previous to the battle of Waterloo was spent by Lord Hill and his staff, in a small house by the side of the road leading from Brussels to the field. At the commencement of the day, his corps was on the slope of Merke Braine to the right of the Nivelle road, covering the right Aving of the general line. Later in the day it advanced, and added greatly to the decisive issue. As the whole army moved to the left, the divisions of Lord Hill's force came up, and were engaged in the thickest of the battle. His Lordship's own station wns on a spot where a little rise enabled him to see the enemy's X 306 LORD hill's part in the battle. Chap. XI. movements. It was a post of great danger from its exposure to the shot, which flew about him in every direction ; but he remained there, coolly marking all that he deemed of importance, and only leaving it oc- casionally to animate by his presence any faltering portion of the line. He manifested the same energy as at Arroyo de Molinos. His usual gentle and reserved demeanour was exchanged for a decisive and spirited air of command, regulated by most con- summate prudence. He had foreseen the dreadful attack made by the Imperial Guards ; and, having placed himself at the head of a brigade, contributed greatly to the last decisive repulse of the choicest troops of Napoleon. Lord Hill was following this advantage with his customary ardour, when the Duke ordered the advance of the whole army. Cordial as were his Grace's acknowledgments of the services rendered by his Lordship at Waterloo, the full extent of them never seems to have been known to the public. * * To show how Lord Hill's corps was engaged, I give a memo- randum placed recently in my hands by his Lordship's aid-de-camp : — " Lord Hill's Corps engaged at Waterloo. Sir F. Adam's Brigade. 1st Brigade, K. G. L. K. w. M. K. w. M. 52d _ 16 — 174 — 1st — 22 69 - - 17 71st 24 160 3 2d 18 79 - - 7 95th _ 20 — 124 — 3d 17 93 - - 31 Colonel Mitchell. 23d _ 11 _ 78 — 51st — 9 — 20 — 14th 7 21 4th — 13 Hanoverians 70 British 87 Total,ex- ' elusive of • 157 77 - 318 577 8Q5 - 14 69 3 72" British 87 577 3 officers . *-'»y " Chap. XI. THE EVENING OF THE DAY. 307 Sir Digby Mackwortb, who was on the staff of Lord Hill, has kindly communicated what lie witnessed of his General's efforts at the grand crisis of the day. " He placed himself," Sir Digby states, " at the head of his Light Brigade, 52d, 71st, and 95th, and charged the flank of the Imperial Guard, as they were ad- vancing against our Guards. The Light Brigade was lying under the brow of the hill, and gave and re- ceived volleys within half pistol shot distance. Here Lord Hill's horse was shot under him, and, as he ascertained the next morning, was shot in five places. The General was rolled over and severely bruised, but in the melee this was unknown to us for about half an hour. AVe knew not what was become of him : we feared he had been killed ; and none can tell you the heartfelt joy which Ave felt when he rejoined us, not seriously hurt." When the tremendous day was over. Lord Hill and his staff again re-occupied the little cot- tage they left in the morning. His two gallant brothers. Sir Robert Hill and Colonel Clement Hill, had been removed wounded to Brussels ; the party was, nevertheless, nine in number. A soup made by Lord Hill's servant from two fowls was all their refresh- ment, after hours of desperate fighting without a morsel of food. Lord Hill himself was bruised and full of pain. All night long, the groans and shrieks of sufferers were the chief sounds that met their ears. It was to them all a night of the greatest misery. The men whom the nations of Europe were about to welcome with acclamations, and to entertain in palaces, could only exchange sigh for sigh with each other in a wretched cottage. Such is X 2 308 SIR DIGBY ]VLA.CKWORTIi'S ACCOUNT. Chap. XI. war even to the winners. May a gracious God soon make it to cease in all the earth ! Sir Digby Mackworth, fatigued as he was, had the resolution to record the proceedings of the past day. His memorandum, kindly sent for the service of this volume, bears date " June 18th, 11 p.m., Water- loo." After describing certain well-known circum- stances, he proceeded: — "The cavalry and infantry repeatedly charged in masses, under cover of a tre- mendous fire from 240 pieces of artillery. Four times were our guns in possession of their cavalry, and as often did the bayonets of our infantry rescue them. For upwards of an hour our little squares were sur- rounded by the elite of the French cavaliers : they gallantly stood within forty paces of us, unable to leap over the bristling line of bayonets, unwilling to retire, and determiued never to surrender. Hundreds of them were dropping in all directions from our murderous fire, yet as fast as they dropped, others came up to supply their places. Finding at last that it was in vain to attempt to break our determined ranks, they swept round our rear, and rushing into the Nivelles road attempted to cut their way back to their o^vn lines ; but the whole road was lined with our infantry on both sides, and at the advanced part of it was an almost impassable barricado of felled trees. Here fell the remainder of these gallant Cuirassiers, of whom not one was taken without a wound. The cannonade continued without inter- mission ; and about six o'clock we saw heavy columns of infantry supported by dragoons returning for a fresh attack. It was evident it would be a desperate, Chap. XI. SIR DIGBY MACKWORTIl's ACCOUNT. 309 and we thought probably a decisive, one. Every one felt how much depended on this terrible moment. A black mass of the Grenadiers of the Imperial Guard, with music playing, and the great Napoleon at their head, came rolling onward from the farm of La Belle Alliance. AVith rapid pace they descended. Those spaces in our lines which death had opened and left vacant, were covered with bodies of cavalry. The point at which the enemy aimed was now evident ; it was an angle formed by a brigade of Guards, and the light brigade of Lord Hill's corps. Lord Hill was there in person. The French moved on with arms sloped, au pas de charge. They began to ascend the hill. In a few seconds they were within a hundred paces of us, and as yet not a shot had been fired. The awful moment was now at hand. A peal of ten thousand thunders burst at once on their devoted heads. The storm swept them down as a whirlwind which rushes over the ripe corn ; they paused ; their advance ceased ; they commenced firing from the heads of their columns, and attempted to extend their front ; but death had already caused too much con- fusion among them ; they crowded instinctively be- hind each other to avoid a fire which was intolerably dreadful. Still they stood firm — la garde rnew% et ne se rend pas. For half an hour this horrible butchery continued. At last, seeing all their efibrts vain, all their courage useless, deserted by their Emperor who was already flo^vn, unsupported by their comrades who were already beaten, tlie hitherto Invincible Old Guard gave way, and fled in every direction. One spontaneous and almost painfully X 3 310 TIME THE ACTION COMMENCED. Chap. XI. animated ' Hurrah I ' burst from the victorious ranks of England. The line at once advanced, generals, officers, soldiers, all partaking in one common enthu- siasm. The battle was over. Guns, prisoners, am- munition, waggons, baggage, horses, successively fell into our hands. Night and fatigue compelled us to halt. We halted on each side of the GenajDpe road, and in a short time numerous columns of Prussians came pouring along in pursuit of the enemy. Each battalion cheered us in passing. The officers saluted, and many embraced us. Never was witnessed a more enthusiastic moment. We felt amply rewarded for the exertions of the day. The Prussians continued the pursuit without interruption. Lord Hill and staff retired to a small cottage where we now are. We have but one room between nine of us, including his Lordship. All but myself are asleep." In reading the various accounts of this battle, it is curious to observe the discrepancies as to the time it commenced. Lord Hill has however settled this point. On arriving in London the autumn after the conflict, he passed his first evening at the house of his friend Lord Teignmouth. " Can you tell me," said Lord Teignmouth, " at what time the action com- menced?" Lord Hill replied, "I took two watches into action with me. On consulting my stop watch after the battle was over, I found that the first gun was fired at ten minutes before twelve." The day after the battle. Sir Noel Hill wrote thus : — "My dear Maria, ''Brussels, June 19, 1815. " We are all well. Kobert and Clement are wounded ; but, thank God, not dangerously. Robert's wound is severe. Chap. XI. THE BROTHERS HILL AFTER THE BATTLE. 311 and will confine him some time. I have seen the surfcon who attends him, who assures me there is not the sUyhtrst chance of any bad consequences. The hall — musket — has passed through the fleshy part of the right arm, and slightly grazed the breast. " Clement was pinned to his saddle by a fellow's sword through the fleshy part of the thigh, and his wound may con- fine him some time, and it must be painful, but there is no sort of danger attending it. Now for the pleasant part of my story. " We gained a complete victory yesterday, Bojiy in person commanding the French. He has retreated, leaving most of his artillery, and immense numbers of prisoners, in our hands. Our army has advanced this morning. ****** " Yours ever most affectionately, " T. N. H." To this letter Colonel Clement Hill would add a postscript. " To convince you all there is not much amiss with me, I add a line to Tom's account of me. My wound may confine me for a short time, but I have scarcely any pain, and we are all in high spirits at the complete drubbing Bony has had, towards which I hope the Blues did their share." As this brave officer, who made thus Hght of a severe wound, was being conveyed to Brussels, he came up to one not quite so gallant as himself, who he had reason to think was frightened out of the field. He was trudging along at quick march. " Eh, my good fellow," cried the Colonel, " I thought you were wounded: were you not?" "No, no!" said he, " but / Aa^ some very narrow escapes!'' Lord Hill himself soon recovered his bruises, and begged Sir Noel to go to the field and look for the horse that X 4 312 LETTER OF SIR NOEL HILL. Chap. XI. was shot under him, and if dead to have the poor animal buried ; if not, to put him out of his misery. He was found quite dead, and on examination it was discovered that he had been shot in several places. His Lordship now passed on with the army into France. Sir Noel Hill's letter shows they were in high spirits : — " My dear Maria, " Cateau, June 23. 1815. " Robert and Clement are going on as well as possible ; but I dare say you will get later accounts from them than this. Kowland and myself are quite well, and have only to regret that our brothers cannot witness the finishing stroke of Master Bony. He cannot surely withstand the storm that is brewing all around him, after what he suffered on the 18th. He brought against us one half of his army, and by far the best troops he had ; so that we — even this army ■ — need not be nuich alanned at the other half, without the assistance of the Russians, Austi'ians, &c., who, it is understood, are well advanced ; and perhaps our having halted to-day is to allow their armies to come up. " Bonaparte's orders to the peasantry and people in general, to defend the country, have not so far been attended to ; but, on the contrary, we have been well received, particularly in this jDlace. Rowland and his staff came into the town without a single soldier. The white flag was immediately hoisted, and a band of music with most of the inhabitants came out to welcome our arrival, singing and playing Vive Henri Quatre. Bavay, the first town we entered in France, had still the eagle standing in the market-place, and the people did not seem very happy to see us, so that one cannot judge exactly of the sentiments of all; but I should think our late successes Avould determine most of those who were wavering, in favour of the good cause. " Rowland is gone Avith the Duke of Wellington to pay a visit to old Blucher, who is within a few miles of us. The Chap. XI. LETTER OF LORD HILL. 3 1 3 poor old fellow was terribly maltreated in one of his affairs with the enemy. His horse was shot, and they rode over him ; but he takes a deal of killing. His head being tolerably thick, he received but little harm. ****** " Kind love to all. " Yours ever most affectionately." Lord Hill's letter describes his visit to Blucher : — " My dear Sister, " Cateau, June 24. 1815. " Before this time you will have heard, in various ways, of the glorious result of our battle of Waterloo, on which occa- sion I am really inclined to think that the fate of Enropc was decided. Bonaparte is still retreating, and we are follow- ing him. It is possible he may endeavour to collect at Laon, where there is a position ; but in my mind he cannot again make any serious stand against us. The Prussians are close to us ; but the Russians and Austrians are at a consldcraljle distance, as it was not intended to commence operations till the 24th — this day. As soon, however, as they hear of what has taken place on this side, I have no doubt they will press forward. " Yesterday I rode with the Duke of "Wellington to see Blucher. We found the old Mai'shal amusing himself with Bonaparte's hat, stars, and personal baggage, which with his carriage was taken by some Prussian cavalry. I verily be- lieve there never was so ti'emendous a battle fought as that at Waterloo ; and it is astonishing how any one could esca])e. I have seen several who have seen Kobert and Clement, and I feel perfectly easy on their account. The particulars of their wounds will have been described to you. The King of France is coming to this town to-day: the people seem re- joiced at the event. Let us be thankful for all mercies ; and never forget that Providence which has i)rotected us, and brought to pass the happy prospect of affairs. Alas, poor 314 PARIS. — CONFERENCE. Chap. XI. Currie ! * Brldgeman is doing quite well. Kind remem- brance to Sir John, and all dear friends. ** Yours ever most affectionately, « H." The Duke of Wellington's despatch from Waterloo contained the following paragraph relative to the services of Lord Hill: " I am also particularly in- debted to General Lord Hill, for his assistance and conduct upon this as upon all other occasions." He received, in a most complimentary manner, from the Prince Regent, the Guelphic Order for his distin- guished exertions in leading the Hanoverian troops in the battle of the 18th. It was moreover soon afterwards announced to him by the Duke of York, that he was to wear a gold clasp in commemoration of the battle of Orthez. The beginning of July, when the posts at Paris evacuated by agreement were given up. Lord Hill marched to take possession of them. They were surrenderer] on three successive days ; and the even- insT of the first he held a conference at the Barrier of St. Denis, accompanied by his staff. The French General awaited his arrival, attended only by a single aid-de-camp. In the distance a French column was perceived retiring as the British troops approached ; but a French soldier stood on duty near the barrier. Just as Lord Hill and his staff approached close to him, this fellow actually levelled and discharged his * Lord Hill thus mentions Colo- on my staff upwards of nine years, nel Currie in a letter to the Duke during which latter period he has of Wellington : — " Lieutenant- rendered most essential services to Colonel Currie had been in the army, me and to his country." I believe, about twenty years, and Chap. XI. FIRED AT. GAIETIES. ?> 1 5 musket at the English party, but providentially tlie shot proved harmless. A French aid-dc-canii) '"'- stantly galloped up and apologised, making the ex- cuse that the soldier was intoxicated ; but a similar outrage had well nigh proved fatal to the officer sent into Paris by the Duke of AYcllington with a flag of truce, for he was shot through the body. Lord Hill, however, took no further notice of the circum- stance. At Paris Lord Hill occupied the Hotel de ^lontes- quieu, where he entertained some of his Shropshire friends whom the stirring events of the period at- tracted to Paris. He also participated in the brilliant fetes and re-unions, and himself gave a very splendid entertainment. Then came the grand reviews. When- ever he could, he escaped from Paris into the open country, near the Bois de Boulogne, enjopng the qui- etude of its groves more than all the magnificence of the saloons of Paris. From this place he wrote to his sister, " I have every reason to think that I shall not be prevented having the pleasure of seeing you in Shropshire about the 17th or 18th of next month. T have spoken to the Duke of Wellington on the sub- ject, and find there is no objection whatever to my returning to England for a short time. I should have wished to have been at home for a few days before the 19th, but I fear I cannot well leave Paris before the 12th, chiefly on account of a grand review of the Russian army, which is to take place on the 10th or 11th. That is also the period about which the British army may expect to be moved from the neighbourhood of Paris, for the purpose of being 316 STATE OF AFFAIRS. Chap. XI. cantoned in the towns and villages towards Amiens, &c. He then expressed his opinion on graver matters, thus: — " With respect to the state of public affairs, it is difficult for me to say what it is. I fear, how- ever, that the Bourbons are not very popular, and that the Jacobins and other parties are kept in order entirely by the great armies which are in this country. One thing I am quite clear should be done, which is, that the allies ought not to leave without so com- pletely clipping the wings of France as to render its government, be it what it may, totally incapable of disturbing the peace of Europe again : the only way of doing which is to disband all the present forces, and to occupy with foreign troops, for some time to come, all the strong towns on the frontiers of France. I am also of opinion that all Napoleon's trophies ought to be removed, and all the plunder taken by him restored to its proper owners. I have been living in the country some days, but return to Paris to-day. I expect to meet Lord Castlereagh at dinner at Prince Frederick's." We have now traced the career of Lord Hill through the most stirring periods of his active mili- tary life, passed without failing in any undertaking, or having made one personal enemy. Conscious of his own powers, he veiled them with an unequalled modesty, so that jealousy was disarmed. Whatever opportunities were placed in his way, he never used them to enrich himself, and his nature was too noble to make the character of another a stepping-stone to his own fame. With powers of mind adequate to the most original military conceptions, he was, as to CiiAP. XI. KEMARKS. 317 orders from his principal, most punctiliously obedient ; and if ever he did take a step not prescribed, it -svas always in accordance with instructions, and led to some brilliant achievement without the precedent of infringing any rule. o 18 CHAPTER XII. ENTAIL OF LORD HILL's PEERAGE. HE GOES TO CA3IBRAY. TRYING EVENT. NOBLE LETTER OF THE DUKE OF WELLINGTON, SPORTSMEN AT CAJIBRAY. BOAR-HUNT CHATEAU ULANIERS. — SEVERE ILLNESS. KINDNESS OF THE DUKE OF WELLESfGTON. MONT ST. MARTIN. TOUR EST THE NETHERLANDS. LORD HILL VISITS WATERLOO. GAIETIES AT CAMBRAY. — LORD HILL IN HIS FAJHLY CIRCLE AFTER LEAVING CAMBRAY. HIS COUN- TRY LIFE. SOUTHEy's PENTNSULAR WAE. LORD HILL's NE- PHEW ELECTED M. P. FOR SHROPSHIRE. DEATH OF SIR JOHN HILL. THE YOUNG SIR ROWLAND HILL MOVES THE ADDRESS IN THE HOUSE OF COMMONS LETTER OF MR. WILBERFORCE. — LORD HILL OFFERED THE COMMAND IN INDIA AND THE 1LA.STER GENERALSHIP OF THE ORDNANCE. HE DECLINES BOTH. THE DUKE OF WI:LLINGT0N prime MINISTER. PROPOSAL TO LORD HILL TO TAKE THE COIVIMAND IN CHIEF OF THE ARMY. HE ACCEPTS IT. GENERAL ORDERS. HORSE GUARDS. — ROOM WITH ONE CHAIR. LORD HILL UNWELL. KINDNESS OF GEORGE IV. HIS MAJESTY'S LAST ACT IN FAVOUR OF LORD HILL. ^VILLIAM IV. LETTER OF SIR HERBERT TAYLOR. LORD hill's dinner TO THE KING HIS HIGH SENSE OF DUTY. — THE STEAM COACH. THE OFFICER THAT COULD NOT RIDE. NOTE TO THE LORD AND LADY JMAYORESS. OBSERVATIONS. The day before Lord Hill left London, on his mis- sion to the Prince of Orange, he expressed to Lord Bathurst his earnest wish that his peerage might be entailed, in the event of his dying without issue, on the eldest son of his late brother, Colonel Hill. This was the only thing he ever asked for himself or family of the Government. Lord Bathurst expressed him- self favourable to the request ; but the important succession of events which happened immediately afterwards prevented further attention to the subject. Chap. XII. ENTAIL OF PEERAGE. 319 In October, 1815, Lord Hill, during a short visit to London, renewed his application, and informed his father of the result. " Hanover Square^ Oct. 14. 1815, 8 a. bi. " My dear Father, ** Yesterday I had a satisfactory conversation with Lord Bathurst on the subject of my peerage and pension ; and I think it right to acquaint you, that should it please God to take me from this earthly world, it is settled that both wdl descend to the heirs male of my late dear brother. I men- tion this circumstance for your own private information, and to communicate to such few only as you may think proper. It appears to me that it had better not be made public, nor even communicated to dear Rowland, for fear of raising his expectations too high. " Noel and myself are just going off. God bless you, my dear sir. Believe me to be, " Your very dutiful and affectionate son, " Hill." Lord Bathurst lost no time in laying the matter before the Prince Regent, and was commissioned to acquaint Lord Hill that his Royal Highness graciously acquiesced in his desire. " My dear Lord, " Downing Street, Oct. 20. 1815. " I have great satisfaction in informing your Lordship, that the Prince Regent has acceded to your wishes in the most gratifying manner to you. " He has commanded me to assure you, that he has great pleasure in extending the peerage to the sons of your eldest brother, in case of your dying without issue, as a proof of the sense he entertains of your meritorious services, and of the regard due to the very resjiectable family of which you are so distinsfuished an ornament. " I have the honour to be, my dear Lord, " Yours very sincerely, " Bathukst. "The Lord Hill, &c. &c." 320 LETTER OF LORD HILL. Chap. XII. Lord Hill had gone to Paris when this letter was written, where he remained till December, when he wrote home to say he should probably soon quit that capital : — " My dear Sister, " Paris, Dec. 11. 1815. " The King and the French ministers conceiving that the country is now sufficiently quiet, to enable them to carry on the affairs of their government without the aid of foreign troops, we are, in consequence, to leave Paris before the end of this month. Our line of cantonments will be Cam- bray, Valenciennes, &c., and you will have heard that the new organisation of the army is nearly as follows : — The cavalry, with its artillery, under Lord Combermere, about - - - - 3,500 The infantry, with its proportion of artil- lery. Lord Hill, about - - - - 25,000 Reserve artillery, &c. &c. &c. - - 1,500 Making the British contingent, of - 30,00^ "Our stations, you will see, will not be more than one day's journey from Calais, consequently there will be but lit- tle inconvenience in visiting England whenever we please. I have not, however, any intention of coming home this winter, much as I should like to spend my Christmas holydays with the boys at Hawkstone. " Marshal Ney's execution has caused very little sensation in Paris ; and the Act of Amnesty, which has been passed since that event, seems to give general satisfaction. Upon the whole, the Due de Richelieu's conduct and appearance are much in his favour; and I really hope he will be able to make the poor Bourbons more esteemed than they appear to be at present. ****** " I do not know what kind of weather you have in Eng- land, but it is so cold here I can scarcely hold my pen. The mail due last Friday is not yet arrived. Clement is just come into my room. The Blues march on Thursday, and will be at Boulogne on the 26th." Chap. XII. LETTER OF THE DUIvE OF WELLINGTON. 321 Lord Hill, when he left Paris, proceeded to Cain- bray, but was obliged to go to England much sooner than he intended, by the unexpected tidings of pecu- niary losses, arising out of circumstances they could not control, which had occurred to his family. He made this known to the Duke of Wellington, and re- ceived the follo-sving noble and generous reply : — " My dear Hill, Paris, Feb. 20. 18X6. " I received only yesterday evening your letter of the 16th, and I am very much concerned for the unfortunate circum- stances which have occasioned the necessity for your return to England. I consent to it, as well as to that of Sir Noel. Let him apply through the official channel, but he need not wait for the answer. " In the existing state of public and private credit in Eng- land, I am apprehensive that you will find it difficult to pro- cure the money which you will requhe. I have a large sum of money which is entirely at my command ; and I assure you that I could not apply it in a manner more satisfactory to me than in accommodating you, my dear Hill, to whom I am under so many obligations, and your father, for whom I entertain the highest respect, although I am not acquainted with him. I trust, therefore, that if you should exjierience the difficulty which I expect you will, in finding money to settle the disagreeable concern in which your family is in- volved, y-ou will let me know it, and I will immediately put my man of business in London in communication with yours, in order to apply it to you. " Ever yours most sincerely, " AVellington." Though it did not become necessary for Lord Hill to avail himself of the assistance so munificently offered, he ever retained the most vivid sense of the Duke's extreme kindness on this trying occasion. Y 322 THE BOAR-HUNT. Chap. XII. On his Lordship's return to Cambray he was much occupied by the encampments, reviews, and other mihtary duties. In winter the officers enjoyed the sports of the field, and complaint was made that they rode over the young corn. This Lord Hill im- mediately checked as far as his command extended ; but some English gentlemen, not in the army, had joined the camp, whom it was not so easy to manage. Lord Hill, however, contrived to prevent all annoy- ance to the farmers by mild but firm interference. His OAvn favourite diversion was boar-hunting, and he had a most providential escape. Having posted himself at the edge of a wood, a boar, which the beaters had driven out, rushed furiously towards him. While every one else was alarmed for his safety, he coolly awaited its approach. As soon as it came within reach of a short spear, he gave it such a thrust on the nose that it turned on one side, when he sud- denly plunged the spear into its heart, and laid it dead at his feet. The spear broke in the body of the boar, and the Duke of Wellington sent him a present of a new one : the tusks and part of the skull are kept at Hawkstone in memory of the event. The Chateau Maniers was, at this time, the residence of Lord Hill, near Cambray, and the excellent taste of Colonel Egerton, his aid-de-camp, added not a little to the comforts of his establishment. Early in 1817, he had a severe attack of illness, and could write only a very short letter : — " Maniers, Tuesday, Jan. 20. I8I7. " I have indeed, my dear Sister, suffered a good deal. God Ahuighty has, however, enabled me to bear up against Chap. XII. ILLNESS OF LORD HILL. 323 all the attacks, and has restored me to a state of nihul and body calm and composed. My illness has been somcthinjr ol" the same I had in Portugal, a kind of bilious fever. Tlic symptoms on this occasion have, however, l:»een much severer. Egerton and his wife are living in the house : they are very attentive. Poor John's attention is very great indeed. Tliis will not leave Cambray till to-morrow, when Sir Noel will write. Kindest remembrances to all, from " Your ever affectionate lirother, " II." A week later, on announcing that he had Ijcen able to take a carriage airing, he remarked, " Nothing can have been kinder than the behaviour of the Duke of Wellington towards me. AVhen he first heard of my illness, not knowing that I had been so ill ns was the case, he asked me to come to his house in Paris, for a change. Since then I have had a second letter from him, in which he says, ' I should think that a change of air would be the best thing for you ; and if that is recommended to you, I hope you will not hesitate a moment about going wherever you may be advised. To see your friends in England would do you good, as well as gratify them after this severe illness.' " On getting better, he went to England, and tried the Cheltenham waters with success. After his recovery he resumed his duties at Cam- bray. The Duke of Wellington had a house at ]\Iont St. Martin, where he was joined by the Duchess. Their Graces showed the most kind attention to the officers and their ladies, who were constantly enter- tained by them with the greatest hospitality. In the month of September, Lord Hill, accompanied 324 VISIT TO WATERLOO. Chap. XII. by his brother Colonel Clement Hill, his nephew Mr. George Hill, and his sister Miss Emma Hill, with Colonel and Mrs. Egerton and Colonel Abercromby, made a tour through the Netherlands. On arriving at Waterloo, the party visited the cottage where Lord Hill and his staff passed the two memorable nights before and after the battle. The poor old woman who resided there no sooner saw Lord Hill and Colonel Egerton, than she was quite overcome with joy and surprise. The party made her happy by a handsome present, and then sought out a still more miserable dwelling where the wounds of Colonel Clement Hill were dressed before he was removed to Brussels. There they fell in with the far-famed guide of Bona- parte. On a rising ground near the Chateau of Hougoumont, they recognised the spot where poor Colonel Currie fell, near which his body was found and buried the morning after the battle, by Colonel Egerton and John Holding, the servant of Lord Hill. They next went on to Nivelles, and called on a worthy Belgian family who had treated Lord Hill and his staff with great hospitality. Their tour, however, was shortened by their desire to return to Cambray in time for a magnificent fete given by the Duke of Wellington ; and also to be present at two reviews, one of the army of Russia, the other of the British, Hanoverian, Danish, and Saxon troops. On the termination of his duties at Cambray, Lord Hill came to England. At Hawkstone there had gathered round his venerable father such a family circle, as has seldom assembled at the board of any parent. Lord Hill took his place at table, daily, with Chap. XII. FAMILY PARTY. — ANECDOTE. 325 six brothers and four sisters, besides the mdow of his lamented eldest brother, whose children he regarded with paternal solicitude. There never lived a more unaffected human being than Sir John Hill. AVhen he heard that his sons had survived Waterloo, he ex- claimed, "God bless the lads!" and their presence in his own house seemed to add fresh viirour to his old o age. In the ease and enjoyments of home, Lord Hill's chief anxiety seemed to be to add to the cheerfulness and comfort of all about him. His farm and his garden occupied some portion of his time, and he was fond of hunting, shooting, and fishing in a quiet way. The poor were the objects of his peculiar kindness. A soldier's wife on the estate had requested him to make some application regarding her husband, which was successful. He received the answer in his favour just as he was going out with the hounds. After riding a little way he disappeared, and nobody knew where he was gone. At length it was discovered that he had quietly withdrawn from the field, to carry in person the acceptable tidings to the j^oor Avoman, who was anxiously expecting them. The farmers used to be delighted to see him, when he rested in their houses on his shooting excursions. He would play with their children in the most winning manner, taking them on his knee, and amusing them in every way he could devise. The only thing which seemed to embarrass him was the extreme modesty of his nature ; so that actually when about to confer the greatest favour, he would appear more confused than other persons would have been if they had solicited it. Y 3 326 MK. WILBERFORCE GEORGE IV. Chap. XII. So simple were his manners, that it was difficult for an ordinary observer to imagine him possessed of any of those qualities by which he had gained his high reputation. But whenever it became necessary, even in private life, that he should give a prompt opinion or act upon an emergency, the quickness with which he perceived and decided showed instantly that no common genius was veiled under his usual quiet de- meanour. Mr. Wilberforce, after passing a few hours with him in unravelling the intricacies of an affair requiring much firmness, prudence, and delicacy, could not help saying to Lord Teignmouth, " I love Lord Hill." His Majesty George the Fourth was exceedingly attached to him, and selected him to bear the standard of England at his coronation in the year 1821. In his visits to London he was always much noticed by that monarch, who appreciated to the fullest extent his meritorious public services and his amiable qualities in private. We have already noticed the great confidence re- posed in him by the Duke of Wellington. How entirely it was deserved in every respect appears in a letter to his Grace, on the subject of information he was asked to supply for Southey's History of the Peninsular War. The applicant was a nobleman of high rank ; and Lord Hill immediately wrote to the Duke. " My dear Lord Duke, October 18. 1821. " Some days ago I received the accompanying note from * * * *, and as it relates to the general proceed- ings of your army in Spain and Portugal, I cannot think of sending an answer to it without your sanction. It has been Chap. XII. SOUTHEY'S PENINSULAR WAK. 327 rumoured that Mr. Southey has been furnished with docu- ments on the subject by your Grace's permission : if that be the case, I cannot give him fresh information, and if it is not the case, I am sure I ought not to supply him with any memoranda I may have. I have destroyed, since I came home, many papers relative to our operations in the Peninsula. I have, however, several papers still in my possession, and amongst them the valuable instructions I received from your Grace at various times. I beg, however, to state that I would not on any account allow them, or any part of them, to go out of my hands, particularly for publication, unless it is your wish that I should do so. " I am rejoiced to have it in my power to say, that Eowland was this day elected member for the county of Salop. The proceedings throughout the whole of this business have been most gratifying to our family. The events alluded to in the first part of this letter have contributed in no small degree to Rowland's success ; for I can assure your Grace that your glorious campaign in the Peninsula, in which I had the good fortune to be a humble partaker, has not been forgotten by the Shi'opshire freeholders. The family at Hawkstone join me in expressing to your Grace our best thanks for your kind and good wishes contained in the last letter I had the pleasure to receive from you. " I have, &c. " Hill." The Duke replied with equal kindness and truth. "My dear Hill, London, October 25. 1821. "I have received your lettei', and sincerely congratulate you upon the success of your nephew, and this fresh instance of the deserved respect in which you and your family arc held in the county of Salop. "In respect to Mr. Southey, I have heard in the whole that he was writing a History of the War in the Peninsula ; but I have never received an a^iplication from him, either directly or indirectly, for information on the subject. If I had received such an application, I would have told him what I have Y 4 328 LETTER OF THE DUItE OF WELLINGTON. Chap. XII. told others, that the subject was too serious to be trifled with ; for that if any real authenticated history of that war by an au- thor worthy of writing it were given, it ought to convey to the public the real truth, and ought to show what nations really did, when they put themselves in the situation the Spanish and Portuguese nations had placed themselves ; and that I would give information and materials to no author who would not undertake to write upon that principle. I think, however, that the period of the war is too near; and the character and rejjutation of nations, as well as individuals, are too much involved in the description of these questions for me to recommend, or even encourage, any author to write such a history as some, I [fear], would encourage at the present moment. " This is my opinion upon the subject in general, and I should have conveyed it to Mr. Southey, if he and his friends had applied to me. " In respect to your reference to me, I receive it, as every thing that comes from you, as a mark of your kind attention to me. Unless you approve of the principle wliich I have above stated, there is nothing to prevent you from giving Mr. Southey any information you please ; but I should wish you not to give him any original papers from me, as that would be in fact to involve me in his work without attaining the object which I have in view, which is, a true history. " Believe me, " Ever yours most sincerely, " Wellington. " General the Lord Hill, G.C.B. &c. &c." Upon receiving this communication, Lord Hill assured the Duke that " no original paper relative to his Grace's military proceedings, nor any part of their contents, should pass out of his hands unless he wished them returned to himself." This the Duke by no means desired, but answered the proposal thus: — Chap. XII. DEATH OF SIR JOHN HILL. 329 "London, Nov. 1. 1821. "Many thanks, my dear Hill, for your note of the 27th. The papers to which you refer cannot be in better hands than yours ; and when the proper time comes, and such a pul)li- cation is to be made as ought to be made, I shall have no objection to their being published. " Ever yours most sincerely, " AVellington." A great portion of these papers have since been published under the auspices of their author, by- Colonel Gurwood ; and no doubt Lord Hill had good and perhaps kind reasons, for the destruction of the documents he committed to the flames. In the year 1824, Lord Hill lost his father, Sir John Hill, at the advanced age of 83. He was succeeded in his titles and estates by Rowland*, eldest son of the lamented Colonel Hill. The young Sir Rowland, whose return to Parliament has been recently noticed, was prevailed upon by Mr. Canning to move the Address in the House of Commons. He was then only twenty-four years of age, and naturally felt the difficulty of such a position. How he ac- quitted himself we learn from a letter of Mr. Wilber- force written to Mrs. Hill. " My dear Madam, London, Feb. 9. 1 824. " Ever since the day of our meeting, I have had an idea of troubling you with a few lines, though I doubt if the weakness of my eyes and the midtiplicity of my occupations, might not have made me delay taking up my pen till it Afould have become too late to do it, but for my happening to throw out to Lady Teignmouth my idea of writing, and being en- couraged by her to carry it into execution. Being, however, extremely pressed for time, I must be both brief and hasty. * The present Viscount Hill. 330 LETTER OF MR. WILBERFORCE. Chap. XII. " But I am myself a parent ; and though not a mother, whose feelings and sympathies where her children are con- cerned I well know to be far more vivid than those of our sex, I am conscious of the pleasure it would have given me to receive such an account as with sincerity I can give to you — that your son acquitted himself in such a way in moving the Address, as to have produced in all who were present (aU at least whose good opinion is worth having) a very favour- able impression of his talents, and a still more favourable one of his moral character. I am now one of the most experienced members of the House of Commons, and I can truly say, that such manifest distress of feeling, I may almost term it, as he indicated, is justly regarded as a proof that a young man has both an English understanding in his head, and an English heart in his bosom. This very modesty may have made him send you a less favourable report of his perform- ance than was just, and therefore I am the more desirous of stating to you the truth of the case. " That he may prove an honour to his family and a comfort to his mother's heart, and above all, that passing safely through the ordeal, which the world must be termed to a young man of his consideration and fortune, and that you may at length meet him in a better world, Avhere sin and sor- row, danger and suffering, will have no place, but peace, and love, and holiness, and happiness shall abound for ever, is the cordial wish — shall I not say pi^ayer? — of, " My dear Madam, " Your sincere friend, "W. WlLBEEFOKCE." Retirement in the country was at this period par- ticularly suited to Lord Hill, as he had not entirely recovered from the effects of his last illness at Cambray. The open air and rural pursuits were extremely beneficial to him. His visits to London were therefore few and short ; but he was not forgotten by his friends, especially the Duke of Wellington, who was in frequent correspondence Chap. XII. OFFER OF COiDIAND IN INDIA. 331 with him, and never failed, when occasions presented themselves, to name him for some office or honour, which his Grace knew better than any other man how completely he merited. The Duke had also, be- fore the death of Sir John Hill, become acquainted with that venerable parent of the gallant officers of the Peninsula and \Yaterloo. He went to Hawkstone ex- pressly for the purpose, as well as to offer his services to the family in any way that might be in his power. In the autumn of 1827, it was proposed to Lord Hill to leave his quiet country enjoyments for the command in India. " WhitehaU Place, August 15. 1827. " Mv dear Lord Hill, " Lord Combermere has written over to the Horse Guards, expressing his desire to be relieved from his present command towards the end of next year, and applications are beginning to be made by those who wish to succeed him. " So far as my own judgment is concerned, there is no officer in whose hands I should see that command placed with as much confidence and satisfaction as in yours; and as, wlien I last mentioned the subject to you, you did not appear dis- inclined to accept it, I am very anxious to know whether you will o-ive me leave to propose your name on the present oc- casion. Believe me ever, " My dear Lord Hill, with great truth, " Most faithfully yours, « C. Williams "Wynne." This proposal was dechned by Lord Hill. " My dear Sir, 28th August. " After an absence of a fortnight in "Wales, I returned home yesterday evening, and will no longer delay answering your very kind and flattering letter of the loth. « In the first place, I must beg you to accept my sincere 332 OFFER OF THE ORDNANCE. Chap. XII. and hearty thanks for your friendly attention to me at all times, and especially on the present interesting and important occasion. The subject of your communication has occupied my mind for some days, much more than the amusement I was engaged in on the Glenllyn hills. After every consider- ation, I am come to a determination to decline the command in India. I am chiefly led to this conclusion from a convic- tion that a hot climate does not agree with my constitution, having experienced great inconvenience from this cause both in the Mediterranean and in the Peninsula. " I cannot conclude without again assuring you how much my feelings are gratified by the favourable preference you have given me on this occasion. Believe me, &c. &c. « Hill." The next offer made him was the Master-General- ship of the Ordnance. "My Lord, Downing Street, Dec. 24. 182?. " As Lord Anglesey's assumption of the Lord-Lieute- nancy of Ireland will vacate the Master-Generalship of the Ordnance, it has become my duty to recommend to his Majesty a proper person to succeed to that distinguished post. And although there are many individuals in the army eminently qualified to discharge its duties, there is no one whose name stands more prominent than your Lordship, or on whom it would be more gratifying to his Majesty to confer an oflfice of such dignity and importance. "I have therefore received the King's commands to pro- pose to your Lordship to succeed Lord Anglesey as Master- General of the Ordnance ; and I trust I need hardly say, that although I cannot, perhaps, claim the honour of a personal acquaintance with your Lordship, I could not perform a more agreeable duty than I now do, in being in any way instru- mental in showing by this oiFer the high sense which is entertained of your Lordship's character and services. " It is, however, necessary that I should explain to you Chap. XII. ORDNANCE DECLINED. 333 that it is not proposed that the Master-General should, upon occasion of the present vacancy, have a seat in the Cabinet. " I have the honour to be, my Lord, " Your most obedient humble servant, " GODERICH." On the receipt of the above letter Lord Hill en- closed it to the Duke of Wellington, who sent him a kind answer appointing a meeting. " My dear Hill, London, Dec. 28. 1827- " I have received your note, and return the enclosure. " I shall be with Lord Anglesey at two, and afterwards go to the Horse Guards. From thence I will go and meet you at the Hanover Hotel ; and I dare say I shall be with you by five, or a little after that hour. " Ever yours most sincerely, " AYellingtox." The result of that conference will be seen in Lord Hill's letter to the Prime Minister. " My Lord, No. 3. Hanover Square, Dec. 29. 182?. " I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your Lordship's letter of the 24th instant, addressed to me at Hardwick Grange, announcing that you have received his Majesty's commands to offer me the distinguished post of Master- General of the Ordnance. " My feelings of gratitude for so marked a proof of his Majesty's gracious favour are, if possible, increased by the very flattering terms in which your Lordship has been pleased to address me on the subject. It will probably be in your recollection, that when offered the Lieutenant-Gene- ralship of the Ordnance some years ago, by my friend the Duke of AVellington, I assigned the following reasons for de- clining it, namely, that I had never been accustomed to office duty, that I feared I should ill perform the services required of me, and that a permanent residence in town would most materially affect my health. 334 THE " SINECURE ! " Chap. XII. " As these objections still remain in full force, it would be inconsistent in me to accept an appointment of so much greater importance, the duties of which I am informed are not confined to the military profession alone, but are inti- mately connected with the financial expenditure of the country. " With this feeling, it only remains for me to request your Lordship will be pleased to convey my unfeigned regret at being obliged to decline his Majesty's most gracious offer. " I have the honour to be, my Lord, " Your Lordship's obliged and faithful servant, " Hill. *' The Viscount Goderich, " &c. &c. &c." The health of Lord Hill was unquestionably unequal to the duties of this onerous office. When the Duke of Wellington offered him the Lieutenant-Generalship, his Grace said, " You are aware of the death of the late Lieutenant-General of the Ordnance. It mil be a great pleasure to me if you will allow me to recommend you to his Majesty. I know it will be a great satisfaction to his Majesty. The office is worth about 1500/. per annum ; but the business is constant, and I am afraid will render your residence in London necessary for the greater portion of the year, and perhaps for the whole of it." Notwith- standing this letter, the Duke was accused of offering his " intimate friend" a sinecure! So much for po- litical antao-onism. Lord Hill received with extreme satisfaction the tidings of the appointment of the Duke of Wellington to be First Lord of the Treasury, and lost no time in sending his congratulations. Chap. XII. OFrEK OF COMMAND IN ClIIKF. 3,35 "Ilardwick, Jan. 2f). 1828. " My dear Duke of AVcllington, " Although it is needless for me to notice the extreme gra- tification I feel on your Grace's being placed at the licad of the Government of this country, yet I cannot resist writing two lines to offer my sincere congratulations on the important occasion ; and also to state that I shall at all times be ready to attend in my place in the House of Lords, whenever my presence may be required there. " I have the honour to remain, " Your Grace's ever faithful and obliged servant, " Hill." The Duke's reply gave the trutli in a few words. His patriotism and not his inclination caused him to accept the office of First Minister of the Cro-sNni. "My dear Hill, London, Jan. '28. 18'JS. "I have received your letter, for which I am mucii obhgod to you. I Avish that I could feel any gratification in the situation to which I have been appointed. " Ever yours most sincerely, "W. " The Lord Hill, G.C.B." This short letter was speedily foUoAved by another, in which his Grace stated, that he had resigned his situation of Commander-in-Chief. The Duke tlien continued: "In consequence of my resignation I have been under the necessity of considering of an arrangement to fill the ofhcc which 1 have ludd ; and I have naturally turned towards you. There is no doubt that your appointment will be liigldy satisfac- tory to the country as well as the army ; but it lias occurred to some of the Government, that considering the place in which you stand on the list, it is better 336 ACQUIESCENCE IN THE DUKE's PROPOSAL. Chap. XII. in relation to the senior officers of the army, some of whom have high pretensions, that you should be senior General upon the staff, performing the duties of Commander-in-Chief, than Commander-in-Chief. The only real difference is in the pay, which is not of much importance to you. The late Lord Amherst was never Commander-in-Chief, but always senior General on the staff. The Duke of York filled the same situation during the first years of his command. If this proposition should be agreeable to you, let me know by return of post, and come to town as soon as possible, keeping the matter secret till I shall have seen you. I need not assure you, that if you should accept this office, I will give you every assistance in my power to facihtate the performance of your duties." This letter was dated February 1. 1828 ; and Lord Hill decided at once to acquiesce in the flattering proposal made to him. " Hardwick, Feb. 2. 1828. " My dear Duke of WelUngton, " This evening's post brought me your Grace's important and gratifying communication of yesterday's date. " In the first place, I must beg of you to accept my sincere and hearty thanks for your friendly attentions to me at all times, especially on the present interesting occasion. With respect to the emolument of the office, that is the last con- sideration with me; my only object wUl be to perform the duties of it to the advantage of the country, and the good of the service. The distinguished post you have been pleased to propose to me is a most important situation, and being offered by your Grace to one who has served under you, is indeed most truly gratifying. All I shall say at present is, that I accept the flattering offer with pride and gratitude, and that it shall ever be my anxious study to fulfil your Chap. XII. LORD IIILL's APPOINTMENT. 337 Grace's expectations and wishes, which I trust I shall be enabled to do by unremitting attention to my duties, aided by the valuable assistance you have kindly promised. " I have the honour to remain, " Your Grace's ever faithful " And obliged Servant, « Hill." With the promptitude which always marked the actions of Lord Hill, he set off from Hardwick without delay, and carried his letter with him, enclosing it in a note when he reached town : — " My dear Duke, Feb. 4. 2 p.m. Hanover Hotel. " Having made my arrangements to set out for town sooner than I expected, I am the bearer of my own letter, which I have now the honour to forward. I shall be happy to wait on your Grace at whatever time may be most convenient to you to receive me. " I have, &c. « Hill." The Duke cordially welcomed this announcement : " My dear Hill, London, Feb. 4. 1828. 9 p.m. " I am delighted to find that you like and accept the pro- posal which I made to you, and that you are come to town. " I am going to Windsor to-morrow, but will sec you the next day here or in Downing Street, at any hour that you will call after eleven o'clock; and I will that day settle in the Cabinet by what mode you shall be appointed. " I thiiik you will save yourself a good deal of trouble in applications, &c., by saying nothing of your appointment till I shall see you. It is not yet known what arrangement I had in contemplation. " Ever yours most sincerely, " Wellington." z 338 GENERAL ORDER OF THE DUKE. Chap. XII. By the 15tli of February every thing was settled, and Lord Hill was appointed General Commanding in Chief. The Duke took his leave in the following terms : — "GENERAL ORDER. " Horse Guards^ February 15.1 828. " The King has been most graciously pleased to direct that General Lord Hill shall be placed on the Staff of his Majesty's army, and that all matters respecting his Majesty's military service, which have heretofore been transacted by the Com- mander-in-Chief, shall henceforth pass through the hands of General Lord Hill, G.C.B. " The King's service having imj^osed upon Field-Marshal the Duke of Wellington the necessity of resigning the office of Commander-in-Chief, the Field-Marshal is happy to deli- ver over the command to a General Officer who has so fre- quently j^romoted the honour of the army by his own conduct and example; who is so well known to the officers and troops, and so well acquainted with their services and merits." The gratification of being commended to the army in such terms, was enhanced by the kind way in which the Duke sent him a copy of this order: — "My dear Hill, London, Feb. 15. 1828. " I closed all my transactions, and wrote the enclosed order last night, and will give over charge to you at the Horse Guards to-morrow raornino; at eleven o'clock. " I have left some memoranda which will be of use to you ; and I have still a paper to send you on quartering troops in Scotland; and another regarding barracks I will write this night, if it should be in my power. " I would have sent you a copy earlier if it had been printed. " Ever yours most sincerely, " Wellington." CiiAP. XIT. FIRST GENERAL ORDER OF LORD HILL. 3.*',^ Lord Hill's feelings on the receipt of tliis note were tliiis exjDressed by himself: — " S. Hanover Square, February 1 '>. " My dear Lord Duke, " I cannot lo.- probation of his ^Majesty. " Believe me to be ever faithfully your.-', "IIlLL." z 3 342 LETTER OF LORD HILL. Chap. XII. From liis Majesty George the Fourth, Lord Hill received, on all occasions, public and j)rivate, the greatest kindness and support. One of his Majesty's last acts was directed to his Lordship, who thus mentioned it to his sister : — " My dear Sister, Horse Guards, June 25. 1830. " I have to thank you for two or three letters. The poor king is sinking fast. From what I heard at the Castle yes- terday, I did not think he would have survived the night. " It is, so far as relates to myself, a curious circumstance, that he should have lived to fulfil his promise to me, by appointing me to the government of Plymouth, and that this act should, in all probability, have been one of his last — pro- bably the last. On Wednesday, when the subject was brought before him, he recollected all that had passed respecting this government, and expressed much gratification in ordering his signature to be aflSxed to my appointment. "Wishing not to lose a moment in expressing my gratitude to his Majesty, I proceeded yesterday to Windsor, and I hope in time to en- able him to know 1 had been there. He was, however, ex- tremely ill ; and this day. If possible, he is worse, " With respect to the government of Plymouth, it is considered the first in ^ioint of honour and importance ; and if the governor resides there. It Is valuable on account of a good house, land, &c. As It Is, I shall not receive more than 1 lOOZ. a year, being about 5001. more than Hull. I am, however, quite satisfied, not only with the emolument, but more especi- ally with the manner In which my dying sovereign has marked his fiivourable opinion of my services. * * * * "Parliament Is at this moment in a very unsettled, dis- agreeable state ; many members absent ; and many voting to please their constituents, in expectation of a general election. I have written in great haste. I must now go to the House of Lords, where we expect an interesting night. " Yours ever, « H." CuAP. XII. LETTER OF Sill HERBERT TAYLOR. 343 On his accession to the throne, William the Fourth manifested towards Lord Hill the greatest possible confidence and favour. He had a very early interview with his Majesty, who, after many expressions of re- gard, said, " I hope you will long continue to command my army." On the change of ministry. Sir Herbert Taylor was commissioned to convey a most gracious message to Lord Hill, which, with his characteristic prudence, he requested to have in writing. In com- pliance with this wish, the subjoined letter Avas im- mediately written : — '' My dear Lord, St. James's Palace, Nov. 20. 1830. " Your Lordship liavnig expressed a desire to receive in writing the communication which, in obedience to the King's commands, I had the honour to make to you verbally y ester- dry, I will not delay giving effect to your wish. " His Majesty charged me to wait upon your Lordship, and to acquaint you that he had determined to confer upon you the command of the Royal Horse Guards, and the Gold Stick, vacant by the resignation of his Royal Highness the Duke of Cumberland — some time since received; that his Majesty availed himself with great pleasure of tliis oppor- tunity of marking, by his spontaneous act, the high sense which he entertains of the able, zealous, and correct manner in which your Lordship has discharged the important duties attached to the chief command of his army, and of manifost- ino" to the army and the country his personal regard and esteem for your character, as well as his approbation of your conduct during your meritorious and exemplary career. His Majesty has felt desii'ous upon this occasion to do justice to the care and attention which have enabled your Lordship to maintain that high character for discipline and good con- duct, which the British army has acquired under the fostering care of his late lamented brother the Duke of York, and under the distinguished command of the Duke of Wellington ; and z 4 344 LETTER OF SIR HERBERT TAYLOR. Chap. XII. his Majesty feels convinced that this mark of his approbation will be received with satisfaction by that army, and will prove gratifying, as he is desirous it should, to the feelings of the Duke of Wellington, who had so often acknowledged the value of your services in the field, and who had recom- mended you to the late king for the chief command when he resigned it. " The King wished your Lordship clearly to understand that it was not his desire, nor his intention, that this mark of his approbation, and of his personal regard, sliould influence the line of conduct you might feel called upon to pursue in consequence of the change which has taken place in his coun- cils ; but his Majesty charged me to say, that the sentiments he had expressed, would naturally render him anxious not to be deprived of the benefit of your continued services in the command of the army, which, indeed, he had never felt dis- posed to view in the light of a political situation. His Ma- jesty had, however, when he called upon Lord Grey to form a new administration, placed every arrangement at his discre- tion, and left every situation at his disposal, as his Majesty felt that the circumstances under which so arduous a task was imposed upon his Lordship called for the utmost support which his Majesty could give to him, and for every facility which could be afforded. His Majesty, therefore, received with peculiar satisfaction the assurance of Lord Grey's earnest desire that your Lordship might be prevailed upon to retain the command of the army, and his request that his Majesty would cause that wish to be conveyed to you. " By your Lordship's removal to the Eoyal Horse Guards, the command of the 53rd regiment would become vacant, and the King ordered me to state to you his desii'e that you would recommend for it Major-General Lord Fitzroy Somerset, who has, in his INlajesty's opinion, by his gallant and distinguished service in the field, and by his able, assiduous, and exemplary discharge of the arduous duties of military secretary, so well merited that mark of his Majesty's ftivour and approbation. His Majesty is aware that his attention would ere this have been called to Lord Fitzroy Somerset's just claim to this re- Chap. XII. PAKTV AT WESTBOURNE HOUSE. 3-1 5 ward, if his Lordship had not himself desired that it inij_dit not be advanced; but he is convinced that it will not be con- sidered by the army and by the public to have been too early conferred ; and in the event of your Lordship continuiii.,' in the command of the army, his Majesty hoped and trusted that Lord Fitzroy Somerset would not feel unwillin^,' (u give it the further advantage of his valuable services. In this in- stance, too, his Majesty has rejoiced in doing that which must be satisfiictory to the feelings of the Duke of ^^\•llillgt()n. * * * « I have, &c. « H. Taylor. " General the Lord Hill, G.C.B., &c. &c. &c." The sentiments expressed by the Kin_n: towards Lord Hill, showed his Majesty's just estimate of liis integrity and value. Lord Hill, for the benefit of liis health, took a house at Westbourne. Soon after the King said to him, " I do not dine with any body in London, you know ; but you do not live in London, and I shall come and dine with }ou." The [)arty, besides his Majesty, consisted of the Duke of Welling- ton, the Duke of Gordon, Lord Rosslyn, Lord Cath- cart. Lord E. Somerset, Lord Fitzroy Somerset, Lord Melville, Lord Combermerc, Sir Kobert Frel, Sir George Murray, Sir AVillonnliby Gordon, Sir Ikrbert Taylor, Sir Henry Hardiiige, Colonel ^FacdoiKiM, Major-General Macdonahl, and tlie ai^l^-dc-camp. His Majesty came Avithout an}- state, and a])pcarcd thoroughly to enjoy himself. The most scrutinising of Lord llill'> political opponents could not detect a flaw in his adminis- tration, though they strained hard to llnd one. He was, in the presence of his sovereign and in his room 346 MEMOEANDUM. Chap. XII. at the Horse Guards, the same straightforward man. In one of his memoranda there is the following note of an audience with the King, which proves the truth of this assertion, and is most honourable to his Lord- ship's royal master: — " In consequence of a letter in the King's own hand this day respecting , I saw his Majesty, who said he was positively decided that should be , upon which I re- marked, that if such were his Majesty's commands they should be obeyed ; but, as commanding the army, I felt it my duty to say that it would create great dissatisfaction, and that I entreated his Majesty to consider the subject well before he came to such a final conclusion. The King very kindly said it was my duty to point out to him all objections on the present occasion. He would not press the question." Lord Hill went directly to the officer alluded to, related the whole affair, and added, " I assure you it was all my doing." While Lord Hill resided at Westbourne House, he united, as much as possible, the enjoyments of the country with the business of his command. His so- ciety, always much courted, was exceedingly enjoyed by those with whom he could cast off his natural re- serve, and give vent to the flow of his quiet and agree- able humour. He was most good-natured to his Pad- dington neighbours, and ready to please every body when he could. One day, to gratify an officer he had known in the Peninsula, he actually allowed his own carriage to be attached to a steam coach, in which his gallant acquaintance took a great interest. Unluckily, however, the engineer made too fine a turn round a CuAP. XII. ANECDOTES. 347 corner, and the carriage and its contents were sent over a hedge into a field. Luckily, his Lordship and companions escaped injur}^, and the newspapers never heard of the accident. I recollect his telling the story at breakfast to a private circle. He was asked how he could run such a risk. " 0," said he, " I did it to please : he was a brave fellow. Once in the Peninsular war, an officer who led a charge was shot, and his horse ran back. I desired to mount it, and take his place. ' Bless you,' he cried, ' I cannot ride.' ' Never mind,' I. replied, 'jump up ! ' and I never witnessed a more gallant affair. On seeing afterwards, I asked him how he got on so well, being such a novice at horsemanship. ' 0,' said he, ' / shut my eyes^ and galloiJed on, and cried Old England for ever / ' " His good-humoured way of taking every thing will be seen in a note he sent to the Lord ]\Layor and Lady Mayoress, on their inviting Lord and Lady Hill to a banquet at the Mansion House:. — "Lord 1 1 ill pre- sents his compliments to the Lord Mayor and the Lady Mayoress, and begs to acquaint them that as he has not the good fortune to be married, he cannot have the honour of presenting Lady Hill at the ]\hin- sion House on Thursday the 20th instant. Horse Guards, 15th January, 1831." We have now followed the career of Lord Hill from the early period when he first chose the arm}- as liis profession, to the time when his splendid fcurNices placed him at its head. There appeared in him throughout the same un- a^fFected disposition that graced his boyhood. The 348 EEMARKS. Chap. XII. enchantments of fame, the felicitous providences of a successful career, the difference of age, the blandish- ments of the court, the exaltation of position, actual power, altered him not : his was an ear that neither the trumpet of acclamation nor the echoings of honour could deafen to the gentle whispers of kindness ; and the same unassuming mien that made his obedience grateful to his superiors, became even more a charm when it was perceived to be the adornment of authority and place. 9. 49 CHAPTER XIII. PRIVATE XnOUGnXS OF LORD HILL. DINNERS AT LORD TEir.N- MOUTH's on the ANNIVERSARIES OF THE BIBLE SOCIETY. LORD hill's conduct VnTIl REGARD TO THE REFORM BILL. LETTER TO SIR ROWL.iJ^D HILL CON^VERSATION AVITII THE KING. — THE " CROAVN " WON AND PRESERVED. UNIFORM OF GEORGE HI FETE AT AVESTBOCRNE IIOl'SE. — DEATH (»F SIR NOEL HILL LORD HILL's ATTENTION TO HIS COUNTY. ANEC- DOTES. DEATH OF THE REV. ROWL.VND HILL. LORD HILL ATTENDS HIS FUNERAL. INSTANCES OF LORD HILL's PRUDENCE AND FIRMNESS. CARRIES THE BANNER AT THE FUNERAL OK WILLIAM IV. QUEEN ADELAIDE. HIS FIRST AUDIENCE WITH HER PRESENT MAJESTY'. LORD HILL AND MARSHAL SOILT. CANADA. THE DUKE OF WELLINGTON'S LOVE OF TRUTH MONMOUTHSHIRE RIOTS. ROYAL GEORGE AND COLONEL PASLEY. 5IRS. "VVINFIELD. FIRE AT THE TOWER. WESTMINSTER HALL SAVED BY LORD HILL. COMPLEMENTS OF THE DUKE OF WELLINGTON. REMARKS OF LORD HILL ON THE WHIG GO- VERNMENT. — HIS MOTIVES OF ACTION. Lord Hill had the advantage, in early life, of in- struction in rcli2:ious truth from several eniinentlv pious members of his family ; and their j»recej)ts, as well as their example, left an indelible impression on his mind. Pie said little in society on this as (»ii most other subjects; but in secret he liad many deep and serious reflections. The great uprightness of his conduct, was the result of an earnest desire to have a conscience void of offence before God and man. After his decease, a paper of notes was found in his drawer, which, intended as it was for his own eye alone, affords remarkable evidence of the spirit in which he 350 LORD hill's private thoughts. CiiAP. XIII. fulfilled the duties of his distinguished ofiice. A few sentences from this record of his private thoughts ■will suffice to show in what current they flowed : — " Since God has thus raised me, it must certainly be for some wise and good end — to do my duty in this state of life to which I am called." " Cannot God, who raised me without myself — cannot He raise me or keep me up, though my ruin should be de- signed and attempted ? And perhaps it may never come to tliis ; for who knows but God may give a blessing to my honest endeavours ? Now if I neglect that which I take to be my duty, or for fear of danger or any consideration put it off, I may justly expect * * *." " I know that I have not the least pretence to what I en- joy. 1 am His debtor, and can make no other return but by doing my duty honestly, and leaving the event to Provi- dence." " May no weak and cowardly aj)prehension fright me from my duty. Inspire me with zeal and courage becoming my profession. Make me to do some good in this station in which is my present lot. (From Wilson.)" " A soft answer turneth away wrath ; but grievous Avords stir up anger." * " The Lord gave, and the Lord taketh away; blessed be the name of the Lord." " What, shall we receive good at the hand of God, and shall we not receive evil ? " " My heart shall not reproach me. For me there is a part to act : I go to perform it. My duty I shall do to-day." " Animated by a good conscience and rectitude of inten- tion, the feeble have become strong. It consists in being de- terred by no danger when duty calls; in fulfilling our allotted part with bravery and constancy of mind." * This passage (Proverbs, XV, 1.) of it pervaded all his correspond- was written in the fly-leaf of his ence. Official Letter Book, and the spirit Chap. XIII. REFORM BILL. 351 " Be strong and of good courage ; fear not, nor be afraid of them : for the Lord thy God, He it is that doth go with thee. He will not fail thee, nor forsake thee : and the Lord, He it is that doth go before thee. He will not fail thee, neither forsake thee ; fear not, neither be dismayed." " Fret not thyself, else shalt thou be moved to do evil." These passages show that he was a reader of the Bible, and that he desired to regulate his conduct according to its rules. He generally dined with Lord Teignmouth, the President of the Bible Society, on the day of its anniversary, and seemed to listen with interest to the conversation of the good men who formed the parties on these occasions. What he heard he treasured up in his o^vn bosom, and it pleased God, when sickness incapacitated him for all public duty, to make the Word of Eternal Truth his joy and consolation. The position of affairs at the period of the Reform Bill greatly tried him. No slight honour is due to his memory from his own political party, for the way in which he maintained his independence in office at that time. Not only did he remain firm under the difficulties of being ojoposed to the Government, but was unmoved by the intimation of the King himself, his kind and indulgent master, that his Majesty wished him to vote for the Bill. " Sir H. T.," he says in his memoranda, " communicated to me H. M.'s wish that I should vote for the second reading of the Reform Bill. I gave no reply ; but said I would consider the subject." His decision, and the view he took of his line of duty, were thus expressed in a letter to his nephew, Sir Rowland Hill : — 352 LETTER TO SIR ROWLAND HILL. Chap. XIII. "Dear Rowland, Horse Guards^ October 8. 1831. " You will see by the papers that the Reform Bill has been thrown out on the second reading in the House of Lords, by a majority of forty-one. It is very possible you may be asked what part I have taken on the occasion ; and to enable you to answer such inquiries, I think it right to ac- quaint you that I had deemed it best to take no part in the question. " When the present Administration came into office, I was sent for by his Majesty, who was graciously pleased to express a wish that I should continue in a command, which he did me the honour to say I had conducted so much to his satisfaction and the advantage of the country. His Majesty at the same time observed that he did not consider the situa- tion a political one, and that I was not bound to support any measure of the Government which I might not entirely ap- prove of. This assurance on the part of the King justified me in considering myself free to act in whatever way I might think proper; but bearing in mind the importance of the command confided to me, and the fact that the Reform Bill was introduced into Pax'liament under the sanction of his Majesty, I felt that I should best discharge my duty to his Majesty and to the public by refraining from taking any part in the measure under consideration. I therefore abstained from going to the House ; and having always been of opinion that the less the army interferes in jDolitics the better, parti- cularly in these times, I do not regret the course I pursued ; and, indeed, am rather glad that this question has given me the opportunity of setting it the example. " It may be satisfactory to you to know, that the line I have felt it my duty to follow has met with the cordial ap- probation of those whose good opinion it has been my ambi- tion to deserve. " Believe me to be, dear Rowland, " Very afFectionately yours, " Hill. " Sir Rowland Hill, Bart., M.P." Chap. XIII. CONVERSATION WITH THE KING. ^fj^ When the Bill was again brought for\v:ir.l in the House of Lords, the following conversation took place between his Majesty and Lord Hill. I give it from his Lordship's own notes: — "The King sent nie a note desiring my attendance at the I'alace. His Ma- jesty, after speaking on the subject of the College*, said, ' The discussion on the Keform Bill was al)out to be again brought forward in the House of Lords, and that he could not but wisli that it should ^o into c committee, which would show the country that the Lords were not averse to some reform, and nii^iht make alterations when in connnittee.' In conse- quence of what Sir H. Taylor said to me on this sul)- ject about a fortnight ago, and from the mannei- in which the King spoke to me, I felt that he expected me to state my sentiments and intentions. 1 thciv- fore told his IMajesty, that on the last occasion I had acted in a way which 1 understood was satisfactory to him, namely, by not voting at all ; that I still en- tertained the same objection to the Bill, and that ac- cording to my present feelings I could not vote for the second reading of the Bill, when it avus brought forward again. Such, 1 assured his Majesty, were my conscientious feelings ; and I added, that if I were to act contrary to them and to my known declara- tions, I should so lower myself in the ey(\s of the world and the army, that I should not be aljle to ren- der service to his Majesty or the country, 'i'lic King said he could understand my feelings, and that every one had a right to have his own : he had his. His Majesty appeared kind and not angry, but perhajjs ♦ Sandhurst, I believe. A A 354 KINDNESS OF THE KING. Chap. XIII. was not pleased. On my saying that I mslied I had not a seat in Parliament as long as I was at the head of the army, he replied, ' But as you have one, you cannot give it up, or must attend it,' or something to this effect. The King spoke on the state of the coun- try, and the expected disturbances, and his indigna- tion at the bad spirit of the people." In all his interviews with the King, Lord Hill acted in the same independent and upright manner, and his Majesty's own honest mind approved and valued his integrity. To show him that the conversation just quoted had made no unkind impression on his feel- ings, the King very shortly afterwards presented him with a sword, as a token of his personal regard. At St. James's Palace and at Windsor his Majesty inva- riably paid him the most marked attention ; well knowing that of all his servants not one was more sincerely devoted to his person. After Lord Hill's death, a silk purse belonging to him was found to contain a crown piece, in an envelope of writing- paper. On the paper was written, " This Crown was won by Lord Hill from his Majesty King William the Fourth, at Windsor Castle, 25th Oct., 1831. / will do my best to lyreserve it for Him. H." He was a frequent guest at the royal tablQ, both at Windsor and in London, as was his brother. Colonel Clement Hill, the popular Lieutenant-Colonel of the Blues, his Lordship's own regiment. The King gave the Colonel a suit of uniform of his regiment worn by George the Third, and the sculptor modelled from it the dress of the statue of that monarch in Pall Mall East. It is preserved with due care in a glass case at Hawk- stone, and is not only an interesting specimen of the 1 Chap. XIII. DEATH OF SIR T. N. HILL. S.').'') uniform of the Horse Guards (Blue) in bygone days, but a valuable relic of one of the most estimable mo- narchs that ever swayed the sceptre of this free untl prosperous nation. While Lord Hill lived at West- bourne House, Paddington, the King and Queen en- gaged to honour him with their company at a puljlic breakfast. Unhappily his jNIajesty was pre^'ented attending by a cold ; but the Queen came, in the kind- est manner, to the party, which was given with mucli splendour. In the beginning of 1832, Lord Hill L^st liis bro- ther. Sir Thomas Noel Hill. He died at ^laidstone on the 8th of January. His Lordship hastened to tlic scene of mourning, and afforded all t lie consolation in his power to his brother's widow, whose grief was also soothed by the presence of her excellent fithor, tlic late Lord Teignmouth. On his return to town Lord Hill wrote to his venerable uncle, Mr. Rowland Hill, with his customary kindness : — " My dear Uncle, Horse Guards, Jan. 17. 1832. "I returned from Maidstone last night, after pcrfonuing the last sad offices to my poor brother's remains. It was a melancholy gratification to observe the esteem and rvj^rct of all ranks at Maidstone. The shops were shut, and overy possible respect paid that could be. Lady Hill, though in a very distressed state of mind, has been moved up to town, but time must be allowed for her grief to subside. 1 shall be happy to see you any morning at Westbourne ; or, it" more agreeable to you at this season of the yeai-, I can, without the least inconvenience, call at your house. " Believe me, my dear Uncle, " Very truly yours, « Rev. Rowland Hill." " Hill. A A 2 356 ANECDOTE. Chap. XITI. In the many letters of condolence received by Lord Hill, one uniform testimony was given to the high esteem in which Sir Noel was held. Engaged as his Lordship was in the duties attached to his office, his home and his native county were still the objects of his constant solicitude. He was ex- tremely fond of his farm at Hardwick, which he stocked with the choicest animals he could procure, not only for his own gratification, but ^vith a view to improve the breed in his neighbourhood. Nothing seemed to be forgotten by him. Happening to see a spring carriage, adapted for the conveyance of sufferers from fractures and other accidents, he immediately purchased it, and sent it to the Infirmary at Shrewsbury. At the Horse Guards, merit was the only sure introduction to his favour; and he sought it in the soldier of every rank. He used to tell an amusing story of one case: — A ser- geant had long given such high satisfaction that he thought him deserving of a commission, and promoted him. All the officers of the regiment called to con- gratulate him on his good fortune, and treated him with the utmost courtesy. He presented himself at the levee of the Commander-in-Chief, to return thanks. He was a Scotchman, and lest he should be offended by the mention of his name, we will call him Mac- bride. Lord Hill welcomed him with an encouraging smile, and began, " Well, Macbride, I am glad to see you. I hear all the officers have called on you. How do you feel in your new character? You are a gentleman now, you knoAV." " Thank you, my Lord," replied the worthy soldier ; "for myself I Chap. XIII. DEATH OF KEV. ]{. HILL. 857 feels perfectly comfortuble, but 1 tnmhUs for Mrs. Macbride.'" In April, 1833, Lord Hill lost his uncle, the ll^^y. Rowland Hill, avIio died at Surrey Cluipel House, in the eighty-ninth year of his age. He was, i'ny be- tween sixty and seventy years of his life, a UKJst laborious minister of the Gospel ; and such was the extent of his exertions, that there is scarcely a town of any magnitude in the kingdom, where some of the inhabitants do not cherish a recollection of his appear- ance amongst them as a preacher. Early in lil"e he was persecuted at college, frowned upon at Ik. me, and often abused and pelted by the populace ; but all these obstructions gradually gave way before the dig- nity of his character ; so that in the end of his days he became a most striking instance of the fnlfilmcnt of the Divine promise, "Those that honour nie, 1 will honour." He was eminently useful during a period of prevalent neglect of "the one tiling needful." There were many who, though they mourned 0N"er the apathy of a thoughtless and licentious age equally with himself, could not a])prove liis erratic course, yet few ventured to condemn it, because the fact was unquestionable, that " lie was a good man, and full of the Ploly Ghost, and much people were added to the Lord." Sincerely attached to his dis- tinguished nephew, he regarded his elevation with a warm and affectionate interest, which was constantly rewarded by the most delicate attentions on the part of Lord Hill. His Lordship's first dinner after he became Commander-in-Chief was given to his uncle, nor did he lose any opportunity of adding to A A 3 358 DIFFICULTIES. Chap. XIII. the comforts of his dedming days. His funeral took place at Surrey Chapel on th^ 19th of April; and although Lord Hill had been commanded to attend the King on that day, he begged his Majesty's gra- cious permission to be excused, that he might be pre- sent on the solemn occasion. When the service had ended, he was observed to step forward, and look into the grave. A tear glistened in his eye, and he turned away with emotion. Lord Hill had for some years great difficulties to contend with in the situation he filled, but he steered through them all with a temper unrufiled, and an honour unimpeached. On the 27th of June, 1835, he made a memorandum to this effect: — "Saw Lord •. He said the Government were desirous of giving every encouragement to the Spanish levy: I told him I would not check it, but I would not en- courage officers to come forward. Officers on full pay could not go ; but they might retire on half pay if they chose it, taking their chance "with others to be brought on full pay hereafter. I repeated this to the King, who approved." This is an instance of his maintaining the views he thought advisable for the army, without placing any party obstacle in the way of a Government whose proceedings were not accord- ing to his own opinions. Not an iota of the dignity or privileges of his station would he ever give up. In September, 1836, he heard, while at Hardwick, that certain orders had been issued without his sanction. He instantly went up to town. His o^vn note on the business is the source whence this fact is derived : — " 14th Sept., 1836. Came to town to sec the King Chap. XIII. FUNERAL OF WILLIAM IV. 359 on the subject of orders issued without my knowledge. The interview was, upon the whole, satisfactory ; and I am inclined to think nothing similar will in futm-e occur." These instances prove what was the real character of Lord Hill as to wisdom, prudence, and firmness in his high command. It is not, however, expedient to enlarge on such topics. In vindi- cating his exalted character it is not necessary to be personal, nor to unveil those things which ought to be considered confidential ; — a rccldessness deeply to be lamented in any biographer, and most unsuitable to the gentle, unoftending subject of these pages. Lord Hill lost in William the Fourth a kind master and a faithful friend. He bore the banner at the sad pageant of the royal funeral, with a trembling hand ; and it is still kept at Hawkstone in remembrance of the day when he paid this last tribute of duty and respect to the memory of a monarch, who had ho- noured him with support and friendship. His jMajesty never omitted an opportunity of showing the interest he took in all which concerned him. On the birth of the present heir of Hawkstone, Sir Herbert Taylor wrote to Lord Hill, — " His jMajcsty has ordered me to congratulate you and all of tl.o name, upon the birth of a son and heir to Sir Rowland Hill, and to assure you of the pleasure with which he lias learned that Lady Hill and the child are doing well." Her Majesty Queen Adelaide entertained the same senti- ments as the King towards his Lordship; and ..ii the birth of the second son of Sir Rowland and Lady Hill, Lord Howe was thus commanded to congratulate him : — A A 3 360 KINDNESS OF QUEEN ADELAIDE. Chap. XIII. " My dear Lord Hill, Windsor Castle, Friday. " Our good Queen, although on her sick couch, is not un- mindful of any thing which is a subject of pleasure to you and yours. " Her Majesty has seen an account of Lady Hill's confine- ment, and commands me to convey her Majesty's sincere con- gratulations on the event both to Sir Kowland and yourself, and trusts the mother and babe are both going on as well as you could wish. *' Ever, my dear Lord Hill, " Most truly yours, " Howe." Lord Hill was much affected by this proof of her Majesty's esteem, and said in reply, — "I know of no circumstance in the whole of my career which has afforded me the same gratification, as that I have de- rived from the marked and constant kindness of her Majesty; and I am particularly sensible of this last instance of it, as it has been shown me at a moment when her Majesty is herself suffering under sickness, and could hardly have been expected to give a thought to matters relating to what might interest me." On the accession of our present gracious Sovereign, Lord Hill was received with the same confidence that he had enjoyed during the two preceding reigns. He had his first audience of her Majesty at St. James's Palace on June 21st, 1837, and took the royal plea- sure for the mourning consequent on the decease of the late King. Shortly after he submitted proceed- ings of courts-martial to the Queen at Kensington Palace, and had the happiness of serving her Majesty Avith acceptance to the end of his public life. At the coronation of Queen Victoria, Lord Hill saw Chap. XIII. LORD HILL AND SOULT. 301 many of his former companions in unns, ;m.l some who had been opposed to Iiim, wli.jm he had ul-vov met before except on tlie field of battle. 'Die dii.-f amongst the latter was Marshal Soult. They were introduced to each other, for the first time, at a part)- at Buckingham Palace. The story ^vhich Avas current at the time, of Soult's having addressed him witli " Jc; vous rencontre enfin, moi qui ai parcouru si long- temps apres vous," had its origin in tlie ima^nnation of the inventors ; for on their being presented to eacli other, little more passed than formal bows on eitlici- side. But when the ^Marshal fully comprehended the cordiahty of his reception in England, all coolness subsided, and the most gratif3'ing intercourse took place. The state of Canada, and the necessity of sending troops there, occupied a good deal of Lord Hill's at- tention. He Avrote as follows to his nephew : — " Horse Guards, Saturday evening, C) o'clock. " Dear Rowland, (No date.) *' We have no official accounts from Canada, and I hclieve none have reached this country. There are, however, ru- mours of unpleasant arrivals. "If you have read the debates in the Lords on the Canada question, you will be amused witli Lord Brougham's speech ; he was uncommonly bitter on his old friends, the (Jovern- ment. The Duke of Wellington spoke, as he always does, straightforward, and the truth ; stating that military men had given their opinion that no more troops were rcquind in Canada, at the time the Government were accused of not sending them. This was a sari/u/ riat/sc for the Ministers, and they were grateful for it. The Duke's principle is, never to state or say any thing he does not believe to be 362 CANADA. Chap. XIII. true, and also to act for the good of the country, to the best of his judgment, whether iyi office or out. " Near seven. *' Am going to dine with Lord Maryborough. " Yours ever, "H. " P. S. I do not think there is any truth in the reports of arrivals from Canada. I have just heard so from the Colonial office." This testimony to the Duke, from one who knew him so well, only confirms what the whole world has long seen, admired, and rewarded with unbounded honour and confidence. Let the votaries of j^oUcy learn from it the po-sver of truth. Lord Hill used to amuse himself, after the fatigues of business, with writing to Sir Rowland on the lead- ing topics of the day : — " Horse Guards, Nov. 27- (No date.) "Dear Rowland, " These easterly Avinds prevent all arrivals. Even the great man from Canada cannot work his way through them. Cabinet Councils sit daily, but up to this hour I have heard nothing of an increase of force — a measure which, in my mind, ought not to be delayed. I once thought of leaving town the end of this week, but, upon consideration, I think it Avill be better to remain here so long as the Ministers are together ; for perhaps they jnoT/ hit upon something which may require my attention. There are some who think the breach between Lord Durham and the Government so great that they can never act together ; but possibly you are right in your observations on that subject. The Duke of Welling- ton is going to Bath : he still suffers from, I believe, a con- traction of the muscles of the neck. I have told Sir R. Peel I will pay him a visit, on the 26th December, for a few days. ****** " Yours very affectionately, '•' Hill." Chap. XIII. MONMOUTHSHIRE RIOTS. 3G3 When the riots took place in Monmouthshire L(jr(J Hill was on a visit at Fowls Castle. On liis way to town he was informed of these unhappy occurrences. He gave the following account of the gallantry of a small band of soldiers, m one of his letters to his ne- phew: — "At Shrewsbury I received the accounts of the very serious disturbances in Monmouthshire, as you will see by the papers. On my arrival in town I found some very interesting particulars, wliicli arc highly creditable to the small military force we had there, viz. one captain, one lieutenant, one ensign, three sergeants, and fifty-six privates. It appears that the day before the attack, information was re- ceived that the Chartists were collecting several thou- sands in the neighbourhood. The extraordinary circumstance is, that these arrangements on tlie part of the Chartists were so secret, that none of the magis- trates or authorities were the least aware of what was going on. At daybreak the mayor sent for as many troops as could be spared without risking the posi- tion of the barracks. Twenty-eight men and two sergeants, under Lieutenant Gray, were stationed in a house, and were attacked by at least four thousand. The attack made was effectually resisted by these few men of the forty-fifth. Lieutenant Gray's conduct was admirable. Lord Normanby tells me he saved the town.* The object of the Chartists was to over- power this little force, and then proceed to Monmouth to release the prisoners." Lord Plill's chief relaxations were vi>its to llard- wick Grange and Hawkstone. Occasionally he went * Newport. 364 MRS. WINFIELD. Chap. XIII. to AYoburn, to Belvoir Castle, and to Drayton Manor, for a day or two of shooting ; but lie was seldom ab- sent long: too-ether from the Horse Guards. He took a great interest in many of the ingenious inventions of science, particularly the electric telegraph, and the application of the galvanic battery to the bloAving up of the Royal George. I w^ell remember his astonish- ment, after firing one of the smaller charges, at the instantaneous explosion. Colonel Pasley kindly sent him some of the articles recovered from the wreck. The parcel itself is thus described by the Colonel in his letter : — "It contains a pistol recovered from the wreck of the Eoyal George, with part of a silver buckle, each as it was found by the diver. All the iron work of the pistol is gone. Brass is not injured, and copper very little, but iron is destroyed, in time, by salt-water. Glass is injured, but china escapes perfect. I enclose in the same parcel some flints, also from the Royal George, on which salt-water produces no perceptible effect." During the shrievalty of Mr. Wheelton, Lord Hill was informed by him, at one of the city entertainments, that the widow of his former tutor, Mrs. Winfield, was residino; in the suburbs of London. Mr. Wheelton was connected with her by marriage, and Lord Hill appointed a day for accompanying him to her resi- dence. The meeting was touching in the extreme ; and the kindness manifested by Lord Hill will never be erased from the remembrance of her family. He paid her frequent visits, sent her presents of game, and, by every attention in his power, manifested that years and honours had not, in any degree, diminished Chap. XIII. FIRES. 365 his gratitude for her care of hiin ere lie entered on a soldier's life. His disposition to afford pleasure to those he esteemed, appeared in the most minute circumstances. In his letters to his friends in Shropshire, he mentioned all that he thiuight would interest them; as, for example, to Sir Kowland, "I dined at Buckingham Palace yesterday. Her ^lajesty inquired after you." After the fire at the Tower, he wrote, " I went to the spot as soon as I heard of the event, and on my return I reported to Prince iVlbert, for the Queen's information, that her ]Majesty's crown jewels were safe." Nor was this the only fire where Lord Hill was on the spot, rendering efficient service. At the dreadful scene of conflagration, when the two Houses of Parliament were burnt, he Avas present ; and to his coohiess in advising the division of the rafters of the ignited roof, and thus cutting oft' the continuity of the flame, the country owes the preservation of Westminster Hall. His adviser and friend on all particular occasions was the Duke of Wellington, who said to him, after one of his confidential complaints of annoyances, " Never mind. Hill ; you have enough to satisfy your conscience. Every body knows the army under your charge has saved the country." Such words from those truthful lips made him more than amends for all he was called upon to bear. They fomi the last memorandum but one he made in his note-book of special circumstances. The last was just before the government of the AVhigs terminated : — " Saw in bed. Stated to him the mischief and danger of Q GQ ANNOYANCES. Chap. XIII. the Government press, in its attacks on those in au- thority in the army." He thus expressed himself on the tenacity with which the Whigs clung to office, in one of his letters to Sir Rowland : — " The general impression amongst well-informed people is astonishment that the Govern- ment still continue to hold office, after what passed in the Commons the other night. They do, however, appear to be determined to keep their situations as long as they can. I have never heard a word from on the subject I alluded to some weeks ago, I therefore conclude, he does not feel himself and party strong enough to meddle with the Horse Guards." All the Commander-in-Chief's private friends knew how much he had to bear ; but the de- termination to persevere in what he believed to be the path of honour and duty, cheered and supported him. 367 CHAPTER XIV. FAILURE or THE HEALTH OF LORD HILL. — GOES TO RICHMOXIJ, AND CALLS ON LORD SIDMOUTH. — REI^LVRK^VBLE CONVERSATION. — AT HAEDWICK DURING THE VISIT OF THE KING OF PRUSSIA. REGRET EXPRESSED AT HIS INABILITY TO GO TO WINDSOR. DEATH OP SIR FR^VJSCIS HILL. — LORD HILL EXHAUSTED BY HIS BUSINESS. DINNER WITH THE DUKE OF SUSSEX. FDLIIAM. DETERJUENES TO RESIGN SPEAKS TO THE DUKE OF WELLING- TON. LETTER OF RESIGNATION TO HER MAJESTY. THE queen's GRACIOUS REPLY. — ANSWER OF LORD HILL. — TAKES LEAVE OF THE HORSE GUARDS. GENERAL ORDER. — COLONEL EGERTON. SECRETARIES AT WAR IN OFFICE DURING LORD hill's COiOIAND. LETTER OF SIR HENRY IIARDINGE. GENER.VL ORDER OF THE DUKE OF WELLINGTON. LOUD HILL MADE A VISCOUNT. HIS DECLINING STATE OP HEALTH. — LAST LETTER TO COLONEL EGERTON. LORD HILl's LAST ILLNESS. HIS DEVOTION AND PENITENCE. HIS DEATH. CONDOLENCES. FUNERAL. DEATH OF MRS. HILL. HER CHARACTER. SIR ROBERT HILL AND GENERAL CLEMENT HILL. CONCLUDING REMARKS. When the government of Sir Robert Peel came into power, they could not fail to be gratified by finding Lord Hill at the head of tlie army. The uniform kindness of her Majesty, added to the pleasure he felt at seeing men in office whose views were similar to his own, stimulated him to continue his labours at the Horse Guards, when his declining strength might have otherwise induced him to retire. He became a good deal oppressed at times by close attention to business, and sought refreshment from visits to places 368 LORD SIDMOUTH. Chap. XIV. near London, or at Brighton, where he was often in- duced to go by the advice of his attached physician Dr. Hair. The Duke of Somerset kindly invited him to pass a short time at his Grace's villa, near Richmond. While there, he determined one morning to call on Lord Sidmouth, whose last days were spent at Rich- mond Park. When he arrived, the servant said Lord Sidmouth did not see company ; but on Lord Hill's desiring that his name should be sent in, the vener- able statesman gave immediate directions for his admittance. The meeting was most cordial. Lord Sidmouth fully appreciated the compliment paid him ; and Lord Hill was delighted to find that his aged friend bore the weight of more than eighty years with a mind and memory unimpaired. They soon com- menced an animated conversation on times long past, and on the prospects of the country. Lord Sidmouth told his anecdotes in his own happy manner. He sat near a small table ; and on allusion being made to the war, he said, " Lord Nelson was with me at this table in September, 1805, before he went out to meet the combined fleets of France and Spain, which he expected he should soon fall in with. He drew out his plan upon it * ; and his words were, ' I shall attack in two lines, led by myself and Collingwood, and I am confident I shall capture either their van and centre, or their centre and rear.' Such were his very words — wonderfully confirmed as we all know." These two * An inscription, which Lord Lord Hill ; but I have thought it Sidmouth caused to be engraved on due to the possessors of Lord Sid- this table, was kindly sent me, after mouth's papers to return it for I had heard this anecdote from their use. Chap. XIV. ARRIVAL OF THE KING OF PRUSSIA. 369 iipriglit men never met again : they are both in the grave ; but their memories will be long cherished in the recollections of a grateful country. At the beginning of 1842, Lord Hill experienced great debility ; and though the attention of Dr. Hair to his health, and of Colonel Egerton to his public business and domestic comforts, was all that he could wish, he continued to decline. On the arrival of the King of Prussia he was at Hardwick, and was advised, by Dr. Darwin of Shrewsbury, to absent himself from the festivities at Windsor Castle. One of his greatest comforts was the constant attention of this eminent physician, of whose skill and judgment he had the highest possible opinion. Lord Hill's excuses were most kindly received. Lord Liverpool wrote: — « Dear Lord Hill, Fife House, Jan. 20. 1842. " I sincerely regret what you mention in your letter; first, on account of your indisposition, and, secondly, as I am sure his Prussian Majesty will be anxious to see so distinguished a person as yourself. I trust, however, that your health will soon recover; and I am quite sure that, considering the time of year and severity of the weathei", Darwin has advised you correctly. Believe me ever, " ]\Iy dear Lord, " Sincerely yours, " Liverpool." Sir James Graham, in a note expressing the same reo-ret, observed, " The King of Prussia will know the cause of your absence, and partake of the general regret which it occasions." As soon as Lord Hill found himself able to return to London, affairs of importance engaged him to u BB 370 DEATH OF SIR FRAKCIS HILL. Chap. XIV. degree that was extremely wearing to his body and mind ; and in addition he received a shock from the death of his brother, Sir Francis HilL A letter to Sir Rowland Hill explains all : — " Belgrave Square, April 1[. 1S42;, 4 p. ai. " My dear Rowland, " Since breakfast I have not had one moment unoccupied, chiefly with Indian affairs; and although I have [kept] and do keep my mind as quiet as I can from personal and domestic afflictions, I cannot resist sending you a line to condole with you and the family, on the event which will terminate to- morrow by the funeral of poor Francis. I must also beg you to accept my thanks for your note received yesterday, in which you so feelingly and properly convey to me its con- tents. I must also add, that I cordially and truly coincide in your sentiments, and trust that when Almighty God may be pleased to take us who are left, from hence, we shall be pre- pared to meet Him. " Probably you wiU see Sir Robert after you get this. Will you tell him that I have received some interesting let- ters from him. One tliis morning ; but it is really so painful and tiresome for me to write, that he must excuse my doing so at present. " Hair says I am much better, and I think he is about right. " Yours ever, " Hill." He still persevered in his daily routine of business, hoping that he was better, notwithstanding his sense of constant exhaustion. He refused almost all in- vitations, but accepted one from the Duke of Sussex. The Duchess of Gloucester remarked to those near her Roval Hio;hness at table, how ill he looked, and how unfit he was to be there. He took Colehani Chap. XIV. FULHAM. 371 House at Fulham for a time, whence lie wrote on the 7th of July, " Hair said my pulse was better this morning than it had been for some time. My dinner with the Duke of Sussex did me no good. One with the Duke of Cambridge, for Saturday, I must decline. Indeed, they are the only invitations I have accepted for some months." The following day. Colonel Egerton wrote from London: — "Belgrave Square, July 8. 1842. " INIy dear Sir Rowland, " Lord Fitzroy went out to Coleliam this morning, and had a talk with my Lord, but they did not advance much. Lord Hill said he had not recovered so well as he had expected, that his eyesight v/as very defective, and that he must give up office sooner or later. But he did not say that he shoidd see the Duke on the subject, nor did lie authorize Lord Fitz- roy to speak to his Grace upon it. ****** " I am happy to say he has sent an excuse to the Duke of Cambridge, who has a great military dinner to-morrow. " My Lord has been at the Horse Guards for three hours to-day, and has seen Hair, who does not think it necessary to be out with us. * * * " I remain, " Yours very truly, " 11. Egerton." The next account was, " He is extremely feeble ; and with a fire in the dining-room, this morning, could scarcely keep himself warm. JMy Lord went for an hour to Lady Gordon's breakfast yesterday, but does not feel up to the Duchess of Buccleuch's to-day." At the end of July, Lord Hill became so enfeebled, by his cares and exertions, that he determined to re- B B 2 372 LORD HILL RESIGNS. Chap. XIV. quest Lord Fitzroy Somerset to tell the Duke of Wellington he really must give up his office. The Duke called on him, and saw the propriety of his decision. After mentioning it to the Prime Minister, his Grace immediately wrote to him : — " My dear Hill, London, July 29. 1842. *' Since I saw you this day I have seen Sir Robert Peel, and I have informed him that my visit to you had not altered the impression made upon my mind, by your message yester- day through Lord Fitzroy Somerset. He regrets, as I do, and all must, that the state of your health should render it necessary for you to discontinue your valuable services to her Majesty, in the high situation which you have so long filled, not less to the public advantage than to your own honour. " Sir Robert Peel will immediately take into consideration the arrangement to be made for the performance of the im- portant duties hitherto performed by you, which will be sub- mitted to her Majesty, and carried into execution as soon as may be practicable after the prorogation of Parliament. He Avill communicate with you before he will bring the subject under her Majesty's consideration, and will settle with you the mode in which her IVIajesty shall be informed of the loss which the service is about to sustain, and the period at which such information shall be conveyed to her Majesty. " Believe me, my dear Hill, " Ever yours most sincerely, " Wellington." Lord Hill having left London by the advice of his physician, it was resolved that he should transmit, through Sir Robert Peel, a letter to her Majesty, ten- dering his resignation: — "Lord HiU presents his humble duty to your Majesty, and craves your Majesty's gracious permission to lay before your Majesty his resignation of the command of your Ma- jesty's army. HAP. XIV. GRACIOUS LE'iTEU OF Ili:u MAJKSTV, 37.'J " Lord Hill deeply regrets the neeet^sity of taking u btcp which will deprive him of a charge that has been h) h.ng committed to his hands, and for his continuanc*- in which he Is indebted to your Majesty's grace and favour; but he lias again suffered much from the illness under which he laboured in the early part of the year, and his health lias, in conse- quence, become so indifferent, as to make him inici|nal t«' the adequate discharge of the various important duties of his cont- mand; which, therefore, he feels he could not retain with due regard to the interests of your INrajesty's service. "Lord Hill had flattered himself that he should have l)ecn able to have laid his api)lication for retirement before your Majesty himself, and personally to have expressed to your Majesty his deep and lasting sense of your JMajcsty's gracious kindness to him on all occasions. Having, however, left London by the advice of his medical attendants, and l)cing too unwell to undertake a second journey, Lord Hill avails himself of this mode of assuring your ^lajesty of his unabated zeal for the service, of his dutiful devotion to your Majesty's person, and of the pain and sorrow with wliich he relin(juishcs an appointment that afforded him the honour and advantage of executing your Majesty's commands, and of receiving many gracious proofs of your Majesty's support and con- fidence. "Hardwick Grange, August y. 1842." To this commuiiicatioii lier Mnjesty most graciously condescended to reply ; and eiilianced tliis signal mark of her royal favour by causing her autograph letter to be forAvarded by Prince Albert: — " VVimlsor ("astle, August 1'2. )Si2. "The Queen has received Lord Hill's letter of the JMh instant, and is much concerned to learn that Lonl Hill is so suffering in health that he thinks it his duty to resign the im- portant office which he has so long and so honourably filh-tl. " The Queen can only reluctantly give her consent to this determination, as she regrets to lose Lord 1 1 ill's services at B n 3 374: • KINDNESS OF PRINCE ALBERT. Chap. XIV. the head of her army. She cannot, however, omit this op- portunity of expressing to Lord Hill her entire approbation of his conduct throughout the time he served her. " The Prince begs to have his kind regards sent to Lord HiU." Prince Albert having so kindly transmitted her Majesty's letter to Lord Hill, lie sent his answer through the same channel, accompanied by a note of thanks : — " Hardwick Grange, Shrewsbury, August 14. 1842. " Your Royal Highness having done me the honour to send me the expression of your good wishes, and also to for- ward to me the Queen's most gracious letter through which they were conveyed, I hope I may be allowed to send an answer to my sovereign through the same channel, and at the same time to express the feelings of consideration and esteem with which I shall ever remain " Your Royal Highness's most faithful " And devoted servant, " Hill. " His Royal Highness the Prince Albert, K.G., &:c." Lord Hill thus expressed his feelings to her Ma- jesty;— *'Lord Hill pi'esents his humble duty to your ISIajesty, and with a full heart returns to your ]\Iajesty his unfeigned thanks, for the gracious terms in which your Majesty has been pleased to accept his resignation of the command of your Majesty's army. " If any thing could reconcile Lord Hill to a sacrifice, a sense of duty to your Majesty's service has alone enabled him to make, it is the gratifying assurance, so graciously expressed by your Majesty, of your entire approbation of his conduct throughout the time he has served your Majesty ; the recol- lection of which will be cherished by Lord Hill with the warmest feelings of duty and gratitude to the latest day of his life. " Hardwick Grange, Shrewsbury, August 1 4. 1 842. Chap. XIV. FAREWELL LETTERS. .375 Such a testimony from the Queen's own liand was as gratifying as it was unexpected. Sir Robert Peel, on receiving Lord Hill's first letter to her Majesty, re- plied, " I shall probably have an interview with her Majesty to-morrow ; and I feel very confident that her Majesty will commission me to express, in the strongest terms, her sense of your valuable public services, her high esteem for your character, and her deep regret that the state of your health compels you to retire from an important trust, the duties of which you have discharged with exemplary fidelity." Sir Kobert further observed, " I need not assure you, that those are my sentiments ; and that I sincerely lament the discontinuance of a connection in public life, which has been to me the source of unmixed satisfaction. You will carry with you into an honourable retire- ment the affectionate attachment of the army, and the grateful recollection of your services in the field, and in the command of the army at home, l)y the people of this country. You have my earnest prayer that your health may be improved by repose from public labours." The letters which passed between Lord Hill and those distino'uished ofiicers who were associated with him at the Horse Guards, were full of expressions of unfeigned mutual esteem. To Lord Fitzroy Somerset he wrote, "I felt from the first that I might place the fullest reliance upon your judgment and ability, and that feeling the experience of so many years has only tended to strengthen and confirm." He expressed himself also in the kindest terms to Sir Willoughby Gordon, and to Sir John Macdonald, the (^uarter- li n 4 376 LORD hill's last general ORDEPw Chap. XIV Master-General, and Adjutant-General. The former assured him, in reply, that his labours had been made light by his constant encouragement, " com- bined with the gentlest manner, and the firmest pur- pose;" and the latter remarked how much relieved he had felt by his Lordship's kindness of heart, " in discharging the austere duties of the department of discipline." On the 15th of August, the following General Order was issued from the Horse Guards : — " General Lord Hill finds it necessary to resign the com- mand of the army, on account of his Lordship's present state of health, and her Majesty has been graciously pleased to accept his Lordship's resignation. When Lord HOI assumed the command Avhich he now resigns, he expressed, in General Orders, his confident liope that from general and other officers, as well as from the public departments of the army, he would receive that support which should enable him to fulfil the im- portant trust reposed in him. That hope has not been disap- pointed; but, on the contrary, realized beyond Lord Hill's miost sanguine expectation. The conduct of the troops lias, both in the field and in quarters, furnished, during Lord Hill's command of them, an example of discipline, regularity, and general efficiency not to be sui-passed, and the officers have, by their devotion to their duty, enabled his Lordship to main- tain the army in that creditable state. The officers have therefore established their claim to Lord Hill's lasting grati- tude and esteem. His Lordship cannot, then, but with pain- ful feelings, take leave of officers, non-commissioned oflScers, and soldiers, whose conduct has been so uniformly approved by their sovereign, and by their ceuntry These feelings are, however, gi*eatly allexi.'iteJ and consoled by the reflection that the command of the army is now to be resumed by the Duke of Wellington, the ever-vigilant and most influential guardian of its interests, and whose achievements have raised its cha- racter to the liighest pinnacle of glory." Chap. XIV. LETTER TO THE DUKE OF WELLINGTON. 377 The first tiling Lord Hill did when the Duke re- sumed this command, was to address his Grace in favour of his esteemed aid-de-camp and secretary, Colonel Egerton. In justice to that estimable man and able officer, the letter is given entire : — " Hardwick Grange, Shrewsbury, August l6. 1842. " My dear Duke of AYellington, " It affords me the highest satisfaction to learn that you have consented to resume the command of the army. " I am anxious to recommend Colonel Egerton to your kind protection, and I have the less hesitation in bringing his case before you, as I believe you are not unaware of his merit. He has been in the army ever since 1798. He served both in North and South America, and in the cam- paigns of the Peninsula from 1809 to the end of the war; and he was at Waterloo. He was severely wounded at Albuera, when in charge of the Adjutant-General's department; and having become my aid-de-camp the following year, he has been ,employed under me to the present hour. During the whole time I held the command of the army he has been my Private Secretary, and has so discharged the duties of that situation that I cannot speak too highly of him, nor say how much I feel indebted to him. " I had intended, when I offered my resignation to the Queen, to solicit her IMajesty's permission to recommend him for the grant of 200Z. a-year out of the Good Service Fund ; but finding that the sum dis]iosable nt this moment is consi- derably less than that, I shall be infinitely obliged to your Grace if you will recommend him for it when you may have the means. " Believe me ever, " My dear Duke of Wellington, " Yours very faithfully, « Hill." The Duke, who was passing through London to Walmer when he received this letter, desired Lord 378 SECRETARIES AT WAR. CnAr. XIV. Fitzroy Somerset to be so good as to reply to it by return of post, which he did in these terms: — " The Duke of WelUngton came to town early this morning from Windsor, and is now gone to Walmer. He told me that the Queen spoke much and most kindly of your Lordship ; and he desired me to say, that he had received your letter in favour of Colonel Egerton, and that you may rely upon his recommending him for the first 200/. a year he has to dispose of." Co- lonel Egerton was not long in receiving this and other tokens of his Grace's approbation. Lord Hill had to deal with no less than eleven Secretaries at War during his administration of the army, if we reckon the second appointment of Sir Henry Hardinge ; ten without it. They were. Vis- count Palmerston, Sir Henry Hardinge, Lord Francis Leveson Gower, Mr. C. Williams Wynn, Sir Henry Parnell, Sir John Cam Hobhouse, Mr. Edward Ellice, Mr. J. C. Herries, Viscount Howick, Mr. T. B. Ma- caulay, Sir Henry Hardinge. Notwithstanding their difference of views, they all seemed to regard him with personal respect, and treated him with courtesy. The esteem of the last-named distinguished servant of her Majesty was expressed as follows : — " My dear Lord, War Office, August 20. 1 842. " I came to town last night, and I take this opportunity of expressing to your Lordship the deep sense of respect I shall always entertain towards your Lordship, for the very cordial assistance and co-operation I received from you in the per- formance of my official duties. " I trust, my dear Lord, that your health will continue to improve, and that I shall have frequent opportunities of wit- nessing its perfect re-estahlishment. This anxiety is shared CuAP. XIV. SIR HENRY HARDINGE. 379 most entirely by the officers of the army, who have so long had the happiness to serve imder your Lordship's command. " Will you do me the favour to mention to Egerton that I have this day written a note to Lord Fitzroy Somerset, for the purpose of conveying to him ray hearty concurrence in Colonel Egerton's appointment to be a Lieutenant-Colonel unattached. " I am, my dear Lord, with sentiments of the sincerest respect and esteem, " Your Lordship's very faithful servant, " H. Hardinge. "The Lord Hill, G.C.B." Lord Hill's answer proves how mucli he felt this, and other similar communications, on his retirement : — " Hardwick Grange, near Shrewsbury, August 23, 1842. " My dear Hardinge, " Your very gratifying and friendly letter did not reach me so soon as it ought, having been mis-sent to Chester. I hasten to thank you for it, and to assure you that the satisfac- tion derived from our official intercourse has at least been mutual, and I am very sensible of the support I have always received at your hands. The kind feeling shown by so many valued friends, on the occasion of my retirement from the command of the army, has been most gratifying, and I can only regret that the state of my health made such a step necessary. I hope I may not have deferred it too long, and that in the quiet of the country I may still live to see my distinguished successor acquit him- self as he always does. " Thank you much for remembering Egerton. He is not with me at present, but I expect him in a few days. I have been anxious to do what I could for him, and I am sure he will duly ajipreciate your kindness to him. " Ever, my dear Hardinge, " Yours with great trutli, " Hill. " Lieutenant-General the Right Hon. Sir Henry Hardinge, K.C.B." 380 ORDER OF THE DUKE OF Vv^ELLINGTOX. Chap. XIV. The General Order of the Duke of AVellington, issued on the 17th of August, when his Grace took possession of the Horse Guards, was very gratifymg to Lord Hill. It is brief, but to the point : — *' In obedience to her INIajesty's command, Field Marshal the Duke of WeUington assumes the command of the army, and earnestly requests the assistance and support of the general and other officers of the army to maintain the disci- pline, good order, and high character, for which it has been conspicuous, and which have been maintained to a degree so deserving of praise during the long period of the command of liis respected predecessor. General Lord Hill. The Duke of Wellington sincerely regrets that the state of his Lordship's health should have rendered it necessary for him to desire to discontinue his active services ; and he anxiously hopes that the army will not suffer in consequence of the change." Lord Hill had not long given up the arduous post he so reluctantly quitted, ere he received, in a letter from Sir Robert Peel, the announcement of his eleva- tion to the rank of Viscount : — " My dear Lord Hill, Whitehall, Aug. 24. 1842. " I have received the commands of the Queen to acquaint you, that in consideration of your high character, your emi- nent military services in the field, and the ability, integrity, and zeal with which you have discharged for many years the important duties of the office of Commander of the Forces, her jMajesty proposes to raise you to the rank of Viscount ; and in order that there may be a permanent record of your public services, to confer the title witli remainder to your nephew. Sir Rowland Hill. " It is very gratifying to me personally, who have so long had the satisfaction of being acquainted with you, and have had so m.'iny opportunities of judging of your merits as a servant of the Crown, to be the channel of a communication Chap. XIV. LORD HILL MADE A VISCOUKT. 381 which will, I trust, be acceptable to you. I5clievc mo, my dear Lord, with sincere esteem, " Most faithfully yours, " KoBERT Peel." The letter acknowledging this communication was truly characteristic of the modesty and gratitude of its writer. His chief pleasure in accepting this new mark of the royal favour was its extension to his nephew, Sir Rowland Hill, whom he regarded witli a parent's affection, and whose attentions were now cheering his decline. " Hard wick Grange, Shrewsbury, " My dear Sir Robert, August 25. 1842. " I have this morning had the honour of receiving your letter of yesterday, announcing in terms the most gratifying to my feelings, that her Majesty has been graciously pleased to raise me to the rank of a Viscount. " The gracious and condescending words which her ^hi- jesty vouchsafed to address to me with her own hand, on accepting my resignation of the command of the army, had left me without one wish ungratified : but since it is her Majesty's royal will and j^leasure still further to declare her appi'oval of my poor services, by conferring on me the title of Viscount, I shall feel much indebted by your assin-ing her Majesty, with the expression of my humble duty, that I most gratefully accept this additional mark of her jNIajesty's favour, and that I am very sensible of the considerate feeling which has led her Majesty to continue the title to my nephew. Sir Rowland Hill. " I cannot conclude without requesting you to accept my unfeigned thanks for the very gratifying terms in which you have made this communication, as well as for the kindness and promptitude with which you have enabled me to retire from the fxtisfues of office, and which I shall ever retain a grateful recollection of. " Believe me, my dear Sir Robert, " Yours very faithfully, " Rt. Hon. Sir Robert Peel, Bart., M.P." « Hill. 382 LORD HILL IN RETIREMENT. Chap. XIV. Lord Hill seemed at this time to be somewhat re- vived by the air of his native county. In the month of September, I was on a visit at Hawkstone, where he was expected. On his arrival, I met him coming towards the garden, and never did I see, in so short a time, a more striking change than had passed over his entire appearance. His fi:ait, his habits, were all dif- ferent ; yet the same bland spirit pervaded his conver- sation, and gave a charm to his manner. He appeared to enjoy the society at his nephew's hospitable table, but retired to lie down after the departure of the ladies. An artist was at Hawkstone taking photographic likenesses with an apparatus set up in the conserva- tory ; and Lord Hill seemed amused with the process, and with sitting for his own, but was not able to stay long at a time. At dinner, he was often cheerful, and full of anecdote, and sometimes appeared to rally so much, that hopes of his restoration to comfortable health were entertained by those who were with him. Occasionally he was a good deal overcome after a morning's writing, rendered necessary by references to him on the alFairs of the army. His memory on these points was most accurate. He knew every man's place, and every man's services. The American Boundary Question interested him a good deal ; and he made himself master of the maps, which he ex- plained with a clearness that surprised us all. At times he felt so much better, that he superintended several little farming improvements at Hardwick ; but exertion generally proved too much for him. On the Sabbaths, it was most pleasing to see the fervour of his devotion, and his anxiety to attend the Chap. XIV. HADNAL CIIUllCH. 383 services of the clav. He took o-reat interest in his viUage church at Hadnal, and assisted most liberally to put it into a state of tasteful, but unostentatious, repair. The last day I ever saw him in his o^vii house, he invited myself and others to accompany him to see the alterations he had made in the church. We went ; and as we left the interior, he walked pen- sively round the tower. He was standing on the spot which he felt conscious would soon be his grave. He gave an indistinct answer to some question, and re- lapsed into silence. The recollection of that day will never pass from my mind. He came back to Hawk- stone for a short visit. The morning of his departure I went into his room to bid him adieu. " jMay God bless you and prosper you," were his last kind words ; and I saw that he felt they were his last. I had been the minister whom he had heard for the two previous Sundays ; and I could not fail to mark the earnestness of his manner, and the deep feeling which evidently pervaded his mind, though, as usual, he said little, but that little conveyed much to one aware of his reserve. I have every reason to believe that, with him, " at evenino; time it was lio;ht," and that he was lookins: penitently for salvation through Christ alone. I can never cease to cherish the most grateful remem- brance of his kind attention to myself. One instance I cannot refrain from mentioning here. Knowing my esteem for my revered guardian, the Rev. Rowland Hill, and the loss I sustained by his death, he at once marked his veneration for his uncle and his friendly feeling to me, by having engraved on a valuable stone a small head of Mr. Rowland Hill, of exquisite work- 384 LETTER TO COLONEL EGERTON. Cuap. XIV. man ship. This he caused to be set in a handsome ring of antique form, which he sent me with a note expressive of the motives which had induced him to present me with such a token of his regard. On all occasions his first impulse was in the most benevolent direction, and he carried out his intentions with a re- finement peculiarly his own. The last letter he ever wTote to his aid-de-camp. Colonel Egerton, who had sent him a little financial statement to allay some apprehensions he seemed to feel as to his future income, shows his great regard for that invaluable friend, and the quiet character of his home occupations. " Dear Egerton, Hardwick Grange, Sept. 14. 4 p. m. " I have received your note of yesterday, with the account book. If I had the strength and power of writing ' a sprig of prose,' this would be one opportunity of doing so, to ex- press, in the strongest manner 1 am able, my obligations to you for your kind and laborious management of my private con- cerns. Indeed, without your long-continued attention and trouble, my affairs would have been in a bad state, and I should have been a poor man. I do not wish to confine my obligations to you to the charge of my privy purse, but to [extend] them also to every branch, public and private, in which I have experienced the kind and friendly assistance which for many years I have had from you. " We are just returned from Acton Regnald.* ****** The pond is just finished: it has occupied twelve or thii-teen men every day, and is considered to be an excellent job. The quantity of mud has satisfied Beeston. There were many hundred little carp and one pike in the pit. It is time for the post, so I must send this hasty letter off. " Yours ever most truly, " Hill." * The seat of Sir Aiuli-ew Corbet, niece, the sister of the present Bart,, who married Lord Hill's Viscount Hill. CuAP. XIV. STATE OF LORD HILL's MIND. 385 This letter, probably his last, was written in a tre- mulous hand ; and though he felt tolerably comfort- able, it was too plain to his friends that he was ra- pidly sinking. They had, however, the happiness of seeing him in that state of mind which manifested serious preparation for his end. On his first arrival in Shropshire, after his resignation, he expressed great thankfulness at having escaped from London, par- ticularly on account of the enjoyment he experienced in spending his Sundays in the country. The heat and ci'owd of the churches in town had so completely overcome him, that he was obliged frequently to stay at home ; but he was able constantly to attend divine service in a quiet country village, and at the chapel belonging to the house at Hawkstone. He seemed to have entirely thrown off all worldly cares, and to have fixed his thoughts on the mighty interests of the world to which he was rapidly hastening. He said little, but his solemnity during public worship, and at the prayers of the family, was perceptible to every one present. When he became too Aveak to leave his house, his nephew, the Rev. John Hill, went on Sun- day evenings to Hardwick, and read the prayers and a sermon to him in private. If Mr. John Hill hap- pened to be prevented going, another nephew, the Rev. Francis Hill, occupied his place. AYhenever Mr. John Hill called, the conversation was always such as became the chamber of a dying man ; and he was invariably asked to pray with his uncle. " All observed," says his eldest sister, in a communication on the subject, "the deep feeling expressed by the invalid when the glorious plan of redemption was c c 386 ATTENTION OF SIR llOWLAND HILL. Chap. XIV. dwelt upon through the atonement of our Lord Jesus Christ ; and those who attended his death-bed, had the comfort of beheving that the name of the Saviour was a cordial to him in his distressing state of weak- ness." His affections were evidently concentrated upon Him who is the sinner's only hope, the sinner's only friend. He felt the full force of the truth, that " other foundation can no man lay, than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ ;" and that no man, of whatever grade, can come to the Father but by Him. This is a lesson the mightiest of the earth must learn before they can depart in peace. When on the eve of his last journey to Taganrog, where he died, the Emperor Alexander of Russia said to a benevolent English gentleman *, whom he had for years honoured with his confidence, " Do you think that any man, however exalted in station, or distinguished for philanthropy, can be safe in resting on any other ground for sal- vation, but a humble reliance on the perfect, all- suificient atonement of his crucified Redeemer?" " Certainly not, sire," was the unhesitating reply. " That is my opinion," said the Emperor, " and I try daily to realize it : I have no other hope ; it is my only comfort." The same assurance was deeply felt by Lord Hill ; and he was supported by it to the last. Sir Rowland Hill, who was constantly at his bed-side, was much impressed by the manifest penitence of his beloved uncle. At length Lord Hill became exceed- ingly overcome with torpor, and slept the greater part * John Venning, Esq., well he was supported by the late and known in St. Petersburg!! for his present emperors, many acts of benevolence, in which CiiAP. XIV. DEATH OF LOPvD HILL. 387 of his time, but seldom woke without desiriiiir liis nephew to come and pray Avith liim, and read hiin short portions of the Scriptures. On one occasion, he selected himself the iifty-iirst Psalm, as particularly suited to the state of his feelings ; and a more satis- factory evidence could scarcely have been given of a contrite spirit, with its essential accompaniment, a desire for a new heart. He said to Mr. John Hill, " I have a great deal to be thankful for ; I believe, also, I have not an enemy in the world. With regard to my religious feelings, I have not power to express much, and never had ; but I do trust I am sincere ; and I hope for mercy." When the sacrament was administered to him, there were present, Sir Rowland Hill, Colonel Egerton, and his two affectionate sisters, Miss Hill and Miss Emma Hill. " Ah ! " said he to Colonel Egerton, who arrived that day, " I thought you would come and join me in this." His faithful valet, Calderwood, told Mr. John Hill, "His Lordship never wakes day nor night but he prays earnestly." On the day of his death, though at times it could hardly be ascertained whether he was still conscious, and he had ceased to reply to any ordinary question, when Mr. John Pliil said, "Shall I pray mth you?" he immediately raised his head, and clasped his hands. Shortly after, he gave one faint sigh, and was no more. Lord Hill died on Saturday morning, December 10., on Avhich very day the following kind letter was written from Windsor : — c c 2 388 INQUIRIES AND CONDOLENCE. Chap. XIV. " Sir, Windsor Castle, December 10. 1842. " Her Majesty and the Prince have heard with very great concern of the serious illness of Lord Hill, and have com- manded me to write, to make particular inquiries in their name as to how Lord Hill is. I shall therefore be much obliged to you to let me know, and to inform Lord Hill of the gracious message which has been sent. " I have the honour to be, Sir, " Your most obedient servant, " G. S. Anson. " Sir Kowland Hill, Bart., M.P." Sir Kowland could only reply, " It is my painful duty to acquaint you, for the information of the Queen and his Koyal Highness, that my uncle's long illness terminated in his death on Saturday morning last, the 10th instant. Although Lord Hill's valuable life was not spared long enough for him to learn the feeling of interest which her Majesty and the Prince had so graciously expressed towards him, yet I beg to be permitted to state, with my humble duty to the Queen and his Royal Highness, that their gracious condescension is duly appreciated, and will be ever gratefully remembered by the surviving members of his family." Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Kent, in commanding the expression of her sym- pathy, was pleased to designate him " her old and esteemed friend ; " and from the most distinguished quarters his relatives received such expressions of re- gard for the departed, as tended to afford them great consolation under their bereavement. The Duke of Wellington wrote thus : — Chap. XIV. LETTER OF THE DUKE OF WELLINGTON. '6H\) " Strathfieldsayc, Dec. 12. 1812. " My dear Sir Howland, " Your letter of the 10th, giving mc the inehmcholy account of the death on that morning of your uncle, my old companion and friend. Lord Hill, reached me yesterday. " You may conceive better than I can express how nmoli I have felt his loss. Move than thirty-five years ha^■c elap.sed since I had the satisfaction of being first connected witli and assisted by him in the public service ; and I must say that, from that moment up to the latest period of liis valuable and honourable life, nothing ever occurred to interrupt for one moment the friendly and intimate relations which subsisted between us. " During many years, when both were employed in the service of our Sovereign, he invarialjly did every thing in his power to promote my views. The habits then established continued up to the latest period of his holding the Connnand in Chief of the army. He knew that he could rely upon my support and assistance upon every occasion of difficulty or annoyance to him. I performed no more than my duty in affording both ; but I have the satisfaction of feeling that he knew that it was performed willingly and heartily. " I beg you to be assured, and to convey to your family the assurance of my condolence in the severe loss which they have sustained ; and that you will believe me to be " Ever yours most sincerely, " Wellington. « Sir Rowland Hill, Bart., " Hardwick Grange, Shrewsbury." This letter was one of the chief secoiuhiry com- forts of his surviving friends. I call them secondary, because their grand primary consolation was the assurance that the man whose praise was on the lips of all classes — of his Sovereign, his cliieftain in arms, his companions in public service, even those whose opinions did not harmonize with his own, his 390 FUNERAL OF LORD HILL. Cuap. XIV. dependents, and the recipients of his charities — himself departed this life in deep humiliation before his God, and casting all his hopes of immortality on the atoning love of his Redeemer. To Him, and Him only, he looked believingly at the moment when the vain glitter of this tinsel world faded from his view. His earnest prayer was that God would pardon his frailties and infirmities, renew a right spirit mthin him, and show him mercy. It was Lord Hill's particular desire that his funeral should be private. The Corporation of Shrewsbury offered to attend ; but his family declined this and all similar tokens of respect, in accordance with his ex- press instructions. He was interred in the little village church of Hadnal, on Friday, December the 16th. One incident was simple and touching. A recruiting party of the 53d Regiment, which the deceased had once commanded, came of their own accord, formed in line, and saluted the Body as it passed to the tomb. There were, besides, multitudes of spectators, whose silence was deep and solemn. In Shrewsbury, and other towns, peals of muffled bells, and a universal suspension of business, gave touching evidence of no common respect for "the soldier's friend," and the most distinguished ornament of his county. While engaged in preparing for this last sad cere- mony, the mourners were destined to receive a shock that nearly overwhelmed them. On that very morning, Mrs. Hill, the widow of Lord Hill's esteemed eldest brother, and the mother of the present Viscount, died at the Citadel, in Hawkstone Park. She had been ill for some time, and during her illness manifested all Chap. XIV. DEATH OF MRS. HILL. 391 those proofs of the influence of genuine religion Avhieh adorn the doctrine of the Gospel, and exhibit its sup- porting and consoling power. The last time she ever left her house was to pay a visit at Ilardwick, but the interview with her dying brother-in-law was not permitted. Neither Lord Hill nor herself were fit for such a meeting. On returning home, she observed, " God only knows, but most probably we shall never be under the same roof again in this world." Lady Hill soon after went to stay with her. When she heard of Lord Hill's anxious wish to receive the sacra- ment with Sir Rowland, she said, " Poor old man, he clings to Rowland, who has been like a son to him ; and he ought to do every thing he can to add to his happiness in his last moments. But I pity poor Row- land ; a death-bed scene is a new thing for hhn ; but it is good for him ; these things teach us a useful lesson, and show us what death really is." When the account of Lord Hill's death actually reached her, it was a stunning blow. She thought and spoke of her own husband — but spoke like a Christian. She had Lady HiU's children brought into her room, and tried to make the solemn moment useful to their young minds. All her words were expressive of penitence, and hope in Christ Jesus. She had seemed somewhat to revive : but just as the church bell of the adjacent village of Weston, began to toU on the morning of Lord Hill's interment, about eight o'clock, she died, without the slightest movement indicating pain. The way in which her eldest son bore the trials of that day, made a lasting impression on the witnesses of his agony of mind, and his struggle to go through the 392 DEATH OF MAJOR-GENERAL C. HILL. Chap. XIV. duty before him. The words of an eminent writer * are descriptive of the case of his deceased mother " Her prudence in the managing her children was so singular and rare, that whenever you mean to bless this family, and pray a hearty and profitable prayer for it, beg of God that the children may have those excellent things which she designed to them, and pro- vided for them in heart and wishes, that they may live by her purposes, and may grow thither, whither she would fain have brought them." " Sir Robert Chambre Hill is the only one of Lord Hill's gallant brothers now living : five sisters still survive him. Major-General Clement Hill died re- cently on the western coast of India, deeply lamented. He was in the sixty- third year of his age, and had won the same esteem in his Indian command that he gained wherever he was situated. " I can never," said a young officer on his stafi', " again know so kind, so indulgent a friend ; " and he also remarked, " by all the Mysore division, by all that knew him in this country, he was looked up to with the greatest regard and respect. When he died, there was not a dry eye in the camp ; Christians, Mussulmans, and Hindoos mingled their tears, for all loved him." He was buried at Honore, and a detachment of the 28th Native Infantry fired over his grave. The evening before his death he joined with deep so- lemnity in the prayers of the Church, which were read to him by the amiable officer just alluded to. It was the Sabbath ; and on Monday morning, January the 20th, he expired without a struggle — he merely ceased to breathe. Soon after his decease it was pro- * Jeremy Taylor^ of the Countess of Carbcry. Chap. XIV. LORD IIILL\s PERSONAL AITKAKANCK. IVX] posed to erect a tablet to liis liuiiuurcd la.i.mry in St. Mark's cliurch, Bangalore, and to found a chari- table institution bearing his name. Sir Robert Hill occupies the house at Prees in which Lord Hill was born, and is one of the most efficient magistrates in the county of Snlop. At Hawkstone, the present Viscount and his excellent Viscountess are, in all respects, a blessing to tliose over whom their wide influence extends : never are they mentioned, by the gentry, the farmers, or the cottagers, without some note of that affectionate esteem that has from time immemorial rested on the name of Hill. The personal aj^pearance of Lord Hill at the latter period of his hfe, is admirably represented in the portrait by Richmond, engraved for this ^•olume. It is a happy likeness of him as hu ^vas seen in those circles where he was best known, durinj; the time he was Commander-in-Chief; and it is also more in unison with the simplicity of his character and taste, than if he had been taken covered mtli the honours* con- ferred on him for his deeds of arms. In staturr, he was, as nearly as possible, what may be called the mid- dle height, with an inclination to stoutness. His com- plexion was florid ; his eye l)right, and full of Ix-nevo- lence. His whole demeanour indicated 1-dndness and modesty, rendering him extremely approachable, but mingled with a dignified firmness, wliirli sup[)ressed * These were, Grand Cross of William from the Kinp of the the Bath ; Guelphic Ortler ; Tower Netherlands; Cross's an«l four and Sword; the Russian Order of Clasps commemorating Hattles ; St. George ; Austrian Order of Turkish Order of tlie Crescent ; iVIaria Theresa ; Military Order of AVaterloo .Medal. D D 394 LOED hill's CHAEACTER and example. Chap. XIV. at once any indiscreet attempt to take advantage of his oentle bearins:. His command insured obedience Avithout exciting the slightest sense of austerity ; and the words of the Latin poet were once appropriately applied to him, as illustrative of his manner in the field, — " Monstrat tolerare labores, Non jubet." It was impossible to have any intercourse with him, and not to come away with a glow of kindly feel- ing. Yrhen he said, on his death -bed, he believed he had not an enemy, he spoke that which was the fact. How he won and retained the esteem of the great, the brave, and the good, has sufficiently appeared in this humble attempt to exhibit his real character during the successive stages of his long and memor- able career. The most important lesson of his life is in its close, when he felt and proclaimed the utter nothingness of all the honours of the world, in com- parison with that penitent hope which can alone support the mind as the things of this earthly scene are leaving us. All the trophies of war, however nobly gained, are at best but proofs of the lusts and passions of man ; and though the character of Lord Hill as a soldier must be regarded as a high example, while the profession of arms rem.ains needful, yet we anticipate the period Avhen the triumph of the gospel shall be complete, and the nations learn war no more. The great hero of the age, whom Lord Hill assisted to stem the inundation of that lawless power which swept away the liberties of other nations of Euro|)e, and threatened those of our own, has been for nearly CuAP. XIV. ins INSTRUCTIVE END. .395 thirty years the most eminent promoter of peace. Tlie tendencies of Lord Hill's mind were ever in the same direction. War was not his element ; but he t-n- gaged in it, convinced that religion, freedom, the ri^rlits of nations, and all that man holds dear, summoned onv hosts into the field. He felt as deeply as any human being all that is afflicting in warfare ; but at the mo- ment when duty called, these emotions vanished fn^m his mind, and were replaced by a firm and successful resolve to enter into the struggle, in the hope that the issue might be the deliverance of Europe and the paci- fication of the world. When the gracious providence of God brought the contests in which he was so honourably conspicuous to a close, no man expressed a warmer or a more sincere gratitude, and tlie whole tenor of his fife proved that he had been familiarized to the sight of contest and slaughter williout the least detriment to the gentler qualities of his nature. Yet, though conscious of all this, and more — of endeavours to relieve the miseries of war — of kind- ness to friends — of tenderness to captive enemies — of charity to the poor — of attention to the external offices of religion — of integrity in his public and private acts — he renounced every other foundation, as all that will be saved must do, but the one that standeth sure, even Jesus Christ. THE END. LoxnoK : Printed by A. Spottiswoode, New- Street- Square. WORKS LATELY PUBLISHED. I. THE DUKE of MARLBOROUGH'S LETTERS and DESPATCHES", from 1702 to 1712, recently discovered at Woodstock. Edited by General the Right Hon. Sir George Murray, G. C. 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'"- Examiner, rtt IN SPAIN. •rll WAR OF THE .'^I Hy Loud Mahon. .'>'d(.ii * ; "Lord .\Lihon'« nnrratne miecit b ordered mind— it 11 cumprchcnilvr, clear Quarterly Heeiew. VIII. SPAIN UNDER CHAULK.S THE .. ISy Lord .Maiiu.n. S^iunil Edition, rx. . 8ro, 6s. 6d. " A very curious volume : of imnll pr»'!rn«!«nt, \m\ rt sterling value; almost every p ■■ f one kind or other, and it is oli\ extracts, that a discreet Judgmmt 1..11 l-ccii cicicucu la the selection." — Spectator. IX. HI.STORV OF INDIA, THE HINDOO AM) .M AllOMMKMA.V l'KHIoI>S. Py the Hon. >linNTSTrART Elphisstdnk. Ike nt EAitioH. JIap. 2 vols'. Cvo, .■>!*. " A work of the greatest •uthoritjr and Wamlnic— on* of the latest and most valuable voiks on the Eastern Emptra.' —air Robert Peel. THE popes' OF ROME: during the Kith and 17th Centuries. Ily I.iu)rouin*!««». Translated by .Sarah At stim. Sicoiid Edition. 3 tuU. 8vo. 36/. " An excellent book. excellently transUte, 3li$. " A safe book for all to read. Tlir ■ ti-- t;-, and the authority of the « ti where m.ilnt.iined." — Preface to rie .i'ltmc.i . /■. ji- tion, by Vr. Murdoch, HISTORY OF ENGLAND UNDER THE ANGLO SAXON KINGS. Knin the Gcnnan of Laitrnrkho. Uy IlKNJAMiN TiioMPE, K.&A. With Ad- ditions nnd Corrections by the Author and TrmnaUtor. 2 vols. 8vo. {In the Press.) Xtll. JIANNERS, AND CUSTOMS OF THE ANCIENT EGVPTIA.N8. derived fioiii lllcmnlyplnc*. Sculpture, &c., still exinlins, c«'; pnrvd »IU> Aiuniil Authors. My Sir Garb.ser \ViLM.v>oj«. Stcond Ed I i-jm. With 6tKj IlUi-trati. ins C vol*. Svo, C/. 6«. "Sir Gardner Wilkinson has done more lo m-ike t'-« people of the Pharaoh* knoirn lo us moderns tin snjr contcmporarv wiitir." — .'i«ff«' « '' Magazine. [Ja.nuarv, 1845.] Mr. MURRAY'S LIST OF BOOKS.— Biography. BIOGRAPHY. LIFE OF LORD CHANCELLOR ELDON ; including his Correspondence, and Selections from his Anecdote Book. By IFohack Twiss, Esq., one of ITer Majesty's Counsel. AVith Portraits. Second Edition. 3 vols. 8vo, 42s. "This is a sterling work and will Vive."—Quai-te)li/ liet'iew. " Mr. Twiss has just crowned a literary life more labori- ous and more important in its labours than tlie world is perhaps aware of, by a biographical work, which, in point of interestandiiermanent value, is not surpassed by any of the class to which it belongs." — Morning Citron. " Cannot fail to stand amonpst the sterling additions to our higher biogrjiphical literature, as the memorial, by a candid, cultivated, and discreet mind, of one of the most remarkable men in the later English aunals." — Morning Pout. " This work will live with posterity, and be esteemed as one of the most valuable contributions to the standard literature of the age. . . ." — Times. "These volumes abound in capital anecdotes — possess passag'es of very effective writing— and form a work which oufiht to be in the library of every lawyer, statesman, and English gentleman." — Blackwood. MEMOIRS AND CORRESPONDENCE OF LIEUT. GEN. SIR HUDSON LOWE. Edited by his Son. 8vo. In the Press. "These Memoirs embrace an Account of Public Affairs in the Mediterranean from 1792 to 1SI2; the most im- portant Events in the Liberation War in Germany {1813), and in the Campaign of France (1814) leading to the Downfall of Napoleon ; the political and military Trans- actions in the Netherlands, immediately previous to the Campaign of Waterloo ; and public and personal Proceed- ings during the Detention of Napoleon at St. Helena." III. LIFE OF LORD HILL, Commander op the Forces. From Authentic Documents supplied by his Family and Friends. By Rev. Edwin Sidney. 8vo. Nearly ready. CORRESPONDENCE OF THE RIGHT IIONOURAULE RICHARD HILL, Envoy E.xtraordi- iiary from the Court of St. James to the Duke of Savoy, in the reign of Queen Anne. By Rev. W. Blackey, B.A. 2 vols. 8vo. Itcarly Ready. MEMOIR OF WILLIAM TAYLOR, OF NORWICH, includinc; his Correspondence with Southcy. By J. W. RoBBERDS, Esq. Portrait. 2 vols. 8vo, 30.?. " The narrative is that of an able man— and the corres- pondence as interestingasany we are likely to see revealed for many years to come." — Quarterly Review, LIFE OF DR. ANDREW BELL, Author of the System of Mutual Tuition. Vol. I by Robert Soutiiev, LL.D. Vols. 2 and 3 by the Rev. C. C. Southey. 3 vols. 8vo, i2s. "A posthumous work of the late Mr. Southey cannot fail to excite interest. A Life from his pen of Dr. Bell, for whom and whose system he was known to feel so marked a respect, illustrates the veneration which greatness has for greatness." — Athencsum. LIFE OF SIR DAVID WILKIE ; With his Letters, Journals, and Critical Remarks on Works of Art, during his tours in France, the Netherlands, Italy, Spain, Germany, Turkey, Egypt, and the Holy Land. By Alla.v Cu.v.vingham, Esq. Portrait. 3 vols. 8vo. 42j. " Mr. Allan Cun'iingham has done justice to his subject, and produced a work of great interest and utility." — (Jen- tleman's Magazine. LIFE OF ROBERT BURNS. By J. 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"Au able and valuable performance." — Monthly Review, LIFE OF EDWARD GIBBON, AVith Selections from his Correspondence, &c., and Notes. By Rev. II. II. Milman, Minister of St. Margaret's, and Prebendary of M'estminster. Portrait. 8vo, 9*. " The present volume is a valuable and necessary com- panion to the Decline and Fall. No one who desires to be informed in the most engaging and dignified manner of the most important eras in the world's annals can allow himself to remain unacquainted with the life and corres- pondence ofits very remarkable author." — Monthly Reoiew. i LIVES OF GALILEO, TYCHO BRAHE, AND KEPLER, the Martyrs of Science. By Sir David Brewster, LL.D. 12rao, 7*. " A pleasant contribution to our scientific biography."— Athe7icBuni. "A very delightful performance, containing gera-like portraitures of three extraordinary geniuses." — Literary Gazette. XV. CORRESPONDENCE OF Dr. BENTLEY, Master of Trinity College, Cambridge. By the Rev. 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Uy Owbn Jones, Areliitect. AVith Useful anil Instructive Notes by a careful Editor. 8vo. Nearly Heady. e^u^ J^'storical Illustrations are selected from the Works or the Pure Artists of the early Italian aud German Schools. ILLUSTRATIONS OF THE LITURGY AND KITUAL OK TIIH CIllUClI, boing iSonnons iind Discourses of eminent Divines of the Seventeenth Cen- tury. By Jamks BKOGnKN, M.A. 3 vols, post Hvo, 27^. " A most valuable addition to every parochial durtry- man's, and indeed toevery churchman's library."— /Ju/iou of Exeter's Charge, "Mr. Brogden's useful Collection of Discourses on the Liturgy and Ritual of the Church."— i?is/io/> vf London's Charge. CATHOLIC SAFEGUARDS AGAINST THE ERRORS. CORRUPTIONS, AND NOVELTIES OP THE CHURCH OF ROME. Selected from Ivmi. rent Divines of the Church of Ensland. By Jamks Brogden, M.A. 4 vols. 8vo. (In the Press ) SERMONS PREACHED AT WHITEHALL. By the Rev. AV. J. 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MANNERS ANd'''"cUSTOMS OF THE AKCIENT EGYPTIANS, derived from Hieroglyphics, Sculpture, Paintings, &c., still e.xisting. compared with Ancient Authors. By Sib Gardner Wilkin.son. Edition. With GOO Illustrations. 6 vols. 8vo, dl. •'Sir Gardner Wilkinson has done more to make the people of the Pharaohs known to us moderuii Ihau any contemporary writer."— il.. to f ( Secotid Bs. XXIV. I CAIRO, PETU.V, AM) DAM.\SrL'.«5 ; from Niitm niiiilu duriiiK n T A.M.MK IIC SE.VS; during li;3!)-40 41-4;.' 4.1. Ity < »n*ir< t-m Jamb* Clark Ross, Knt. Plates and .Mnpk. 2 voU. «»<>. /n 1*« Press. " These volumes will contain »n Acrnunt nf Kfrr^;''''-n Island, Van Dicnu-n'.i Land, Can : ' Island, New Zealand. Falkland l>lai New South Shetland. The Discovery "1 ' '■:'• tinent named Victoria Land, and the dclcr. I Uio South Magnetic Pole." TRAVELS IN NEW ZEAI By Routes through the InferiiT. With • the Geography, Geolngy, Uotnny, and Nm the Islands. Ity Eknkst Diekfkmiai ii, M. to the New Zealnml Vompanii. 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ReevesCnaracteristics of Painters BeJected^^heTa.Ls"cr^'""°"^ Bideto I-lorence 1 Robertsons' South America " Bobmson's Biblical Researciie's J^ompiy-s ,^fc[;Tr^"3' Boss s(.s,r James) Voyage ' Rundel -s Domestic Cookery " Russia in the East ^ Sale's (Lady) Journal " ' Scrope on Deer Stalking ' — Salmon Fislnng' . y . 5 . 6 . 6 . 3 . 15 . 8 . .3 . 9 . 1.5 . 10 . 7 . 4 . 11 . 11 . 12 . 4 . 12 . 4 .111 • GJ . 5 . 6 . 3 13 14 '; ' c„„t ' ^aimon Fishing 1? cf-\ , Christianity 15 I Stisted's Italv . '^ ' 12, Smith's (Miss, Fragments * lA o ~ (Br. AV.) 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