Whilst the greatest effort has been made to ensure the quality of this text, due to the historical nature of this content, in some rare cases there may be minor issues with legibility. I affectionately inscribe these memoirs OF AN old soldier To MY devoted children, who for twenty years have been the solace and pride OF MY life. And I wish TO acknowledge MY special debt OF gratitude TO MY daughter rose, whose encouragement and practical aid have been OF the greatest help TO ME IN 'the preparation this volume.