HTML Transcription © F.Coakley , 2008
[from The Letters of Lieut Edw Christian, 1898]
The writer of the following letters,* Lieut. Edward Christian belonged to the family of the Christians of Lewaigue, being a nephew of Vicar-General Evan Christian,Vicar of Patrick. He was probably born about 1784. Nothing is known about his early boyhood, About 1799, he entered the office of a Mr Jackson, in Liverpool, but he left it in 1802 owing to ill-health. It would seem probable that he joined the army soon after the declaration of war in 1803, when, so great was the enthusiasm aroused by the invasion threatened by Napoleon, no less than 300,000 volunteers were enrolled in a short time. It would seem from what he says about the good offices of General Smith, who had been Governor of the Isle of Man between 1777 and 1793, but was then holding a territorial command in the Bristol district, that he obtained his commission partly through the General's influence. It is not till September, 1804, that we have any definite news of the young officer, he being then stationed at Shorncliffe, where his regiment, the 43rd Ligbt Infantry. formed part of the army of observation under Sir John Moore. On the opposite coast was the huge French force, consisting of 155,000 men, with 14,654 horses and 423 cannon. There were also 2293 vessels, 1339 of which were armed transports.
We think our readers will derive a very favourable impression of Edward Christian from his letters. It is much to be regretted that the account they give of his career ends in 1809, and that we have no information as to what became of him after that date.
*The letters are the property of Miss Moore, Allan Bank, Douglas, and are published by her permission.
My dear Uncle,-You may have misconstrued my silence into neglect. but I assure you little time is afforded from military duty to occupy in epistolatory correspondence. I had the pleasure of writing you upon my arrival in London,where my stay was brief, and hoped to have been indulged with a line, which I anxiously anticipate.
When I wrote you, I could hardly flatter myself with the most distant hope that at so early a season I should have to acquaint you with my promotion. Almighty Providence has been kind to my military pursuits, and advanced me in my profession beyond my most sanguine expectations. On the 15th of last month I was promoted to a Lieutcy, in the first battalion of this Regt. [the 43rd], and the army can scarcely produce another instance of so rapid a promotion from Ensigncy. What makes it still more remarkable is being in a fight corps, of which there are buttwo inthe line, the gallant 52nd(encamped with us) and the 43rd as these two Regts. enjoy many enviable advantages, being precluded from stationary foreign service (but ready to embark upon all expeditions), and from their being light troops (consequently requiring a greater number of officers) the present establishment is to be continued, peace or war, so that I have not to fear the half pay list. As I have made choice of the profession of arms, I have every reason to congratulate myself on the success and distinction of my induction into such a Regt. where commissions are more valuable than in any of the heavy battalions. For an exchange into one I could, have £220; but I shall ever stick to the 43rd, in which promotion is sure tho' it may be slow, from what Genl, Smith told me when I saw him last at Walmer. He made particular enquiries after you and the little Island. He is gone to Bristol for some amendment of his health which, I fear, from his advanced age and natural infirmities is not likely to succeed. I received the most friendly treatment at his house and have had several kind letters from him since my joining the Regt. Should he survive, I shall have a continuance of his patronage. I am indebted for my Lieutcy. partly to him, tho' in greater weight to Genl. Moore who commands this brigade, as Mr Dixon of Liverpool very kindly wrote to General Gascoigne making mention of me, which produced a letter of strong recommendation to Genl. Moore from Genl. Gascoigne and accomplished this sudden advancement. I have received the greatest attention from Genl. Moore in consequence of the letter alluded to, and had the honor of being introduced by him at a private ball last evening at Sandgate near this camp. He told me I was truly fortunate. We are brigaded on these craggy cliffs under his command, with four Regts. of the line, artillery, &c., forming 4600 effective troops, the best disciplined in the service, which is obvious from their having been selected to occupy this situation, which is considered the advance guard of the army from its proximity to the enemy's coast. The camp is guarded by a range of celebrated chalk cliffs, which hang over the sea, and are considered inaccessible from their natural obstructions and the situation of our batteries below, which effectually oppose them to the progress of an invading army. The camp ground is level and the situation picturesque, extending half a mile on these sunny summits. When the atmosphere is clear we are able by the assistance of a glass to see the very extensive encampment at Boulogne, in which several large tents are distinguishable, and particularly one pavilion lately erected for the reception of the holy Emperor who had been visiting the camp. From our signal and alarm post we can discover their boats under the batteries. On Thursday last we witnessed a most severe engagement on their coast between four of our vessels and fifty gun boats that were attempting to join the grand flotilla at Boulogne from Calais, Ostend, &c. During the action we clearly saw the balls and shells falling in the water, and the jar of the cannonading was so tremendous as to shake the windows of the houses at Folkstone and Sandgate. I regret to say that they succeeded in getting under the cover of their batteries after losing three boats, sunk. Every thing wears the appearance of the greatest alertness on the French shores, and I may with truth say that ours is equally active. The soldiers wish for the conflict, and tho' the struggle of that day wilI be fatal to many, yet in its termination we are certain of success. We can assemble from the different encam pine nts contiguous to this place 70,000 troops in the space of eight hours from the excellent system of conveyance determined on, so that from the ardour and spirit of our soldiers a most gallant, resistance will be made. We have been holding ourselves in readiness to march or embark at any notice, as an expedition is talked of, and indeed not very improbable, as it is thought some effective dependence can shortly be relied on from the co-operation of the Russia arms : indeed the general conduct of the continental powers has been hitherto pusillanimous ; but they now see that the long wished for annihilation of this happy constitution cannot be compatible with their own political existence. It is time now to do something, as we are quite upon the defensive. We must feel a full confidence of victory from the justice of our cause. Lord Melville* passed by these cliffs yesterday on Lord Keith's† ship to reconnoitre the hostile shores, and it is said that an attack against Boulogne is planning. Of the success of such an enterprise I can only say little, but time must determine. To serve under such a General as Moore will be animating. We were lately received by His Royal Highness the Duke of York, who complimented us for the superior style of our skirmishing manoeuvres, in which service and sharp shooting we performed. The sham tight produced a grand effect : there were some thousands of fashionable spectators on the ground: the Dungeness squadron came to anchor under the cliffs and fired a royal salute upon his entering and retiring from the camp, which added to the grandeur of the scene.
I am, thank God, perfectly happy, living in friendship with all my brother officers, from whom I receive every attention. I feel more attached to my army life than ever, getting well initiated into its duties and reconciled to its hardships and fatigues. The system of the Regt is extremely economical, and our mess very frugal, which enables every officer to join it. Our dress is plain, and has a very military appearance : light infantry jackets faced with white, two silver epaulets, cap and green feather, and a sabre. The encampment is a beautiful object on this prominent ground.-Your affectionately attached Nephew, E. CHRISTIAN.
* First Lord of the Admiralty in Pitt's administration of 1804.
† The British Admiral.
His Reverence Vicar-General Christian, Kk. Patrick, Isle of Mann.
Via Whitehaven.
I lately visited the fortifications which are making on Dover Heights, and, from their strength, and that of the Castle,
and the line of coast, these will be impregnable . . The explosion of their flotilla by our fire ships sometime since I
had a grand prospect of ...
Being very dark it produced the most awful effect ; the roar of cannon was incessant and tremendous, almost shaking the
cliff *
I feel unhappy to think of my dear little Thomas† being unprovided for.
I should like, if it meets your convenience, that he be brought up to the Manks Bar, as it is a painful reflection to my dear parent that she should not have one son to be her protector in her old age in the Island . Some few days before I left Hythe, Capt. Moore,'‡ of the 59th Regiment, and myself, spent a day or two with a friend of mine at Sandwich.
Capt. Moore is a worthy countryman of ours. We are very intimate. which is pleasant. I have this moment left the General [Smith]. We have been talking over Manks news . . By a letter received two days ago from my friend Capt. Christian, at Ramsey, I was rejoiced to learn that Mrs Allen (of Ballavarry), had recovered from her late alarming indisposition.
*It would appear from Christian's account that this operation succeeded, but, as a matter of fact, it failed.
† Probably a younger brother. He afterwards obtained a commission in the army.
‡ This Captain Moore was Thomas, son of Deemster Thomas Moore (of
the Abbey), and Margaret Moore (of the Hills). He was afterwards
owner of Billown.
Barracks, Hythe. Feb. 8th, 1803.
He speaks of an expectation of being ordered away on foreign service; but, as in consequence of pacific overtures from the Emperor, the plans of offensive operations from France were further suspended, the expedition was delayed, though not abandoned,
By request of General Smith, be was sent to Bristol to take command of a recruiting detachment under the General's direction, and he writes:
So about five days back, I arrived at this truly picturesque and charming country, where I met with the kindest reception from my good patron and friend.
His cousin Evan, the Vicar-General's son, was in the Navy, and he writes of him :
I shall not be unmindful of our naval hero, whose conduct. I am proud to learn has been so correct since he entered the service, and we will yet hope to see in him another Sir Hugh Christian.*
The letter continues
In London, where I was two days, I waited on the Duke of Atholl, who afforded me a very flattering reception, and more than I had Any right, to look for, and promised me any service he could render to my military life
I had also the gratification of spending an hour with Lady Percevai,† which astonished and improved me.
The great celebrity which she possesses in the public world falls short indeed of her real merits and accomplishments hot li mental and the other way. Free. from o,tcntatious affectation you feel in her company perfectly easy, and the urbanity of her manners is unequalled.
March 6th, 1805 (continued).
He Continues
We have every reason to suppose that the late overtures from the French Court have by no effect (sic) relaxed the vigour of their preparations , so that there will be little faith paid to the Emperor's advances; and, in short, no chance of any immediate peace,
He then turns to more domestic matters : - I spent a day with the General and his small remaining family. . . From Major Taubman* I had some account of Insular politics. and division of parties.
Great changes since I left the Island ! I am to drive with the. Major in some time not distant. I had the pleasure of being introduced to his daughters. t
This country is truly delightful and romantic. The society is the most interesting you can well imagine, and the balls at the rooms are dia r rn big.
His cousins. " Chrissey " and " Claudy." are mentioned; also " Nanny " and Capt. Quirk.
*Sir Hugh Cloberry Christian, K.B. (born 1717, died 1798), He was Rear-Admiral of the White. and a most distinguished officer. He was offered a Peerage, and, being a descendant of Illiam Dhone Christian, chose the title of Lord Ronaldsway. He, however, died before the patent conferring the Peerage upon him was made out,
† Lady Perceval was wife of Viscount Perceval, Lord (Earl of) Egmont's eldest son. She was a daughter of Col. Wynne, and her husband became the 4th Earl of Egmont. She was a direct ancestress of Sir Spencer Walpole (late Governor of the Isle of Man), on his mother's side, (Information from Lady Spencer Walpole.)
*Major Taubman had been in a cavalry regiment, but was at this time Major of one of the Regiments of Manx Fencibles. He was afterwards Speaker of the House of Keys
tThese were probably Margaret Christian, and Dorothy, who afterwards married Colonel Wilks. Isabella, afterwards heiress to the Nunnery, had married General Alexander John Goldie, in the previous year. The only son, John, was a Colonel in the army. ;'See, note 4- p. 27, I
He returned there in June froin Bristol. He mentions that General Smith had
Made a very special report to the Duke of York in favour of my successful exertions in the recruiting service, and has assured me of his pointed determination of having me promoted as soon as I am of sufficient army standing.
Also, that the General had a project of sending him to the Isle of Man to recruit there. Then he continues
We are here occupying our old position, and forming the right wing of General Moore's Light Brigade. This battalion is now a thousand strong, and all picked men. We have been reported to the D. of York as the finest Regt in the service ! Such is the celebrity of this distinguished corps that an officer at Bath made me an offer of £100 difference to exchange my Lieutcy., but this you may suppose I rejected. Nor could any considerations tempt me to leave a corps where I have the countenance of all the field officers through the General's recommendation, and living in the strictest friendship with all the officers, for whom I feel as my heartiest friends. Indeed, I am as happy as I could wish to be. . . Col. Stuart now commands us. He is a man of the most eloquent and accomplished manners, and consequently of the first importance to our mess. He is an aide-de-camp to his Majesty, and attended him very lately. The news of the day contains some notice of Lord Nelson's success,* to give a brighter aspect to the times. . . The bustle on the opposite shores threaten some attempt at invasion, but we are tired looking out for their motions, and despair of the attack.
* Saving the West Indies from the French.
At this time the English were ignorant of the fact that Napoleon had accumulated this immense number of gunboats and other vessels merely with a view of concealing his real design, which had been initiated early in the year, i.e., to send a squadron from Spanish and Mediterranean port to form a junction in the West Indies; and, having led the British fleet out there to raise the blockade of Brest, &c., and by their union with the fleets in those harbours, to form an irresistible armament, under cover of which the flotilla might effect the passage of the channel. This movement was nearly successful, but Nelson, who was following them from West Indies, wisely sent on fast cruisers to put the Government on its guard. Consequently orders were sent to blockading fleet to cruise off Finisterre, and so Sir R. Calder, on the 22nd July, 1805, intercepted the French Admiral Villeneuve, but could not come to action owing to fog. The next day, having only 15 ships to 27, he did not attack, and Villeneuve took shelter at Ferrol, and for this he (Calder) was severely reprimanded by a court martial, though by his action he had afforded time for the return of Nelson to Europe, and so saved the country. It will be observed that Christian comments on this in his next letter :
Buonaparte is now at Boulogne, and since his arrival there we have been often amused by the grand displays of fireworks in front of their camp, which at night had a grand effect Our naval force in the Downs and under these cliffs is strong and able to repel any sailing of their vessels, but should they escape our ships, this brigade will rejoice to receive them ! Some weeks we think will determine whether we remain here to meet them or make a co-operation on the Continent. The combined fleets of France and Spain are now formidable, and reported to be again on the water.
This was not really the case, as they were then blockaded in Cadiz by Nelson.
Sir R. Calder is much censured for his mysterious conduct in declining a second action which enabled them to form the subsequent junction.
This is also a mistake, as Villeneuve was prevented from going to Brest by Sir R. Calder.
In the interval between these two letters, Napoleon, having heard that the French and Spanish fleets were blockaded in Cadiz, saw that there was an end to his scheme of invasion; and so, on the 1st of September, he started with the whole of the army, which had been stationed along the channel, for the Rhine.
Continental operations are anxiously watched, and the progress of events there will determine the embarkation of this Light Brigade, which is vender orders for foreign service under the brave Moore, whose military celebrity and the distinguished character of these troops, will ensure a victory equal to the wishes of our country; and we are as anxious for the co-operation as the Corsican fears the blow which will soon be struck.
Political opinions as to the period of our embarkation for the Continent are speculative and fluctuating; however, I can tell you that of General Moore, which I certainly pay more faith to than newspaper talk, namely, that if any operation is intended for Italy we shall sail immediately; if for any other part, not until Sprang, as the season is so far advanced. But much, he says, will depend on the earlp declaration of the Powers for war. Meanwhile, we are all ready here to go on board, and the extensive line of transports close to this ground, in the Downs, presents an interesting prospect of the plan of co-operation from these shores, being well intended on our part; and we are well convinced that preparations on the Continent meet (sic) every promptitude. So sudden a reverse of political affairs is favourable, and we are, in. our turn (of things), beginning to act on the offensive. I was close in shore on the Boulogne coast a few days since (my second excursion) when their proud encampment had dissolved for Continental purposes and the long boasted flotilla dismantling and asleep ! Such is the end of his plans for this country.
Your affectionately and faithfully attached nephew, E. CHRISTIAN.
The 20th Sept.
The Rev. Vicar-General Christian. Kirk Patrick, Isle of Man. By Whitehaven.
My dear Uncle,-To-morrow morning we march to Deal for embarkation and will form the second division of the grand expedition destined for the Weser, the first having sailed yesterday.
I have only time to communicate briefly, and with sensations mingled of grief and exultation, the glorious victory over the combined French and Spanish fleets off Cadiz and the death of our ever to be lamented Nelson.
An express has just reached camp, which announces the capture of nineteen and destruction of three of the enemy's line of battle ships. The force of Lord Nelson's fleet was twenty three [correctly twenty-seven] and that of the enemy thirty-three. Mark the disproportion and esteem the triumph, alas ! too dearly purchased, for Nelson was killed.
We are just getting under arms to fire a fete-de-joie.
I hope and trust the " Barfleur "* was on that station.
Having imparted this -glorious news I must hurry to the troops.
I shall write you from Deal. This victory serves to make us less consider the capitulation of Ulm and defeat of Mack. Judge the confusion of an army breaking up camp for a happy embarkation and excuse my hurry.
You shall know me doing my duty in the conflict or mingled with the dust. Repeat my affectionate regards to all. Filled with joy and glorious anticipation in our prospects, I once more say farewell !
I wrote you on the first inst., also to the Bishop [Crigan], and by this post.
The aggregate of the expedition from England will amount to fifty thousand troops.
Vicar-General Christian,
Kirk Patrick, Isle of Man. 7th November.
*This was his cousin Evan's ship. It was not on the station.
The actual number of troops sent was much smaller than the number given, and Christian's regiment did not go. The expedition, which was an abortive one, was re-embarked after vainly besieging Hameln in conjunction with the Russians and Swedes, when its leaders heard of Napoleon's victory at Austerlitz. Hythe, November 28th. This garrison is delightfully situated, one mile from Shorncliff, being a continuation of the chalk cliil's and overhangs the beautiful valley of Hythe. . . The garrison is about 3,500 strong. Sir John Moore, who has lately been created a Knight of the Bath in consideration of his Eyptian services, was sent for express to town yesterday morning, it is supposed for the final arrangement of the expedition.
He then notes an increase of pay, that of ensign becoming 7s, lieutenant 9s, and captain 12s a day, and continues
I lately visited the fortifications which are making on Dover heights, and from their strength and that of the Castle, the line of coast here will be impregnable. Nothing of particular moment has occurred on the opposite coast lately; the explosion of their flotilla by our fire ships, some time since, I had a grand prospect of from a post on a hill which I occupied with an out-picquet, and, being very dark, it produced the most awful effect; the roar of the cannon was incessant.
The letter which follows was written in ignorance of the battle of Austerlitz, fought on the 2nd of December, which had completely altered the position. The Austrians and Russians were overthrown before Duke Charles.had left Italy, and soon afterwards he had to make peace; while Prussia, who it was hoped would attack the French, actually signed a treaty with them by which she accepted Hanover in exchange for some other possessions which she handed over to France. Napoleon was thus omnipotent on the Continent, so that the proposed expedition had no chance of success and was abandoned. England had, in the meantime, to content herself with having the command of the sea.
You may believe, my clear Uncle, that when I wrote my letters to you of the 1st and 7th November, I had little expectation of conversing with my friends again from this cliff. But this seeming procrastination in the embarkation of our brigade a few words can fully elucidate, and are, that General Moore, who is appointed to command the reserve of the British Continental Army, has selected, very naturally, his own Light Brigade for that important service, which arrangement has caused the delay, and will keep us here until the troops of the line are all on board, which some few days will now accomplish, and then this intrepid and sagacious officer will lead his chosen brigade into the fields of glory !
Under such a chief, our confidence is great, and we are burning for the conflict which he assures us will not begin with the British troops for some time ; therefore the protraction will not keep us an hour out of action or give us cause to lament our having remained so long here. On the contrary. We rejoice in accompanying a general whose name is dear to every British soldier. His force in the continent will ultimately amount to fifty thousand rnen, and is supposed designed for the Duke of York's command. Such you will discover are Mr Pitt's wise endeavours for a disposable force.
The situation of the French army on the Continent must even to Buonaparte appear alarming, for the further he advances the greater distance he leaves his reserve, and the more favourable opportunity he will procure to Prussia for an attack on his rear. However, the next Hamburg mails will be read with the most lively interest, for they will not only announce the result of the Prussian mission at the camp of Buonaparte, but also the position of the allied army and the complexion of the Austrian Duke Charles's retreat. But above all these important points, they must show the disposition of Prussia towards the common cause.
From the late despatches from my Lord Harrowby*we have reason to augur favourablyof the decision of the Court of Britain, and may hope to see her soon engaged in the annihilation of the scourge of the world ! Certain it is some battle must have been fought subsequent to the evacuation of Vienna, and should the allies make a vigorous stand the French must fall back as quizkly as they advanced.
The daily expectations of going on board prevented me from writing you since my letter in November, and in a few posts you may expect to hear from me in the Downs. By the particular desire of the dear good General [Smith], I have been applying myself assiduously to the study of the French and German languages, for it must give me real pleasure to tell you that he is endeavouring to obtain for me a staff appointment in the army embarking. I am grieved to say he has suffered much of late from a relapse of his complaints, and is only a few days out of bed. His anxiety about me is great, and he lets no moment pass without his solicitude for my promotion. When I attended him at the HotWells lie was so perfectly satisfied with my epistolary (sic) affairs that afterwards he honoured me as his regiml. aide-de-camp, which gives me eclat in the corps, But as that appointment produced no addition to my pay, he. very handsomely procured me my artillery command, which is giving me four shillings daily in addition to my pay and allowances, also providing me with a horse. Thus you see his regard for me verified. I cannot say praise sufficient in favour of my brother officers, but suffice it we are as one family and attached as brothers.
Have you heard from Evan? I am sorry the ' Barfleur" had not a share in the action of the Trafalgar. Tell my dear girls that I offer them my most affectionate wishes, and to those at Arbory and Rushen I wish all happiness. Remember me at the Doctor's and in your vicinity.
Being hurried, I must say farewell ! Always, my dear Uncle,
Your most affectionate Nephew, E. CHRISTIAN, Lieut. and A. D. C.
*Foreign Secretary in Pitt's ministry.
The Victory, with the body of Lord Nelson on board, is now anchored off this cliff', but the sea runs so high that no boat will put off. She is a grand wreck. I write to the worthy Bishop by this post and lament that the delay in the foreign mails deprives me of saying anything further on the state of the belligerent powers.
To the Honourable and Revd. Vicar-General Christian,
Kirk Patrick, Isle of Mann. (By Whitehaven.)
Between the dates of this letter and the next, Mr Pitt died (on the 23rd January, 1800), and a coalition ministry under Lord Grenville and Mr Fox was formed.
He had been on a visit to the Island in February, returning to England in March, He was detained at Marlow on staff duty for some little time, and did not reach the camp till early in April, when he wrote :
I immediately resumed my artillery command, and became more and more attached to that pleasant service,--indeed, independent of the emolument I enjoy from that post. The cavalry allowances I receive make it an enviable command.
He received an invitation to Lord Forbes' house at Dover, and consequently he requests than the Vicar-General would "communicate my grateful acknowledgements to Captain Forbes for the favour of the recommendation to his brother."
This was the 17th Lord Forbes. He became Lieutenant-General in 1802, and was second in command of the troops in the Mediterranean in 1808. The Capt. Forbes referred to was in the Manx Fencibles, but did not belong to the family of that name which had settled in the Island in the middle of the 18th century. The: letter continues :-
A few days must now mature Mr Windham's military plans,-by some few liked but by the seeming majority disapproved. All limitation on service in the regular army must eventually become pernicious. The augmentation of the officers' pay and allowances is now under consideration, and we shall soon know its extent, which we have every reason to believe will be liberal.
Mr Windham was Secretary for War, It would appear that there had been great difficulty in recruiting the army under the existing system of enlistment for life or for a limited' period. So Windham proposed a plan of enlistment for 7, 11, or 21 years, with additional privileges of retiring allowances. This, though violently opposed both in the army and in Parliament, was ultimately passed, and was a great success, the number of recruits being, doubled.
He announces that he has been appointed Acting adjutant on the staff of a strong detachment of our corps, sent to this kingdom for the purpose of receiving volunteers from the Irish Militia, a service upon which 23 officers from both our battalions are employed.
He expected that their efforts would result in the formation of
A third permanent battalion, which will give extensive promotion to us all.
Christian remained in Dublin, which was the headquarters of the detachment, with its commander, Major Hull. He was " much
pleased with Ireland and its people," being struck by " their great urbanity." He was in a responsible position,
Having charge of all the correspondence and pecuniary supplies to the recruits and the parties (i.e., the recruiters).
He announces that, through General Smith's interest, he has reason to expect
Some considerable appointment under General Bouyer, the Commander-in-chief in the Went Indies. . . Thomas [his brother] must advance quickly in promotion and will, I think, be lieutenant upon his arrival in Barbadoes.
In his next letter, written at Drogheda, on the 2nd of September in the same year, he recommends a friend of his, John Parsons, who is going, to the Island, to his uncle's notice, and he informs him that Parsons,
As there is no vessel from Dublin direct to the Island to take on board his chariot &c., and as the Whitehaven brigs are afraid to approach the Island on the consideration of the impress [i.e., the press-gang], though he offered a liberal sum, is obliged to embark first for Whitehaven, and from thence to the Island. I have, of course, given him letters to all my Island friends, and as I am particularly interested for his satisfaction in the jaunt, I must beg you will show him all attention. He is an Englishman, a bachelor of £4,000 a year, of the first respectability and connections, residing principally at Clifton, Bath, and the watering places. . . He is known a little to Lord James Murray, and the Duke of Atholl has lately resided at his mother's house, at Cheltenham. . You will find him mild, unaffected, and a perfect gentleman. He is a regular man, but likes his glass of wine in moderation. . . I know you will give him a hearty welcome at Kirk Patrick, and, if you give him a bed, his carriage and servants can go to Peel. . . I am on a visit at a friend's house near this place, on the banks of the Boyne river, some 20 miles from Dublin, where I return to-morrow. I shall be on my road to Kent about the middle of this month. Poor Thomas is at Lymington, and will, I hope, soon embark. I have a good chance of seeing him in that clime. My affectionate remembrances to Chrissy, Nanny, Robert, and all at Knockaloe.
I arrived here on Saturday from Kent to arrange some matters with my excellent friend the General, touching upon my promotion.
I am named as aide-de-camp to General Bouyer in the West Indies. [He did not, however, go.] . . I am assured of my company through his (Genl. Smith's) recommendations in my favour.
This day I dine with our late worthy Lieut. - Governor, Shaw* who I am glad to see looking extremely well. Major Taubman and his family are expected here this evening, so I shall have the pleasure of seeing him before I leave Bath, which I propose about the end of next week. This place is gay and well attended, the season being now about its brightest moment.
*Lieut.-Governor from 1791 to 1804.
These were the days when Bath was a most fashionable resort.
A considerable interval elapses before his next letter, so we may briefly relate the course of events, In the autumn of 1806, Prussia had been crushed by Napoleon, who marched against the Russians. The terrible but indecisive battle of Eylau, fought by the French and Russians in February, gave rise to hopes that Napoleon's conquering career might be checked, and so a confederacy was formed between Russia, Prussia, Sweden, and Great Britain, as the latter country, having been ;since April under the able guidance of Canning and Castlereagh, who were members of the ministry of the Duke of Portland, had determined to prosecute the war more vigorously. She, therefore, agreed to co-operate in Pomerania with 20,000 men, but before they arrived the disastrous battle of Friedland was fought on the 14th of June, and peace was made at Tilsit between France and Russia, and France and Prussia on the 25th. The confederacy was, therefore, broken up, and Napoleon was triumphant on land. But England was equally triumphant at sea, and she was now to take the decisive step of capturing the Danish fleet, which enabled her to blockade the ports of France and her allies with impunity.
The Barfleur I find is under Admiral Sterling with a very respectable force, cruising in quest of the French squadron. Admiral Stirling commanded the Channel fleet of which the Bartleur formed one of the line, and has left a little time since on the service I mention, and I sincerely hope he may succeed. Meanwhile, I strongly recommend your keeping Evan on board of her in preference, at present, to any cruising frigate, because his nautical ideas will meet better cultivation there than on board of any inferior rate.
We may soon expect to see Continental affairs once again in a blaze. Prussian independence is now, no more, and she must conform to the policy of Buonaparte, Our ministers have, however, shown proper prompt measures for her commercial annoyance, producing great satisfaction and confidence to the nation.
And believe, my dear uncle, ever your affectionate nephew,
EDWARD CHRISTIAN. His Reverence Vicar-General Christian, Kk. Patrick, Isle of Man.
By Whitehaven.
My dear Uncle,--To-morrow we march for Ramsgate and then embark. Our route was sudden; it reached us last night at Hythe Barracks, about twelve o'clock, and at three this day we arrived here. The 2nd Battalion 52nd, with five companies of the Rifle Corps, are attached to this fine battalion (a thousand rank and file) forming the Light Brigade, of which our Colonel (Stewart), who is to be appointed a Brigadier-General, is to have the command. This coast. you may believe, is active and aliv ethe Downs crowded with shipping ; naval and military preparations promptly and secretly carried on ;an. embargo laid neon all sailing till we are off. Our destination quite conjectural. Boulogne is talked of, Flushing, and the Sound; a few days will determine. The military force will show an aggregate of about twenty thousand, I shall write to you from Ramsgate to-morrow, when I shall be informed of further particulars. From certain regulations and instructions as to baggage, we are fully persuaded that the attack is meditated against some near place. Sir David Dundas* will command in chief. All here burning with ardour for the conflict; never were soldiers more eager or better fitted for the field than these all young, zealous, and sagacious. I am too much elated to say more. Colquitt Heywood **is to see us at Ramsgate to-morrow. My wishes are now gratified. I thank God. I feel the esteem of real happiness in our glorious prospects. The 43rd Light Infantry will be nobly distinguished. Your attached and faithful Nephew,
E. CHRISTIAN.
His Reverence the Vicar-General Christian, Kirk Patrick, Isle of Man.
By Whitehaven.
*Afterwards commander-in-chief March 25th, 1809, to March 29th, 1811.
** Manxman, son of Robert Heywood, Water-Bailiff, and nephew of Peter John Heywood, Deemster. He was a captain in the 96 Regiment. After 1815, he left the army, and became an M.H.K. He died in 1851, and was buried at Onchan.
The force to which Christian was attached consisted of twenty thousand men. It embarked on the 27th of July, and, being joined by ten thousand men under Lord Cathcart, who had been acting with the Swedes in Pomerania, arrived off Copenhagen on the 4th of August. The English demanded the possession of the Danish fleet till the conclusion of a general peace. This was refused by the Prince Royal, and so, on the 16th of August, the troops were landed, and the investment was completed. The following letter describes an action prior to the bombardment, in which the writer was engaged :
My dear Uncle,-'My former letters, which I hope ,you have read, brought our operations down to the close bombardment and investment of Copenhagen.
On the 26th of last month the Reserve-composed of the 433rd, 52nd, 92nd, and 95th regiments, with one regiment of German infantry, a proportion of their cavalry. aml some (lying artillery was detached from the army before Copenhagen, under the command of Sir Arthur Wellesley, for the purpose of attacking the enemy, who were assembled in force, and had taken up a position in our rear. The action took- place on the 29th at Kioge, which is about twenty miles S. of Copenhagen. The enemy occupied a strong post -his right supported by the sea, and his left touching a thick wood. The day was ours ! The loss on the part of the enemy stands thus prisoners, eighteen hundred; in killed and wounded, above four hundred; ten pieces of canon; large stores of ammunition and provisions ; in oflicers, six killed ; one Major-General commanding and seventy officers- these officers were from the Regular Army in Holstein. The loss on our part does not exceed thirty in killed and wounded, with two German ofllcers. We advanced against the enemy undera heavy fire from their artillery, which was well supported, but fortunately for us as badly directed. The force of the enemy is calculated at eight thousand, some say twelve. some not half that number. Our troops evinced their wonted steady and cool intrepidity. Our advance with three cheers astonished the Danes ! They flew before us !
Their position was covered with their slain. After driving them from their camp (which was a short distance in advance from the town), . about three hundred of the Zealand Regiment rallied in the square of Kioge, under cover of two sic pounders, and the houses lined with their rifles. Here the German cavalry made a gallant charge, got possession of the guns, and took the corps prisoners. The Germans lost some brave fellows -killed by the enemy's fire from the windows. Having commenced this day's writing with a letter to the worthy Bishop, in which I have given a short detail of the events of that day, as well as of our recent operations before Copenhagen, I must refer you to his Lordship for its reading, being really too much hurried to recapitulate.
Copenhagen must soon be ours ! It was not till the day previous to our landing that I heard of Evan's being in this fleet, and that by the merest accident. A company- of our regiment was sent on board of the Brunswick for the purpose of using her boats upon debarkation, and I then heard of Evan, and immediately wrote to him, but in our hurried state I had to lament the utter impossibility of seeing him. He dined in the captain's cabin with our officers ; is well ; looking handsome ; and is destined to serve with the Marine and Seamen Brigade. Should we both survive the conflict we shall have a happy meeting. He is much liked on board, and is attentive to his duty. I long to see him. The fleet has remained hitherto inactive, unable to pass the Crown batteries. This little army is for the present to remain here as a corps of observation, to prevent any force landing from Holstein through the Belt, and to keep the armed peasantry in check. These cantonments are close to the superb palace of the. Margrave of Holstein. It is not improbable but that we may march shortly to attack Amok, an island close to Copenhagen, from whence supplies are drawn into the town. You will see by the numbers of these battalions that this is a chosen little army. The cool intrepidity of our troops in the affair of Kioge was conspicuous. This victory has gained us thanks from the Commander-in-Chief and the Major-General.
In that affair nothing could be more charming than the glorious humanity of our arms at the moment of entering a place almost by storm Our brave lads brought in the prisoners without an injury ! The inhabitants were protected. They were no longer our enemies I In the course of two hours the town was tranquil. Contrast this, my dear Uncle, with French rapine and oppression. The coolness, decision, and energy of Sir Arthur Wellesley well fitted him for his Indian achievements, and fixed him m the confidence of all around him. I have already given you a description of Zealand. It is well wooded, fertile, and in many parts picturesque. It abounds with game ; many elegant country seats, but the Island of Fimen is the residence of their principal nobility.
The Danes detest the Swedes, and are equally inveterate against us. They are a hardy race of people, and strongly attached to their king. It is really affecting to see grey-headed old men in arms in his defence ! Since the beginning of the siege we have lost some officers and a good many men, but our loss is trifling when we view the advantages which we have gamed, and the loss on the part of the enemy. After the second day of our landing they had not a single outpost tenable. Copenhagen is strong, and if we are obliged to take it by storm we must lose a number of men ; but the place must be ours. They have 48 sail of the line ; in Copenhagen, 60,000 in arms ; in Holstein an army of 40,000 under the Crown Prince.
Copenhagen was bombarded on the 2nd of September. and its capitulation and the surrender of the fleet was signed on the 5th. The next letter describes the subsequent proceedings.
I have only one moment to announce to you our safe arrival in this anchorage. We have brought with us the late Danish Fleet and stores, On the 17th inst. we embarked at Copenhagen, and on the 21st got under way. My several letters from Zealand I hope ,on have received. Whether we are to land here or go round into the Downs, is as yet uncertain. I shall write you very fully on our landing. The Brunswick is with us, and I hope in the course of the day to see Evan, who Nvas well when we left Copenhagen.
The boat is going off with General Bloomfield, of the Artillery, and I must finish.
My affectionate love to my cousins.
Ever, my dear uncle, your affectionate, E. CHRISTIAN. His Reverence C:,, Vicar-General, Kirk Patrick-, Isle of Man. Whitehaven.
There is again a considerable interval before the next letter, which we will fill up by briefly mentioning the chief events which took place during it, In November, Russia declared war against Great Britain, which had now the whole of Europe, except Sweden, in opposition to her. In December, Portugal was taken possession of by France, In the following March, Napoleon had determined upon the deposition of the Spanish Bourbons; and Murat, at the head of a large French force entered Madrid. In the North, a Russian army entered Finland in February, and at the same time the Danes declared war against Sweden. They were assisted by 14,000 Spaniards, the whole force being under the command of Bernadotte, Prince of Pontecorvo, while the Swedes were assisted by an English fleet under Admiral Saumarez, and an English army of 12,000 men," under Sir John Moore, which reached Gothenburg in May. The operations were, however, indecisive. The English commanders could not agree with the King of Sweden as to the field of operations, and so the troops were not landed, returning with the fleet to England on the 3rd of July. They were destined for an expedition to Spanish South America, but were afterwards sent to Portugal. He refers to these questions, and to the unfortunate expedition to Buenos Ayres in the following letters :
I arrived here yesterday morning. The expedition now on board is supposed to he destined to co-operate with the Swedes against Norway, but has not yet sailed. Sir John Moore is in command, and has with him his own Light Infantry Regiment, the 52nd, which is deemed a sufficient proportion of light troops for that army. The 43rd remains for the next service, and it is generally understood that a large force will leave the country in the course of next month, when we shall certainly be employed.
Spanish America is talked of. The Rochefort Squadron is still invisible, but, generally supposed in the Mediterranean. Some days since we were deprived of a very fee young man in a very unlucky way-Lieutenant Dundas, who was unfortunately drowned when bathing in a branch of the Blackwater. He was a remarkably handsome young man and in his twentieth ,year.
My dear Lord,-I arrived here on the first, :and experienced the. most kind and gratifying reception from the corps, to which I feel more strongly attached than ever. . I have just reason to be thankful for the full happiness and contentment I enjoy in this enviable station, where we are as a famiy happy and united. My intimate friend, Lieut. Tylden, has joined us*; he was Brigadier -Major to Sir Samuel at the storming of Monte Video, and during the attack upon Buenos Ayres. I have read his narrative of the. latter affair, and have shed tears of indignation and horror at the unnecessary carnage, measures, and mode of attack, Alas, that such a command was borne by such an officer.* Tylden tells me that had the place been regularly invested, it must have fallen in the course of seven or eight days, and that even at the moment that Whitelock concluded the shameful treaty, he had the means of destroying the town from the two important flank positions which we held. Tylden's account of the whole business shows but too evidently the palpable unfitness of that man for the command, and makes equally evident the incapacity on the part of of other lewluiq name
Yesterday my Lords Hill ** and Bentinck†(late Governor of Madras) inspected us, and his euloguims on the occasion were highly gratifying.
Our light movements sornewhat astonished his lordship. . . I have examined and enquired, but can find Major Crigan§ in no other station than the 86th Regiment, on which list his name now stands. Nor can I find any person recollecting his transfer into the Buffs. A very long brevet has appeared, and I am much astonished that Colonel Taubman's ‡ name is not included in the list of Major-Generals, as a junior colonel to him is promoted.
Napoleon's visit to Madrid has caused great commotion in that capital, and it is stated that a conflict; has taken place between the French and Spanish troops, the result favourable the latter; but French influence is too deep and power formidable to suffer any latent spark of Castile spirit to burst forth. . . The gloom of Swedish affairs is ast dissipating, and the prompt assistance of our squadron in the Baltic has taught the Prince of Pontecorvo to suspend his measures against Sweden for the, present. Indeed many accounts state that the French have not yet reached Zealand, but remain on the Island of Funen in the Belt. However, it is sufficiently clear that so soon as the season drives off our fleet, Sweden will probably be attempted from Zealand, The Russians in Finland are retiring more rapidly than they advanced.
America had the alternative, and seems to have too well appreciated her own interests to involve herself with England after all her insulting menaces-too tamely submitted to-and a war in that quarter is not now talked of There is another report of the Rochefort squadron, but after the last the Ga.Ptte alone can give it credence.
*Whitelock.
**Lord Hill became a Major-General in August. He served with great distinction in the Peninsular
War, during which he'commanded a brigade.
† Lord William Cavendish Bentinck, who was a Lieutenant-Colonel in the 2nd Light Dragoons, was
afterwards Governor-General of India.
§The bishop's son.
‡Colonel Taubman was son of Major Taubman,
the Speaker. He had been in command of the 66th, and was then in command of the 101st Regiment ; he died in 1812.
I had yesterday a letter from a friend of mine serving in the expedition under Sir John Moore, dated the Loth inst,, off Gothenburgh, He tells me that an attack upon Cronstadt was supposed certain, and that they were then receiving on board three months' additional provisions and water. Sir J. M. was then at Stockholm. lie pictures the spirit of the Swedish nation noble and high, warmly attached to their King, the British, and their cause
In Finland they have had some recent advantages over the Russians, and the fear of an invasion from Zealand had subsided. The indignation of all ranks upon the shameful surrender of Sweaborg was severe. for no real resistance was shown. If General Moore requires any reinforcement, this brigade will certainly embark. Accounts from Admiral Purvls are impatiently looked for, and the fall of the French and Spanish fleets into our hands is calculated on with confidence. In that event, a force will leave England to co-operate with that already off Cadiz.
Ths report of a large army going against Spanish America is still alive, and more probable than ever from recent events in Spain. If Cadiz falls into our possession, the Grandees of Spain will have a favourable point of rendezvous from the oppression of Boney, and the humiliation of reuiaining under his new court. They can emigrate from thence through our marine, and ultimately accompany our expedition to South America, where their presence would facilitate our operations; and there is an opinion generally received that if the Prince of Asturias can effect his escape, the British Government purpose establishing him in that Sovereignty.
I remain, my dear Uncle,
Your attached and affect. nephew,
E. CHRISTIAN.
His Reverence Vicar-General Christian. Kirk Patrick, Isle of Man. By Whitehaven.
His next letter is addressed to John Lucas, of Knockrushen, who had married Susannah, daughter of Vicar-General Christian. The " presumptive" referred to was called Evan, but died in infancy, as did also a younger brother, Samuel. John, who inherited Knockrushen, as well as Scarlet, from his mother, was not born till 1816. The death referred to was that of Anne, Vicar-General Christian's wife. It will be perceived that Edward Christian shows his usual kindly care for his young cousin. The Captain Quilliam mentioned is, of course, the well-known Manxman of that name. It may be noted that Lord Chatham did not command, as Christian supposed.
My dear Lucas,- Aweful (sic) reports during the last month prepared me to meet that dire event which my mother's letter announced, and imparted to my mind the most acute anguish. Painfully alive are my feelings to the consequent grief of my poor cousins m whose irreparable loss I most sincerely participate. . In this gloom I must bring your attention to the situation of poor Evan, and measures absolutely necessary to be pursued for securing his comfort and credit in the service; and in, the first instance I strongly recommend your placing his yearly allowance each year in the hands of Mr Drinkwater, of Liverpool, who I am persuaded would take that trouble. This arrangement will prevent Evan the uncertainty and inconvenience of negotiating a draft upon the Island, which would be always objectionable in England from the remoteness of the situation and its uncertain intercourse.
You will have been informed that I wrote to Evan soon after my return from the Island in consequence of my having discovered by the papers that his ship was on the point of sailing from Plymouth for some foreign station, and fearing that he might be in want of pecuniary aid and not likely to receive any in time from home, I gave him permission to draw upon me for a sum necessary for his outfit. . His spirit is noble and high, and by a letter of his to his ever-to-be-lamented Nther, I was grieved to find that it had been wounded by the want of pecuniary assistance. . . A short time since I had an opportunity of writing to him by a friend of mine, who is going out to Gothenburg in Sweden, the present station of the "Brunswick"; and I shall have by this post the painful task of communicating to him the mournful event.
I have lately been informed of Captain Quilliam's appointment to the ---,* of 24 guns, and I should have much satisfaction in his taking Evan on board. I am writing to Capt Q. in favour of the son of Lady Napier, who is a midshipman under his command, and I shall take the opportunity of naming Evan to him.
And now, my dear Lucas, I have the proud satisfaction of telling you that we are under orders for foreign service, and march for embarkation to Harwich, on Saturday. From the nature of our orders, it is probable that we shall be some time away from England. You may naturally suppose that we are much busied in preparatious, as our order was sudden, and imparted at a time when we were despairing of any employment, On the 13th of last month, I enclosed to my friend, Sir John, a deed of renunciation from William to my mother, which. was executed in London. and witnessed by Capt. Heywood, who will attest it when he next visits the Island, and it can then be recorded. Give Anne my afrectionate remembrance, and for me kiss your darling children. and do not forget that I am to be Godpapa to the " presumptive.**. . -
P.S.-When embarked, we are to form a junction with Sir John Moore's Army, hourly looked for on this coast from Sweden. Our destination is conjecture. Spain is generally believed to be the point for aiding the glorious patriotic cause, daily more bright, successful, and formidable. Italy is talked of. The chief command is still vacant, and my Lords Chatham, Moira, and Hutchinson are named We form the Light Brigade. Nvith the 52nd Light; Infantry, the 95th Rifle Corps, and our own second battalion from Kent.
My health is perfectly restored, and I am, with all here, eager and impatient for the field. The aggregate of Sir John Moore's force, Sir Arthur Wellesley's, and that to be embarked, will exceed twenty and five thousand.
The capture of the French feet in Cadiz augurs well of the patriotic detestation of that power, and solid operations to be pursued for throwing ofr the humiliating shackles recently imposed by that Scourge of Crowns and Disturber of Continental quiet. The result must be glorious indeed to the Spanish name.
P.P.S -It is now well understood that Lord. Chatham will command.
A few days after this letter, Christian embarked for Spain with his regiment, the whole force amounting to two brigades. Sir Arthur Wellesley had previously (July 12th) left Cork with the force under his command, and, arriving in Mondego Bay on the 30th of July, fought the battle of Rolica on the 17th of August. Christian's regiment arrived in time to take part in the battle of Vimiera on the 21st of the same month. It afterwards joined Sir John Moore at Lisbon, and took part in the campaign, which terminated with its commander's death at the battle of Corunna, on the 16th of January, 1809.
*Name of ship illegible.
** Rest of letter to signature illegible.
It is with a brief note, announcing his safe arrival in England, to his mother after that battle, that Edward Christian's letters came to an end:
Spared from the conflict, my beloved mother ! I have but a moment to say that I am here safely anchored, after having experienced most tremendous gales. Alas ! our beloved Sir John ! When the gales are over, we shall go round to Portsmouth for disembarkation. I have not a minute for particulars. which you shall have from Portsmouth.
This regiment went through the rest of the Peninsular War; but it is not known whether he was with it or not. Indeed, the most diligent enquiries have failed to discover anything more about him. The uncle, to whom nearly all the foregoing letters were written, died on the 30th of December, 1811, in the 67th year of his age.
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