These letters were written in 1858 and 1859 by William Henry Webster I to his parents John Hartley Webster and Mary Webster (nee Rhodes)
No. 15
Camp Biswah
December 9th 1858
My Dear Mother & Father,
Being as we have a halt to-day and I have a little spare time, I think I could not put it to better purpose than by dropping a few lines to you. I believe the last letter I wrote was respecting Mittowlie, (? Mithauli, a fort belonging to a Rajah, between Sittapore and Lucknow), so therefore I will proceed.
We left Mittowlie on the 17th. All the baggage and heavy guns were left there and a column composed as follows, was the force we marched with. Headquarters and 3rd troop of the B.H. artillery, 2 guns, No. 7. Light Field Battery, 2 Squadrons, 6 Carbiners, 4 Irregular Cavalry, Curetons, Mooltancy (now spelt (Multani) Horse. My Regiment, 300 QS, (Queens), Highlanders 400. 66 Gookes (ED. Gurkhas?) and about 200 Sappers. Brigadier troop commanding.
The first days march was towards Aligunge, about 26 miles, abivouacked on the open plain (without tents mind). The next morning we marched to Aligunge, when an order came, that a portion of the force was to get ready again immediately as follows - Squadron Carbiners (80 Sappers), 300 4th Light Cavalry, 100 C. Mooltany Horse, 36 of my Regiment, mounted on the gun carriages, of which I am very much pleased to say, I was one of the party under command of Major Brind, C.B. We went off at the trot and kept it up the chief part of the day until about 4. O.C.P.M. (4 o`clock P.M.). We came in sight of the enemy in a tope of trees, (a tope is a grove of trees, especially Mangoes), close to a place called Mihndie. The enemy opened fire at us at about 1600 yards, killing a horse, the first shot. We galloped within 600 yards of them and gave them a warm reception with our 6 guns. The rebels stood pretty middling at first. Ere a quarter an hour had elapsed, when we charged them, giving them grape and shell about their black heads, which very soon put them in a sweat and off they scampered in masses. We limbered up again, and after them like a house on fire and gave it to them nice and warm. Such a warming as they have not been used to lately. Two mounted men, knowing it was all up, galloped right onto our guns, on the left flank, not offering to harm anyone until they got to the Irregulars. They smashed into their ranks and wounded 3 of them; of course they were not allowed to draw the fresh air long, before they were sprawling in their blood. At all events the darkness came on and stopped us from following them, and all the horses being done up after travelling 55 miles on two days and bad food, so we retired to the place where the action first began. We made a good days work of it, having taken 9 guns, (and one more left on the bank of the river), and a large quantity of ammunition of all sorts.
The report is that the enemy were 5,000 strong; I should think they were more. They were commanded by two rascals, Ismail Khan and Seroje Shah. Our casualties were as follows:-
1 Carbinier killed, 1 gunner wounded, 5 natives wounded, 5 horses killed and 6 wounded. The rebels must have lost a great many, for I saw a good many myself. Take it altogether it was the best affair I have seen since Delhi; it was the right man in the right place, (Major Brind, C.B.) a regular old brick, he must have riflemen wherever he goes; he puts great trust in our chaps.
We returned to Headquarters in 2 days, and the whole marched on the 24th to Muckheepore, distance 12 miles, Hairgwon 14 miles. Here we got our tents again, and different Sirdars came in and gave themselves up. Left here on the 30th, with two tents per Company. First March Sulgaon (Lolgaon) 12. 1/2 miles per (?) PCN (abbreviation for something) Biswah. The enemy here showed a bit of spirit, but not before wounding 13 Mooltans and killing one native Officer in a charge on the right. The report is they have 16 guns, I can`t say, for they only fired a few shots and bolted. Of course the usual dust and smoke was made on our side, as if we were going to face a Napoleon, inplace of a parcel of humbugs, and while we were bothering about getting into position, the bird had flown. The Pandies are coming every day, but not the proper ones.
We marched to Miarpore on the 6th and came back. Yesterday distance 24 miles, for what I cannot say. We came across General Barker`s Brigade the other day, the 4th, and parted the 6th in opposite directions. We expect to leave this in a day or so.
As regards to Ensign Cox, he is a fine dashing soldier, every bit of it. I am proud that I come from so near to him; he is well liked by every man in the battalion; he has been in command of my Company through the whole of this campaign and is not a bit proud; that is the best of him.
I received a letter the other day dated 101, the same as the other; I suppose it was a mistake. I received one yesterday, that is the one which I am answering. Xmas is drawing pretty close to us now and I think it will find me under canvas as usual, in some part of the Oudh. But what matter as long as I am blessed with good health, which thank God I am, hoping this will find all of you in the best of health. Give my love to all my sisters, brothers, aunts, uncles and cousins and friends. I wil write every opportunity never fear
I remain your ever affectionate son,
W.H. Webster.
Soldier`s letter 3156 etc.
To - Mr John Webster, 8, Babbington Lane, Derby, England.
Censor - M.G. Dennis, ? Colonel
Stamped - F. Derby Ja 24, 59, and London Ja 24th 1859.
Overwritten by John Webster No 17.
Overwritten probably by John Hartley Webster, Camp Biswah. Dec 19th recd 24th Jan 1859.
Camp Not Known
Saturday 8th January 1859
My Dear Mother and Father,
Here we are very little further advanced in the campaign. Since last I wrote to you, we have only come 4 days march, still by ourselves. The rebels keep coming in every day and giving up their arms, horses, ammunition and so on. And sent away about their business. None Of us are allowed to molest them whatsoever, no not even look at them, (poor harmless creatures). I was of the belief that as soon as the 1st January arrived ,that we should squash them at once. According to the Proclamation it does not appear so, for they come in as independent as ever they did. They know they have found a soft place in our heads. Why! They can come in at any time, give up their arms, walk away and laugh at us. Go to their homes and buy a farm with our own treasure. They were so naughty as to look at the breakouts (handouts) and say amongst themselves, "It was a happy day that we enlisted. We have learnt our drill, we have got a good fortune, more than if we had served for those foreign Caffers all the days of our life. And we are able to take up arms against them, at any time the opportunity may afford".
This, but very poor satisfaction for the soldier, that has been through the whole of the outbreak, as I have , worn out the inner man, nothing but the shell left, by hard fatigue, having seen so many atrocious deeds perpetrated against so many of my country women and children, not mentioning so many a fine hearted comrade. Soldiers that feel victims to their war weapons by my side. It is very hard indeed in my eye, to see them at large. It is revenge we want, and it appears that we shall never get the slightest... Why not revenge those little innocents murdered, who now lie quiet in the soil; I hope that they are in a better place. But on the other hand I say, (but of course my dull brain is nothing to the noble clides which I do not mean to say it is). Why not give them a good drubbing so to show the Sikhs an example ,or they will be the same mind as the Pandies, i.e. that if they break out, they will get a free pardon, with a small annuity and farm to keep them some other way employed, and to humbug H.M. troops about their country, like so many convicts for a great number of years.
I expect more fighting as I told you in my last letter, for it appears to me, as though they were going to keep us standing camp, in the field (they call it) for the purpose of drilling us and wearing our poor miserable bit of clothing and shoes out. At the same time we are soldiering without pay for this last 24 days and ther is no chance of getting anything. So I don`t suppose I shall get very fat without, living on air as we do.
We expect another reinforcement in today, the 2 youes? and the Rifle Brigade, so I suppose they will bring some treasure with them.
If we get along with some other Brigade, we might stand a chance of giving our friends another call. If not, I suppose we shall move over into some quarters or another. I am afraid there is no chance of "HOME" this year.
I believe that the Beagum has given in, - if so, I think this month or next, will terminate the insurrection; the sooner the better, for I don`t see much chance of getting any Rupees or G Moihs ? as you made mention of. It is all bosh as regards so much money being made amongst the soldiers of India. It is very little that comes to the Pte`s share. I dare say there is plenty of the like amongst the Nobs !!!
I hope my brother Cawt is in good health, and in good employment, also I hope he will do well. Give my best love to him.
Give my best love to Harriet and Emma, hoping they are in good health and spirits, and also hope they have a good merry Christmas. Brother Dick and Charley the same, cousins and Miss Mosdale and all enquiring friends likewise.
As for myself, I am in very good health, my spirits as yourself; thank Providence for the same. Hoping this will find you all square, and the quicker I gets a letter from you, the sooner I know more.
From your ever affectionate son,
W.H. Webster.
P.S. The reinforcements that I made mention of, have just arrived, and it turns out to be only an escort with provisions and treasure. They are to return again tomorrow. There are a few recruits for our Regiments also.
As before. - Soldiers letter to Mr. John Webster etc. Derby.
Censored by M.G. Dennis. Col Cmdr 1st Battalion 60th Royal Rifles.
Stamped circular - Seetapore 12 Jan 1859 & EE London Feb 25th 1859 & Derby 26 Feb 1859.
Overwritten by J.W.. Camp near Browley Jan 8th 1859. No 1.
No. 18
Camp Sullover
January 27th 1859
Dear Father & Mother,
I am happy to inform you that I have had the pleasure of receiving two letters from you, one dated the 19th, the other the 28th November, but No`s were omitted . The news was not so good as I could have wished, that is regards to Mother`s health, and brother Cawt`s bad back.
Since I last wrote to you, I have had some very hard times of it, only two halts since the 8th of this month, marching at the rate of 20 to 25 miles a day. But the worst of it all, but very poor provisions; there are no extras to be got, neither for love or money, in this outlandish part of the country. Living as follows:- 8.0. CAM (8 oclock a.m.). I get a bit of what they call beef, (but it is a sin to use this term), fried for breakfast, strike tents, and march the chief part of the day, that is, until such time as they can find an encamping ground, where there is water to be procured. Halt. And by chance get the remainder of your days allowances, about 8. p.m. and then go to sleep, that is, if you are not for guard or picket, and the weather is beginning to get very warm during the day, but I am happy to say that the worst of the affair is over, for we are making the best of our way to some sort of quarters - that is the yarn at the present amongst the Officers of the Regiment, and I think so myself, for we have been marching back the road we came this last 4 days. Colonel Dennis has left us today, leaving the force in charge of a Captain of the same; he has not been so successful as I could have wished amongst the Black Dogs, for we have had another twist with them since I last wrote to you - it runs as follows:-
Nov 12th, Newalkher commenced our march at about 6.00. CAM. leaving all heavy baggage and recruits in an entrenchment camp.
Got our breakfast at about 3. p.m. and pitched camp at 4. p.m. Marched 18 miles and crossed 4 rivers. 15th - Marched at 8. a.m. and had our breakfast previous to starting. The Cavalry and Artillery went on in front some miles, my Regiment following up at a rapid pace. The advance party met the rebels at about 3.p.m. all infantry and well disciplined. The first salute was a couple of volleys of musketry from the enemy, but our Cavalry soon dislodged them, and they scattered off all the roads. Our horses were regular beat up, but of course they followed the rascals well up, but they could do no good with them, being as the forest was too thick; at any rate, they could brag of thrashing them as they were 6 to their 1. Returned to camp, and upon my word, you would have pitied the poor Artillery horses, they were scarce able to move. The devil a Pandie I saw that day, after marching 25 miles and crossing 5 rivers. The light portion of the Brigade must have travelled 58 miles that day. We lost several Mooltanies, but the worst of all, a fine young Officer named Dixon, wounded in the shoulder and abdomen; he is getting on, but very poorly, but I think he will recover yet.
At any rate they were made to suffer.
The next day my Regiment and Cavalry drove them across a river and on to another etc. Wilkinson`s I think, and gave them a good drubbing; the remainder of the rebels made to the hills. We decidely got the worst of this, at least I think so, for the eyewitnesses said they never saw a Pandy dead. But all of the places ever I put my foot in, this beats oute, (them all ), and I think the name of it is Thiryout Forest, I never saw a living thing in it except one tiger, and that one made a dart at one of our men but missed him.
Six days march, we have been in and about the wild part of the worls, but I think we shall be clear of it to-morrows march. I do not much fancy these wild parts, there is so much fog during the night. We march tomorrow on the other part of our Brigade H.M. 93 Highlanders.
Oh dear, I have got such a cramp in my limbs with lying doubled up in one position writing this; I think shall have to leave off till candlelight.
I have got no dinner yet either; the order has just come in that all letters must be posted in the morning, so I must finish this immediately; do not blame me for being late.
I am rather given to fancy that the work must come very hard on poor Mother (it is a true remark that she made to you when you were at Gainsbro` as not being able to work as she used to do). There is no wonder when all the older branches of the family are away from home, but brother Charley ought to be as good as two servant girls in the house. I rather fancy if I was in his place, I should be. There is nothing like bringing lads up to do housework, for it might come to their turn to be forced to clean their own. (I suppose that he washes all the family socks).
I hope by the time this letter reaches you that No 8 will be all in good health again. That was sad news I got last time as regards cousin Polly`s and Tom`s sickness and Mother`s spasms. Dear Mother I can see too plainly that you fret too much, for God`s sake do not fret, leave all of us, thy family in his guidance, and it is to be hoped that by trusting in him, we shall not go wrong. All the fretting in the world will not make things a bit better. I know that you fret about brother Cawts not always being in work, but he cannot expect it, his trade will not admit of that. As for me, as long as I go along as I am, there is no much fear. It is an old saying, and a true one, that there is time to shake hands with the Devil when he appears.
Give my best love to Cawt the next time you write to him, and tell him never to give way to misfortune, for as the poet says `the world is like a stage and we actors thereon`. There are a great many ups and downs in this world for all of us, and it is to be hoped that the bad will soon turn out to be good.
Give my best love to both my sisters, also Charley, but never allow him to be a soldier, for I think he can do a great deal better if he minds his eye (is he not a wide awake fellow that you can put him in some way of having a livelihood).
Give my best to uncle Thomas and Richard, also cousins, hoping this will find you living in peace of mind and good health and spirits, as thank God this leaves,
Your ever affectionate Son,
W.H. Webster.
Soldiers letter from No 3156 Pte W.H. Webster 1st Battn 60 th Royal Rifles.
To Mr. J. Webster, Derby,
from Camp Sullover, 27th Jan 1859.
Camp near Browly
Friday 11th Feby 1859
Dear Mother and Father,
Here I am at last once more in Standing Camp. We arrived here on the 7th of this month and when we shall leave it, I cannot say, but I think when we do, it will be for some quarters or other, for all the war is near over for the European troops I fancy.
Yours of the 18th December was duly received, which gave me great pleasure, to find that you were all in such glee, what with balls and one thing and another, why you will all be going crazed. I perceive it is only now that you are coming out of your shells. I only wish that I had been one of the party, for you must bear in mind that I am a professed hand at the polka etc, etc.
I am rather surprised at my brother Cawts silence. What can he mean by it? Has he been disappointed by love, or what is the matter with the poor dear fellow? If he was here, he might fall in love with the good hot sun which is beginning to rage properly again. I hope he will change his mind and let you know where he is and how he is getting on, before you receive this; he cannot be hard up. Give my love to him, if you get to know where he is and tell him that I am surprised at him neglecting his parents, those who have fed and done for him in his younger days (that is where his heart ought to be, I don`t know whether it is or not).
I think that Charley is commencing his visiting excursions rather soon; it would please me much better if I heard tell of him assisting his Mother in the house, if he cannot do anything else, for all this visiting tends to expense and does a boy no good, only to make him discontented with his OWN HOME and give him a habit of growling when the hardships come, which we may all expect in our time in this miserable world. At any rate, I wish him good luck and I hope he will enjoy himself. Give my love to him and tell him from me that it is about a fair thing that he began to think about his future life; the sooner he turns his hand to something or other the better.
Give my love to my sister Harriet, hoping that she will enjoy herself at Spalding and keep clear of the smallpox. I also hope that her health is better; I think it is a very good idea of hers as regards visiting, for a change of air is sure to do her good, at least I hope it will. I suppose that this is with Bessie Newbold that was, give my respects in that quarter also, and let me know how she is weathering. I suppose she has got plenty of bairns by this time. I was regularly forgetting her.
I was very much pleased with Emma`s letter, she was so kind as to find time to write to me and before she (banged into the carriage etc). She must have been hard pressed to know what to say in that hour of extreme excitement. I also noticed my cousin Amelia`s signature which was written in a very pretty women`s style of writing. Give my best love to the pair of them, hoping I shall be able to dance the polka with them ere long.
You will see by this, that I am rather stuck to know what to write about, being that there is nothing out of the common going on, and much better living than I have had of late. As regards to Colonel Jones, no longer being Brigadier, he has got a much higher appointment, that is Assistant Quatermaster General, with the K.C.B. attached to his name, a reward for his good service through the Rohilkhand campaign and Delhi.
I hope by the next time I write I shall be able to let you know where to direct your letters to, but until then direct Bengal.
Dear parents, no more for the present,
from your ever affectionate Son,
W.H. Webster.
I forgot my brother Dick and all other friends and relations. Give my best love to him and respects to them all.
Soldiers letter No 19.
From No 3156 Pte W.H. Webster. 1st Battalion 60th Royal Rifles.
To. Mr John Webster, No 8, Babington Lane, Derby, England.
Censored by C. W. Ellis, Captain Commanding 1st Battalion 60th Royal Rifles.
Seetapore.
Stamped at Derby, received 29th March 1859.
Camp Browly
Friday 25th February 1859
Dear Father and Mother,
Yours of the 2nd February, No 106. was duly received with great pleasure, it found me in the enjoyment of good health, as thank God this leaves me at present, hoping that it will find you all in the enjoyment of the same.
You will see by this, we are still stuck in the same hole as when I last wrote to you. The weather is still wet and cloudy, the sun showing itself at intervals with great strength. How long we are going to be kept here, I am sure I cannot say. All hands are expecting the route in daily for Lucknow, some say Meerut, but I hope it will be the former one, so that I can give you some idea of what sort of place it is and so on.
There are only 5 Companies of us at present here, the remainder of the Regiment being stationed at a place named Ramnugic, about 9 miles from here, so that we need not think of shifting until such time as they come in. If we must go by the Home and India papers, it would seem as though the war was all over, then why keep us stuck here; I think we have done enough without being left to do the dirty work for all the remainder of the European troops in the country. I suppose the authorities think we are used to it and they will keep us at it.
The next time I write I hope I shall be able to give you a little more newa, being as there is nothing going on, I am rather stuck to know what to say.
I am very glad that you have heard from my brother Cawt. I was beginning to think he had forgotten you, but of coure you cannot expect many letters, as you remarked the expenditure of the dollars. I suppose it costs one or two to send you a letter.
I am very sorry that the letter was lost, that you made mention of, as being enclosed in brother Cawts. When he writes again, he can drop a few lines more to me and I will be much obliged for the same.
I know that you will find fault with this scrawl, but scold you must not, forgive me for the time being, as I neglected writing before, and the mail leaves this evening.
Give my best love to all brothers, sisters, uncles, grandmother, also friends if they ask how I`m getting on you know. So no more for the present, from your ever affectionate Son,
W.H. Webster
Soldiers letter No 20.
From No 3156 Pte W.H. Webster. 1st Battalion 60th Royal Rifles.
To Mr. John Webster, No 8, Babington Lane, Derby, England.
Censored by C.D. Ellis. Commander 1st Battalion 60th Royal Rifles.
Stamped - not clear, one London, April 1859, & one Derby 11th April 1859.
No. 21 Seetapore
March 14th 1859
Dear Mother and Father,
This is a rather remarkable day, the 14th March, my birthday, 23 years of age. There is a great alteration in me since when I first enlisted; if you met me by chance tomorrow, I hope, (but there is not much fear of that), you would recognise me, but I am almost sure you would not know me, for I look ten years older than I really am. I hope by next birthday that I shall have my feet on English ground and having the pleasure of seeing the whole of you, and I expect to see a great alteration in all of you. I do not think it will be long. For our new Colonel (that is Colonel North) told us this morning on parade that it would be long first, and he hoped that all the hands would go home with the Regiment, for he was proud of them and that the people of England would receive us with open arms, etc. etc.
There is very little fear of me volunteering, for I am longing to see you again, but I suppose when we do get home that we shall be packed off to some other country for another scrimmage; as dull as I am I can see that, and you mark my words if it does not come true. It is not likely that our country is going to be raged and scoffed at by others. It shows their dirty disposition, but stop for another year or two and we will let the scoundrels know who they are throwing their sticks at.
It is my belief that there will be war e`er long. For my part I don`t care much how it goes, for we are well used to it and we might as well keep it up as not. I am but one simple individual though.
You asked me in your last letter what I thought about Lord Clyde, well then to tell the truth, I think but very little about him. It is all very well talking about Political agents and Civil Commissioners, but what made him let the Pandies escape from Lucknow when he had enough Army to beat without bread. I will allow that he is very good as regards to saving European lives, but we cannot expect to kill without having some killed. Well, come back to the black part of the Army, why not let them into them, it would be no loss to us. I should think it would have been a good riddance to get shot of both parties; he is an old muff and praises the wrong parties. He is all for the Highlanders and I am sure that I have never seen anything that they did. I talked to one of the first Fusiliers who came in here the other day, who was in Delhi; It was worse than the whole of Lucknow, and I believe him. The fact is the poor Delhi heroes are kept in the background altogether. It would not have been so if the C.C. had been there; why not give my Regiment a chance of going to some quarters and not keep us always in the jungle. It is my opinion that the Indian war is not half over yet, although they puff us up it is.
We are now waiting here for orders; When we shall move, I do not know.
I was very much pleased with my brother Cawt`s letter; indeed I was beginning to think he had forgotten me. Of course a man of business has a great deal to think about. Give my love to him, hoping he will prosper.
I suppose brother Charley has returned from his visit, as you term it. I hope it will prove to be of use to him and do him good, certainly it might do him harm. How does he get on with his schooling? (I suppose a muff, the same as myself!!). He might brighten up, but when he does it is too late, that is in the course of years or so. It is then he will see his folly, when he sees a wide open world staring at him in the face, and I suppose his last resort will be to go for a soldier. I hope not. I am one of his best well wishers and tell him to guard against company keeping and night walking.
I recollect this time, brother Dick is a regular master with his pen; he must use a great deal of ink in the course of 12 months,
By the time you get this I suppose Harriet will be at home. Give my best love to her and Emma also. Give my best love to the whole of the family, Uncle and Aunt Thomas, Grandmother, Uncle Richard, and my cousins Benjamin, Amelia, and all the others. As for myself, I am in the best of health and spirits, thank God, hoping this will find you all snug and in good health.
I remain your ever affectionate son,
W.H. Webster.
I was that bright, I managed to tear the paper you see.
Sticking paper over most of the address.
Similar to most of the address.
Stamped Derby, April 3rd 1859.
Camp Seetapore March 14th 1859. No 5.
Received 29th April 1859. No 21.
(The brother Dick was Richard Baker Webster, who wrote the excellent Gold Rush letters.)
No.22 Benares
April 11th 1859
My dear Mother and Father,
You will see by the above that I have travelled a great distance in a short time since last time I wrote to you. The reason of my missing the last mail is as follows:- We got the route for Benares in the morning of the 21st March, there to remain until further orders, then orders are for breaking up the Regiment. The reason that I think there is no mistake in it, is that when we arrived in Lucknow, we halted one day for general inspection: General Grant was the man who inspected us, and after inspection he made use of these words:- "Rifles, I know you well; I know there is nothing to exceed you, you are going HOME, and I know you will do your duty as well at home as you have done in this country, so I must wish you all `Goodbye` and hope you will have a safe passage home".
Here is another instance, Colonel Dennis threw up his promotion of Brigadier of Seetapore, for the purpose of joining us, and all the Officers and men of the battalion are ordered to join forthwith. The Colonel spoke to us this morning on parade and said he hoped that no old soldier, or Delhi man, would volunteer. "We are expecting the order every hour", and he added that the people of Old England would receive us with open arms. But I shall write again in a short time and let you know all particulars; we might be broken up and remain here for the summer, but my Officer told me this morning that the staemship was now in Calcutta waiting for us. There is not much fear of me stopping in the country longer than I can help, for I am longing to see all your faces and bonny Old England once more again. Of course you will see by my route when I send it, that I have been at all the chief places in Bengal, where John Pandy was allowed to play himself amongst them. I visited Lucknow; There is more talk about it than it deserves. I will admit there was some hard fighting at the Residency, and also HAVELOCK`S force, bye the bye, I have got a bit of the treee under which HAVELOCK was first buried). but upon my honour, I can`t make out what the C.C. was doing to allow the wretches to escape. It is my opinion that he had so many troops, he did not know what to do.
We left Lucknow on the 25th and marched in four days to Cawnpore, another blood stained spot. I visited the place where all the poor children and women were hung and slaughtered and also Wheeler`s Camp. I cannot see what possessed him to give in to that wretch the Nana Sahib. We left Cawnpore on the 31st by rail, 126 miles in one day, and arrived at Allahabad which place we left by bullock train for this. So you see the lower we get down the country, the easier it gets for the soldier. We can go from here to Calcutta without marching at all, all by bullocck train and rail, and then for the ship, which is to be hoped by the hand of our Heavenly Father, will bring me home to you once more.
Dear Parents, I received two letters from you, one written by Father and the other by Harriet and Emma, which gave me great pleasure and I am rather anxious for another. In case you do not hear from me in a fortnight, you may venture to direct Benares, if I do not tell you anything to the contrary. I hope by the time this reaches you, I shall be on the sea.
Give my best love to Harriet, Emma, Cawt, Dick and Charley, hoping they are getting on well as the world will let them. I suppose by this time, brother Charley is in some employment or other, for it is about time he thought of doing something to assist those who have cherished him in his younger days, and I hope he will mind himself and become a respectable member of society and mind not to get into bad company, as long as he keeps himself to himself, there is not much fear, and above all things, avoid intoxicating drinks.
Give my best respects, or love, which you like, to Uncle Thomas and Aunt, Uncle Dick and Aunt, and all my cousins, Mrs Waterfield and her niece. Dear Parents, I hope this will find you all in the best of good health and spirits (without which no one is happy). I thank God this leaves your son Bill in the very best of health, and as regards spirits nothing can beat them, for I fancy my heart is as big as a wheelbarrow. No more at present,
From your ever affectionate Son,
William Henry Webster.
No. 23 Benares
May 5th 1859
Dear Mother and Father,
You will see from the above that I am still in this place; we are here expecting the order for HOME every day, but I am beginning to think it will be a long time coming as the old story is. The whole of our Officers are of the opinion that it will be home some time next month. At any rate I shall not give it up a bad job just yet. When it does come I will write the first chance.
As regards to your letters not finding me now, there is not the least fear so long as the country is at peace, and therefore you can commence and write in your usual way, a little longer I mean, and trust me, I shall answer them every opportunity, although I have delayed a little in this one. Of course I was waiting for that glorious HOME.
What I have to say of this place (Benares) is very little. The barracks are on a very bad scale, all jumbled up as a lump and very dirty. Also the weather is very hot like the rest of the country`s towns. The natives of the place appear to say it is a very wet place in the summer season - five months continual rain. Of course that makes the days appear longer. At the present, every day appears a month, now that we are not knocking about as we used to; but at the same time we have quite enough duty and by getting four nights in bed from guard to guard, not making mention of Pickets etc, etc. But comparitively speaking it is very easy to what we have been used to of late years.
I heard the other day Tantia Topi was hung at Seetapore; I cannot say whether it is true or not. It is so hard for us to get a country paper on account of the library not having arrived yet, but of course you know yourself whether it is or not by this time. Tell me in your next letter whether you fancy, if ever we shall have another brush with France or not, for they seem rather saucy, I fancy. What little news I can gather, I think it will not be long. First if they do, I hope they will mark time until such time as we get HOME and I stand a chance of seeing you all again and then I am off duty. Not that altogether fancy fighting, but I do not like to see ourselves trampled on by them.
I would almost swear that this country is all over in an uproar; before two years are over our heads, the whole of the niggers appear to look upon us with disdain. And I do not wonder at them, for if you see such makeshift soldiers as are coming out these days, you would split your sides with laughter. What has become of poor old England, for if she cannot post off better men than them, they might as well go to sleep, once the fact that they have disgraced our Regiment. Then what is the reason (the niggers think) that we should submit to their laws, when they cannot get better men than those; all the good ones are gone and now they have sent these out here to keep the places which we have won. Why the Bengali Sepoy would knock half a dozen of them packing at once. Time will tell.
Perhaps the next time you write to me you will be good enough to send me a few Queens Head, being that I cannot get one for love nor money, and it would save you expense also, for I suppose that you have to pay for every letter of mine that you receive. Direct Benares in future.
As regards to my self, I am in the usual first rate state of health and spirits, and I hope that by the time tis reaches you, you will all be Tip Top and I shall be getting nearer you every day.
Give my best love to Cawt, Harriet, Dick, Emma and Charley. I rather think it is about time that one or two of them began to think of matrimony. What do you think, ha?
Give my best respects to Uncle Thomas and wife, to Uncle Dick, cousin Amelia and Polly; I suppose cousin Dick is too far away.
Hoping to hear from you in a short time. Amen. Believe me to remain you ever affectionate Son.
W.H. Webster.
(No outer envelope or wrapping on this letter).
Editors Note.
Tantia Topi (or Tatya) was a rebel General who cut off supplies to Cawnpore with a large body of men and guns, and threatened the Ganges crossing and bridge of boats, but was routed, forming the turning point in the Mutiny. Tantia Topi crossed the Ganges and on instructions from the Nana Sahib marched to Kalpi and took the town, when attacked by the British he set fire to the jungle and began to retreat, hotly pursued by the British and had to leave behind all his guns, large stores of equipment, etc., and 1500 of his force, dead and wounded, and fled, being blamed by his own people for many later defeats. He tried to win over Gwalior and once again escaped when the British arrived. Troops were sent to pursue him, but were bogged down by the rain and movement was very difficult. He stopped now and again to fight, or loot, seemingly defeated, only to appear somewhere else, but despite his rapid movement,the British were closing in, so the rebel leaders split up, but on the 7th April 1858 he was captured, having been betrayed by Man Singh, another rebel leader. With his capture, the last embers of the dying rebellion flickered out. An amnesty was proclaimed and signed by Queen Victoria on the 2nd August 1858 and extended to 1st January 1859, and many rebels took advantage of it, but Tantia Topi was one of those who did not take advantage of it and was executed on 18th April 1859. His trial was on 15th April.
Benares
June 6th 1859
Dear Mother and Father,
I know you will think long of this letter, but you will find by the following that it is not my fault. Since last I wrote to you I have been in Allahabad for the following purpose.
On the morning of the 9th Inst, at about 3 o`clock A.M. when all asleep, the order came that we were to pack up the following articles, 1 Black blanket ! shirt, 1 pair socks, and be ready to march in an hours time to Allahabad. Accordingly we did so by Bullock train. What to do there? We did not know. At any rate when we arrived there, we were given to understand that the 4th Bengali Fusiliers (Europeans mainly) and the Light Cavalry, together with a troop of Artillery were in a state of Mutiny, a fortnight previous. Arriving there of course, we expected to go in with them, which I did not much fancy with our own countrymen. But I am happy to say that they changed their minds and kept quiet (of course if anything had happened, we would have done our duty), their reason for such conduct being as follows.
Since John Company has been abolished, they appear to say that they are no longer soldiers, being as they enlisted for the East India Company Service. They are willing to soldier on the following terms - that is a fresh Bounty and to get their times of going home, the same as Holt`s Regiment (which they did not whilst serving for the Company). I do not know how it will go with them. I would give you their whole transactions, only I dare not. (Understand?).
Once more I had a providential escape, for we had not been there long, before we got the Cholera amongst us and lost 18 more fine fellows, through the efforts thereof. It appears that it had been raging for some time there. .. 5th Fusiliers suffered very much, as well as the European Troops in the Station. It is a dreadful disease and no doubt, I dare say we should have lost a great many more, only that we left as soon as we did, for we were in tents mind, and the weather was rather hot for then.
We left there on the evening of the 23rd, and arrived here on the 26th, and very glad I was for it, I can assure you, for what I see so far, this is a very healthy station.
The reason I have for not writing the morningI arrived here, the mail departed, so the only way was to wait for this, which I hope it will find you without the least delay.
During my stay at Allahabad I had the very great pleasure receiving two letters, one of them dated 24th March, my brother Dick`s, a regular rattler; I scarce thought it was in him. I am very much obliged to him for his trouble. The other, the 8th March, my sister Harriet`s - rather short, but most welcome and long looked for (how can you expect much news or long letters from me when you are so miserably short !!).
As regards to that home affair, I don`t know what to make of it all, for all hands are under the impression that it will be very short first, but I expect it will be Malta or some other place that require guarding during the European War or perhaps the field. It is certain that they will withdraw some Rifle Regiments from this country and of course we are the very first for it. So therefore I still live in hopes of popping off someday, all of a sudden, out of this sunburnt country, (as brother Dick rightly calls it).
I am sorry to hear of poor Mother`s leg being bad; I know she still knocks herself up with work, when she has no occasion, as Harriet remarks, but I know she insists upon it. How often have I noticed it when I was a boy at home, (Ha Happy Days !!). She would persist on taking the job out of my hands in washing the kitchen floor, black leading the grate etc, etc. Then exclaim `ho, my leg`, I hope dear Mother will take my sister`s advice and leave it off. As regards to you writing, there is no fear of your letters as long as you direct 1st Battalion. Of course you will direct Benares until further orders. You will find them answered as far a it lies in my power.
In the paper you were good enough to send me, I noticed as follows:- At Gainsburgh on the 20th ult, Mr Thomas (probably Rhodes), painter, aged 62 years - I suppose that is my dear uncle, says I within myself, and I am afraid it will turn out to be true. I shall be better acquainted with it next time you write. If it is him, I hope he is in a better world, and God rest his soul. I hope dear Mother will not fret; it is where we must all go one time or another, sooner or later, for this is a sinful world we now live in, more so every day, what with war and one thing and another. I am afraid men by the thousand will be laid low before this time twelve months, and at an untimely end too. I have no doubt but that my uncle was a good Christian and he also lived to a good old age. Happy the time when we are all at rest waiting for the day of Resurrection.
The next time you write, be so good as to let me know my brother Cawts whereabouts and how he is getting on, give my best love to him.
As regards my health, thank God, I am in the very best of enjoyment of the same spirits. Also hoping this will find you and all in the same way. Dear Parents, with best love to you and all the family.
No more at present, from your ever affectionate Son,
W. H. Webster.
A copy of an affair that was written in the Alambagh, near Lucknow, by some poor heartbroken soldier I suppose.
When War is proclaimed, and danger is nigh,
God and the soldier is the people`s cry,
But when peace is proclaimed and all things righted,
God is forgotten and the soldier slighted.
I think that touches Battalion question, for Delhi, I mean.
Soldier` letter from No 3156 Pte W. H. Webster 1st Battalion 60th Rifles.
To - Mr. John Webster,
No 8, Babington Lane,
Derby, England.
Censored by C.W. Worth. Major Commanding 1st Battalion 60th Royal Rifles.
Stamped Ju 23 (rest blurred)
Received at Derby 27th July 1859. No. 8.
Benares
June 26th 1859
June 26th 1859. My dear Mother and Father, (No 26.)
Since I last wrote to you, I received four letters all of a lump, all of which gave me great pleasure I assure you, with the exception of one thing, that was poor uncle Thomas` death. Poor fellow, as I told you in my last letter, it is a road we must all take one time or another, and according to your statement of affairs at home, the sooner the better, more especially if famine comes in the way, for it will be miserable to see one another starving, but on the other hand, I am of a different opinion to that, for as long as there is an English ship on the sea, and good British hearts thereon, we will let the foreign swabs know what a Briton can do, when he is trampled upon. I, for one, if the Almighty only spares my life so long, will do my best as long as I have blood or breath in my body (but Iam only one poor soul). I wish H.M. was possessed of 50,000,000, like me and we would show them warm play for it the French I (? mean) or no men (? very obscure here).
My opinion of this affair - that it will end in a regular set to, with all Europe in a 10 years war and he will be a lucky dog that gets his head out of that, I mean to go there at all. I hope I shall for one. There is great talk about our Regiment going home by overland as soon as the Monsoons are over and that will be in about another six weeks. Also I think if we don`t look sharp we shall stand a poor chance of getting to you at all, for I expect they will be detaining troops on their passage to guard the roads etc. But I suppose we shall know all about it in a months time at the farthest
The Times states wrongly as regards the Delhi men. He states that there was only one European Regiment of the Line there, (the 75th). There was the 8th Foot, the 53nd, the 61st and 2 B.G.E. Regt, there together with the 9th Lancers, 6th C.D.G. and as for 30 combats if he had said 110, he would have been nearer the mark. I approve of the patch of poetry you stuck in your last letter, `The Beauty at the Ball` I mean.
I am very glad to hear that brother Cawt is in employment again, hoping he is in good health (best love).
I hope to hear from you soon again. I suppose the last letter I wrote to you about 2 months previous, regular startled you to read the sudden route we had got, but the Allahabad cooked that.
Hoping that this will find you all in good health as thank the Almighty God I still keep in the enjoyment of.
With the very best love to all the family, relations and friends, hoping at the same time that the French will not give you a call before I come to assist you.
No more at the present, from your ever affectionate Son,
W. H. Webster.
The weather is so wet and the paper too damp to offer you the Indian Rubber.
Benares, June 26th 1859.
No 9. from No 3156. Pte W .H. Webster, 1st Battalion 60th Rifles.
To Mr. John Webster, No 8, Babington Lane, Derby, England.
Censored by C.W. Worth, Lieut Col Major Comdr 1st Battalion 60th Royal Rifles.
Received at Derby 9th August 1859.
Benares
July 12th 1859
My Dear Mother and Father,
Being as it is a pretty cool day today in our part of the world, I think I cannot pass an half an hour away better than with you as I may say, for when I am writing to you, I always fancy I am in your presence. Although I scarce know what to write about; I suppose I must manage something or other.
I received a short letter from you the other day and was very glad to see that brother Cawt was in employ again; I hope he will continue to be, for when anybody is out of work (especially those who are fond of it), it must be very miserable. For my part I am one of those that considers that hard work is not easy. Of course you know that I never experienced much at home, but since I have left you, I have experienced it in heart, mind, and body, if not by bare hands, and from what I can see is likely to be, do so again. I hope, he, (Cawt) will live in the enjoyement of good health, as the rest of the world is but a poor speck if he does not enjoy that.
I was talking to Lieut Cox the other day when on guard, and an excellent gentleman he is, he told me if there was anything that lay in his power he could do for me, he should be most happy to perform, and whenever I wanted anything, to go to his bungalow (house), and he would do his best to oblige me. He has a pride to the place that he comes from as a gentleman, I should think, and is respected as such, by all the men of the Regiment.
I did not see the reason that I should stop in this infernal country any longer that I can properly help. As regards to the 1s. 1/2d (one shilling and half pence) a day business I would rather chance that, so that I can see you all once again. What profiteth it a man if he gain the whole world if he lose his own soul. As to the non-commissioned officer, I could get that rank bestowed on me any day in the year now in the Regt sooner, but you can see yourself what a miserable scholar I am. Certainly I am practising daily if it will be any good, but oh my head is terribly thick I think; I am afraid I shall do no good. Now is the time that I feel it coming against me. I oft times say to myself, what a fool I was when a boy, not to take notice what people used to say to me. If I had my time to come over again, I think it would be a little different by the time I arrived at the age that I am now.
By the time this reaches you I should think the Austrian Army will have had a good long march of it, that is even if they keep it up, the way you say they were doing.
Thank God I am in the best of health, hoping you are all the same. With best love to all - brothers, sisters, cousins, uncles, aunts and finally friends.
Dear Parents, believe me to remain,
Your ever affectionate Son,
W. H. Webster.
Benares. July 12th 1859. No 10 usual address.
Censored C. W. North Lieut Col Major. etc.
Stamped Benares. 13th July 1859. N.P.O. F.
Derby August 25th 1859. 2d to pay.
Received Derby 26th August 1859.
No. 27 Benares
Tuesday 26th July 1859
My Dear Mother and Father,
I received a letter from you the other day which took 51 days before it found me. I was very happy to see that you are all in good health, as thank God this leaves me at present.
I suppose it will be some time before I hear from you again, for I suppose you will judge me by my last letter and not write (as I told you), until you hear from me again. But I am thinking it will be no go for HOME this year or two, so therefore I shall be getting a prize old chap before I see you again. I have a pretty big whisker now. I don`t know what it will be like by the time I arrive in Old England. This is bad bad country for a person`s constitution; It makes an old man of you (and dries your blood up), before you are a young one.
The weather still continues very wet and close, so that everything is wet - close, so that everything is damp about us. Excuse this, but things being so very dull, I scarce know what to write about, so therefore I shall be forced to cut this short, although it is against my will.
Ho, -, oh, by the bye, I think I have omitted the Oudh war, so here goes as follows:- Present at the action of Bun-Ka Gong, (probably Bundelkhand), on the 6th October 1858, served in the campaign of 1858 and 1859, including the action at Pusgoan on the 19th October, the battle of Rusoolpore on the 25th, the attack and capture of the fort of Mattowlie on the 8th November, the action at Mindhi on the 18th November 1858, the action of Biswah on the 1st December 1858.
The best part of this years services are left out, what ever the reason is, that is the hard services in the Tirybad (Sirybad?), or Kirabbad jungle, which I made mention of some time previously, but never mind, I don`t suppose I shall get anything for it.
With best love to all the family and relations, hoping this will find you and them in good health. Write as soon as possible and send me a good long letter, for that is the only thing that pleases me in the grieving times.
Believe me to remain your ever affectionate Son,
W. H. Webster
Benares. July 26th 1859. No 11.
No receipt date, or stamping.
No. 28 Benares
August 12th 1859
My Dear Mother and Father,
I embrace this opportunity of dropping a few lines to you (although I cannot give you as much good news as I would wish), but I know that such as it is, is welcome, to tell the truth, I scarce know what to write about, for I am having all the writing to do and no questions to answer. It rather rustles me.
There is still a great deal of talk about us coming HOME this cold season, but I am afraid it is all stuff; I only hope it is not. There are men leaving us daily for Home, that is England), they are all of them old hands, with 12 or 14 years service, so I may say the Regiment is going to the bad, for when they are gone, you may say the whole of the Delhi men, with the exception of very few, are gone.
The weather still keeps very wet and damp, and of course you all know that this time of the year is not the healthiest. I am sorry to have to tell you, we have lost 1 Officer, Lieut Steele, and two Pte soldiers - poor fellows, this day. And what is most singular, they all departed this world between the hours of 11 and 12. A.M. this day. Not that there is any disease hanging about, for there is not; it is proving to be a very healthy station so far, that is as regards to anything of a bad kind. The only thing that is anyways prevalent, is the fever which infects the whole of India in the hot weather.
These two men have been in hospital sometime, but the Officer has only been bad about 7 days.
I suppose I shall be getiing another letter from you shortly. The sooner the better, for I begin to think I should like to hear tell how you are all getting on as regards health, etc. etc.
The next thing I expect to hear tell of, is Dick getting married, or Emma or Harriet having fallen in love with some noble spark or another. I suppose all Charley thinks about as yet is plenty of Emma`s good puddings, that you gave me such a good account about. As long as he sticks to that he is alright, but by the bye, I suppose by this time he is at some trade or another. What age is he? I suppose about 18 years of age.
Give my best love and respects to all the family and friends, hoping this will find all of you in the enjoyment of good health and spirits.
As thank God this leaves your ever affectionate Son,
W. H. Webster.
No 12. outside letter.
Benares
Sunday 4 Sept 1859
My Dear Parents,
I think the last time I wrote to you I told you I would send you the route; it was very near slipping my memory. I do not know whether you will be able to make out or not, but you may depend it is a correct one. There are a few names of places not mentioned; the reason for that was because they were not obtainable.
There is still a good deal of talk about us coming HOME this year. I do not know what to make of it myself; the sooner the better, for this is an outlandish part of the country, everything is so very clean.
You must excuse this letter being so short, but being that there is very little correspondence going on between us, I have nothing to say worth notice.
Give my best respects to G, Mother, Uncle Dick, and all the rest of the family.
Thank God this leaves me in the usual enjoyment of good health, hoping it will find you all in the same way. No more at present, from,
Your ever affectionate Son,
W. H. Webster.
Soldiers letter, from No 3156. Pte W. H. Webster, 1st Battalion 60th Royal Rifles.
To Mr. John Webster,
No 8, Babington Lane, Derby, England.
Censored by C.W. North, Lt Col Major, Commanding 1st Battalion 60th Royal Rifles. No 13
Stamped India unpaid, 2d to pay.
Circular stamp. (1) GPO 1859 Ex Calcutta SE9. (2) Benares PO. 5. Sep 1959. (3) A. Derby Oct 25th 1859.
Received 25th October 1859.
No 30. Friday morning
Benares
September 16th 1859
My Dear Parents,
It is with great pleasure that I drop these few lines, for I am happy to inform you that I have a bit of very good news, that is, (we are for Home or China), the route came in this morning, that we are to move from hence to Calcutta with the least possible delay. So therefore the Battalion order is for A and B Companies to start tomorrow evening at 5. o`clock and so on by Companies. That will leave my Company (H) to arrive there in about 17 days time. We shall go by Bullock train as far as (?) Ranigunge and from thence to Calcutta by rail, so I shall not have very sore feet with marching. I can assure that all hands are glad it is this change, for it is miserable to stop here with hard drill and rations, but the worst of this hole is that we pay very dear for all things and other articles, so no one has a pice in his pocket. Do not be mistaken for this news, for there is no doubt if we do not go to China, we shall come home, but I think the former will be the most likely, being as the Regiment is not broken up here.; it looks very much like service, but I shall be better able to tell you, when we get there, which I will do the first available opportunity.
I am thinking very long for a letter from you. It is a long time since I heard. How are the family and friends? I can assure you it would be a great relief to my mind. I suppose you get mine pretty regular, for you might notice I always number mine, in case there should be any missing.
I am getting more and more sick of the country daily, for I feel I am losing my Europe blood, and I keep fancying I am getting to be an old man, and I am but a boy as I might say. You can see by my poor yarn I am hard set to know what to say, so therefore you must look over this dry scrawl.
Give my best to my brother Cawt the next time you write, and you can tell him that I am either in China or on my road for HOME.
Also sister Harriet, Emma, Dick, Charles, G. Mother, Uncle Dick, cousins A and P, friends Mrs.Waterfield.
No mre at present, from your ever affectionate Son,
W. H. Webster.
Rec`d 29th October 1859.
stamped Benares, 17th September 1859, and Bombay, September 1859, and India. Unpaid, 2d to pay, otherwise front as usual to his Father. No 14 outside.
Dum Dum
9th Octr. 1859
My Dear Parents,
You see my word turned out true as regards the shift. We left Benares on the 21st of last month by the steamer `Lucknow` for Calcutta, and arrived there on the 28th and came up here the same evening; I would have rather stopped at Calcutta, for all of the filthy holes, this beats all others; it is without exception (for an old station) the miserabalist place ever an European put his foot in. Certainly things are very cheap here, you can get eggs for a pice each. Of course that is quite a treat, as we have not been used to that lately.
The Right Wing is at Calcutta at present. We don`t know when we might go there, it is said next week, and then for the ship that is to bring me to Old England, (that is if the Almighty so wishes) once more.
I still keep without a letter from you, I do not think that I ever kept you long without hearing from me. I begin to fancy there is something up amongst you, so please let me know without delay.
If there is any sign of us coming home this cold season, I will write and let you know the first opportunity. I think sometime in February next.
You may venture to direct your letter for Calcutta, and be sure to put 1st Battalion 60th on them, as there are other Rifle Regiments in the country.
Give my best respects and love to the whole family, hoping this will find you in the best of good health and spirits, as thank the Almighty this leaves your ever affectionate Son,
W. H. Webster.
Ols Dum Dum is situated about 7 miles from Calcutta.
Excuse this scrawl. I am on Guard with a very bad pen.
Soldiers letter. From 3156 Pte W.H. Webster 1st Battn 60th Royal Rifles.
To. Mr John Webster, No 8, Babington Lane, Derby, England.
Censor R.E. Robertson, Capt Comdg 1st Battn 60th Rifles.
No 15. Stamped India. unpaid. 2d (i.e. to pay).
2. Dum Dum 8th October 1859.
3. GPO Ex Calcutta 9th October 1859.
4. BH London. Nov 16 1859.
All Circular.
Fort William. Calcutta.
November 6th 1859.
Dear Father and Mother,
You see since I last wrote to you, I have made another shift. The whole Regiment is stationed here now, with the exception of one Company which is at Barrackpoor at target practice there.
I have no idea how long we shall remain here, but I do not suppose it will be long; we shall know better next week, for it is General`s Inspection, and then we shall know our destination. Everyone appears to say that it will be China; I hope it may turn out true, but I am afraid the news is too good to be true.
I wish it was over, for we are at drill every morning and evening, so there is no chance of us seeing anything.
Calcutta is more like home than any place I have ever met with yet in this country. Everything is cheap considering, except the soldiers rations, which are very dear and bad and heavy duty, and little to eat does not agree with me I can assure you, but leave that to me, I always look for plenty to eat, where it can be got, and when it is not getable, why for that very good reason I must go without.
I can`t make out what put it in your heads that it was Sergt Major, so very absurb of you even to think of it, especially you not having heard from me on the subject. Why you know if the like had occured (which there is not much fear of), I should have been glad to have let you hear of it the first opportunity. But don`t you think that Sergt Majors are not altogethger so soft in our Army (got so easily). On the other hand I daresay I should have been years ago, only for my head being rather too soft in sundry places. Mr. Cox must have made a great mistake.
I am very sorry tell of my Mother being attacked with those spasms again. Is there no cure for them at all? They must shake her constitution greatly. I expect it is through grieving so much, and all the feeling in the world is of no use. Why not leave and trust in Providence and let all happen for the best, and I dare say things will turn out to your satisfaction.
I have received two letters from you lately, one with my brother Cawt`s direction thereon, but I have torn them up but not thinking about them, but I suppose I shall be there myself sometime or another and shall stand a chance to see him.
<<<<< LARGE GAP HERE - SEE TYPED COPY TO REPLACE >>>>>> (34) Barrackpore.
December 27th 1859.
Dear Mother and Father,
I forgot the last time I wrote to you to wish you a Merry Christmas, so I wish you one now, although I fancy I am rather late in the market. For my part it is a rather busy one with me, - drill 4 times a day is pretty middling. We are here at target practice since the 20th of this month, and I suppose we shall remain here about 12 days longer, before we shall be completed, and the relieved by another Company. There is a great deal of humbugging about this new drill; they want to make us too wideawake, but I am afraid it is no go. The upper regions are rather too dull.
As poor a Christmas as this is, the last one was much worse, (which of course you all know). There is a great change since then and I hope there will be a much greater one for the good, before the next one arrives. Perhaps I shall be HOME along with you, and very likely not. Whichever way, it is my turn and there is a great deal before us, but it is to be hoped that the Almighty will assist us through it, all for the good, as he has done before. I still live in hopes to see you all once more; it will soon be 8 years since I left you, and it seems but yesterday. How fast times flies away.
Barrackpore is a fine station to my fancy. There is a beautiful park full of wild beasts and birds (or tame ones I should say), they are all penned up in cages. A soldier is allowed to visit free of charge. Things are very cheap and a soldier`s rations pretty good considering.
There is a great deal of talk about us coming home - Us and H.M. 53rd they say, are to be broken up on the 10th of the New Year. If that does not turn out to be true, I shall say no more about the affair, until I see it published in General Orders.
It appears rather curious that all my letters do not reach you; I cannot make it out at all. I have omitted some of my numbers lately, but of course that makes no difference.
I received 2 letters from you the other day, which gave me great pleasure, but I cannot help laughing at the idea of Sgt Majorship. You have made mention of it in your last 4 letters. Give me time and I have no doubt, in a few years to come, I shall be able to let you know that I have obtained the rank of Sergeant, that is if things turn out well.
I must draw to a close as I am in for drill in half an hour, hoping to hear from you before long, and that this will reach you safely. I hope you are all well in health and spirits, as every good Christian should be in, that is the latter. (spirits).
Thank the Almighty this leaves me in the enjoyment of both. Give my best love to the whole of the family, relations, and friends. No more at present, from your ever affectionate Son,
W.H. Webster.
Soldiers letter from No 3156. Lance Corporal W.H. Webster etc.
To. Mr. John Webster, etc as before.
Censored by C. Ashburnham, Lieut Comd detachment 1st Battn 60th Royal Rifles.
Stamped - (1) India. unpaid 2d. (2) Barrackpore (date not clear). (3) GPO. Ex Calcutta. Jan 3rd 1860. (4) Derby Feb 25th 1860.
Letter No 18.
Log. W. H. Webster.
1859.
Marched from Benares Sept 21st. Left for Calcutta by steamer `Lucknow`.
Sept 22nd. Ghazipore 48 miles from Benares & 80 to Dinapore.
Sept 28th. Arrived at Calcutta & Dum Dum November 16th.
Dec 21st. From Dum Dum to Fort William. Calcutta.
1860.
Jan 6th. Barrackpore, - Rifle instruction.
Jan 15th. Returned from Barrackpore to Fort William. Passed Doctor for 2nd Battalion 69th Rifles.
Feb 15th. Joined 2nd 60th Rifles.
Feb 21st. B Company from H Company.
Feb 28th. Embarked on ship `Alfred`.
March 2nd. Lance Jack, (Lnace Corporal). First step in 2nd 60th.
March 14th. My birthday (24 years of age). In a calm and very close
March 18th. St Ann`s Island.
March 19th Addin Island.
March 24th. Taken in tow by SS. Rennard. - arrived Singapore 2.30. a.m. Stayed three days.
April 25th. Arrived Hong Kong. - Stanley Barracks. (disembarked 28th).
May 17th. Embarked on ship `Alfred` for North China.
June 3rd. Poor Jerry Franklin died, thro` grief and starvation (it is my belief).
June 17th. Talienwan Bay, Pechlie gulf (fine bay). Bad rations as usual.
June 29th. Camp Ching Mew.
July 19th. Old Sutton. I shan`t forget him in a hurry.
July 24th. Left Talienwan Bay at 6.30. a.m. It was a fine sight and no mistake. The whole fleet advanced in four lines. Men of War formed a square as the French Fleet joined us, about 12 noon. Talienwan Bay to the mouth of the Pei Ho 240 miles.
July 28th. All hands came to anchor. Started again next morning by daylight.
July 30th. Came in sight of that long looked for land.
July 31st. Too rough for disembarking. I never saw so many water spouts before.
Aug 1st. We left the old ship `Alfred` and embarked on the Gun boats, - I on the `Frim` (No. 83). We landed at Pethany without the least opposition, excepting the mud, which was over the knees for miles round. Nine marching (of course with our trousers off). At 7.p.m. we reached the road and outlying picket with the French at the bridge (their main support). We entered the town that night for water, and found the enemy had quitted the place. The inhabitants were very civil; the best of their play to be so.
Aug 2nd. The troops entered and turned the inhabitants out, also plenty of pigs, but we mus`nt be caught liking them; the French are the boys for pigs. Its fine sport too, to see them chasing them over the mud (and such mud too). 1`ve known them stick.
Aug 3rd. Examined the enemy position - 300 of each Regiment. Lost a few men over it. The Chinese thought they had whacked us, when they saw us retire and gave us three days to clear out of their country. After they stopped trolloping about Pethany for water (beastly work).
Aug 12th. Marched about 8 miles to Sing Ho. The Chinese had a sort of position taken up, so a bit of a skirmish till they ran and left it. I fear they will not stand well. There were not many lost on either side I think.
Aug 13th. Went on covering party to H.N. We made our bit of trench all right and got back to camp just as the day was breaking; just in time to start and take the same place.
Aug 14th. All hands under arms and in two hours we took Hong Kow, a sort of entrenched camp forming the key to the Ta Kaw forts (? spelling Ed). Not many lost on our side; the enemy lost a few (about 4000). I fear they won`t stand and fight unless forced.
Aug 16th. The Battalion marched to Pethany and back for our knapsacks. During our absence the tide came in and swamped everything belonging to us. Regt shifted our camp about one mile. I lost a lot of things; no thanks of course in the way of payment.
Aug 21st. The Ta Kow forts were taken. My Regt was not on the spot, tho` only about 1/2 mile away. The Chinese got the worst of it by great odds, they being hemmed in; would have been quite easy to have driven them into the sea as there was no chance of escape. They must have lost about 30,000. The French loss too was rather heavy.
Aug 23rd. Gun boats passed our camp up the river Pei Ho. It seemed all up with the enemy.
Aug 25th. Marched out and visited Ta Kow. Too small to be any good to us. We could burn them out in a day and leave the forts smouldering about their heads in a week without losing a man. Poor wretches they had no idea of warfare.
Aug 26th. Received letter with the news of my Grandmother`s death. I fear Mother will be very upset.
Aug 30th. Left A.B. I.K. Compamies to guard the bridge of boats. Very strange to see a Royal Rifle Regt left behind.
Sep 7th. Marched from Tien-Tsin camp, 11 miles away.
Sep 8th. Camp Poo Koo 12 miles.
Sep 9th. Tien-Tsin, everything very quiet.
Sep 12th. Marched to the other side of Tien-Tsin. I was pressing natives to push along our baggage. I was obliged to put one fellow `out of mess` he was so obstreperous.
Sep 14th. Coo-Coo 11 miles.
Sep 15th. Camp Sang-Shing (8 miles). Ed. - possibly Tsanghsien.
Sep 17th. Hoze-Woo, 10 miles, a ruined part of the country (by our troops), formerly one of the richest places in the North, I hope.
Sep 18th. Camp Naur Saitin (7 miles).
Sep 25th. Left Hoze-Woo for the front. A nasty dawdling march of 12 miles. Many men sun struck and some died on the road for want of water. Mostly young soldiers but old men.
Sep 26th. Camp 12 miles (nice little march).
Sep 27th. Camp near Pekin (about 6 miles).
Oct 1st. Crossed the canal and encamped by ourselves for that day. Rather weak.
Oct 3rd. Shifted camp. 1. 1/2 miles.
Oct 5th. Marched across country 8 miles. A first rate camp built of Chinese straw. The nights are getting cold.
Oct 6th. Round Pekin. A report that the enemy was in sight. I see plenty of good mutton. I had 1/2 a sheep for supper that night. Plenty of flour and a good house over our heads.
Oct 11th. Went and burned the King`s Summer House and all the tenements belonging to it. A regular piece of folly, why not burn Pekin to the ground? (Editor`s note:- W.H. Webster brought back to England a piece of Jade, later sold by his daughter and a beautiful fan with inlaid ivory faces; his grand-daughter Joyce, my cousin, gave it to me; my Father said that they came from the Summer Palace at Pekin).
Oct 19th. Returned to the Old House at 4. o`clock.
Oct 24th. Signed the Treaty with the Emperor of China March 5 miles in the city of Pekin; a nasty stinking hole. Millions of Chinese were to be seen that day. I never saw so many people
Nov 1st. Shifted quarters from the old village to the Nankin Gate.
Nov 9th. From Pekin to Tong Chow (15 miles).
Nov 10th. Marched 16 miles. Stopped at the old burnt up towns for the night.
Nov 11th Hoze-Woo (12 miles). remained there 7 days to eat up some spare rations which the main army left behind, so we were first up and down the country. The cold is getting unbearable.
Nov 17th. Sung-Sking (18 miles).
Nov 18th. Camp 12 miles.
Nov 19th. Tien-Tsin (5 miles). A disgusting place and the people make it worse. I have only been here 24 hours and I am already sick of it. There are no fortifications near, except a large wall round the No.1 town as they call it. No doubt they think it very grand.
Dec 1st. Down the river Pei Ho in a Chinese Sleigh. Fine sport and very healthy. It makes one eat the salt beef and hard biscuits they are so kind to issue to us, in a place where there are plenty of provisions to be had cheap. They (the government), know we seldom make use of. The Chinese laugh at us and call it `fish`.
1861.
Mar 10th. Visited the South Forts by land about 3 miles from Tien-Tsin.
Mar 12. That long looked for smash of ice has taken place and in 24 hours not a piece to be seen as big as one`s hand. After being frozen for so long, now for the news. (Ed. probably no mail got through whilst the river was frozen.
Mar 14th. 25 years old today.
Apr 5th. Treaty of Josh House (about 1. 1/2 miles).
Apr 13th. Full Corporal, second step in the 2nd Battalion.
May 23rd. Left the Treaty Josh House for the second time. Ed. - ? to ) Tien-Tsin. I am sorry, as we used th have such fine sport, donkey riding for miles around.
May 24th. Queen`s birthday. Al hands parade on the dirty plain (after 3 days rain) and fired 3 rounds.
May 26th Colonel Button left us. The Regiment turned out and gave him three cheers.
July 1st. Comet appaered at Tien-Tsin.
Sep 30th. Left T.T. on a Chinese Junk at 10.a.m. by myself. Rather lonely 3 days.
Oct 2nd. Arrived Takao at 11. a.m. Taken in tow by one of our Gun boats to the Fleet. I embarked on H.M.S. Simoon at 2. p.m. It started to blow and I fear that the old Junk that I came in was lost.
Oct 6th. Left North China at 6.30. a.m.
Oct 7th. Hope Sounds 9.30. a.m. Chew Few. (Ed. probably Chefoo).
Oct 13th. A very heavy typhoon. Nearly a bad job for H.M.S. Simoon. Hope it won`t last long.
Oct 14th. Worst about 3.30. p.m. I shall never forget it; she was on her beam ends and reports of 'fire!. The latter was not so bad as I had feared. It was only the engine room grates that gave way and of course the fire shot up the rigging. We have lost no end of canvas; we can`t keep any on. I think it can`t last, its so terrific.
Oct 15th. Cleared up at 7. p.m. We rescued a ship-wrecked crew, 8 Europeans (sailors), Captain and his wife and child, 2 Blacks and one dog. I understand that the lug (W.H. Chander, by name) went down at 6.p.m. Luckily all the crew were saved. They had plenty of provisions on two boats. We were very near missing them. The lady and child (about 5 years of age) were in fine spirits. Their boat would have gone down in about five minutes; it was sinking as our sailors rescued them. Many ships were lost during the storm, - the worst for years, the Chinese say.
Oct 16th. Dropped anchor at Hong Kong 2.30. a.m. (A den of thieves).
Nov 2nd. Left H.K. 5.30. p.m.
Nov 3rd. Steamed from the back of H.K. at 5. a.m. Good passage so far.
Nov 8-10th. Very miserable weather.
Nov 11th. Anchored at 10. p.m.
Nov 12th. Weighed anchor at 5.a.m. and arrived at Singapore 1.30. p.m.
Nov 16th. Left Singapore at 9.a.m.
Nov 18th. Jaspar Islands, Bunker. Anchored 6.p.m. A dangerous port by night.
Nov 19th. Stood to. 2.p.m. Lifeboats crew off ship, to a ship in distress. It turned out she had only sprung a leak. A regular fraud detaining us in our journey HOME. Off again. 6.p.m. went first rate all night.
Nov 20th. Sunder Straits. (Ed. Probably Sunda Straits between Sumatra & Java). Anchored 5.30.p.m. Lovely spot.
Nov 21st. Left again at 4.30 p.m. Anchored 10.30.a.m. Java. (Batavia). Plenty of sharks; the harbour is a moving mass. It is a lovely place and the island of Sumatra I think is more beautiful still, but so many spice grow about here that the smell is very sickly. Left 1.30.p.m.
Nov 26th. Stopped steaming. I am sorry.
Dec 12th. Port Louis (Mauritius). 12.30.p.m.
Dec 16th. Left Mauritius at 12.45.p.m.
Dec 19th. Engine broken down; in a calm, so making no way.
Dec 25th. Xmas Day. The worst I ever experienced. 11.30.p.m. a man drowned as we were going 12 knots an hour.
Dec 29-30th. Miserable weather round the Cape. Sleeping in the rain.
1862.
Jan 2nd. Simon`s Bay, South Africa. 4.p.m. Toad fish.
Jan 9th. Left Simon`s Bay at 6.30.a.m. after a good ramble through the surrounding country.
Jan 19th. St Helena. 6.15.p.m. Napoleon`s Tomb. Jacob`s Ladder.
Jan 20th Left St. Helena at 12.a.m.
Jan 24th. Ascension at 12.noon. I don`t know what to make of the place at all. It looks like a mountain of ashes; not a green spot on the island.
Jan 26th. Left Ascension at 19.30. p.m.
Jan 28th. Crossed the line at 8.p.m. (the Equator). REAL turtle soup for dinner.
Feb 1st. A man overboard at 7.a.m. Saved fortunately.
Feb 5th. Dropped anchor at 8.30.a.m. at St Vin (Tago) (Ed. probably Cape St Vincent)
Feb 8th. Left St V. at 6.p.m. Head winds. Oh, for the dear home.
Feb 25th Left Brest at 11.30.p.m.
Feb 26th Portsmouth. 9.a.m. (Thank God). It looks an outlandish place.
Feb 27th. Disembarked. (Plenty of fuss).
Mar 5th. Derby. My dear old home at last. I cannot express my feeling at the thought of being once more among my dear relations.
Mar 30th. Left the dear old place at 8.a.m. to soldier again for a short time.
Apr 14th. Discharged from the 2nd 60th Royal Rifles. Back to the dear home once more.
Back to Home Page | Back to Names Page