“Believe me, etc.
“Wellington.”
(Gurwood, vol. XII, p. 609-610.)
The fair inference is, that the Duke, on seeing the orchard and garden of La Haye-Sainte in possession of the enemy about two o’clock P.M., thought the farm was also in their hands, which certainly was not the case till about five o’clock.
The farm-house in question, La Haye-Sainte, was lost from a deficiency of proper ammunition; its gallant defenders were riflemen. Who was to be blamed for that deficiency, it is difficult now to ascertain: the Duke, it appears, thought the officer commanding on the spot was censurable on this account. Let me be allowed to record my regret, that on this and many other occasions, valuable lives and important posts were often lost, owing to our having three different sizes for ball cartridges. If there were but one size, as I think there might be, for cavalry, infantry and rifles, the mutual supply of ammunition would be at all times practicable, and, in critical moments, of the utmost value.
To His Royal Highness the Duke of York.
“Orvillé, June 28th, 1815.
... “I would beg leave to suggest to your Royal Highness the expediency of giving to the non-commissioned officers and soldiers engaged in the battle of Waterloo, a medal[109]. I am convinced it would have the best effect in the army; and, if the battle should settle our concerns, they will well deserve it....
“Wellington.”
(Gurwood, vol. XII, page 520.)
To Earl Bathurst.
“Paris, September 17th, 1815.