[13] As to the value of its work in Europe opinions differed. Some seemed to think little of it. Some declared that during the time when English reinforcements were not yet ready to go into line, the Indian contingent had saved the British Army from being overwhelmed. Both these views were perhaps extreme. The Indian soldier fought under serious disadvantage in the climate and surroundings of Europe, but undoubtedly he fought with great devotion and suffered heavy losses, for which England owes him deep gratitude. The matter may well be allowed to rest there.
[14] Beluchistan may for practical purposes be regarded as a part of India.
[15] In 1854, when the Regiment went to the Russian War, it is recorded that on one of the transports “the beef had made several voyages to and from India, and then been returned into store. Some barrels of peas even bore the date 1828 plainly painted thereon. It was impossible to boil them—also the pork (salt) was as aged as the salt beef, and as bad.” The Islanda was better than this.
[16] Australians.
[17] Bombay.
[18] European privates’ tents, with double roof and sides—as some protection against heat.
[19] General Cobbe did in fact command an Army Corps later on, but the command-in-chief went to General Maude.
[20] Caprice, his favourite mare, had been left at Bombay among the sick horses.
[21] Arab Village.
[22] Arab Village.