It has already been shown[21] how, in June 1783, the 19th Light Dragoons and all Cavalry regiments above that number, on the establishment in England, were disbanded. For three years, the fate of the 23rd seems to have hung in the balance. At last, on 26th April 1786, an order was issued to the effect that henceforward the regiment was to be numbered the 19th, instead of the 23rd, a designation under which it was destined to win itself fame and honour.[22]
Before this, a change was made in the uniform of all the Light Dragoon regiments in the service. Hitherto, all mounted regiments had worn scarlet. In 1784, it was determined to distinguish the Light Dragoons, by dressing them in blue, and the following order gives the whole dress in detail.
Regulations for the Clothing of the Light Dragoons, April 1784.
1784.
April.
The Clothing of a private Light Dragoon to consist of a Jacket and Shell under waistcoat and leather Breeches.
The Jacket and Shell to be of blue cloth, the Collars and Cuffs of the Royall Regiments to be Red;—and those of the other Regiments to be of the colour of the facing of the Regiment, looped upon the breast, and edged with white thread Cord, and to be lined with white, the 11th and 13th Regiments excepted, which are to be lined with Buff.
The under waistcoat to be of flannel with Sleeves, and made so as to be buttoned within the waistband of the Breeches.
The Breeches to be of Buckskin.
N.B.—The make of the Dress and method of placing the Cord upon the Breast of the Jacket, to be exactly conformable to the pattern approved of by His Majesty.