In speaking of the defeat of the enemy’s principal attack on the road to St. Jean Pied-de-Port, where the first brigade was stationed, the Marquis of Wellington said in his despatch, “they were particularly engaged in the contest with the enemy at that point, and these troops conducted themselves admirably.”
On this occasion Lieutenants Duncan McPherson, Thomas Mitchell, and Alan McDonald were killed. Major John McPherson (mortally), Captains George W. Holmes, Ronald McDonald, and Donald McPherson; Lieutenants John Catenaugh, Ronald McDonald, James John Chisholm, Robert Winchester, and George Mitchell, and Ensign William Fraser were wounded. Twenty-eight rank and file were killed, and one hundred and forty-three wounded.
In commemoration of this action, an honorary badge was conferred by His Majesty on Lieut.-Colonel Cameron, bearing the word “Nive,” and the senior captain of the regiment (Captain James Seaton) was promoted to the brevet rank of major. The royal authority was also granted for the NINETY-SECOND to bear the word “Nive” on the regimental colour and appointments.
The enemy retired into Bayonne a little before dark, and the NINETY-SECOND went into its former quarters in Petite Moguerre.
On the 14th of December, the following order was issued by Lieut.-General the Honorable Sir William Stewart, K.B.:—
“Head Quarters, near Petite Moguerre,
“14th December, 1813.
“The second division has greatly distinguished themselves, and its gallantry in yesterday’s action is avowed by the Commander of the forces and the allied army.”
The NINETY-SECOND marched from Petite Moguerre on the 17th of December, and on the 19th occupied cantonments in Arquite.
1814