Of still greater value are the following priceless notes, scribbled in pencil during action, by Major-General Sir Richard Airey, K.C.B., Q.M.G., and sent to the Earl of Lucan who commanded the cavalry division at Balaklava, October 25, 1854.
"(a) Cavalry to take ground to left of 2nd Line of redouts occupied by Turks.
Rd. Airey, Q.M.-Genl."
"(b) Cavalry to advance and take advantage of any opportunity to recover heights. They will be supported by Infantry which has been ordered to advance on two fronts.
R. Airey."
"(c) Lord Raglan wishes the Cavalry to advance rapidly to the front, follow the enemy and try to prevent the enemy carrying away the Guns. Troop of Horse Artillery may accompany. French Cavalry is on your left. Immediate.
R. Airey."[23]
[23] These three most interesting autograph notes are also to be seen in the Royal United Service Museum.
Before concluding these notes we may give some general hints.
Preserve all facsimile signatures which are to be found; they are useful for purposes of comparison when doubtful originals come along.
The signature should never be cut from a document; the whole sheets should be preserved.
An original letter ought not to be pasted on to the album. It is far better to fix it in position by slipping it under "ears" or bands of paper pasted to the pages.
To restore a faded signature, dab it carefully with a solution of hot tincture of gall containing a trace of dissolved potassium chlorate. When dry, dab it with a pad moistened in ordinary lime water. The process is simple, but it is well to experiment on a useless specimen before treating valuable ones.