[455] There is no doubt that the energetic Sir Harry Smith was made the scape-goat of the shortcomings of the Government at home. Among other things, he had been accused “of using the language of hyperbole in describing the numerous rencontres which have occurred, and of giving praise to the gallant officers and troops as well as burghers.” Possessing, however, some experience in war, he says, in his spirited despatch to Earl Grey, dated Camp Blinkwater, March 17, 1852, “I must maintain that such is not the case. Troops acting in the open field expect not the stimulus of praise; the soldier sees his foe, and his British courage rises at each step; but he who, after perhaps a night-march of great length, has to ascend mountains, or penetrate dense bush and ravines, filled probably with a daring and intrepid enemy, as resolute as athletic, ready to murder any one who may fall into his hands, and when warfare is of the most stealthy and enterprising kind, appreciates the praise of his commander, because, when his acts are conspicuously daring, he is conscious he deserves it. He does his duty; but human nature renders even the soldier’s intrepid heart sensible of the approbation of his superior, which he is proud to know may reach the eye of his parents and friends.”
[456] We regret exceedingly that we have been unable to procure an authentic portrait of Colonel Seton.
[457] This officer met his death by a sad mischance in 1873, at one of the London Metropolitan Railway Stations.
[458] His bust is on [page 583], vol. ii.
[459] Brevet Lieut.-Colonel.
[460] Brevet Lieut.-Colonel, 30th June 1813
[461] Brevet Major, 21st June 1813.
[462] Brevet Lieut.-Colonel. 9th Dec. 1872