Page:The invasion of the Crimea Vol. 5.djvu/445

AIM'ENMX. 123 This order was obeyed in the most spirited and gallant manner. Lord Cardigan charged with the utmost vigour, attacked a battery which was tiring upon the advancing squadrons, and having passed beyond it engaged the Rus- sian cavalry in its rear ; but there, his troops were assailed by artillery and infantry as well as cavalry, and uecessarily retired after having committed much havoc upon the enemy. Balaclava, Nov. 30, 1854. My Lord,— In your lordship's report of the cavalry action of Balaclava of the 25th ultimo, given in the papers which have just arrived from England, you observe that, from some misconception of the instruction to advance, the Lieuteuant-General considered that he was bound to attack at all hazards, and he accordingly ordered Lord Cardigan to move forward with the Light Brigade. Surely, my lord, this is a grave charge and imputation reflecting seriously on my professional character. I cannot remain silent ; it is, 1 feel, incumbent on me to state those facts which I cannot doubt must clear me from what I respectfully submit is altogether unmerited. The cavalry was formed to support an intended move- ment of the infantry, when Captain Nolan, the aide-de- camp of the Quartermaster -General, came up to me at speed, and placed in my hands this written instruction : — (Copy.) ' 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 ac- ' company. French cavalry is on your left. ' Immediate.' (Signed ' K. AIREY