Soyer's Culinary Campaign: Being Historical Reminiscences of the Late War.: With The Plain Art of Cookery for Military and Civil Institutions

in a roar of laughter from the beginning to the end.” “We did spend a very pleasant evening. There were above twenty guests.” “Ah, I know! they sent me a list of names. You are aware that was my regiment before I came here.” “Of course I am. Your lordship was in the glorious charge at Balaklava. I hear that the charger your lordship rides is the one you rode on that memorable day.” “Yes, it is; and we were both very fortunate, as you see.” “Very, my lord. In these times everybody is subject to the chances of war, as I observed that evening to Major Peel and Colonel Douglas, upon taking my leave of them: ‘a few hours such mirth as this--_c’est autant de pris sur l’ennemi_’--the French soldier’s proverb.” “You are right. How did you find Admiral Boxer?” “Rough and good-hearted--working very hard.” “I heard several anecdotes of you and the admiral with the Sardinians.” “Did you? Then you must have heard of my losing four horses.” “No! I heard of your having lost one, while paying your addresses to the fair Mrs. Seacole.” “That was it. We had a good laugh over it, at all events. Mrs. Seacole took a deal of trouble in the matter, and found the pony again. She is an excellent woman, kind to everybody, I can assure you.” “Ah, yes, I know her well; she paid me a visit on her way to the Crimea.” “She told me she had spent a few days with Miss Nightingale.” “Talking of Miss Nightingale--she is very much altered.” “Very much indeed. She has looked much worse, but is now improving fast. Her life was in the greatest danger.” “So I heard.” “I hope Lord and Lady Stratford de Redcliffe are well.” “Yes. I had the pleasure of dining with them at Therapia last Sunday: they inquired after you.” “I am very happy to hear it, and shall soon pay my respects to them. I much regretted not being in the Crimea during their visit. The _Caradoc_ left Balaklava the day the _Robert Lowe_ left