Up the Gatineau! Article
This article was first published in Up the Gatineau! Volume 7.
Footnote to History
The charge to the 'Light Brigade'
Before the troops entrained for the 'battle-front' in Low(e) Township an Ottawa newpaper reported that "The general (Major General Gascoigne) walked up and down the ranks, inspected almost every man separately, enquired as to their clothing equipment, and spoke with a soldiery interest that fairly warmed the boys' hearts. He advised them to take every precaution against the damp and cold weather".
"There were many of the gentler sex present to witness the departure and not a few unable to conceal the anxious expression of their faces and, while they hoped for the best, expressed their fear that if 'Jack' and 'Will” or didn't 'get hurt 'they would catch colds sufficient to lay them up anyway'“.
“The general expressed regrets at the apparent turn that affairs had taken in Low(e), and that it was necessary to take the men away from their homes at the present time of the year. While he indulged in no anticipation of the ultimate outcome of the trouble, the most part of his short address was on the duty of the men, should the worst result. If actual firing were necessary, he pointed out the danger of firing over the heeds of a crowd to frighten them. This often resulted in wounding or killing women or innocent individuals, who might be in the distance and have no part in the fight. If firing were necessary it should be steady and aimed to have effect. He also gave practical advice as to keeping cool under provocation and acting with proper deliberation and purpose".
The above material is from a Scrapbook made available through the courtesy of Miss Barbara Potter.