Third Epoch

A band of desperadoes under a leader named Fredrich falling in with the fugitives from the slaughter at Heymers. Fredrich with great skill collected the dispersed survivors, and joining them to his new band, these with many adherents from disaffected districts he assembled and formed into an army of no inconsiderable strength. H.I.M. surrounded by his troops was under the walls of the strong fortress of Biddex, devoting his time in ease + pleasure, not taking measures to immediately put down this rising. It was not till the enemy had reached within 50 miles of the fortress of Nuklehunder, then the strongest in the kingdom, that H.I.M. offered any resistance to the approach of the usurper Fredrich, having taken the title of King Fredrich 1. Into Nukhelhunder were sent therefore a large amount of troops including the Guards + a large convoy of artillery + warlike stores. This force H.I.M. deemed sufficient to defend his dominions.

Owing to a misunderstanding respecting a peremptory order ambiguous + arbitrary between H.I.M. + the Infantry and Cavalry of the Guard, a strong spirit of disaffection prevailed among the ranks. The seductive luxury of the city of Nukhelhunder, who were in communication with the invader, soon to King Fredrich’s side those veteran troops to whom the power of blood + thunder were as nought. H.I.M. hearing of this insubordination and mutinous manifested immediately despatched Colonel Blucher with the Hussars of the Guard (4^th) + the Coldstream Guards to enforce the orders + to take military action against those who had been foremost among the disaffected.

The men fearful of their conduct on the approach of Col Blucher shut the gate of the city. Blucher falling back for reinforcements to Cidex, Fredrich and his army appearing before the walls of Nukhel he was joyfully welcomed + hailed as deliverer. The prisoners from Heymers were set free, and Mercury was brought from the dungeons of Nuklehunder to the command of a division in King Fredrich’s army. With this division General Mercury followed Blucher + seizing the village of Littleton made himself master of the whole of the country between Littleton + Nukhel.

On the return of Blucher H.I.M. resumed the Generalship of those forces which remained at Cidex. On the 11^th April 1878 he with the greater part of his army passed out of the fortress + crossed the isthmus of Cidex + ascended the plain of Littleton. On reaching the height of the plateau the 11^th Hussars deployed + the 20^th and 21^st Foot extended as skirmishers. The Tower of Littleton Church was soon discovered, but here all further progress ceased. From Nukhel to Littleton a line of troops bespoke the approaching army. In + around the village a very efficient force was massed.

The command of these devolved upon Mercury who had taken up his residence at Littleton Castle. The grand reserve lay within Nukhel under King Fredrich’s immediate command. As all progress to Nukhel would be futile, while Littleton remained in the enemy’s possession, H.I.M. at once attacked that place. A vigorous cannonade upon the village, answered with great spirit by a gun planted at the head of the streets, prepared the way for a grand assault on the village which was successful, although accelerated by the blowing up of a gun killing and wounding many. Mercury being taken, offered his services to H.I.M. which was accepted. The fall of Littleton was followed by the immediate abandoning of his position, it being untenable, not, however, without an attempt to regain the village which was frustrated by the skilful movement of the army at Littleton + a fine flank charge of the 12^th Lancers, but this fine regiment was annihilated, five sixths being destroyed. After this attempt he fell back to Nukhel, followed by H.I.M. and the whole army.

A well maintained fire was kept up and cavalry charges decided his retreat.

Fort Resistance an outer battery was stormed + carried by the 7^th (now 27^th) + a strict blockade maintained. An attempt to storm the Armstrong Battery by DA [Drouot’s Artillery] was defeated by the tremendous artillery fire + charge of the Life Guards. With difficulty the guns were brought off + H.I.M. after decided to wait for reinforcements before making any fresh assaults.  This respite Fredrich occupied in levying fresh troops and reorganising his forces. A strong body of troops raised in the North of Scotland and a new Battalion of Foot Guards were sent out to Nukhel. On the 24^th of June these new levies appeared before Littleton in which 2 Prussian Regiments alone remained. The impetuous attack made by the Highlanders + 1^st battalion of New Guards was followed by the immediate flight of the garrison.

Having gutted the village, they, on the approach of Mercury with the Mercurian + Napoleonic Guards, evacuated it + proceeded by a circuitous route to the North entrance to Nukhel in safety, As soon as the approach of the Highlanders was known in Nukhel a large sortie was made. The 5^th, 1^st, 2^nd Cavalry Regiments dashed out of the valley, onwards, upsetting all in the way as H.I.M. formed the nearest regiment in one large square. A long line of artillery + infantry (reinforcements rec’d since Littleton) stretched along the left. Between these 2 fires the Reckless Cavalry came on. When within 200 yards of the square the guns commenced firing. A mass of struggling fallen men + horses told how accurate had been the aim.

The shattered Life Guards were at once attacked + flattened by the Heavy Cavalry of H.I.M. the gallant 5^th pushing bravely but hopelessly forward met death upon the bayonets of the Coldstream Guards. After this H.I.M. advanced his whole line. The Grenadier Guards, who had followed the cavalry out of Nukhel, unable to withstand the overwhelming force withdrew within the citadel. Along the valley Drouot’s Artillery advanced when half way Mercury at the head of his Guards dashed out to the front, followed by the whole army of H.I.M. in spite of the destructive fire from the Armstrong Battery which mowed the ranks at every fire. The Battery however was at last reached, stormed + taken by DA. Mercury at the front charged with fury the Grenadier + the YB [meaning unclear] Guards. By superiority of force + numbers these brave soldiers were cut down + all would have fell had not Fredrich surrendered to H.I.M.

The scene after this battle was horrific. Never throughout his long experience had H.I.M viewed such a scene of horror + pain. The carnage had been fearful. Within Nukhel the Scotch + Grenadiers lay side by side in the agonies of death. Many were found wasted away with hunger + disease + famine. The bravery + devotion of these troops were such that H.I.M. expressed a wish that they would enlist under his banner. Fredrich therefore induced them to take the oath of loyalty to H.I.M. They were incorporated into his army as the GG/FG + 42^nd + 79^th + 93^rd Highlanders. (How well they kept their oath is shown by their deeds at Firban, Lasterne, Powgen + etc.). For this Fredrich was pardoned and set free. This endeth the Campaign of Littleton.

Fourth Epoch

Firban - Emburg - Lasterne

On the 4^th August 1873 H.I.M. crossed the frontier of his territories to attack + invade the kingdom of Fredrichsburg. This invasion after the surrender of Nukhel was a despotic movement on the part of H.I.M.

The enemy had posted his troops in and about the village of Firban. Batteries of great strength were erected at every available spot, just a mile behind a second line of batteries stronger than the first. This strong position was occupied by an army of about 215 men commanded by DM Hasher. His majesty arrived in front of Firban, which lie on the borders, at 7 am on the morning of the 4^th. By 9.30 the whole army numbering about 200 arrived on the scene. H.I.M. after an ineffectual attempt to shell the position opened a sharp cannonade but with little effect. At 10.30 Major-General Campbell’s Division with DA were extended to the right in order to turn the enemy’s left. The guns drove all within the fort. The fire of the Batteries was so severe that the troops began to waver. The 3^rd Battalion Grenadier Guards coming to the support a general rush was made + the Battery (N^o [left blank]) was stormed + taken the enemy abandoning the intervening space between the 1^st and 2^nd lines.

A strong body of Cavalry charged the troops who threw them back by a sharp rattle of musketry. H.I.M. leaving command to his generals, at the head of his regiment (5^th DG) 10^th Hussars with the Enniskilleners and Greys in reserve rode at the enemy. Although superior in numbers, the enemy were cut to pieces, not without hard fighting, frightful loss + the charging of the reserve. The conflict taking place in front of the battery it could not fire + being stormed was taken by the CG 3^rd Battalion. At 12 the 23^rd Welch Fusiliers 8^th + 9^th Foot + D’s Artillery advanced to storm the village. At 2 the village was taken + the centre of the enemy’s position was stormed + taken at the point of the bayonet by the grand charge of the Guards under Major Gen Cambridge. The Irish Regt + the Reserve formed in line to receive them were overthrown + put to rout by the irresistible fury of the attack + the solidity of the column.

A trifling advantage on the right was temporarily gained by the defeat of the 8^th Hussars by the enemy’s Lancers and Firban for a moment was in the enemy’s hands. But the 1^st LG under Mercury charging defeated him with great slaughter the enemy quickly abandoned the position + fled in disorder. By 7 pm all firing had ceased, the victory gained. The enemy had 80 killed + 132 wounded. Our loss was 120 killed + wounded. The Grenadier Guards, 5^th DDG + 10^th Hussars had lost ¾s of their original complement + H.I.M. was wounded, his life being saved by Lt Col Ellis of the 5 D Guards who was killed in a charge at Abosot at Sep 11 1873.

The enemy were immediately followed by H.I.M. and his whole army. Receiving considerable reinforcements he halted at the next town Emburg where he received r=the second defeat at the hands of H.I.M. The village being the centre of his position the 11^th Hussars charges up the main street + gained the place, very few infantry being there. The enemy attacked the town repeatedly with the 12^th Lancers 4^th Hussars and 2^nd Dragoons as H.I.M. sent forward the 5 DG. The town was taken + retaken 4 times but finally the overthrow of his Cuirassiers, who had outflanked Emburg, by the 1^st LG and defeat of the whole of his cavalry in Emburg by the final charge of the 6^th D[ragoons] and 2^nd D[ragoons].

After this severe cavalry contest the enemy withdrew, his position being enfiladed on the left by the severe fire of DA. They were followed so quickly that H.I.M. came up with them near Lasterne whither where they were retreating. Overtures of peace being made H.I.M. was absent attending the conference. This did not however prevent hostilities. General Mercury who commanded in the absence of the Emperor immediately attacked the enemy (altho' in a strong position) with the bayonet. As the troops advanced the terrific fire to which they were exposed broke the column s. At this moment the enemy launched his cavalry into the demoralised ranks. A terrible slaughter ensued. The Guards alone stood firm till the arrival of the Heavy Brigade of the Cavalry of the Guard dispersed the enemy’s squadrons. This cavalry fight had covered the advance of DA and the Armstrong being brought to bear upon the enemy’s massed columns played with dreadful effect upon them forcing them to relinquish the ground.

The victory was dearly won. Out of 35 men the Grenadier Guards left 25 dead upon the field. Other regiments, particularly of the Guard, suffered in proportion. The Coldstreamers were almost annihilated, the 5^th Imperial Dragoon Guards lost 5/6^ths of their original complement. This battle (Lasterne) was fought 11^th August 1873.

 The enemy however showed a great desire for peace. H.I.M. at once entered into negotiation + peace was signed 13^th Aug 1873.

A million-and-a-half war indemnity, expenses paid + the large county of Bordrore annexed to the empire were the fruit of the campaign. On the payment of the money H.I.M. immediately evacuated the enemy territory.

VI Epoch - The Fredrichsburg War

Lepolinques - Mount Errecey - Fiskin - Chippinon - Campers - Chapmon - Starper - Fiskin - Ponville

After the Battle of Horpers Sept 27^th 1873 the army of the rebels without cannon + in direful condition now but 45 men marched to Fredrichsburg, and were entertained by King Fredrich at his capital Kidde. On the conclusion of the mutiny H.I.M despatched a message to that king demanding the surrender of General Black + all who had lately borne arms against H.I.M. After some vacillation King Fredrich, with the hope of taking H.I.M. by surprise + before his army recovered its strength + elasticity, with the intention of recovering his ancient province of Brodore (ceded to H.I.M. after Lasterne) and wresting from the power of H.I.M. the fort of Routsbach in Tertsche which is a neutral party H.I.M. held; declared war through her protector + supporter King William of Prussia Emperor of Germany who sent Oct 20^th 1873 an exorbitant + insolent [ultimatum] to H.I.M. which of course was not complied with. War was now virtually declared, and King Fredrich with hasty + fatal speed despatched an expedition for the purpose of conquering H.I.M.’s Southern province and of taking the capital before H.I.M. who was at Powgen with the army could come + protect them. So secretly was the expedition prepared that it had entered the waters of the Galsher before its presence was known.

But hearing of the force under MG Mercury at Horpers General Blucher who commanded the expedition determined to destroy that officer + his small force before proceeding to the capital. Accordingly the troops were disembarked at Toby, the next port to Horpers, and were immediately marched towards Horpers. BG Mercury however on information of the invasion immediately put his little force on the road to Toby and on the 29^th Oct arrived at the Lepolinques and a few minutes later up came the Fredrichsburgans who immediately advanced to the assault. The force under Blucher was 65 Inf 15 Cav and 4 guns. Mercury having called out the conscription, which had been levied but not brought out during the mutiny, had increased his force + now commanded 57 infantry + 12 Cavalry but had only 4 small imperfect howitzers.

On the right the Lepolinques were attacked repeatedly by fresh troops and the 30^th Regt had great difficulty in holding their ground till the arrival of the 31^st Regt. On the Left the 15^th H gave way to the enemy’s horse squadrons of till a magnificent charge of the 11^th Huss[ars] cleared the horsemen from the field. At the same time LG Mercury at the head of the 29^th 32^nd + 45^th advanced along the road. The centre which was weakened by the effort on the Lepolinques gave way before the serried line of bayonets and the victory was complete. Blucher retreated + collected the remains of the expedition in Toby. But Mercury quickly followed and the following morning 30^th Oct took Toby after a strong resistance with the bayonet. The whole materiel with 4 guns, General Blucher and almost the whole of the army were taken; the transports + fleet which brought them escaping from the scene with a very small remnant of the expedition.

This defeat determined King Fredrick to await reinforcements from Prussia. H.I.M. set to work to reorganise and reinforce his army and raised fortifications about, protecting the great roads of his capital.

Nov 10^th a Prussian armament arrived at Capistone, the principal seaport of Fredrichsburg. This was the first of an army of 300 men from Europe. With it also came General Steinmetz + several other noted officers who immediately set to work preparing for the invasion of Georland.

Having induced the governments of Faschel, Kaiserlich + Laros to join their league for the overthrow of H.I.M. + the partition of his country Georland, among them: they immediately commenced active preparations, after sending to H.I.M. a final ultimatum which being the same as the first, was of course unattended to. Therefore on the 17^th Nov the heads of the governments of Faschel, Laros + Kaiserlich promulgated a declaration in accordance with that of King Fredrich + the Emperor of Germany which was tantamount to a declaration of war. Immediately a Prussian fleet set sail with transports from Capistone + arrived off Toby on the 22^nd November 1873. To protect his kingdom H.I.M. with his Guard (140) lay near Georgetown. Mercury with the army of the north (120) was at Prebat. Of the great roads from Fredrichsburg one only was unprotected. The rest were guarded by Powgen, Judisel, Percy, Prebat, Pelito. On the South Cidex alone protected the Capital, which with Nukhelhunder complete the list of H.I.M.’s protecting walls. Of these the Capital Georgetown was of the first class with its supplementary Nukhel + is almost invulnerable. 

On hearing of the warlike attitude of the other patrons of Hocosia H.I.M. with the Aldesk Volunteers + 13^th + 6^th Hussars the division which won the battle of Lepolinques left Georgetown + marched southward for Faschel. ­­­­On reaching Bordwib he secured intelligence of the arrival at Sopy of the Prussian fleet + army. He at once embarked the troops for Routsbach + returned to Georgetown. There assembling the service battalions of the Guard he left the city with the army 140 in numbers. Never had the Guard looked so well. Crowds assembled + cheered them on. They left the ­­­­­­­­­allurements for the country fields perhaps for knighthoods or Glory most likely to wet the walls of Percy with their blood or stain the fields of Mount Errecey, Fiskin, Starper + Ponville.

In obedience to orders MG Mercury had left Prebat + had arrived at Percy the night before the Prussians + H.I.M. The Guard arrived on the 26^th November 1873. Mt Errecey the key to Percy N was occupied by the Grenadier Guards. Percy in addition to its garrison, the depot battalions 59 +45 sheltered the Scots Fusilier Guards. The Coldstream Guards were at Campers midway between H.I.M. + MG Mercury, who with his army was at Campon with 100 men. General von Steinmetz with the vanguard arrived at Fiskin on the 25^th but on the arrival of his main body he advanced against Mount Errecey, where the 1^st + 2^nd Brigades were extended. H.I.M. with the Scots Fusiliers was ready before they assaulted the Mount + after a vain attempt they were driven down.

But having turned by a skilful movement H.I.M.’s right, Steinmetz again prepared to attack Mount Errecey. H.I.M. ordered up the whole remaining reserves + anxiously awaited the appearance of MG Mercury who was expected to come on the enemy’s rear early in the afternoon but he had not yet come in view. H.I.M. had therefore to sustain 2 fresh attacks on the position at Mount Errecey + the whole of Drouot’s Artillery with the 2 Battalions Coldstream Guards could with difficulty check the advance of the turning force which General Flasher commanded. After suffering an enormous loss, the army of Major General Lord Mercury of Nukhelhunder appeared.

They had marched from Campon, having abandoned the road + left their artillery when near Fiskin which place was filled with Prussian troops, and now appearing suddenly in rear of Steinmetz’s army pressed on with such vigour that the turning force was completely cut off from the main. Before General Steinmetz could change front he was attacked by MG Mercury with the 8^th or Irish Brigade at the point of the bayonet and compelled to give way. Being strongly supported by the 5^th division under LG’s MacConnal and Campbell the Guards on Mount Errecey rushing down on the [disordered?] battalion the Prussian army was broken + defeated, + Steinmetz drew off his whole force having lost 4 guns, 1 General and 115 men. The turning force being nearly all killed or taken prisoner and in a vain attempt to charge through the Georish line with a Regiment of Uhlans.  Hasher General of Fredrichsburg was killed. Steinmetz was closely followed + driven out of Fiskin + fled to Ponville on the Jonkif where the gunboats of the Prussian fleet prevented any further pursuit + accordingly H.I.M. with his Guard retired to Fiskin.

The army of the north returned to Campon as new evils overshadowed the lustre of the victory at Mount Errecey. Prince Fredrich Karl von Preussen with an army of 200 men had obtained Fort Prebat by a strategic movement and having opened the road for the invasion of Georland was now en route for the seat of war. Having raised a fresh army of 100 men he prepared to annihilate H.I.M. at a blow. For this purpose he marched on Percy south by Ridetown leaving his headquarters at Horpers. Steinmetz was ordered to regain Fiskin + march on Mount Errecey while the fresh army under Generals Black + von der Tann proceeded direct for Campon for Percy. Happily for H.I.M. von Steinmetz advanced too soon for on the 29^th Nov. he attacked stormed + tool the village of Fiskin altho’ H.I.M. with the 1^st 2^nd and 3^rd brigades (Guard) held the post, but the 4^th brigade (Coldstreams) with DA coming up retrieved the village + the honour + prestige of the Guards.

After mainly attempting to regain the position by a cavalry charge of Uhlans who were driven back by the 1^st Life Guards who gave no quarter, their brave Colonel, Brigadier General Herbert, whose renown gained by his broadsword + powerful arm on the bloody fields of Firban Emburg Lasterne + finally but greater at Sopy + Abosot great; having been mortally wounded by a spent bullet at Mount Errecey on the 26^th, Lieut Col Lucan succeeded to the command: the Prussians slowly retired, leaving 2 standards, 9 prisoners + 68 killed + wounded on the field. H.I.M. immediately with the greater part of his army returned to Percy where reinforcements awaited him. Having failed in his attempt to seize the bridge at Campers where he had been anticipated H.I.M. was forced to abandon his posts at Campon Fiskin and Campers owing to the advance of Prince Fredrich Karl on Campers.

H.I.M. held the place with the Irish (8^th Brigade) + the Scots Fusilier Guards while the retreating army of MG Mercury from Campon passed through for Percy 2^nd Dec. An orchard on the left was during the action was taken + retaken by the 27^th + 88^th Regts. When all had passed his majesty abandoned the hamlet + withdrew toward Percy. Campers was immediately seized + occupied by a body of Prussians + Bavarians under General von der Tann who marched for Campon where he was joined by the army of the north under General Black the rebel who had by the capture of  Prebat which he effected opened a road for the invasion of Georland + gained the command of an army. A division was immediately sent to Fiskin which the Grenadier Guards + BG Cambridge abandoned + Fiskin was also occupied. H.I.M. was to all appearances checkmated; but the time of danger only served to render his genius more famous, to render his glory more bright than that which the world cannot give + which alone gives to him whose brow encircled by that crown, which guarantees the liberty, order, wisdom + justice metes out to his own subjects at once proclaims “Honor et fidele”.

After a close reconnoitre of the enemy line, in which he was nearly taken prisoner by a squadron of Uhlans H.I.M. determined upon immediate action, the Prussian line being too extended.

The Duke of Cambridge with the 1^st + 2^nd Brigades on the 9^th manoeuvred before Campon, which place was immediately strengthened by fresh battalions from Starper where Prince Fredrich had his headquarters.

On the 10^th MG Mercury with the 8^th Brigade 1^st Battalion Coldstream Guards + Scots Fusilier with Drouot’s Artillery, having under him Brigadier Generals Hasher + Drouot proceeded in flat bottomed boats down the river Youkif + effected a landing at Chapnow + drove out the few troops posted there with the 8^th Brigade whose leaving to protect the place, with the rest of his force he marched for Starper but was repulsed by the dreadful fire he received. An attempt to break his force, on the part of Prince F was however the means of destroying the Prussian Guard + shattering several other Regts. As soon as Major General Mercury appeared on the field H.I.M. with the 5^th 6^th + 7^th Brigades attacked Starper from the road from Percy.

Prince Fredrich Karl leaving the protection of his Left to his infantry with a Battalion + 2 Regts of Hussars charged furiously down the hill towards the new army of H.I.M. Mercury having reformed the shaken ranks of his troops again advanced on the left of Starper, Brigadier General Hasher with the Coldstream Guards having come on the rear of the village at the same time that Drouot’s Artillery + the Scots Fusilier Guards stormed the heights the place was won + the shattered relics were cut down by the 5^th DGs like cattle. In his attempt to overthrow H.I.M. Prince Fredrich Karl was repulsed + he returned for Starper to conduct the retreat which he saw was unavoidable but his return was impossible the hill being in possession of MG Mercury + on the Left the 6th Brigade blocked his escape that way. In the execution of this turning march the 6^th Brigade lost its brave Commander MacConnal who fell when leading the 79^th, his own regiment. He had distinguished himself at Firban + Mt Errecey and particularly at Aldesk + Abosot * (he was buried at Percy Dec 16^th 1873 followed by his own Regt + detachments from the 92.91.71.41.79 HLI Mercury + Hasher. Capt. McCully of the 42^nd succeeded.

Captain Cameron of the 92^nd took the command in a very able manner. In his attempt to escape by the Right Prince Fredrich Charles was taken + his Hussars cut to pieces by 6^th + 2^nd Dragoons + 5 DG. MG Mercury with the 5^th + 7^th Brigades immediately set off + successively regained Napoleon + Smatsche + on the 14^th Dec 1873 appeared before Campon which on his approach was abandoned von der Tann in his attempt on the 5^th Brigade at Chapman on the 11^th having lost ¾ of his division. With the [remainder?] he rejoined General von Steinmetz at Ponville on the 15^th after a toilsome + circuitous march owing to the capture of Fiskin by H.I.M. which was stormed on the 14^th Dec by Drouot’s Artillery + the guards. Out of 17 men Drouot lost 13. The Prussian General von Gocken lost 34 killed + wounded + 15 prisoners.

H.I.M. followed to Ponville. Mercury marching through Percy marched on the south of Ponville but owing to no road except that through Toby being able to bear Artillery, he had reluctantly to leave his guns at Prompil from whence he marched on Ponville with his army about 100 men on the 18^th Dec. H.I.M. lay before the other side of Ponville waiting the appearance of the army of the north coming on the enemy’s rear. This ruse de guerre he had practised with great success at Mounty Errecey, Harper + Campon. Now again it succeeded to the glorification of H.I.M. + the freedom of his country from foreign invaders. At 11 o’clock on the morning of the 19^th Dec 1873 Lieut Gen^l Mercury attacked the Prussian position at Ponville with the bayonet. The 71^st Highland Light Infantry leading the way was shattered by the terrific fire from the town. The 79^th headed by their new commander Major MacCully in vain charged on the foe. The Prussian riflemen stood firm + coolly opened fire + the gallant 79^th was forced back.

Lieut Gen Mercury hurried to the front + with the 5^th + 8^th Brigades stormed + took the Battery which mowed down the ranks of the 71^st + 79^th. The 5^th Brigade surrounding the church of Ponville put every Prussian to the sword. The 42^nd + 93^rd under Lt Col Campbell charged the town near the ridge + forced a body of Uhlans with General von Steinmetz to flee from their death spreading bullets. The lower part of the town was cleared by the 7^th Brigade under Major Cameron. In the meantime H.I.M. had attacked the upper half of Ponville + aided by the capture of the Left of the town on that bank by Major General Hasher aided by Brigadier General Drouot with the 3^rd + 4^th Brigades + Drouot’s Artillery had gained a complete victory and were driving the discomfited foe over the Bridge which they had hardly passed before Mercury + his troops gained the lower + larger part of the town.

They had no recourse but to flee on board their gunboats which protected their disastrous overthrow. When all had embarked the fleet sailed from Toby Dec 20^th with but 20 men the relics of that large army that landed only a month before. Great indeed were their disasters having in 28 days lost 2 Generals 480 men 28 guns +7 colours. H.I.M. had also suffered severely having lost upwards of 200 killed + wounded. This ended the first campaign.

VII Epoch - Faschellic War - Routsbach - Desundra - Dulivea - Ardel

While the contending armies were manoeuvring in the South of Georland the allies of Fredrichsburg raised 2 armies of 100 men each. One under the command of the Kaiser of Kaiserlich having attacked Routsbach was overthrown + defeated by the garrison of Routsbach. On Nov 30^th 1873 28^th 29^th 30^th 31^st 32^nd 33^rd 15^th + 16^th Hussars under Lt Col Ernest who following up his victory burnt Befforalski, but on the approach of the 2^nd army, which had been marching to the siege of Cidex but had returned south to retrieve the disaster of Routsbach, he returned to the shelter of the walls of Routsbach. The allies immediately commenced to besiege that place but H.I.M. by the victory of Ponville having freed the northern part of the kingdom had at his disposal for the field full 200 men.

Lieutenant General Mercury was given the command of a force of 60 men + ordered to Routsbach. By a skilful flank movement he suddenly came upon the Left flank of the Faschellan army which abandoned its guns Camp equipage + fled leaving its prisoners in the hand of their victors. The Kaiserlich army besieging Routsbach from the south was forced, by the defeat of their attack to retreat precipitately leaving their heavy Batteries in the hand of LG Mercury Dec 25^th.

Leaving the 2 Battalions of Foot Guards to retain Routsbach LG Mercury with the whole of his force followed the retreated Faschellans + the 29^th arrived before Dulivea which he immediately layed siege to. Between Dulivea + Ardel an army was however collecting for offensive movement against LG Mercury’s flank and he urgently wrote to H.I.M. for reinforcements. H.I.M. having entered Drouot’s Artillery on Roughrider left with that Regt + many others for the scene of strife. With 60 men he joined Mercury and they advanced on the 2^nd January 1874 upon the new assembled army near Desundra. H.I.M. retaining his position DA, LG Mercury commanded.

He had to oppose the enemy 60 infantry + 15 Cavalry: 90 infantry + 24 Cavalry. The enemy centre was protected by a Battery the Right flank the weakest. Accordingly Major General Drouot with the 71^st + 92^nd Regiments advanced on that part of the enemy’s line. The 91^st however being attacked by a body of Kaiserlich Hussars formed up but being cut through + through by the fire of a battery they were thrown into disorder + lost in 5 minutes six men. Drouot was among the wounded + was taken prisoner by the Kaiserlich Hussars who dashing on the broken Regiment cut down almost all.

The 92^nd altho’ ably commanded by Major Cameron shared a similar fate. But the Scots Greys coming up cut down the hussars and in the space of 12 minutes 25 human beings bit the dust. Drouot’s Artillery now advanced to the Left + opening (fire) on the foe forced them to give way. To keep up their line, the enemy so weakened the Left + Centre that the former was gained by the 6^th Inniskilling Dragoons, the latter after much hard fighting in which the 42^nd lost 9 men. By the 42^nd 93^rd etc. the Right then surrounded broke + fled + the victory was complete with the loss of 26 wounded + 8 killed.

The army here took up its quarters and recounted its strength. On the night of Tuesday the 6^th of January 1874 Dulivea was stormed the column having to surmount innumerable obstacles. They were twice repulsed + would have given way but Col Ernest at the head of the 30^th + 32^nd Foot restored confidence + the stronger side of Dulivea was gained at the cost of 11 killed + 24 wounded. The 20^th + 25^th each lost 9 men + the 33^rd 7. The forlorn hope was annihilated. The following night before H.I.M. could attack the remaining side of the town, the enemy after blowing up the magazines abandoned the town + retreated along the road to Laros pursued by the 15^th Hussars.

H.I.M. divided the army. A division of the Guard receiving fresh reinforcements advanced on Ardel, the capital of Faschel, under Major General Drouot. The Lord of Faschel having refused to accept the terms H.I.M. offered, the Major General Drouot, with great alacrity prepared for the siege. On the 17^th January the bombardment commenced. Drouot’s own + the Artillery of the Guard ably assisting the besiegers. Ardel being open to access from all sides soon became a prey to the flames which by the 21^st had consumed nearly ½ of the capital. The Faschel therefore signed the treaty of Ardel by which he ceded to H.I.M. Holocha £7,000,000 + other concessions. The chief town was taken possession of while the greater part of the army left for Routsbach en route for Georland arriving at Pelito January 29^th and entering Fredrichsburg joined the army of Lieut Genl Mercury at Cetoy Feb 5^th 1874.

VIII Epoch - Kaiserlich War

With the remaining division of the guard + a few line battalions H.I.M. embarked at Tilopa Jan 19^th + arrived off Swartzburg on the 20^th. Kaiserlich being in a totally defenceless state the Kaiser reluctantly signed the treaty of Swartzburg from 21^st hoping to regain the ceded territory. H.I.M. leaving forces in possession of Swartzburg + Meritel returned to Routsbach. The Guards (with the exception of the Scotch Fusilier Guards, which garrisoned Ardel) went on to Georland with the division from Ardel under Major General Drouot. The day after the treaty of Swartzburg before it was known, Brigadier general Ernest with the 91^st + 92^nd Foot depot battalions captured Nadzem by a night surprise altho’ garrisoned by 40 men.

The 91^st were eager to avenge their disaster at Desundra + they carried the place at the point of the bayonet losing 2 men wounded only. Large quantities of stores ordnance ammunition etc. were captured with 11 prisoners. H.I.M. now incorporated his captured province + organised them as one kingdom which he called Tertsche after the old kingdom that ruled Hocosia so long. This pleased the people and on the 5th of February 1874 he crowned himself Hershcal of Tertsche, and immediately left for Georgetown after appointing BG Ernest Governor General of Tertsche, + Baron Routsbach: Lt Gen^l Mercury Baron Nukhelhunder, Viscount Faschel and Major General Drouot Baron Fiskin.

IX Epoch - Larossan Expedition - Wilsaw

After the evacuation of Dulivea by the allies on the 9^th January H.I.M. with a part of the army of Faschel followed the retreating foe, pursuing them out of Faschel into Laros where they took post at Lecoppat, but H.I.M. from the smallness of his force was unable to attack them. Being reinforced he followed them again the next day and after a short contest routed them in their position the centre of which the village of Wilsaw commands. The action opened by a feint attack on the enemy’s left during which a column charged up the heights on the right. The 79^th led the way but the column being broken by the terrific shower of shot was charged + driven down the heights by a brigade of Faschellans and the 79^th 92^nd + 93^rd Regiments were hopelessly disordered in spite of the gallant endeavours to rally them of their leaders Major MacCully Colonel Cameron + Lieut Col Campbell. But a dark blue line of warriors with their flowing green plumes is ascending the bloody heights their glittering bayonets, firmly grasped, tell, by the rusty stains they bear of former service in the field, not one but was buried in some [unclear] at Powgen Mt Errecey or Ponville. Who are they! Heart! The war cry “Faugh a ballagh” proclaims to the victorious Faschellans that it is the “Connaught Rangers” who pant for the strife, who thirst for their blood, and not the defeated Scot. No the 88^th and not the 79^th nor 92^nd nor 93^rd, not led by MacCully, Cameron or Campbell: but by their own leader the brave Mercury Baron Nukhel, Viscount Faschel.

In a trice they won the height + the village of Wilsaw. The Kaiserlich Cavalry overthrown by the 15^th + 16^th Hussars flee the field +the utter rout of the foe leaves 21 prisoners.

H.I.M. here quitted the army + set off en route for Kaiserlich (see preceding page) leaving Lieutenant General Mercury in command.

The enterprising general at once pushed on for Ungrande the Larossan capital + entered Mincky five days after the battle of Wilsaw January 18^th two days after the Kaiser signed the treaty of peace at Eptob January 20^th 1874. Leaving the 42^nd + 93^rd in occupation of several towns + being joined by a number of Larossan prisoners who were banded as the 20^th Foot Regiment. LG Mercury entered upon a bold design, that of invading Fredrichsburg from the left. He accordingly set out from Laros + entered Fredrichsburg and after enduring great hardships during the passage of the Mahrattan range arrived safely at Cetoy February 6^th.

X Epoch - 2nd Prussian Invasion of Georland - Relief of Powgen - Formlets

Whilst Viscount Faschel was bravely fighting his way to Georland, H.I.M. was engaged in protecting his territory.

An army destined for the relief of Powgen (which had on the 10^th February dispersed a besieging force sent against it) was delayed by the advance of a covering army of Germans some 20,000 strong.

Nothing daunted however, the garrison on the 15^th, led on by the Emperor himself, who braved every danger after a hard struggle drove the enemy out of the trenches capturing 600 prisoners, the Eagle of the 75^th Prussians 21 guns + immense quantities of military stores. The foe left 2,100 killed and 3,100 wounded whilst the garrison which consisted of the 8^th 9^th + 45^th Regts scarce 4,500 men in all, lost 1,200 killed and 2,000 wounded.

The Imperator joining the army of relief, at once commenced hostilities and on the 20^th attacked and drove the enemy, some 17,000 from their position at Formlets where they had taken post.

The village of Formlets was successfully stormed after a hard struggle and the action was decided by one of the most bloody cavalry conflicts on record between heavy Brigade of H.I.M. and a mass of Uhlans some 2,000 strong who were almost annihilated in the end, when H.I.M. who had noted the struggling conflict, rode up at the head of his “Body Guard of Heavy Cavalry of the Guard” and terminated both the fight and the battle for the enemy’s centre being now completely in the hands of the Georlanders they were on every side surrounded and defeated.

The relics of the army fled to Sopy, but H.I.M. who had had only 11,000 men before the action, was left with but 4,100 having lost in the great action of Formlets 1,400 killed and 5,800 wounded being one in every 1½ men killed or wounded.

The heavy Brigade which numbered 1,200 sabres was reduced by the Uhlan lances to but 400.

The Prussians lost 5,400 killed + 9,400 wounded + 1,600 prisoners and left 13 guns + 8 colors in the hands of their adversaries.

XI Epoch - A (3rd Fredrichsburg Campaign); B (South Georland Campaign)

XI A

When the army of Fredrichsburg was safely quartered in Georgetown and the deliverance of Powgen assured as stated above, the Imperator at once commenced to levy troops which had been voted at the Witenagenot but had been drilling for some months and were now efficient soldiers. New regiments were created, whilst old ones were increased to two or more Battalions. The 29^th 30^th 42^nd + 85^th Foot Regiments contained each 4 Battalions on service 3 in Georland and one in the newly created Kingdom of Tertsche. The 47^th Lancashire + 85^th Bucks Volunteers were among the new Regts.

For a long time the intercourse between Fredrichsburg + Peruni had been growing less amicable; but Peruni was still fearful of another defeat like that of Lemos, altho’ anxious to retrieve + avenge the disaster of 1863. The Imperator had offered many inducements to the Emperor of Peruni to join in an alliance, but the Emperor altho’ willing refused to enter into the contest while Fredrichsburg was backed by her European ally Germany.

But an outrage committed on his frontier by German troops compelled him to demand satisfaction which was refused, and after a long altercation between the courts of Schanfuhl and Kidde the ambassador of Peruni left Kidde on the 21^st March when war was virtually declared between Peruni and Fredrichsburg.

The Emperor entered into the contest, with the Imperator as ally, with spirit, and immediately sent off a division by sea to Georgetown where it landed safely April 2^nd.

The rest of the Peruni force was equipped for a campaign but were delayed until the calling in of reserves should place them on a war footing. By the end of May three Corps numbering 56,000 men were in the field and near 100,000 more were forming as a reserve.

Two Corps entered Fredrichsburg on the 1^st of June and effected a junction at Krometz on the 5^th. On the 7th they had advanced to Myjiji which being open and defenceless (through Mercury’s former campaign) was entered. They had thus advanced without opposition to within 20 miles of the capital.

But we must here return to the Imperator and his indefatigable efforts to free his country from the iron heel of the oppressors.

Having reorganised his army into five separate Corps d’Armée the Imperator at once commenced operations.

His five corps were as follows:

Corps		infantry	cavalry	guns	base
1st	(Guards)	15,000	1,900	32	Georgetown
2nd	*	12,000	2,800	26	Pelito
3rd	*	11,000	2,500	24	Judisel
4th	*	10,000	2,900	28	Percy
5th	*	11,000	1,100	25	Georgetown

making a Georland army of five corps d’armée or –

59,500 infantry 11,200 cavalry with 135 guns which with the Peruni contingent or 6^th Georland corps of 9,400 infantry 2,600 cavalry with 20 guns will make

68,900 infantry 13,800 cavalry and 155 guns now at the disposal of his majesty.

Opposed to him was a Fredrichsburg army at Napoleon under General von Orff who had massed there some 60,000 troops including the 6^th Regiment of the Prussian Infantry of the Guard and the 17^th + 21^st Regts of the Dragoons of the Guard (Prussian).

Leaving the 3^rd + 4^th Corps at Judisel + Percy to watch the two seaport towns of Sopy + Toby; where the Prussians were accumulating stores + largely increasing their armies daily; the Imperator left Georgetown on that 2^nd April with the 1^st (Guards) 5^th and 6^th Armée Corps and marched for napoleon being joined by the 2^nd Corps from Pelito on the eve of action.

The large forest of Garda between Napoleon and Nukhelhunder being strongly held by the enemy’s Tirailleurs the Imperator after a reconnaissance attacked with the 10^th division (V Corps) and the two light infantry Regts of the Peruni contingent. After a brief struggle the forest fell before the overpowering forces of the Georlanders, and the advance of the 11^th Hussars who had threaded the closest intricacies of the wood. In this engagement fought April 3^rd the 50^th + 85^th Georland Regts greatly distinguished themselves. Whilst the enemy loss amounted to 2,700 in killed + wounded that of the Imperator was trivial, some 400 killed and 900 wounded. The Peruni corps lost 200 killed + 500 wounded making a total loss of the army 600 killed + 1,400 wounded. The enemy left 2,700 prisoners + 2 guns in the hands of H.I.M.

His majesty the next day pushed on the next two days being employed in bringing up through the forest his Artillery

The Germans, after the engagement of the 3^rd, took up a strong defensive position before Napoleon a town of some 6,000 inhabitants.

This position was very strong, being protected on its Right by a morass, while a flood plain lay behind the hills which formed the position, after which a large extent of hilly country offered splendid advantages to a retiring army. The full strength of their position will be better understood by a reference to our engraving of the plan as furnished by the War Office.

It was not till the 6^th April Easter Monday that H.I.M. was able to attack the enemy, owing to the delay arising from the difficulties the Forest of Garda presented to the free passage of the Artillery and stores.

The Imperator formed his plan of attack thus: The Right composed of the 5^th and part of the 2^nd Crops. The centre under the immediate command of His Majesty was held by the 1^st (Guard) Corps. The Left was composed, on the Right by the remainder of the 2^nd Corps, and on the Extreme Left by the 6^th (Perunian Corps) under their own General, Marshal Mastreman.

This last was to storm Passmore, + defiling through the Road to Napoleon; turn the Prussian Right. The 5^th Corps was to storm Diel + advance through Nesti + force its way round the Close Hill to Ibor. There the 6^th Corps + Left wing of the Georland Army, would unite with the Right and thus enclose the army. This design was fully carried out.

Passmore was stormed by the two Battalions of Perunian Zouaves who continuing their charge carried with great intrepidity the hill of that name. Their loss was excessive. They were well supported by the 52^nd Chasseurs a Pied and 41^st of the Line. General Werder, determining to recover the village sent four squadrons of Uhlans against it. This recovered the place; but the Imperator at once sent the 2^nd Heavy Cavalry Brigade of the 2^nd Corps to drive them out. This they did and actually penetrated into Napoleon itself overturning a regiment of Dragoons sent against them.

The Sixth Corps now advanced at a run on the town (Napoleon) and after much bloodshed carried it. The Right now advanced.

At the outset the 13^th Brigade was repulsed in an attack on Diel, but after two successive advances it was taken.

On the other hand the 10th Division (MG Massey’s) had successively taken Duppe, Pier , and Nertow and were advancing in irresistible strength through the defile between the Mons and Ethall Hill the latter being in the hands of the 19^th Brigade (8.9.20) who had taken it with the bayonet.

The losses of the Corps (V) were very great as this was the decisive point of the battle.

Part of the Languedoc Hill was already in the hands of a Brigade of the 2^nd Corps.

The Fifth continuing their advance through Mons Wood had effected a junction at the Ibor with the 2^nd and 6^th Corps.

The 2^nd Corps had penetrated to the rear of Napoleon before closing ground. Here it encountered the Prussian Guard who retreated before the Artillery, but they resolutely resisted all attempts of Lieut Genl Hasher to throw them in disorder.

In vain did General Hasher at the head of the Irish (8^th) Brigade charge them; they bravely stood firm and died. Heroes of St Privat, brave followers of the German Emperor.

Three times did the 27^th Inniskillingers throw their weight upon them with reckless ardour. Success at last crowned their efforts, for they succeeded in destroying the 1^st Battalion of the Augusta Regiment.

The remainder of the Guards including 2 Cavalry regiments retreated and joined General von Werder at Heth.

The 2^nd Corps now continued the turning movement to Ibor where the 5^th Corps soon joined it.

The Prussians were now in a trap.

Part of the Languedoc Hill alone remained in their possession. On all signs were the Georland troops, whilst every moment their men were struck down by shells from H.I.M.’s guns.

In front the Imperator’s Guards were drawn up in line; (keeping the communications between the 5^th Corps + 2^nd + 6^th Corps) as yet untouched. General Werder therefore sent out a flag of truce, and at 9 pm signed the capitulation for whole of his force, and 24,700 untouched prisoners [left blank] guns and [left blank] colors and 5 generals became the prize of H.I.M.

Their loss was 4,800 killed + 11,700 wounded; that of the Georlanders 5,500 loss + the 6^th or Perunians 3,500 killed + wounded.

It is useless to comment on this their greatest victory of the Ibor. It far exceeded General Mercury’s great Waguli conquest for with a much less loss a far greater quantity of guns, material and prisoners were secured.

Napoleon will be undoubtedly one of, if not the, brightest star in that resplendent coronet of victories which at once adorn the brow of the Imperator and serve as a lesson + a model for all the World. Nor did the fruit of “Napoleon” stop here, for a Corps of 15,000 having effected their escape before the action was over H.I.M. so manoeuvred his troops as to catch them before they reached Smatcshe and compel them to lay down their arms.

The accompanying plan will demonstrate the wonderful strategies/operation

 It will be seen that the 2^nd Corps by reaching Smatsche before the escaped Bavarians, cut them off from all communications, compelling them to lay down their arms.

Epoch XI A pt 2 - Third Fredrichsburg Campaign

After the stupendous victory of Napoleon the Imperator divided the Army. The Guards returned to Georgetown which was menaced from Toby by the Prussians (see Chap XI B) the remainder (2^nd, 5^th + 6^th) marched for the invasion of Fredrichsburg. The route taken by General Mercury through Cetoy was deemed too dangerous, altho’ no obstacles presented themselves till the capital was reached. Whereas the direct route (the one taken) was defended by the two fortresses Lantarb and Rhodies, as will be seen from the adjoining plan.

But the first (Mercury’s route) was the one which he was so nearly entrapped in, and H.I.M. resolved to take the more difficult but direct Road.

The Army now advanced to Lantarb and broke the ground before that virgin fortress on the 28^th April.

The works were speedily pushed out.

The 17^th of May witnessed a grand sortie of the garrison who were after an obstinate fight driven to the glacis with a loss of 2600 men + 2 guns. The Georlanders lost but 800 killed + wounded mostly of the 33^rd Regiment of the Line.

The following day the town was nearly destroyed by a terrible fire which broke out, and several magazines exploded.

On the 22^nd a practicable breach was reported but H.I.M. ordered the firing to keep on hoping to avert the horrors + disasters of an assault. The Garrison now determined to evacuate the place and a division set off for Fiskin some 18 miles off. It was on the 25^th of May, that, in leading on an attack on this division that H.I.M. was dangerously wounded.

He however continued in the saddle and a complete victory was gained the enemy being put to flight.

It was a bullet that had penetrated the 1^st finger on the Imperator’s hand. This being in such a dangerous state His Majesty was compelled to relinquish the command of the army and return to Georgetown.

General Mercury had no sooner taken command of the army than the Prussians evacuated Lantarb (30^th May) and the Georlanders entered 2^nd June (Imperator’s 18^th birthday). During the siege there fell of the enemy 6,200 soldiers + 509 civilians of whom 120 were men 147 women + 292 children.

The loss of the army was 2,290 of all ranks. The 28^th 33^rd 8^th +20^th Foot Regiments did all the heavy duties, and consequently lost heavily, particularly the 28^th, which was minus 900 men.

An army of Fredrichsburgans who had been unable to raise the siege now disputed the advance of General Mercury.

But that General was returned to Georgetown the Imperator having commissioned him to lead the army to defend the country (see XI B) on the South. He had however left his command with Lieut General Massey who now succeeded him.

In obedience to these orders L.G. Massey now advanced to attack the foe who were strongly posted in a position the right of which rested on the Lower “Linos Hills” whilst the left extended through Buffalora to Cestovia.

But their main defence, and, in fact the first natural defence of Fredrichsburg; the River Galsher was, by the capture of Lastant, in the hands of the Georlanders.

From this base Lieut General Massey now directed his operations.

On the 7^th June the opposing forces met.

The veteran Battalions of the Imperator, were too much for the half trained recruits of Fredrichsburg, and a complete victory was obtained.

After advancing in force LG Massey sent the 19^th + 16^th Brigades against Buffalora which by 4 pm was in the hands of the Georlanders. leaving a Light Brigade of Detachments and the 2^nd Heavy Cavalry brigade to watch the enemy’s left wing at Cestovia the 19^th + 8^th Brigades advanced under MG Cameron to [harry?] the enemy’s Right wing by the left at Krumm + Tenog supported by the 2^nd Corps . These two places were soon taken and the Perunians having after a hard struggle turned completely their extreme right by the capture by storm of the Lower Linos Hill Peak the Frederciksburgan army cut in two and one half completely crushed fled in disorder.

Their final rout was achieved by the advance of the whole Georland line in front, and a charge of the 17^th Perunian Lancers + 2^nd Georland Light Cavalry Brigade (11^th 15^th + 18^TH Hussars) decided their complete overthrow.

The guns of Litkid some 14 miles off, alone prevented their total destruction.

Besides losing 5,300 killed + 5,670 wounded they left 15,800 prisoners, + 19 guns and 84 Colors in the hands of the victors.

Compared with this, that of the allies was small, only 4,400 of all ranks of whom 1,500 were Perunians. The 19^th Brigade alone lost 1,000 killed + wounded. The 28^th Regt again suffered most severely. It was a very strong Regt, but out of 1500 fully 1000 were missing on the eve of the battle.

But this victory was to a great extent neutralized by the despatch of a Prussian Corps from Kidde to Cinton, this striking at the allied flank thus:-

By this manoeuvre the Allied Army which had followed the routed Fredrichsburgans to Litkid, was compelled to return to Lantarb as any advance to a flank, direct, with an enemy on the front would have been madness. The losses of the preceding engagements had so reduced the army that it was impossible to attempt to attack the Corps at Anton especially as the arrival of a second Prussian Corps enabled that power to advance its troops towards Lantarb. Lieut General Massey immediately fell back on Lantarb, on which the Prussians advanced to Buffalora, awaiting the arrival of siege batteries before attacking Lieut General Massey’s position at Lantarb. Nothing now remained for General Massey but to await the arrival of the Perunian Army which had reached Myjiji June 7^th. Here it lay pending the strategical arrangements between General Flasher CG on behalf of the Imperator and Prince Vandaram of Peruni Commander in Chief of the Perunian Army.

The following was the plan resolved upon.

The 1^st Perunian Corps to march from Myjiji on Lantarb via Mistierton.

The allied force at Lantarb were to attack the Prussian line at Buffalora while the 1^st Peruvians attacked the rear to restrain the troops at Kidde and Litkid from sending to the relief of Anton and to mask the march of the 1^st Corps two Divisions were sent one against each of these places to make the feint of a grand attack.

The division sent against Spieroud where the advanced Guard of the Army of Kidde lay, attacked that place on the [left blank] July.

General Hasher successfully headed a cavalry charge of Perunian Dragoons who were stimulated to bravery by the heroism of the 3 squadrons of the 11^th Hussars + 2 squadrons 14^th Cuirassiers which formed General Hasher’s escort. The place was taken.

The greatest consternation prevailed in Kidde, and all the available forces were at once sent off to the Rang der Balthowe where the Royal Army lay. On the 9^th General von Roon ordered an attack to be made on the place but on the advance of the troops the place, in conformance with the orders of Genl Flasher, was evacuated. On this the Prussians claimed a victory + great were the rejoicings in the capital. The arrival in the afternoon of the intelligence of the disaster at Buffalora (see below) showed them how well they had been duped.

The other division proceeding south to Litkid met a force of the enemy drawn up at Haerts about 12 miles off Litkid, General Hasher however putting himself at the head of his troops carried their position, driving them to the very walls of Litkid. His little army being reinforced he resolved to blocade [sic] that place and after enduring for [left blank] days this confinement General [left blank] and a garrison surrendered prisoners. The total taken were [left blank].

General Flasher by his splendid manoeuvres had thus kept with only 15,000 men no less than 120,000 men engaged for 5 days and ultimately captured [blank] of them (Litkid).

In the meantime Marshal Excalibur with the 1^st Corps had reached Custow on July 8^th and immediately proceeded towards Buffalora sending a Brigade to the right towards Litkid to prevent any flank attack from that quarter but this was unneeded. The enemy disputed every inch of Ground from Custow. But the Georlanders under General Massey were pressing on the front. General Massey had attacked too soon and had had hard work to maintain his ground.

Determined to do so he had preserved his position by the sacrifice of a few Corps; the Brigade of Peruvian Zouaves which he ordered to storm Buffalora which feat they actually accomplished, though at a fearful price. He next ordered the Cavalry to charge the Prussian centre at Buffalora. Dashing onwards through the streets of Buffalora the gallant horsemen emerged on the plain beyond, only to encounter battalions of glittering bayonets. A long struggle and bloody combat ensued.

The enemy were already giving way when a Lancer brigade from the Peruvian Army came thundering down the road from Custow. This decided the overthrow of the enemy’s centre which now gave way. In this combat the 6^th Inniskilling Dragoons + 2^nd Grey Dragoons especially distinguished themselves.

General Massey now ordered his whole line to advance on as Marshal Masterman was now pressing on their rear while their flank at Turoj was already turned. This decided the victory. Cestovia was stormed, and the enemy surrounded; broke, + endeavoured to escape but nearly all were cut down or taken prisoner.

The moon of the 8th July 1874 shone on a bloodier village than ever it shone before. Within the houses of Buffalora lay some [blank] around it, lay the dead not yet buried, some [blank] whilst at least [blank] wounded lay bleeding on the ground not yet provided for. The Allied loss was as follows [this has been left blank].

After a short rest Marshal Excalibur set out for Vanaur an entrenched camp in the Great Range of S Georland Mts. This Camp with the more powerful of Firban on the border of Georland by the victory of Buffalora, lay at the mercy of the conquerors. The garrison accordingly spiked the guns of the places + withdrew via Kerlun + Francuan to Dukel blowing up the bridge over the River [blank] at Francuan, thus preventing any further pursuit. They mostly joined the Army besieging Powgen .Marshal Excalibur at once retraced his steps and joined in the blocade [sic] of Litkid which on the [blank] fell into his hands (see preceding page). The 2 Georland Corps were at once withdrawn to Georland, where H.I.M. was overwhelmed by the hordes of the enemy (see Below)