A Dispatch from
the 95th Rifles
Re-enactment
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Totally undaunted, your Rifles paraded in good order with locks covered and cork in barrel. I did observe that some corks appeared to hail from bottles of particularly fine vintage wine, begging the suggestion that perhaps some of Colonel Handscombe's men have been a little free in the liberation of provisions. Once inspected and drilled, the troops were set to rifle practice under the watchful eye of Captain Handscombe who with gentle persuasion, good coaching and liberal use of the cane, extracted excellent marksmanship to ranges of 300 yards. I can assure your lordship that the unfortunate death of farmer Jethro's pig can in no way be blamed off the regiment, said pig having wandered into the sights of Rifleman Nobbs just as he discharged his piece, causing him to miss his mark. The pig was duly punished, making a fine Normandy Pork with Cider Apples, or Stew as the men called it, they not being familiar with the culinary niceties performed by the good ladies of the regiment for their benefit. After a hearty lunch of local produce, the men were set to Skirmish drill in demonstration for the local populace and the practice of liberating farm buildings from what appeared to be a much enforced enemy, having raised from company to division under the narrative of the Company Commander and much to the frustration of the chosen men who's battle skills were much tested. Having spent much of the day lying in or running through deep 'mature' farm mud it was a dishevelled group who retired to clean rifles before supper and practice in social skills until past midnight. The regiment woke to the call of the cockerel (of which there were many) and consumed the rest of the pig with some eggs that appeared to have been laid in the mess tent overnight, perhaps laid by the same 'bald' chicken who managed to impaled itself on a spit with the obvious desire to grace the Colonels table. Once paraded, you will of course understand my lord that after such exertions the day before, it must be reported that although the men were dirty, the rifles were scrupulously clean and the regiment was able to conserve your most generous issue of soap.
The weekend should be judged a success, demonstrating that the Rifles are most capable of service in all conditions including such rain as would see them fit for Marine employment. One worrying aspect of the rain is that it seems to make riflemen grow, particularly Rifleman Shaw who although fitting his jacket at the start was void several buttons by the end. In conclusion your lordship I can confirm that the 95th Rifles are ready for campaign and remain at your complete disposal. Your Obedient Servant
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My Lord in the furtherance of your orders, I did attach myself to the 95th (Rifles) Regiment of Foot as your emissary during their Field training Weekend at Stowmarket on 24/25 April 99. I can confirm that they mustered 16 all ranks in various stages of equipment and training. On approach to the encampment all was bright and clear, but as canvas was raised, true Rifles weather took hold with torrential downpours throughout the whole of Saturday.
With sun blazing the regiment sent forth a recruiting party with bugle and drum inter the town. Being early on a Sunday morn they attracted much attention which was encouraging although, I confess the local dialect is beyond my comprehension, particularly when shouted from bedroom windows. A large crowed was attracted to the display of soldiering through the day and the athletic efforts of Chosen Man Collins and Rifleman Warmer were much admired. It might however be prudent when starting the race, if Captain Handscombe fired his pistol in the air and not at the runners, an oversight on his part I'm sure.