The following may be of interest to any Napoleonic uniform enthusiasts, not just those into the war of 1812. I present it as a follow up to the anonymous note of last issue.

From de Salaberry at St. Phillip to the Military Secretary at Quebec

St. Phillip Dec. 31st, 1812

Sir,

The Battalion under my command being a Light Infantry Corps, the men forming it are entitled to Wings, which if permitted to be worn, will much add to the General appearance of the Regiment. As I require no cloth in addition to the allowance already granted, I hope the expence of the tape and fringe will appear to you so trifling as to induce you to soliciot the grant thereof from His Excellency the Governor General. I am taking great pains to see the ensuing clothing well made; and I shall think my trouble well repaid if I can obtain the Wings. - The Materials required are as follows;

Black tape for 400, at 5yds each 2000 yds
Black cotton lace for 21 Sergts Do 105 yds
Do fringe for 400 Men at 2 yds. Do 800 yds
Do Do for 21 Segeant Do Do 42 yds
Black thread thread (sic) 421 skeins

Hitherto, the Serjeants Caps have been paid by Government at the same rate as that of the Soldiers; Something more I think should be granted. - The Serjeants not having yet received sashes, if you will have the goodness to authorize the same, I will have them made here by the Indians, and they will not cost more than 10 each, perhaps less.

I take this opportuniq to state, that the duty of the Surgeon, when in the field, where we have sometimes Militia, (Sedentary) Indians and detachments from other Corps, is extremely hard; In consequence a very eligible Young Man Mr.Toussaint, Cassimir Truteau, having offered himself as assistant Surgeon, I beg leaver to recommend him to the favourable consideration of His Excellency the Governor General to fill the vacancy in the Corps - I understand the Young man has studied four years under Dr. Selby.

(Pencil Notes) Wmgs Approved. Sashes allowed and Col: De Salaberry may provide them.