Historical records of the 91st Argyllshire ... - waughfamily.ca

190 HISTORICAL RECORDS OF THE1852. and children would be seized on realizing theirdangerous situation.Captain Salmond, who hadbeen in his cabin since 10 o'clock of the previousnight, at once appeared on deck with the othernaval and military officers. The captain orderedthe engine to be stopped, the small bower anchorto be let go, the paddle-box boats to be got out,and the quarter-boats to be lowered and to liealongside the ship. On coming on deck, Lieutenant-ColonelSeton, of the 74th Highlanders, atonce comprehended the situation, and withouthesitation made up his mind what it was the dutyof brave men and British soldiers to do under thecircumstances. He impressed upon the otberofficers the necessity of preserving silence anddiscipline amongthe men. He then ordered thesoldiers to draw up on both sides the quarter-deck,the men obeying as if about to undergo an inspection.A party was told off to work the pumps,another to assist the sailorsin lowering the boats,and another to throw the poor horses overboard." Every one did as he was directed," says CaptainWright, of the 91st "; all received their orders,and had them carried out as if the men wereembarking instead of going to the bottom ;therewas only this difference that I never saw any