General Paget kept all his staff very busy, and more than a few times vented on them his own annoyance at the necessity of retreating. ‘No time for that, Mr Wickham,’ he had bellowed angrily, at the captain’s suggestion that he take a ride around the northern flank of the army. ‘You are no longer with Betty Burrard. I expect my aides to work.’ In August Wickham had been appointed to the staff of Sir Harry Burrard, who was as indulgent to his staff as he was slow moving. Wickham followed the commander of the Reserve Division as he rode through the rain, chivvying his battalions on. Later, he had the great pleasure of being sent once again to carry a message to the general’s older brother, with instructions to stay with him and observe the withdrawal of the cavalry. It was pleasant to find that Lord Paget welcomed him warmly. Black Jack Slade was even more handsome in his greetings. Their officers were lively and spoke of the latest society gossip. Viscount S___ had eloped with the wife of Colonel Powlett.
