nt, and the
interior economy all that could be desired. Sir Charles complimented
the battalion on their conduct and the manner in which the expedition
was carried out.
About this time Sergeant Roe, of "K" Company, a most intelligent
N.C.O., was calling the roll at tattoo. Pte. E. Welsh had answered his
name, and being under the influence of liquor, was creating a
disturbance. The sergeant ordered him to bed, but he did not obey.
Again he was ordered to do so. Instead he drew his bayonet and made a
dash for the sergeant, who escaped to the corridor, followed by Welsh.
He overtook the sergeant at the end of the passage and thrust the
bayonet into his side. Welsh was immediately overpowered and taken to
the cells. Sergeant Roe was taken to his room, and a surgeon was soon
on the spot, dressed the wound and had the patient removed to hospital.
The wound was not a serious one. The next day the prisoner Welsh was
arraigned before the commanding officer for wounding with intent to
kill. The colonel could not deal with the case, only to make
application for a general court-martial, which was immediately done.
I will describe in detail the court that tried this case. The
application, which was sent direct to the general, contained the
charge, evidence, and the prisoner's previous character, with any
remarks the commanding officer thought fit to make. A general
court-martial is the highest tribunal. The president and members of the
court are drawn from the several corps in garrison. The adjutant of the
prisoner's corps was the prosecuting officer, but for this, the highest
court, a judge advocate was appointed, who conducted the case for the
Crown. This was Colonel Ansell, of the general's staff. When the
general approved of the application the following orders issued from
the brigade office:
"A general court-martial will assemble for the trial of Pte. E.
Welsh, 2nd Battalion, 17th Regiment, and such other prisoners as
may be brought before it.
President, Colonel Gordon, R.A.
Members:
Royal Artillery 1 Captain, 2 Subalterns.
Royal Engineers 1 Captain, 2 Subalterns.
2-16 Regiment 2 Capt'ns, 2 Subalterns.
2-17 Regiment 2 Capt'ns, 2 Subalterns.
The prisoner to be warned and all evidence ordered to attend."
Pte. Welsh was tried before this court for stabbing Sergeant Roe, was
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