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 recounted his victory with many exaggerations, while I taking up my sword went to my quarters and examined my wound, which I found was of no consequence.

The same day an Irish drummer, having heard of my misfortune visited me, told me that he was master of the sword, and would in a very short time instruct me, so then I should be able chastise the old Gascon for his insolent  at my expence. This friendly office he offered on pretense of the regard he had for my countrymen; but I afterwards learned the true motive was no other than a jealousy he entertained of a correspondence between Frenchman and his wife which he did not think proper to  in person. I accepted his offer, and soon believed myself a match for my conqueror. In the mean time we continued our march, and arrived at the camp of MareichalMareschal [sic] NoallesNoailles [sic] the night before the battle of Dottingen. Notwithstanding the fatigue we had undergone, our regiment was one of those that were ordered next day to cross the river under the command of the Duc de Gramont, to take possession of a narrow defile through which the allies must of necessity have passed at a great disadvantage, or remain where they were, Rh