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and letting them do nothing for the rest of the year, I let the men drill 2 times a week throughout the year with the exception of the hot months July, August, and September; thereby partly preventing idleness, the worst spoiler of soldiers, and partly as this method is more suitable for the health of the crew and finally they are thereby held in constant practice.-
On the 3rd, instant, on St. Thomas, I mustered its citizens’ militia cavalry and infantry which by major von Scholten, since he began to function as militia commander, have been trained in Danish command, which, as most humbly reported in note dated the 12th of August 1817, was ordered introduced by me.-
I cannot not too strongly testify to my pleasure at the substantial change for the better that has taken place in this militia, particularly in the infantry, which before, under a command that was presumed to be easier to understand, neither could march, maintain distance, nor even execute the hand movements without confusion and wretchedness, but now, on the other hand, under Danish command, proved itself well drilled and clever in the movements and hand movements necessary for a militia.-
The cavalry is now better mounted, well equipped, and armed.-
All of this is solely due to major von Scholten’s diligence and knowledgeable handling of the men which has given them pleasure in the matter; and when note is taken that this has happened in a very short time period, I must consider it my duty, on this occasion, to recommend the aforesaid major von Scholten for Your Royal Majesty’s satisfaction and grace.- |