SIR RALPH ABERCROMBY.
Reading edition
In the battle of Alexandria, Sir Ralph Abercromby was mortally wounded. He was carried on board a man-of-war in a litter, and a soldier's blanket was put under his head as a cushion, so that he might lie more easily. The ready-made pillow was a great comfort to him, and he asked what it was.
'A soldier's blanket, sir,' was the answer.
'Whose blanket?' he asked, raising himself on his elbow.
'Only one of the men's.'
'Which of the men does it belong to?' he asked again.
'To Duncan Roy of the 42nd.'
'Then see that Duncan Roy gets his blanket this very night.'