Note 212 — THE ASHANTEE WAR. 1873–74.
Reading edition
The plunder captured at Coomassie, consisting chiefly of the gold ornaments of the King’s wives, was sold at Cape Coast Castle, and realised nearly £6,000. Among it was an ivory-hilted sword, having on one side of the blade the following inscription, “From Her Majesty Queen Victoria to the King of Ashantee.” This sword which was found in the King’s bedchamber, was purchased by the Officers of the Staff, and presented by them to Sir Garnet Wolseley. On the reverse of the blade is another inscription, “Major-General Sir Garnet Joseph Wolseley, K.C.B., from the Officers of his Staff. Coomassie, 4th. February, 1874.”