Mr. Cornwell,

After having read the Warlord and Saxon series, I’m interested in your thoughts of the relative efficiency of the Roman legionary infantry (at the height of their prowess) compared to the British / Saxon / Danish infantry.  I have always been interested in the Roman period, and based on what I’ve read, it seems like the Roman heavy infantry were the pinnacle of close combat warfare.  With large shields, short stabbing swords, heavy armor, organization, and discipline, they would set the standard for all that came after.  Granted, that the Romans lost plenty of battles, but I’m sure they won abundantly more, so that it was something of a shock when they lost.

Compared to Uhtred, leading a couple thousand men into battle, and with only a few hundred of those well armed, armored, and trained, the commander of a couple of Roman cohorts would be at an almost insurmountable advantage. Mated with the quality of troops, to have a logistical system in place so they are capable of operating year round far from home, it must seem like a race of giants to Alfred’s Wessex.

I know you don’t want any ideas for books, but I personally would love to read a few books of your that covered this topic.

Love your books.  Thanks.

Andrew Mileur