Dear Mr Cornwell

I have just read Sharpe for the first time, and chose Sharpe’s Company. in connection with finding out more about my great great great grandfather Major General Sir John Rolt, see http://www.queensroyalsurreys.org.uk/colonels/025.html, who took part in the sieges of both Cuidad Rodrigo and Badajoz (by then he was serving with the Portuguese army).

I wonder if you  ever found his book “On Moral Command” first published 1836 but the third/fourth editions are more fun as he adds appendices promoting his various inventions (unintentionally hilarious).  His views on training, the treatment of men by officers, and the drink problem are heartfelt.  He mentions many friends, colleagues and heroes (he worshipped Wellington of course), and includes some good anecdotes of his experiences.  It’s available on line.

He was born in Ireland (we have not been able to work out who his father was but he managed to marry a wealthy English heiress cousin….it’s tantalising that there are no personal clues in his book!).

I realise you have moved on to many other interesting eras since the Sharpe books but you may be amused to revisit, if you have not seen this book.

With best wishes and thanks for your wonderful work of bringing history alive for so many.

Janet Hales