The letter provides a highly detailed description of the Waterloo campaign and the role of the Guards during the struggle at Hougoumont. On the 19th June 1815, Henry Rooke explained: ‘Yesterday morning we observed them on the heights opposite to us forming & moving their Columns & soon ascertained on what point they meant to attack us. Our ground was not very high, but there was a sufficient extent of open ground in front to enable us to see all their manoeuvres & to open fire upon them as soon as they came within our reach. On our right was a large Farm with a small wood and some inclosures [sic]. This was Evidently the point to which they would direct their attack, as possession of it would enable them to turn our right flank.’ In addition to the letters the file contains extensive genealogical information and details of Henry Rooke’s military service. The contents of this file are also available in British Correspondence #1.

Please note that the file does not contain images of the original document, as the copyright and ownership of this item is retained by the source.