Attestation form of William Giles, 7th (or The Queen's Own) Regiment of (Light Dragoons), 1809

A potential recruit was taken before a magistrate where he 'attested' that he was legally entitled to serve in the Army and was fit for service, and also swore an oath of loyalty to the King. The recruit was formally warned of the severe penalties for mutiny and desertion and given a brief medical examination. The attestation forms were completed and the recruit signed them or made his mark.

From the collection of papers of Henry William Paget, 1st Marquess of Anglesey, 2nd Earl of Uxbridge, 7th (Queen's Own) Light Dragoons.