In Hall's Biographical Dictionary (p 344) is the entry for Lt Charles Leslie of the 29th Regiment. He was severely wounded at Talavera, with a musket ball remaining permanently lodged in his leg. He '"Received the usual Gratuity of one Year[']s pay as Lieut. No Pension."' He went on to see further active service, including at Badajoz and Albuera, having rejoined his regiment before the end of 1809.

Can anyone tell me how much was the usual gratuity of one year's pay as a lieutenant? Was it the normal full pay for a lieutenant, and if so, how much was this? Or was it - like half-pay - more complicated than it sounds?

And, can anyone shed any light on the nature of wounds which qualified for this gratuity? Leslie did not lose his limb, nor was he permanently incapacitated; but obviously it wasn't given for trifling flesh wounds. So how where was the line drawn, and by whom?

Rory