FORTY-SECOND FOOT.
The Regiment was formed from the ten Independent Companies of “The Black Watch” raised in Scotland in 1729, who were so called from their dress being composed of black, blue, and green tartan.
It received its Title in 1758 from the King as a Royal mark of distinction.
It bears “The Royal Cypher within the Garter”; and the badge and motto of the Order of The Thistle, viz., “St. Andrew” and “Nemo me impune lacessit”; also “The Sphinx,” for Egypt, 1801.
It captured the Standard of the French “Invincible Legion,” and a gun at the battle of Alexandria, 1801; and is allowed to wear the red heckle in the bonnet for its conduct at the battle of Guildermalsen, 1795.