He particularly distinguished himself at the Battle of Inkerman, and displayed a readiness of resource and clearness of perception in emergencies which would have done credit to a man of greater experience of war; especially on one occasion, when, after going into action in command of a wing of his regiment, he charged with the bayonet and utterly routed a strong Russian battalion advancing upon guns in position close to his small command of 183 men.

[1] He subsequently served at intervals in various staff appointments in the West Indies, in Ireland, in Canada, and at Gibraltar, in the course of which he was promoted Lieutenant-Colonel in December, 1865, and Colonel in August, 1873.

In speaking of this phase in the career of Sir William Bellairs, it would be futile to revive the memory of strife and controversy, since subsequent events have brought about an adjustment which promises well for the future of the white races interested in the welfare of South Africa.

Suffice it to recall the indefatigable energy and resource displayed by Sir William Bellairs in making provision for the defence of the various garrisons in the Transvaal, and his own direction of affairs during the three months' Siege of Pretoria, for which he received the special thanks of the Commander-in-Chief.

He was the father of five sons and two daughters, including Carlyon Bellairs[1] Sir William is buried in St Mary Magdalen church Mulbarton, Norfolk.