Soldiers protecting the Bank of England march in double file trampling bodies underfoot, led by a foppish officer. Etching by J. Gillray.

A party of guards on 5 July 1787 marched in double file through the streets of London to protect the Bank of England which had been attacked by the Gordon riots in 1780. The introduction of a daily guard was regarded by the public as a nuisance since the soldiers marched two abreast showing little consideration for pedestrians. Citizens complained to the Mayor who requested they march in single file, to no avail. The King's illness served as an excuse for letting the matter drop