General Alava, whom I have seen lately much more about Spanish business, is a very gentleman-like, and appears to me to be a clever man.
We have had constant frost hitherto; but I fear the rain is going now to begin. Some of the days lately have been delightful, like the frosty days in England at times at the end of February, with a fine clear warm sun in the daytime.
I have just heard of five German deserters, brought in to the Provost here; and shall, I suppose, have to try them. They were taken on the other side of Rodrigo by the Spaniards; they are just come out to us from England. Don Julian’s cavalry are very useful in this way, and very active. The Cortes want to encourage farming in the country, and will give land to any wounded soldiers of the allied armies, English as well as natives, on condition of building and living on the spot.
General Wimpfen, one of the Chief’s new Spanish staff, is arrived, and will be stationed with us.
At Ciudad Rodrigo they are going to set up a Spanish newspaper, which is to come out once in a week: I mean to take it in. My new black horse goes on hitherto very well; I like him much; but use him little. Whenever I can, I get a gallop and a trot for an hour on the common just close by, and return home to write again.
Excuse this stupid letter. I am very tired and must to bed.
On Thursday, the 11th, I go to Fuente Guinaldo, and shall probably sleep there, at General Vandeleur’s.
FOOTNOTES:
[2] Meaning Lieut.-General Sir Edward Paget, second in command, who was taken prisoner in the retreat. Lord Paget, afterwards Earl of Uxbridge, now Marquis of Anglesea, was not in the Peninsula at this time.