Cove, June 8, 1808.
My Dearest Father,
Till yesterday, on Sir A. Wellesley’s arrival at Cork to take the command, our sailing was so uncertain, that I did not write to you, for other news, except that we are all well, from hence I had none to tell. We now expect to sail the day after to-morrow, Sunday, if the wind is fair. The glorious accounts from Spain have hurried us off, and I believe there is now no doubt that that is our destination, but what part we know not. The Rendezvous is Tangier bay, in case of parting company, which looks like Cadiz (this entre nous).
We are exceedingly anxious to get away, after six weeks’ delay. The Army are in the highest spirits; indeed the cause we are engaged in is the noblest a soldier could wish, and to support the liberties and independence of a country so lately our enemy. To forget all animosity and cordially join against the common enemy of Europe, the would-be Tyrant of the world, is worthy of the British name; and a soldier’s heart must be cold indeed that would not warm with enthusiasm in such a cause. I am not one of the most sanguine; you know my opinion of armed mobs, though in this, from the accounts we have received, there is an appearance of system and order that promises well. May God assist the Right. It may be the crisis of the Tyrant’s power. If he fails now, it may open the eyes of Europe.
I will write by every opportunity and let you know how we are going on, and the news, and a line when we sail. The General’s best thanks for your present of maps. They are most acceptable to him. He is gone with Adam and Mellish to Cork to dine with the Mayor, or dine in publick in honour of Sir Arthur. I was asked, but having a good deal to do, and not fancying a crowd, have sent an excuse. We have been very gay here ever since we arrived, but long to be off.
How unfortunate we were not to be with Spencer at landing at Cadiz. There will be yet something I hope to be done. Boney will not easily give up his point, and a more beautiful army never embarked, for its size, from any place. We have been joined by 45th, 4 troops 20 Lt. Dns., and 2 companies Artillery, besides a very large Staff, and are to be by the 36th Regt. The troops are very healthy, in all about 9650 men.
I have not heard further about remaining in the 23rd. Seymour has allowed me to take Rankin, if I can get a man to exchange. Stuart is trying to get me one from the 9th Foot, but they are all so high in spirits at going on service, I fear of his getting one. I think we shall certainly sail on Sunday, if possible. Write to me, in case we should go to Porto, direct Gibraltar, and tell me if I can do anything there; depend on my punctuality and exertions. Such a thing might happen as going in there. Our party is much augmented on board Resistance. Generals Crawfurd and Fane 1 A.-de-C. or 2, 1 Bᵈᵉ Major, and a civil Secretary. It will not be so pleasant as hitherto. Patience, it is a million times better than a transport.
From your ever affectionate son,