Wm. Warre.
My heavy baggage is at Lisbon at Senhor Manoel de Maçedos, 68 Rua das Tunas.
Sobrado, between Lugo and St Jago, Jany. 4, 1809.
My Dearest Father,
I have only time to say I am quite well, thank God. We have been rather harassed lately, having retreated from Sahagun to this place sometimes by night and forced marches, which have nearly knocked up all our men. We have not halted for 22 days, and marched in that time near 70 leagues. For myself I have fared very well compared to officers not on the Staff and men. I suppose no men ever did more, or any army, some even officers barefoot.
We are now ordered this instant to return to Lugo, which has disappointed our hopes of returning home. For this country we can do nothing. They will do nothing for themselves. Never have a nation been more infamously deceived than the English about this country. The people are willing, I believe, but neither army, officers, clothes or anything necessary; and I fear many traitors. We have not seen, since we have been in the country, a symptom of organisation, or, till lately, even a Recruit. Nothing can be more really despicable than their army, and in want of everything; though in abundance—Such miserable arrangement! In short, I have no hopes of any success, and am not a little annoyed at our return.
I had intended to go to Porto, and had leave if we quitted the country. I might be of use to my family, particularly my dear Uncle, in getting his things away. My name would, I know, and some firmness be required. Clara could not remain in Portugal. From some French officers, Prisoners to us, I know Priests, Nuns, and Friars, would not be spared. Write to me implicitly your wishes on this head. I dare any trouble or risk, you know, for any of my Family. Also send your instructions as to my conduct at Porto, and if your letter is likely to reach me in time, whether I shall go there or no. I can get leave, I know, and intended going from St Jago.
Kindest love to my beloved Mother, Brothers and Sisters, and to my Uncles. I have never had an opportunity even of writing to say I am well, and am uncertain whether you will ever receive this. Pray write to me. I have no greater happiness than your letters. I have only received yrs. of 24th Dec. in postscript to my Uncle’s, and one before (date I cannot recollect), also one from Genl. Ferguson, whom I shall be most happy to see, though I rejoice that he has escaped this winter campaign. I never wish to serve another, particularly for such a morose uncivil set, who will only talk. Adieu, may God bless you all, and may I soon have the happiness of embracing you. Remember me most kindly to the Adamsons, and believe me, ever most affectionately yours in the greatest haste,