Sept. 8th.—We are just returned from reviewing the Cavalry which has been for some time organising here, that is reducing some Regiments to act as dismounted, and from them endeavouring to complete some squadrons of the others effective. They are tolerably equipped, but I think no great things, certainly the worst arm of its kind in Portugal. They will, however, soon be able to march. It has rained incessantly during the 5 hours we have been out, and I suppose the Marshal staid in it to accustom them a não ter medo a chuva,[13] though I fear in consequence many will be troubled with dores de bariga,[14] a disorder we have found very prevalent among the officers going to Spain, and for which we had numberless petitions to go to Caldas, till it became proverbial for not wishing to serve. It is currently reported some of the wretched old crook-kneed horses we ran intend to petition for a like indulgence, fearing their strength will not be sufficient to carry them through the campaign. It should be granted. The 3 eldest cornets of one Regt. make up near 180 years age!
Pray give my kindest love to my dear mother, etc., and believe me most truly, my dear Father, your very affectionate son,
Wm. Warre.
[13] Not to be afraid of the rain.
[14] Stomach ache.
Hd. Qrs., Lisbon, Sept. 11, 1809.
My Dearest Father,
I have been most truly vexed at not receiving your very affectionate letters of 5th July and 2nd August, annexed with my dear mother’s of 10th July, till yesterday, late in the evening. The stupid clerks in the army post-office sent them up to Lord Wellington’s army. I have for some time past been very fidgety at not hearing, and the three last packets do not bring me a line from anyone, or they also are gone to the English army while I am in Lisbon.
I am sorry my letter was so expensive. It was Col. Brown’s brother’s fault, who told me it would go free. With regard to the affairs of this country I have nothing new to communicate, and observe from your letter we are perfectly agreed. Nor shall I say anything further to Pedro Alvez, as you have given him your orders. Just what I intended to have done, had not the French army retired into cantonments. Only I will apprise him with all possible speed, should any unexpected danger arise.