I shall join Marshal B. at Oporto from Arouca, and when they make the tour of the Northern Province, which would have been very pleasant in summer. The Marshal desired me to remember him most kindly to you and my mother, whom pray thank for her kind letter to me, which I will answer very soon.
Note on Back.
- 20,000 gr. coats
- 20,000 blankets
- 10,000 jackets
- 10,000 pantaloons
- 4500 saddles
- 4500 bridles
- 4500 saddle bags
- 10,000 caps
- 40,000 half-stockings will be sent
- 40,000 shirts
- 40,000 knapsacks
- 20,000 jackets
- 20,000 pantaloons
[18] See Memoir.
1810
CHAPTER IV
INTRODUCTION
The beginning of the year 1810 saw the army of Lord Wellington withdrawn from Spain, and awaiting in Portugal the attack of the French, which seemed the inevitable. It was destined to wait many months before the blow fell. King Joseph and his advisers committed the error of invading Andalusia, the subjugation of which, and the siege of Cadiz, involved the employment of the larger portion of the forces at their disposal. Before they could invade Portugal, it was necessary for them to give time for reinforcements to arrive from France. The Emperor, having concluded peace with Austria, was now able to spare some of his legions for the complete conquest of the Peninsula. But the time of waiting was long. Astorga in the north did not fall till 22nd April; Ciudad Rodrigo was not taken till 9th July.
In July the opposing forces were brought into contact on the 24th in the Combat of the Coa, in which, owing to the obstinacy of General Crawfurd, the Light Division was severely handled by very superior numbers and nearly cut off. Followed the advance of the French army and the siege of Almeida, which was taken on 27th August.