“Some fear that Retreat on our part may become needful; others scout the notion. I heartily hope we may first have a brush with the Enemy.
“Dec. 10th.
“At Salamanca still; tho’ ’tis now ten days since the General gave orders to make ready for Retreat.
“Dec. 11th.
“Hurrah! Hurrah! Moore—glorious fellow!—will not retire, without giving the Spaniards one more chance.
“Jack says he has been assured in the strongest manner that all is not yet up; that Castanos is far from utterly routed; that some of the Provinces are warmly patriotic, and ready to sacrifice their all for freedom from the French yoke. Two Spanish Generals, arrived in our Camp, speak with enthusiasm of the Undismayed Courage and Resolution of the Spanish Army, despite some late unfortunate Reverses. In short, one more effort is to be made. Without delay, the whole British force, now at Salamanca, is to make a rapid advance. Jack gathers that the plan will be to attack Marshal Soult beyond the Carrion. We hope now at last to meet the foe. That is enough for us!
“Dec. 14th.
“Madrid has fallen—after holding out against Napoleon one day! So much for Spanish enthusiasm. But we are advancing still towards Saldana, where Soult lies. All in the best of spirits.
“Dec. 21st. Sahagun.