Sir J. Cradock to lord Castlereagh, April 3.
“No reliance whatever can be placed upon the Portuguese troops in their present state. If I said that the whole were ready to mutiny or revolt, I believe I speak general Beresford’s sentiments. They will not be commanded by their own officers and they do just as they please.”
SECTION IV.—CONDUCT OF THE REGENCY—TREATMENT OF FRENCH PRISONERS.
Sir J. Cradock to Mr. Villiers, January 26, 1809.
“I have hitherto directed that these prisoners should be subsisted at our charge, but I have no authority in this measure; they are in a most deplorable state, and really are a disgrace to all concerned.”
Sir J. Cradock to Mr. Villiers, February 5, 1809.
“It is absolutely necessary that the regency should give in an answer about the French prisoners. The whole is an unauthorised heavy charge, for which I give my warrant; and I see no end to the case: and, added to this, their situation is a reflection upon humanity.”
SECTION V.—NEGLECT, DUPLICITY, AND TIMIDITY.
Colonel Kemmis to sir J. Cradock, Elvas, December 17.
“Lalippe, on which the very existence of Elvas depends, has not been supplied with provisions as I have been taught to expect.”