_Journal—26th May-21st August_
The Light Division falls back and recrosses the Coa—Simmons visits
the graves of those who fell in the combat of the previous year—Finds
the remains of his friend, Lieutenant M'Diarmid of the 43rd Light
Infantry, and buries them—Marches and counter-marches—Is ordered to
take a convoy of sick to Lisbon, but takes "French leave" and marches
to rejoin the Rifles—Four companies, 3rd Battalion, under Colonel
Barnard join the Light Division.
Letter No. XIII
_To his Parents, from Mortiago, dated 26th August 1811_
Condoles with his father—Colonel Beckwith invalided to England—Is
promoted to 1st Lieutenant—Arranges for his brother Joseph to be sent
out to the Peninsula as a "Volunteer" to the 34th Regiment—Moralises
on the uncertainty of human life and the depressing influence of
continuous losses of good men on active service—The proper spirit with
which to go into action.
_Journal—29th August-30th September 1811_
Is sent out on a reconnaissance by General Craufurd—Marshal Marmont
advances in force—The Light Division falls back across the Agueda—The
Light Division chaplain oversleeps himself and falls into the hands of
the French—Narrow escape of General Craufurd from capture by French
Dragoons—Marshal Marmont, having effected his object, falls back into
Spain.
Letter No. XIV
_To Lieutenant Maud Simmons, 34th Regiment, 2nd Division, Portugal,
from Aldea Velha, Portugal, dated 1st October 1811_
Describes General Marmont's concentration and advance to protect
the convoy destined to revictual Ciudad Rodrigo—The position at El
Bodon—General Picton attacked—Lord Wellington withdraws on Aldea
da Ponte—The Rifles on rear-guard—The French advanced guard press
them, but are driven back—The French cavalry capture some Portuguese
guns, but the latter are recaptured by the 5th Fusiliers with the
bayonet—The British army draws up on the heights of Alfayates, but
Marmont refuses action and falls back—The Light Division "out of a
scrape" for the first time without losses—Regrets at this.
_Journal—1st October-10th December 1811_
Gets the ague, the result of repeated drenchings—Don Julian Sanchez,
the guerrilla chief, captures General Renaud, the Governor of Ciudad
Rodrigo—The Light Division ordered out to endeavour to intercept the
new Governor reaching that fortress—Simmons's stable on fire—Nearly
loses his horses—Again attacked by ague—Lord Wellington inspects the
three British regiments of the Light Division (43rd, 52nd, and 95th
Rifles) near Fuenteguinaldo—The Light Division goes into cantonments
for the winter.
Letter No. XV
_To his Parents, from Atalaya, Spain, dated 8th December 1811_
Anxious inquiries about brother Joseph, and further instructions as
to his voyage out, his uniform and equipment—How to make an officer's
cocked hat—Severe lecture to his father.
_Journal—26th May-21st August 1811_
[Sidenote: 1811 May 26th]
[Sidenote: 27th]
The Light Division marched to Nava de Avel and Aldea da Ponte, fully
expecting to proceed to Alentejo. Countermanded and took up again the
line of outposts from the 5th Division in front of Espeja and Gallegos.
[Sidenote: 1811 June 5th]
Having correct information that the enemy's cavalry had been collecting
in large force for some days upon the Agueda, made us much upon the
alert to know where the attack would be made, and before day we marched
out of Espeja (Beckwith's Brigade) and bivouacked in a wood in rear of
that place. Returned about noon.
[Sidenote: 6th]
The Light Division retired, the outposts being put back with a body of
cavalry. We passed through Aldea da Ponte and bivouacked in the wood
near Alfayates. We heard that Marshal Marmont commanded the French,
and that Massena had been recalled to Paris to explain to Napoleon why
he had been repulsed and beaten at Fuentes de Oñoro; so the deserters
inform us.
[Sidenote: 7th]
The Light Division marched and crossed the Coa at the same ford (to the
right of Sabugal) we did when on the 3rd of April we passed in the
face of a French Division. I had very different feelings now, coolly
and deliberately entering a river after marching some distance with
a burning sun over one's head, the perspiration running in streams
from every pore. Although I was well used to such movements it was
not pleasant, but on the former occasion I took the water as kindly
as a water dog, for the French skirmishers were firing in our faces.
We bivouacked in a wood of chestnut-trees, where several of our brave
fellows had been buried, and whose bones had been dug up by wolves and
were strewn above their graves. A gallant young fellow, Lieutenant and
Adjutant M'Diarmid, 43rd Light Infantry, who was wounded with myself at
Almeida, and who joined again when I did, had fallen in fight here. I
went to see if his grave had escaped the general disturbance. I found
his skull lying at some distance; I was convinced that it must be so,
as the hair was still in patches on it. There was no mistaking it; his
hair, when alive, was auburn and very curly. His bones were partly
eaten and thrown about in the same way. This appearance of a friend
whom I had esteemed and had so often associated with, and so recently
too, produced many gloomy reflections. I collected the straggling
relics and replaced them and covered them over as the last tribute I
could pay him.
[Sidenote: 8th]
Marched to Maimoa, the day excessively hot. Bivouacked there to cook.
Moved to Penamacor in the evening. This town is situated upon a most
commanding eminence, from which you have a bird's-eye view of the
country round.
[Sidenote: 9th]
Marched to San Miguel d'Acha. Bivouacked and halted.
[Sidenote: 10th]
By some mistake of the Staff, commenced the march under a vertical
sun at midday; the heat was so great that several men fell out of the
ranks, not being able to keep up with the column.
[Sidenote: 11th]
Passed the 1st Division at Louza, and halted near Escalos de Cima in a
wood.
[Sidenote: 12th]
On our march, passed Castello Branco, and halted for some time near
Sarnadas, which is close to the valley of the Tagus. In the afternoon
moved to the pass at Villa Velha. Over the Tagus, a bridge of boats was
moored.
[Sidenote: 13th]
Passed over and marched to Niza. Bivouacked in a wood. I felt myself
very unwell. Got a bed in the town.
[Sidenote: 14th]
Marched to Alpalhão, and on 15th to Portalegre, and remained in these
good quarters until the 19th, when we marched to Arronches.
[Sidenote: 21st]
Rode to San Olaya to see my brother Maud. He had gone to the rear ill
the day before. I felt sadly disappointed.
[Sidenote: 23rd]
Marched to an encampment upon the Caya, about three miles in the rear
of Campo Mayor, and took up our ground in position with the army. Lord
Wellington was compelled to leave Badajoz and recross the Guadiana,
owing to Marshals Marmont and Soult having formed a junction and
concentrated their forces in its neighbourhood.
[Sidenote: 24th]
Visited my _patrona_ in Campo Mayor; she was very glad to see me.
Returned to the camp in the evening.
Rode to Elvas and visited Fort de Lippe.
[Sidenote: 1811 July 3rd]
Lord Wellington took the cavalry and crossed the Guadiana to
reconnoitre the enemy; he found they were gone.
[Sidenote: 20th]
General Craufurd frequently has the Division out for exercise. Nothing
else worthy of notice has occurred. The Light Division broke up from
this tiresome sort of monotonous life led here. Marched a league and a
half and bivouacked.
[Sidenote: 22nd]
Marched to Portalegre.
[Sidenote: 23rd]
Castello de Vide. Occupied several _quintas_ round the town. A splendid
garden was attached to the one I was billeted upon. I feasted upon a
variety of good fruits as well as quantities of mulberries.
[Sidenote: 29th]
Marched to near Niza and bivouacked upon the same ground as before.
[Sidenote: 30th]
Passed the Tagus at Villa Velha over a pontoon bridge lately placed
there. Bivouacked in an olive grove.
[Sidenote: 31st]
Marched about two miles and bivouacked.
[Sidenote: 1811 Aug. 1st]
Marched to Castello Branco.
[Sidenote: 2nd]
Marched to Louza and Escalos de Cima.
[Sidenote: 3rd]
Marched to Bemposta. Bivouacked.
[Sidenote: 4th]
Marched to Maimoa. Bivouacked on the same ground as on a former
occasion.
[Sidenote: 6th]
Moved to the heights on which the village stands.
[Sidenote: 7th]
At daybreak the Division marched towards the northern frontier. I was
sent back with forty-five sick men, and had a number of mules for the
sick to ride upon to facilitate their conveyance to a hospital station.
Marched to Pedrogão. Halted during the heat of the day, and in the
evening moved forward.
[Sidenote: 8th]
To San Miguel d'Acha. Bivouacked and marched to Escalos de Cima. Halted
in the place during the heat of the day. In the evening moved forward
to Castello Branco and gave up my charge.
[Sidenote: 9th]
Halted. I had my baggage with me and the horse I rode; two horses to
take care of, and no servant. By accident I met with a half-starved
Portuguese boy in the street, whom I engaged for a servant. I found
the Commandant wanted to send me "on command" with a detachment of
sick men to Lisbon. I requested he would allow me to proceed and
join my regiment, observing that as in all probability it would soon
be actively employed, I should feel sadly disappointed to be absent
from it. My anxiety, he said, was highly praiseworthy, but he felt it
necessary for the good of the service to send me in another direction.
I found it useless to argue the question further, but I determined to
start back, let the consequence be what it would.
[Sidenote: 10th]
At one in the morning took "French leave" and marched to Escalos de
Cima.
[Sidenote: 11th]
Marched to San Miguel d'Acha in the cool of the evening. Moved on to
Pedrogão. Bivouacked near a rivulet; made tea. My Portuguese boy very
unwell. I cut grass for my horses and tied them close to where we lay
down for the night.
[Sidenote: 12th]
Started up with the dawn, saddled my horse and loaded my baggage, and
proceeded to Maimoa in the evening.
[Sidenote: 13th]
Proceeded to San Estevão. Bivouacked and marched to Sabugal.
[Sidenote: 14th]
Marched to Alfayates. Bivouacked during the heat of the day. In the
evening to Aldea da Ponte.
[Sidenote: 15th]
Marched to Fuenteguinaldo.
[Sidenote: 16th]
Marched to Mortiago and joined the Battalion. Colonel Beckwith
complimented me for returning, and although the Commandant had made a
formal complaint of me to headquarters, I had nothing said to me upon
the subject. I found the Light Division thus distributed: 52nd and
Horse Artillery in Saugo, 43rd and right wing of Rifles at Martiago,
one troop of Royals and left wing of Rifles and 1st Caçadores at
Lariquella, and the 3rd Caçadores at Villarejo.
[Sidenote: 21st]
Colonel Barnard joined the Division with four companies of the 3rd
Battalion Rifles; these men had been with the army stationed in Cadiz.
They were placed in Colonel Beckwith's Brigade. Marched to Villarejo,
and the 3rd Caçadores to Las Agallas.
Letter No. XIII
Martiago, Spain, _26th August 1811_.
My dear Father—I received your letter dated 19th of May, which affected
me most sensibly.
Your misfortunes affect me most seriously. Would to God it was in my
power to prevent them. At present it is not.
After the battle of Fuentes de Oñoro we enjoyed ourselves in the
advance near Ciudad Rodrigo, the Spaniards being convinced we had given
the French a good drubbing. We had dances with the villagers every
night. I do not ever remember spending a more happy time.
On the 28th of July we again made a rapid march and retraced the ground
back to the north. We are now farther advanced into Spain than ever
before. I expect some fighting soon. _Johnny_ will not suffer us to
remain long quiet, if he can disturb us. A number of our officers
are ill; one died the other day. I never was better in my life. My
Colonel has gone to England sick. Previous to his departure I dined
with him. He presented me with a letter, couched in the most flattering
way, stating my services, which was addressed to Lord Wellington. I
presented the letter the next day. I am in consequence promoted to a
1st Lieutenancy. The Colonel has at all times shown me great favour.
I regret his departure. I hope in two or three years to get a company
through the influence of my friends.
Maud has his Colonel's leave for Joseph to come here as a Volunteer.
In two or three months after he joins, between us we can procure him a
commission. I transmit you a bill amounting to £23 : 9s., which will
nearly equip Joseph. You may procure the amount at any banking house in
England. Directly on the receipt of this write me, for I am anxious to
know, as I have two more in case this one is lost or miscarries. The
articles to equip him will not cost much money.
I hope, if I live through these turbulent times, to be able greatly to
assist you in a few years. Let me be where I will in the world, the
welfare of my family will ever be uppermost in my thoughts and my first
consideration. I have made many friends since I embraced a military
life. In my situation I am content and happy, and meeting the enemy
never costs me a second thought. It of course makes one gloomy to see
so many fine fellows fall round one, but one day or other we must all
go. The difference is very immaterial in the long-run whether a bullet
or the hand of time does your business. This is my way of moralising
when I go into a fight (which has been very often), and if for the good
of old England, I do not care how soon we have another. I go with the
determination of doing all the injury in my power to the enemies of the
human race, of which the French certainly merit the appellation. I am
sorry I cannot be of service to my dear sister. It afflicts me much.
Tell her to bear up against present misfortunes, and recollect she has
brothers who will be able to send her money occasionally. After we have
done for Joseph, I shall not forget her. Give me an account of Charles
and Betsy. Keep them at school. I want to know if Charles is better. In
another year I think I can take him off your hands entirely. Poor John!
make inquiry about him, and let me know if you can gain intelligence of
him.
My dear mother—you do not say much about her. I want to know if her
constitution is as good as when I was at home. I flatter myself she
will yet see us all round her. Our promotion in the army will put it
in our power to assist you very materially in a few years. Maud has
been lucky indeed. He is senior lieutenant to me, and if we continue
on service, he, as well as myself, must get forward. My respects to my
uncle and aunt.—Believe me yours,
Geo. Simmons, Lt., 95th Regmt.
Direct, 1st Batt., 95th or Rifle Regiment, Light Division, British
Army, Portugal. Write directly and let me know when I may expect
Joseph. He must have a fustian haversack, a tin pot, and a large
pocket-knife. You will be able to judge by the soldier's haversack; his
may be a little smaller.
_Journal—29th August-September 1811_
[Sidenote: 1811 Aug. 29th]
Marched to Atalaya. In the evening I was ordered by General Craufurd to
go forward through a wooded country and by a circuitous route to get
upon the road leading to Salamanca, and then, discretionally, to move
on for the purpose of finding out when the convoy was likely to leave
Salamanca for Ciudad Rodrigo. I had a corporal and three men of the
German Hussars with me. I reconnoitred Tenebron and cautiously entered
the place, left it, and bivouacked for the night within the woods.
[Sidenote: 30th]
Moved forward to Boca Cara and also to Santiespiritus, and gained
information from a party of Don Julian's guerrillas that the convoy had
left Salamanca, but was compelled to return owing to several guerrilla
parties having formed up and made an attack upon it. I returned to my
quarters at Atalaya.
[Sidenote: 1811 Sept. 7th]
Major-General Drummond died at Fuenteguinaldo, and Major-General
Vandeleur was appointed to command the 2nd Light Brigade.
[Sidenote: 8th]
Moved to Horquera and bivouacked.
[Sidenote: 11th]
Rode over to Las Agallas and dined with Colonel Elder.
[Sidenote: 16th]
Moved to Villarejo.
[Sidenote: 23rd]
The Division moved and assembled upon the heights near Horquera. The
enemy's Dragoons entered Atalaya in force. Our cavalry piquets retired
from it, and crossed the stream behind it.
[Sidenote: 24th]
Marshal Marmont was now moving forward with 6000 cavalry and four
Divisions of infantry, and bringing a convoy of provisions for the use
of the garrison of Ciudad Rodrigo.
[Sidenote: 25th]
The French passed through Tenebron and Santiespiritus yesterday.
The Light Division formed at Las Agallas, marched to Cespedosa, and
bivouacked for the night. General Picton's Division partially but
sharply engaged about noon near El Bodon. Major Arentschildt's Brigade
of nine-pounders (Portuguese) did much execution at this place. The
enemy made a dash at these guns, and were in possession of them, but
were soon driven away by the 2nd Battalion 5th and the 77th Regiments
and some Portuguese infantry, supported by three squadrons of British
cavalry.
[Sidenote: 26th]
Moved to Fuenteguinaldo, and found the British and Portuguese
concentrated upon the heights in front of it, the right resting upon
Perales, in the Gata mountains, and the left at Nava de Avel under
General Graham. Some Spaniards were observing the Coa.
The Light Division retired by Robleda across the Agueda, and made a
circuitous route to Fuenteguinaldo, as the enemy was nearly round us. A
field-work was thrown up, upon some commanding ground about the centre
of our position, which gave us an idea that Lord Wellington meant to
receive the attack of the French army, and put us all in high spirits.
General Cole's Division had some fighting on this day.
After dark our army retired, and the Light Division formed the
rear-guard and left the ground about midnight, having kept up the fires
in such a manner that the enemy imagined we were still in bivouac.
The Light Division parson, Parker, went into a house to make himself
comfortable for the night, and slept very pleasantly. Some time after
daybreak he heard strange noises within doors, and soon after, a French
Dragoon entered his room. Giving his sword two or three menacing
flourishes, he asked him for his money. He was followed by others, who
were apt scholars in imitating a good example; pillage and rapine they
glory in. The poor parson found himself stripped of everything, and,
almost naked, was driven over rugged ground for twenty miles without
shoes, and then put into a prison amongst a group of others and left to
cogitate upon his hard fortune and upon his own stupidity for sliding
away to make a lodgment in a house unknown to any one in such critical
times.
[Sidenote: 27th]
The Light Division passed through Casillas de Flores. General Craufurd
was pressed sharply by some French cavalry, and came galloping in
rather too hastily. Some Rifle Men and 3rd Caçadores, being halted on
both sides of the road, ran forward amongst the brushwood and fired a
few rounds at the advance of the French (a few cavalry), who put to the
right about and scampered off. Some sharp fighting followed. General
Pakenham with the Fusilier Brigade drove the enemy from Aldea de Ponte.
Moved to near Alfayates and bivouacked.
[Sidenote: 28th]
Retired a league before daylight, and took up a position upon
the heights near Soita amongst some of the most extraordinary
chestnut-trees for magnitude I ever beheld; several were hollow. Ten
men might be accommodated and sheltered for a night in the hollow
trunks of some of them.
Marshal Marmont, having effected the principal object the force he had
collected was destined for (viz. to protect the convoy to Rodrigo),
as he did not wish to hazard a battle, commenced his retreat into the
interior of Spain. His army, we were led to believe, amounted to 60,000
men and 130 pieces of cannon in the field-train. Weather unfavourable.
Remained in bivouac.
Letter No. XIV
Aldea Velha, Portugal,
_1st October 1811_.
My dear Brother—According to our expectation, the enemy advanced
with supplies for the garrison of Ciudad Rodrigo. About the 21st of
September the convoy left Salamanca. We were informed the cars loaded
with provisions amounted to 1100. As General Marmont was determined to
give battle, he had collected a very formidable force of 60,000 men,
with a vast train of field artillery. A very pretty escort. You will
wonder, as well as many others, how the devil he could collect such a
force at one given point in so short a time, and particularly when we
are taught to believe they have so few men in Spain, having lost so
many in different affairs with the Spaniards, according to the accounts
we received from different parts of Spain.
[Illustration: Sketch-Map illustrative of the Operations on the Coa and
Agueda, 1810-1812.]
Our Dragoons were driven in, as the enemy advanced. Our Division
were ordered to occupy very strong ground in rear of a small stream,
which runs at the bottom of a very deep ravine a little way in the
rear of Atalaya. The 3rd Caçadores were posted in the mountains to
the right, and at two or three passes in front of Las Agallas. Our
regiment occupied several strong places, being divided according to
circumstances, and keeping up a chain of posts communicating with the
3rd Caçadores on our right, and 43rd Light Infantry on our left. The
52nd were also posted in the same way, with Rifle Men of our 2nd and
3rd Battalions in different fastnesses and mountain roads. General
Picton's Division were upon the left bank of the Agueda at El Bodon;
so you will perceive our situation was rather critical, being so far
advanced and having the river Agueda in our rear; but it is very
obvious that this was highly necessary in order to put Marmont to as
much inconvenience as possible and make him bring up his whole force.
On the afternoon of the 24th, the enemy's cavalry drove our Dragoon
piquets over the different fords of the stream in rear of Atalaya, and
established their posts opposite us.
About twelve o'clock at noon on the 25th the enemy, in terrible force,
attacked General Picton's Division at El Bodon, which place being
immediately to our left rear, and also over the Agueda, we began to
think ourselves placed most curiously, though every one felt the
greatest security in Lord Wellington's out-manœuvring _Johnny_, and
bringing off the Division in safety. The cannonading was tolerably well
kept up on both sides, and repeated volleys of musketry. The enemy were
continually driven back, and could not effect their purpose, which was
clearly to cut off the Light Division. In the evening, the Division
were ordered to assemble at Las Agallas just after dark, and then
circumambulating [_sic_] towards Fuenteguinaldo (Lord Wellington's
headquarters), the Division halted in a field near Cespedosa. Our
baggage had gone some little way farther and had nearly been taken by
the enemy's Dragoons. Some of the 11th saved it, luckily for us. The
enemy's patrols were upon the same road and in our rear.
On the 26th at daylight we moved towards Fuenteguinaldo. The enemy
might have cut in between us, but did not like to risk such a manœuvre.
We passed the Agueda at a ford at Fuenteguinaldo in safety. We found
the army all collected; several commanding heights were strengthened
and breast-works thrown up. Every one expected a general engagement
would ensue. We took up our ground on the position, and there was
some partial skirmishing with cavalry when the enemy established his
advanced vedettes. At twelve o'clock at night the other Divisions of
the army were ordered to retire immediately by the roads, principally
towards Aldea de Ponte, and at two o'clock the Light Division were also
ordered to form the rear-guard and move off. We moved through Casillas
de Flores; in consequence of innumerable impediments on the line of
march, we moved very slowly. _Johnny's_ advanced guard pushed in our
cavalry, about a squadron, rather unmannerly, which caused us to halt
and throw out a few Rifle Men to stop his career. Two or three of the
most valorous were knocked off their horses, and the remainder retired
to a most respectable distance, where they could amuse themselves by
taking long shots—an amusement they are fond of.
On our line of march we saw the enemy's cavalry cutting wonderful
capers upon the plain and their infantry moving up in vast columns.
General Picton's and Cole's Divisions retired before the enemy's
cavalry in squares in the most cool and steady manner. About eleven
o'clock A.M. on the 27th the enemy commenced cannonading our cavalry,
which was returned with equal spirit on our side. The light troops
of General Picton's Division were also smartly engaged at this time.
The enemy's cavalry in a vast body charged and took five Portuguese
guns, which were instantly retaken in the most gallant manner by the
5th Regiment of Foot, who attacked the cavalry with the bayonet and
fairly beat them off. Colonel Pakenham, with the Fusilier Brigade,
marched up in ordinary time to meet the enemy's cavalry, who durst not
face them. The firing ceased about two o'clock. The enemy's columns
were moving up and concentrating opposite us. Our army were drawn up
in front of Alfayates upon the commanding heights. The Light Division
and Light Artillery, which, by the bye, I had forgotten to mention
before, were drawn up on the right, fronting a wood, which was filled
with the enemy's Light troops and a Light Division and Artillery, which
had followed us all the way. Near sunset the enemy appeared to be
advancing, wishing to try whether or no he could induce us to retire.
Our first line formed and also moved forward some paces, the Light
Division throwing out skirmishers towards the woods. This manœuvre
induced the enemy to give up the project, at least for the night.
Immediately after dark the other Divisions of the army retired. About
two o'clock A.M. we moved off also, and retired to Soita, a village
about a league and a half in front of Sabugal. The army we saw formed
upon the heights in the rear of this place, and this was called the
position that we were to fight upon—at least, we fully expected it
from present appearances. _Johnny_ being tired of cutting such a caper
after us, and Portugal not being quite so congenial to his comforts, he
made a retrograde movement towards Ciudad Rodrigo and Spain. You see
the Light Division has for the first time got out of a scrape without
receiving any further injury than from excessively harassing marches. I
hope it will never happen again. I have no wish to come off scot-free.
When a man's mind is worked up to meet his enemy and fight, it is a
great disappointment.
I have now told you all the news I know of. This morning, 1st October,
we moved into cantonments. Right wing, 95th, in Aldea Velha. Alfayates
is the present headquarters of the Division. I believe the other
Divisions of the army are all in cantonments behind the Coa. One
company of our 2nd Battalion arrived the other day from England, and
a batch of subs. also for us. I received a letter, or rather three in
one, from some fair dames in Kent; one of them says she has entirely
given me up—I shall never return. As I am in the humour, and to pass
off a dull and rainy day, I am writing nonsense for their amusement;
not love, I assure you.
I have not yet received an answer to the letter I wrote home. I am very
anxious about it, as upon it depends the future welfare of Joseph. If
I do not receive an answer soon, I shall write again and send a second
bill, as delays are dangerous. I think there will be no necessity for
making any arrangements at Lisbon until we have a letter knowing when
we may expect him. I hope he has not gone on a long voyage. I wrote
you some days back since I received your last. I mentioned in the
letter an agreeable surprise I met with in the hovel of an unfortunate
refugee. I shall soon begin to feel the benefit of a 1st Lieutenant's
pay, as well as the payment of a company, which I have already had for
three months, and as yet met with no losses. I am excessively ill-off
for clothes and cannot purchase anything. I hope soon to procure some
cloth from Lisbon. I am at present a perfect guerrilla, have broken my
sword, lost my sash, and am as ragged as a sweep, with just the clothes
I have on my back. I have paid the fees of Commission, and have fifty
dollars beforehand, so I am in a fair way to soon recover my balance.—I
am, dear brother, your most sincere friend ever,
Geo. Simmons,
Lt., 95th or Rifle Regt.
_P.S._—So uncertain are we what is to happen to-morrow, yesterday I
wrote this letter fully expecting to rest for some time. To-day we
have again entered Spain. Oct. 2nd, Fuenteguinaldo. In a day or two I
think we shall make another advance to our old quarters. This morning
we had accounts from near Salamanca; the people say that the guerrillas
destroyed several deposits of stores to a vast extent, and killed
numbers of stragglers from the French army. The French cavalry suffered
exceedingly from our guns.
_Journal—1st October-20th December 1811_
[Sidenote: 1811 Oct. 1st]
Marched to Aldea Velha.
[Sidenote: 2nd]
Light Division was cantoned in the adjacent villages.
[Sidenote: 8th]
Fuenteguinaldo. Weather very rainy.
Transferred to the left wing and moved to Castillejos de Duas Casas and
to Robleda on 15th.
[Sidenote: 17th]
Marched to Atalaya.
[Sidenote: 30th]
Marched to Fradamora and took the command of Captain Balvaird's
company. Having for some time back been very often completely drenched
with rain night and day, for the first time in my life I got the
ague, which I found a very unpleasant companion, particularly as this
post was taken so as to prevent supplies from being carried into the
garrison of Ciudad Rodrigo by the peasantry, which required me to be
very vigilant in the performance of this duty. On 15th October Don
Julian Sanchez, with a number of his guerrillas, surprised the Governor
of Rodrigo (General Rénaud) and took him and five officers, as well as
200 head of cattle belonging to the garrison.
[Sidenote: 1811 Nov. 1st]
Withdrawn to Atalaya and joined my company.
[Sidenote: 2nd]
Information had been received that a body of French troops were
escorting a new Governor to Rodrigo. The Light Division moved towards
the fortress this morning, and the 3rd Division also made a forward
movement to support us to Fuenteguinaldo. It soon was ascertained that
the Governor had entered it, as the enemy were in bivouac two leagues
in the rear. Their purpose being effected, they returned to Salamanca.
Ordered to reoccupy Fradamora and keep a good look-out. Succeeded in
capturing a number of peasantry that were going to the French garrison
with wine, onions, bread, and eggs for sale. I purchased what I
wanted, and then sent them under escort to our Commissary.
[Sidenote: 7th]
At daylight the place where my horses were put up was on fire. I had
some difficulty in getting them out. Luckily, having water at hand,
with great perseverance the fire was soon got under. Next to the
stable was deposited a large quantity of flax, which luckily remained
uninjured.
The Spaniard to whom the premises belonged was chattering so fast
and in so frantic a manner that I did not for some time understand
him until he jumped before the barn, then nearly all in a blaze, and
roared out, "Oh, my money! I am a ruined man. Oh, my money! For the
love of God, bring me my money." As these people were in the habit of
hiding their money to prevent the French from robbing them, I instantly
perceived his distress and ordered the men to throw water upon the spot
he pointed to, and had the pleasure of getting his store of wealth
and giving it into his hands, which so delighted him that he d——d the
barn, and said that as he had got his money, it was of no consequence.
The annoyance I felt and my exertions on this occasion to get the fire
under, brought on the ague with redoubled violence.
[Sidenote: 16th]
Marched to Atalaya. Had the ague daily, and kept my bed from its
debilitating influence. I took bark in very large doses, combined with
opium, and placed a hot stone on my bosom and two at the soles of my
feet as soon as there was any appearance of the cold fit. From treating
myself in this way I soon dislodged this insidious enemy from my body
and gradually recovered.
[Sidenote: 21st]
The Light Division now occupy the villages of El Bodon, Martiago,
Zamarra, and Atalaya, more effectually to blockade Ciudad Rodrigo.
A very brilliant affair took place on the 28th of last month, at
which my brother Maud was present, in the surprise of part of General
Gerard's Division of the French at Arroyo dos Molinos in Estremadura by
General Hill with the 2nd Division of the British army.
[Sidenote: 24th]
The 43rd and 3rd Caçadores moved to Martiago, both Battalions of the
52nd to Zamarra, Horse Artillery and 1st Caçadores to Las Agallas, and
the Rifle Men held Pastores, La Ençina, and Villarejo.
[Sidenote: 1811 Dec. 20th]
The three British regiments in the Light Division were seen by
Lord Wellington near Fuenteguinaldo, after which they returned to
cantonments. Don Julian, with his guerrillas, are very active,
and occasionally pick up Frenchmen. The garrison is now blockaded
completely; Tenebron and Santiespiritus are now occupied by British
Dragoons. Nothing further worthy of notice has taken place during this
month, which finishes the operations of this eventful year. Looking
forward anxiously to the time when we are to be ordered to commence the
siege of Ciudad Rodrigo.
Letter No. XV
Atalaya, Spain, _8th December 1811_.
My dear Parents—About the end of August, after receiving your letter,
I wrote an answer. For these two months past I have daily expected to
have had some account from you, and as I have received none, I cannot
put off any longer. I must inform you that the account of Joseph being
sent to sea made a very serious impression upon my mind, and in order
to save him from _perdition and ruin_, I directly raised all the money
I could, and enclosed in my letter in the latter end of August, a
bill amounting to £23 : 9s. It is now above three months since, which
circumstance makes me apprehensive the bill is lost; if so, still
hoping the bill may not have been cashed, I send you the second. You
must in that case, stop the payment of the first, but should you have
the first in your possession, burn this, my second.
When I had your account of Joseph's unfortunate situation, I directly
wrote to my brother to know if there was a vacancy for Joseph, as in my
regiment there was not, having three volunteers with us.
My brother spoke to his Colonel, who immediately said he should be
happy to have an opportunity of serving him, and desired Maud would
order his brother to proceed and join the 34th, and on his arrival he
would directly recommend him for an ensigncy.
If you could procure a passage for him from Hull to Lisbon, it would
save a great deal of unnecessary expense; but if this cannot be done,
he must go to Portsmouth, and on arrival, inquire for the office of the
General who commands there. He will tell the gentleman in the office
he is a volunteer going out to join the 2nd Battalion, 34th Regiment,
and will thank him to give him an order for a ship. He will then be
sent to the Agent of Transport's office, who will inform him what ship
is going to sail. He will then be provided with a passage, and have
rations from the day he goes on board, with the use of a cabin. Only,
if there are officers on board, he will be the last allowed to choose
a bed-place, as he will on all occasions rank as junior. I only make
mention of this because some forward young fellows give themselves
great airs and get themselves offended, which will never happen if a
young man conducts himself as a gentleman and does not give way to
chattering and nonsense. I hope he will not be showing his agility on
board the ship in climbing about the ship or using sea phrases, as
such proceedings would make the officers have a bad opinion of him. In
short, he will not have any business to go from the quarterdeck on any
occasion. On his arrival in Lisbon he must inquire for the Town Major's
office, where he will find the post office for British officers' and
soldiers' letters. There is now a letter there directed for Mr. Joseph
Simmons, Volunteer, 2nd Battalion, 34th Regiment, to be left till
called for by himself, so there can be no mistakes. In the letter he
will find every necessary instruction.
A gentleman—luckily a great friend of my brother—is stationed at
Lisbon, and likely to remain some time, his name Lieutenant Richardson,
who has the command of the sick detached from the 34th Regiment. Joseph
will find this in the instructions. This officer will take him to his
house, and keep him until a favourable opportunity offers to send him
to the army. By the bye, Lieutenant Richardson lives at Belem, so if
Joseph lands from the ship at Belem stairs, he will be only three or
four hundred paces from the barracks, where he may make inquiry of
any soldier he sees which is the 34th barracks. As soon as he meets
with a man of the regiment, he then must make him go and show the
house of Lieutenant Richardson. Should he be absent from home, wait
until he returns. On his making himself known to him, he will be
kindly received. I think I have stated the business so clearly that
it would be almost impossible for Joseph to err. You must procure
Joseph a superfine red jacket. I was thinking of letting you get him
a regimental 34th coat, but I am afraid it would be too expensive,
although it would be in the end a great saving, as cloth is extremely
dear in Lisbon; however, do as you can. The collar and cuffs, white
Kerseymere, a white Kerseymere waistcoat, two pair of strong grey
trousers, made wide like sailors' trousers, three pair of strong shoes
(one pair short), strong leather gaiters. I have always found them
the most preferable, as they keep your shoes from slipping off, and
also prevent sand and gravel getting into your stockings. Three pairs
of socks. If you could purchase a sword (not a sabre) similar to the
officers' swords you may have observed on parade, and can get it cheap,
buy it; its being new is of no consequence. An old sash also you might
procure cheap; it would answer as well as any other. However, these
things are now and then to be met with here. He must have a haversack
made of dark fustian (not too large), a clasp-knife, fork, and spoon;
also a tin mug, which will serve him for wine, soup, and tea. You may
also buy some pasteboard and make a cocked hat, or at least have it cut
out in order that he can put it into his baggage, with some oil-silk,
some broad black ribbon for a cockade, and some broad stuff for a
binding. The tailor of the regiment will form it; a gold bullion for
each end. His baggage must be as small as possible, as the convenience
of carriage is very scarce—three shirts will be enough. He must also
have a black leather stock with a buckle, a common rough greatcoat; let
it be big enough (any colour, it is of no consequence). Could you get
three or four dozen of buttons like the 34th? They would be very useful
afterwards. He must bring two or three tooth-brushes and three little
towels, or any other little thing that may have slipped my memory
which may strike you. His brother is a methodical young rogue, and
will provide him with many comforts and conveniences, as the regiment
is always in good quarters, which gives them every opportunity of
being comfortable. If the money I sent is lost, it will prove a most
unfortunate circumstance. In consequence of my fears on that head I had
the opportunity of sending a note to a person in London by a friend
going home, as I had a little military account unsettled. I empowered
him to receive the balance and transmit the amount to you. The balance
will be from £10 to £20. I am not exactly certain; however, whatever it
is you will have it. I directed him to send it, and gave my friend your
direction—Osborne Street.
I hope you will make no delay about Joseph, as the Colonel often asks
Maud about him. I must say, my dear father, you did very wrong to send
Joseph to sea. I think, if you refer back to my letters, you would
find I had laid down a line of conduct, that, if you had been guided
by me, you at this moment would have had him well educated and fit for
anything. However, the opportunity is lost, the best must be made of
it, and should he be a good boy, he may still fetch up what is lost.
I assure you the misfortunes of my family often cost me many a bitter
pang, and if it was not for the hopes of being able some day or other
to be of service to you and family, I would not care how soon I made my
exit. I am only a poor soldier; with my sword I must defend myself, and
I am proud to say I have often drawn it in the defence of my country,
and as yet, thank God, it is untarnished. I have no fears that, while
I live, it will be ever so. I have as bright a prospect as most men in
my profession—my brother the same. My brother was with General Hill's
Division in this last fight in the Alentejo. He took a French captain
and dismounted him; he also took from him a handsome sword. We have
been very actively employed all the winter so far. In the mountains
near Ciudad Rodrigo it is as cold as in England. After being roasted
all the summer, it nips one to pieces to be out in this weather. I have
had the ague very severely, but I am now better. I pray for the warm
weather, which we all do. Our officers and men have in general been
sickly, but they are coming round wonderfully. We shall have warm work
in the spring, I think. It is wonderful to see the gallantry displayed
on all occasions by a British soldier.
My best respects to my uncle and aunt. I hope they are well. I feel
much obliged to my aunt for her kindness to my family, and should I
ever return to England, I hope to have the pleasure of thanking her
in person. Let me know if you hear anything of poor John. I am very
anxious. I hope Charles is better. For God's sake, mind he is not
ruined by a pack of d——d quacks; let some regular practitioner see
him. I must request you will take care of his education as well as
Betsy's. I shall charge my mother with neglect if this most essential
point is omitted. My dear Ann, I hope, is well and attentive to my
mother. I have a lot of trinkets for her if I can find means of sending
them. Some days back I sent a Spaniard into Ciudad Rodrigo to buy some
buttons (curious silver ones). I shall preserve them for Ann.
On the receipt of this note, write immediately and let me know when I
am to expect Joseph.
I remain, with my love to my dear mother and family, your affectionate
son,
Geo. Simmons,
Lt., 95th or Rifle Regiment.
CAMPAIGN OF 1812
The commencement of the year 1812 found the British army in the
Peninsula much scattered by reason of the difficulties of provisioning
it.
Soult, operating in Andaluçia, had towards the close of 1811 detached
a force to besiege Tarifa, and at the end of January attempted to
storm it, but was repulsed with heavy loss and retired on Cadiz.
Napoleon at this time was concentrating all his energies on his
disastrous attempt to subjugate Russia, and in order to augment his
forces in that country, had recalled some 60,000 of his best troops
from Spain. It was at this juncture that Wellington, taking advantage
of the disorganised state of the French forces in the Peninsula,
which, in addition to being divided into three separate armies, were
widely distributed in order to obtain supplies, decided on a winter
campaign, and unexpectedly invested the strong fortress of Ciudad
Rodrigo.
After a siege of only twelve days, pushed forward with extraordinary
vigour, with the object of obtaining possession of the place before
Marmont could assemble a sufficient force to render assistance to
the besieged garrison, Ciudad Rodrigo was stormed. In this desperate
undertaking Generals Craufurd and Mackinnon, fifty officers, and 650
men fell in the breaches. The French loss was only 300.
Marmont, having failed in his attempt to collect sufficient forces
to raise the siege, on hearing of the fall of the place, retired on
Salamanca.
Wellington now directed his attention on Badajoz, so as to impede the
junction of Soult and Massena, and marching rapidly thither, laid
siege to it. Soult, confident in the strength of the place, set to
work to collect a force sufficient to attack the Allies, but before
he could do this, Badajoz was stormed. The losses of the assailants
in this terrible assault were very great; sixty officers and over 700
men were killed, and the total number of killed and wounded during the
siege was 3500.
Having thus made himself master of Badajoz, Wellington contemplated
driving Soult out of Andaluçia, but was met by so many difficulties,
political as well as military, that he abandoned this scheme, and
decided to operate against Marmont in Estremadura and Leon. Having
surprised and captured the fortress of Almaraz, he advanced to the
Tormes and laid siege to the forts covering the bridge of Salamanca.
Marmont shortly appeared at the head of a strong force and endeavoured
to succour the forts, but without success, and upon their being
stormed by the British, he fell back to the line of the Douro near
Tordesillas, Wellington following him as far as Rueda.
Massena, having received some reinforcements, crossed the Douro and
sought to turn Wellington's right flank. Now ensued the remarkable
manœuvring on both sides which, after the sharp combats of Castrejon
and the Guareña, culminated in the battle of Salamanca. After this
disaster to the French arms, Massena retired on Burgos, and King
Joseph, who, too late, had come to aid Marmont, returned to Madrid.
Clausel fell back through Valladolid, which town Wellington occupied,
thus separating Marmont from King Joseph. The Allies now advanced on
Madrid, which the King quitted in haste, and ordered Soult to abandon
Andaluçia and to join him at Valencia.
The Allies occupied Madrid, and remained there for some months, but
Clausel having reorganised his forces and reoccupied Valladolid,
Wellington advanced against him.
Clausel fell back on Burgos, followed by the Allies. No less than five
assaults were made on this fortress, but without success. Meanwhile
the French received reinforcements, and eventually the siege of Burgos
had to be raised, and Wellington was forced to retreat on Madrid,
several sharp combats taking place on the way thither.
King Joseph, with Soult and Jourdan, now moved on Madrid, and the
French force being thus overwhelmingly strong, Wellington evacuated
the capital and fell back 200 miles to the line of the Tormes,
followed by Soult and Jourdan. His position there being turned by
Soult, he resumed his retreat on Rodrigo, and after a sharp combat
on the Huebra, reached that place in November, and went into winter
quarters.