The journal of an Army surgeon during the Peninsular War / [by Charles Boutflower].

  • Boutflower, Charles, 1782-1844.
Date:
[1912]
Catalogue details

Licence: In copyright

Credit: The journal of an Army surgeon during the Peninsular War / [by Charles Boutflower]. Source: Wellcome Collection.

    142/192 (page 138)
    [18121 [June] marks of French devastation; it is a Bishop’s See, but his Excellency’s House is entirely devasted. On the 9th we marched to Aldea de Bispa; & the morning of the loth proceeded according to route in the direction of Espeja. On reaching Alamada, we received an order to bivouack in the wood near that place ; it was generally understood the Division would be viewed by Lord W. on this day, but yesterday evening we were directed to proceed by Gallegos, & cross the river Agueda at the Bridge of Marialva. We are encamped about a league from Ciudad Rodrigo & it appears to be generally understood we shall march immediately upon Salamanca without any delay whatever. 14th. On the 12th we halted, & yesterday crossed the Agueda at Ciudad Rodrigo & proceeded three Leagues beyond that place on the Salamanca road ; we bivouacked in a wood near a small Village called Santispiritus. This day we have had a march of four Leagues and are in bivouack in a beauti- ful wood near San Munoz; we are at present nine Leagues from Salamanca. It is confidently reported the Enemy have quitted the place, which may make a difference in our move- ments ; should they be Northward it would appear hazardous to follow them, as Lisbon would then be open to the incursions of Soult & Suchet. The weather is so intensely hot, that it is scarcely supportable. 15. We marched to-day three leagues thro’ a beautiful Country and are encamped in the Neighbourhood of a Village called Cojos de Robliza. It does not appear that the enemy have as yet quitted Salamanca, tho’ from several movements there is reason to believe they do not purpose making a stand there. Our Army moves in three Columns. The centre comprised of the 4th, 5th, & Light Divisions, with the ist Hussars, 12th & i6th Dragoons, and heavy German Brigade,