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.

    34/192 (page 30)
    [1809] doubtless choose this Situation ; the extent of view from it is [Dec.] immense ; on every side were to be seen extensive Olive Groves, and on the slopes of the Hills near the Tagus a variety of neat houses were interspersed. The serpentine course of the River in this neighbourhood adds much to the beauty of the Prospect. I was much fascinated with this scene, and I wished ardently for the pbwer my sweet friend, C. M., possesses with her Pencil, that I might have taken a sketch of it. 30th. On the 28th we quitted Puenhete, and marched to Thomar, a considerable Town and Head-Quarters for the Portugueze Troops. Marshal Beresford is at present there. We had an opportunity of seeing one of the Regiments at Parade which have been drilled by English Officers. They were well clothed and made an excellent appearance. The Soldier-like Manner in which they went through their Evolutions astonished the English Officers. I should really expect much from them if opposed to the Enemy. Our Commanding Officer was informed by Genl. Beresford that our march would not terminate at Coimbra. Guarda a town near the Frontiers is said to be our destination. The last week has been remarkably fine, which at this time of the Year we may consider apiece of singular good fortune. Yesterday we halted at a small village called Aldeacruz, but affording an excellent Market and at a much cheaper rate than any other place we had been at in Portugal. We reached our present halting place (Leyria) this Afternoon where we are to remain to-morrow. Our Route this Day lay through a variety of Fir Groves, which for their extent and beauty are said to be unequalled. [1810] Jan. 6th. We remained at Leyria on the 31st. The Town [Jan.] is Qifj^ a,nd affords little worthy of note. On an Eminence near it stands a Ruin, which has long been considered as extremely fine. It was formerly a Moorish Castle of great strength. The Chapel still remains entire, but has not been used as a place