WELLINGTON, Arthur Wellesley, duke of (1769-1852).
Peninsular War Autograph Letter Signed ('Arthur Wellesley') to Major General Mackenzie, 1 page 8vo (slight traces of former mounting), Abrantes, 20 June 1809. Authorising Mackenzie to buy as many bullocks as he can get ('& draw at short date or even at night upon the Commrs General for the money for them'), prior to the impending and decisive Battle of Talavera.
Shortage of ready money was a constant problem for Wellington, but at this time a fresh supply arrived at Lisbon, allowing Wellington to pay and supply his troops, a necessary adjunct to further assaults on the enemy. Soult had been forced out of Portugal and Wellington, in conjunction with the Spanish general Cuesta, was in a position to engage the French army under Victor. Unfortunately, the 23 July attack on Victor's outnumbered forces failed due to the non-appearance of Cuesta, allowing Victor to bring in new forces. The resulting battle saw 10,000 French troops attack only 3,000 British-Portuguese. Despite this disadvantage and despite losing 25% of his troops, Wellington held his line. Such heavy losses, and the threat to his communication lines by Soult, forced Wellington to withdraw his army towards Portugal.
[No: 23978]