The next fortification is that on the Ilha dos Cobras, the east point and North side of which consists of a Rampart Bastion and a Parrapet faced with Stones and mounted with Cannon, but no Ditch, which is not much wanting, as the works are built on the Edge of the rising Ground.

The other side next the Town hath no other inclosure but a plain wall without any Guns.

It is said that the works on this Island are in bad repair, on account of being so Extensive that they would take more men to Defend them than they could spare, and, placing no Dependancy on their Strength, let them go to decay.

The ground on which the Monastry of Benedictines Stands Commands the Works on the Island.
Over the South end of the City stands the Castle of St.Sebastian; it is Seated upon a Hill, and Commands the whole Town; and this is all I know of it, only that it is not counted a place of any great Strength.

For the Defence of these Forts and the Town the King of Portugal Maintains 7 Regiments of Regular Troops.