As they descended into the valley of the Guadiana, they met an officer of the garrison, who was bearing a despatch from the senior military officer, saying that the governor and his family had suddenly left without issuing any orders, and, as he had taken all his portable property with him, it was supposed that he did not intend to return.

Under these circumstances he wrote to ask for orders.
Colonel Crofton sent him back with instructions, to the colonel commanding the troops, that he was coming with a regiment of dragoons and one of infantry, and had full authority from the king to take all measures that seemed to him desirable.

Accordingly, when they arrived at Badajos they were met, at the gate, by the colonel commanding the troops, and a party of his officers.
"I have the king's authority," Colonel Crofton said to him, "to act as temporary governor until another may be appointed.

I do not know whether you are aware of the circumstances that led to the flight of Don Juan de Munos ?" "No, sir, we have heard nothing.

Rumours were current, among the men, that some strange discoveries were made when the stores were examined, but beyond that I know nothing.