Therefore it is imperative that, if we are to make our way out, we must do so before the place surrenders.
"We agreed, yesterday, as to the best line to take.

The French force here is by no means considerable, their main body being between this and the Coa.

Massena, knowing the composition of the garrison here, did not deem it requisite to send a larger force than was necessary to protect the batteries; and the major portion of these are on the heights behind the city.

Between the road leading to Escalon and that through Fort Conception there is no French camp, and it is by that line we must make our escape.
"We know that there are considerable forces, somewhere near Villa Puerca; but when we reach the river Turones we can follow its banks down, with very little fear.

It is probable that they have a force at the bridge near San Felices; but I believe the river is fordable in many places, now.