"We had arranged a code of smoke signals, by which we could ask each other for assistance should the defiles be attacked; and I learned yesterday morning, in this way, that he was marching away." "Have you any news of what is taking place on the other side of the hills, since you sent off word two days ago ?" "No, sir; at least, all we hear is of the same character as before.
We don't hear that Soult is moving, but his force is certainly put down as being considerably larger than was supposed.

I have deemed it my duty to state this in my reports, but the Spaniards are so inclined to exaggerate everything that I always receive statements of this kind with great doubt." "All our news--from the juntas, from Mr.Frere, and from other quarters--is quite the other way," the officer said.

"We are assured that Soult has not fifteen thousand men in condition to take the field, and that he could not venture to move these, as he knows that the whole country would rise, did he do so.
"I have no specific orders to give you.

You will keep in touch with General Hill's brigade, which forms our left and, as we move forward, you will advance along the lower slopes of the Sierra and prevent any attempt, on the part of the French, to turn our flank.
"I dare say you do not know exactly what is going on, Colonel O'Connor.

It may be of assistance to you, in taking up your position, to know that the fighting is likely to take place on the line between Talavera and the mountains.