With the aid of a small escort with me, I formed them into a reliable regiment, and had the good fortune to do some service with them.

I was therefore confirmed in my command, and was given Portuguese rank.

Sir Arthur Wellesley, on succeeding Sir John Craddock in the supreme command, still kept my name on the headquarter staff, thereby adding greatly to my authority; and continued me in the independent command of my regiment.
"After Talavera we were despatched to aid the Spaniards in holding the pass of Banos but, before we arrived there, Soult had crossed the pass and, being cut off by his force from rejoining the army, I determined to cross the mountains into Portugal.

In so doing we came upon a French division, on its march to Plasencia, and the company of my regiment with which I was were cut off, and taken prisoners." "Forgive me for having doubted you, Colonel O'Connor.

I should, of course, have remembered your name.