Notes on the campaign of 1808-1809, in the North of Spain

Few campaigns have started with the British Army being so muddled, or so outnumbered as the campaign that Sir John Moore began in 1808. Sent out by the London government to take charge of British forces in Portugal and Spain, his appointment coincided with a major effort by the French to take the initiative in Spain. Napoleon, in person with 200,000 men, started his offensive as Sir John struggled with the divided Spanish Juntas, still suspicious of British intentions, terrible roads, few supplies and even worse information of the position of his allies or the French. Eventually forced to withdraw, he fought a brilliant defensive battle at Coruña, during which he lost his own life.
Lt.-Col. Sorrell was witness to the trials and tribulations of General Moore, and defends his actions from critics whilst offering his own reminiscences of the campaign and the awful retreat to Coruña.
Author — Lieut.-Col. T.S. Sorell.
Text taken, whole and complete, from the edition published in London: J. Murray, 1828.
Original Page Count – 53 pages.