The Portuguese homeland was defended by a paltry force of two half-strength cavalry regiments. They were so ragged and destitute, our scouts initially reported them as mounted police units.


However, when they assumed defensive positions near a small town outside Lisbon, we knew there would be trouble. The British Lines were extended from column and we prepared for a battle.

Due to careful planning, the cavalry were forced to cross open ground directly in front of British lines. They were massacred.

Images of the battle's aftermath were lost in an unexplained fire.