«The French will have a difficult job to drive us out, both from the nature of the country, want of provisions and means of transport, and the very improved state of the Portuguese army, which in itself speaks sufficiently for Beresford's exertions, and the propriety of the severe, or rather firm, conduct he went upon from the first.(...) The Portuguese army, notwithstanding the numberless difficulties to which he is constantly exposed, from imbecility and mean contemptible jealousy and intrigue, will be a sufficient testimony. I have no doubt, both in its apparent discipline and conduct before the enemy, whenever it shall be our fortune to meet him. I confess myself rather anxious for the trial. It will show us what Officers are subject to dores de barriga and enable us to get rid of them, and make examples of this worst part of their army, though now there are really many very promising young Officers, and the old ones have in great measure been got rid of. Lord W. as well as every British Officer have been very much, though agreeably, surprised at the state of our troops. I am inclined to think that had they justice done to them in the common comforts, I may say necessaries of life, clothing and food, they would make as good soldiers as any in the world. None are more intelligent or willing, or bear hardships and privation more humbly.»
William Warre, Letters From The Peninsula: 1808-1812, pag 61
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