Coimbra, 29 May 1809 Victor retired from Alcantara. The Portuguese there fought very well. Much discontent about the question of Portuguese rank and he urges Castlereagh to make a definite decision on it. Beresford declares he is a British Lt. General. Tilson and Murray are returning home. Have seen the accounts of the Austrian defeat, which probably means reinforcements sent to Spain.The march will be from Thomar to Abrantes, hopes of surrounding Victor. Kellerman and Ney are said to be attempting to crush Romana in the Asturias. (continued 31 May) Hope they will attack Victor via Plasencia. Asks for some of the new volunteers, it is the only way to help Austria. Burghersh’s appointment has caused a furore. Wellesley having trouble with Sherbrook. (enclosed) State of the forces in Portugal under Sir Arthur Wellesley’s command, 20 May 1809 – From: Londonderry Estates – Additional Records Acc: 1193(D),Despatches from Charles William Stewart (1778-1854), Lord Stewart to Robert Stewart (1769-1822), Viscount Castlereagh, from the Peninsula, volume 1