If it were not for these bands, they would be able to concentrate all their troops, and would soon capture Andalusia and Valencia, and then turn their attention to other work.

As it is, they have to keep the roads clear, to leave strong garrisons everywhere, and to keep a sufficient force in each province to make head against the guerillas; for if they did not do so, all their friends would be speedily killed, and the peasantry be constantly incited to rise." "Do you know anything of this Moras ?" "He is said to be a good leader," Herrara replied, "and to have gathered under him a number of other bands.

He has the reputation of being less savage and cruel than the greater part of these partisan leaders; and though, no doubt, he kills prisoners--for in that he could hardly restrain his men--he does not permit the barbarous cruelties that are a disgrace to the Spanish people.

In fact, I believe his orders are that no prisoners are to be taken." "I will look at my instructions," Terence said, drawing out the paper he had received the night before.
"Yes," he said, when he had read them; "my instructions are a good deal like yours, but they leave my hands somewhat more free.

I am to consult with Moras, to operate with him when I think it advisable, and in all respects to act entirely upon my own judgment and discretion; the main object being to compel the French to detach as many men as possible from this neighbourhood, in order to oppose me; and I am to take every advantage the nature of the country may afford to inflict heavy blows upon them." "That is all right," Ryan said cheerfully.