History of the War in the Peninsular and the South of France from the Year 1807 to the Year 1814 Vol

Excerpt: When Gallicia was delivered by the campaign of Talavera, the Asturias became the head of a new line of operation threatening the enemy?s principal communication with France. But this advantage was feebly used. Kellerman?s division at Valladolid, and Bonet?s at San Andero, sufficed to hold both Asturians and Gallicians in check; and the sanguinary operations in the valley of the Tagus, were colaterally, as well as directly, unprofitable to the allies. In other parts the war was steadily progressive in favour of the French; yet their career was one of pains and difficulties.