noon
The smouldering fires of the pickets alone marked where the troops had been posted , but not a man of that immense force was to be seen . General Fane , who had been despatched with a brigade of Portuguese cavalry and some artillery , hung upon the rear of the retiring army , and from him we learned that the enemy were continuing their retreat northward , having occupied Santarem with a strong force to cover the movement . Crawfurd was ordered to the front with the light division , the whole army following in the same direction , except Hill 's corps , which , crossing the river at Velada , was intended to harass the enemy 's flank , and assist our future operations . Such , in brief , was the state of affairs when I reached Villa Franca towards noon , and received orders to join my regiment , then forming part of Sir Stapleton Cotton 's brigade . It must be felt to be thoroughly appreciated , the enthusiastic pleasure with which one greets his old corps after some months of separation : the bounding ecstasy with which the weary eye rests on the old familiar faces , dear by every association of affection and brotherhood ; the anxious look for this one and for that ; the thrill of delight sent through the heart as the well-remembered march swells upon the ear ; the very notes of that rough voice which we have heard amidst the crash of battle and the rolling of artillery , speak softly to our senses like a father 's welcome ; from the well-tattered flag that waves above us to the proud steed of the war-worn trumpeter , each has a niche in our affection . If ever there was a corps calculated to increase and foster these sentiments , the 14th Light Dragoons was such . The warm affection , the truly heart-felt regard , which existed among my brother officers , made of our mess a happy home .