An item dated Madrid 5 February reported that still it was unknown for which purpose all preparations were along the coasts and in the harbours. The navy seemed to be the major issue. The regiment volunteers of Arragon was already added to the navy and the regiment Navarra all ready serving at the squadron at Ferrol was this also to do in the near future. From Ferrol was reported that men busy was with fitting out of 8 new warships, 3 of 80 and 5 of 74 guns,. As soon as this was done intended men to start the building of 8 similar ships for which the timber all ready was stored at the yards. There were at least 8,000 labourers working who also were used for the building of new warehouses. In the surroundings of Sevilla and Cadiz gathered a large number of troops. The ships of the lines and the frigates belonging to the fleet commanded by general don Louis van Cordua were all tarred. Within two months must be the reason for this expensive preparations be revealed.
According to letters from Cartagena dated 30 January left four there fitted out frigates on 25 January the harbour with such a favourable wind that they passed the Strait of Gibraltar in 3 days. They had for four months victuals on board. Their destination was unknown. From Cartagena was also reported that the ship of the line St. Jan Baptist (1) and the squadron chebecqs commanded by Don Barceló was lying ready. This squadron was to be strengthened by 3 chebecqs of a new design.
Note
1. Probably the 3rd rate San Juan Bautista, launched at Cartagena 1772, stricken 1809, 74 guns. See C. de Saint Hubert. “Frigates of the Spanish Navy (1714-1825)”.
According to letters from Cartagena dated 30 January left four there fitted out frigates on 25 January the harbour with such a favourable wind that they passed the Strait of Gibraltar in 3 days. They had for four months victuals on board. Their destination was unknown. From Cartagena was also reported that the ship of the line St. Jan Baptist (1) and the squadron chebecqs commanded by Don Barceló was lying ready. This squadron was to be strengthened by 3 chebecqs of a new design.
Note
1. Probably the 3rd rate San Juan Bautista, launched at Cartagena 1772, stricken 1809, 74 guns. See C. de Saint Hubert. “Frigates of the Spanish Navy (1714-1825)”.
