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The ground chosen by Wellington to oppose Massena's advance was on the edge of the Sierra Busaco; which was separated, by a deep and narrow valley, from the series of hills across which the French were marching. There were four roads by which the French could advance. The one from Mortagao, which was narrow and little used, passed through Royalva.
"The French have turned our left by the Royalva Pass. Trant has failed to check them, and the whole army must fall back. These are your instructions." The mishap had not been Trant's fault. He had been sent by the Portuguese general on a tremendous detour and, when he arrived at the position assigned to him, his troops were utterly exhausted by their long and fatiguing march.
The other three led to the position occupied by the British force between the village of Busaco and Pena Cova. Trant's command was posted at Royalva.
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