Chapter XL: Section IV: Conduct of the Regency--Treatment of French Prisoners

_Sir J. Cradock to Mr. Villiers, January 26, 1809._

“I have hitherto directed that these prisoners should be subsisted at our charge, but I have no authority in this measure; they are _in a most deplorable state_, and really are _a disgrace to all concerned_.”

_Sir J. Cradock to Mr. Villiers, February 5, 1809._

“It is absolutely necessary that the regency should give in an answer about the French prisoners. The whole is an unauthorised heavy charge, for which I give my warrant; and I see no end to the case: and, added to this, _their situation is a reflection upon humanity_.”