generals, for whom Slangenburg acted as a spokesman, made itself dramatically
felt. Therefore, in proportion to the superiority of the allied army in regard of
number and effectiveness, this campaign did not prove a success either. Marl
borough insisted upon the removal of Slangenburg, and for the sake of not
impairing proper relations with the British government, the States General
eventually consented. Herewith all fatal controversies came to an end so that for
the coming year more favourable results could be anticipated.
From 1704, the Dutch troops fought with the English on the Iberian Penin
sula, as allies of King Pedro II of Portugal. They distinguished themselves in
numerous combats and sieges, whereas the fleet participated in the capture of
Gibraltar in 1704. After the conquest of Barcelona in 170J, activities were
concentrated mainly on the rebellious regions on the Spanish east coast, on
Catalonia and Valencia in particular. However, the condition of the scene of war
was such that warfare could only be maintained at the expense of great losses in
money and men.
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