August. 26 September Charles in made his entry into the capital. The Spanish
people stood by Philips V; the allies saw themselves surrounded by a hostile
population; they met with a redoubtable opponent in the person of Vendome,
who had come over from France and soon proved superior in force. In Novem
ber Starhemberg had to begin beating the retreat. Stanhope was encircled with
the English troops at Brihuega, captured by Vendome with a rush. A day later
(10 December) the gory battle of Villaviciosa took place. Thanks to their
unforgettable bravery the allies stood their ground, but the heavy losses promp
ted Starhemberg to continue his retreat. He arrived in the beginning of Ja
nuary with the remainder of his troops in Catalonia.
The chance that Charles in would mount the throne again was gone for ever.
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