The irritation between the two countries grew and grew, and
war seemed within sight. A commission was accordingly appointed to
consider the terms of an Act of Union, the greater portion of
Scotland, however, being strongly opposed to any such union at all.
The spring of 1705 found the Allies active once more. The main
interest centres in the Netherlands and in Spain. The Earl of
Peterborough, who took the command in Spain, was one of the most
extraordinary men of his time. His energy and activity were amazing,
and he would dash about the Continent in a fashion that often
astounded his friends and confounded his enemies. No man knew where
Peterborough would next turn up. "In journeys he outrides the post,"
Dean Swift wrote of him, and the Dean goes on to say,
So wonderful his expedition,
When you have not the least suspicion,
He's with you like an apparition.
Add to this that the Earl was a charming man, full of courage and
enthusiasm, and able to command the unbounded affection of his troops,
and you have the born leader of men. Of Peterborough's brilliant
exploits in the Peninsula in 1705 a whole book might be written. His
chief attention was first given to the important town of Barcelona, a
place which had successfully withstood Rooke, and in the most
remarkable fashion he captured the strong fort of Monjuich, the
citadel of the town, with a force of only 1,200 foot and 200 horse.
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