The combined forces of the French and Spanish Army advanced in a well-organized column toward Lisbon. The absence of a direct bridge connecting the city to its surroundings necessitated a detour, leading them to march upriver and then circle back down to reach their destination.
The journey took nearly a full day, during which no significant resistance was encountered. The presence of civilians was noted, but their response to the invaders was predominantly one of evasion. Upon spotting the approaching foreign forces, most inhabitants sought refuge within the confines of their homes.
After approximately twenty-seven hours of marching, the invading army finally reached the outskirts of Lisbon. General Saint-Cyr and Godoy dismounted from their horses, immediately opting for their spyglasses to assess the situation.
"The city appears deserted," Godoy remarked, peering through the lens. "What are the odds that the Queen has managed to escape ahead of our arrival?"
