Blas de Lezo and Viceroy Sebastián de Eslava disagreed over defensive method, but both were effective veteran officers. They employed capable engineers and trained regulars, militia, sailors, and Indigenous archers for the expected return. Lezo favored a more aggressive forward defense, while Eslava preferred using depth and fortified positions to trade space for time. Their preparations show the operational cost of telegraphing an attack against commanders able to convert warning into combat power.
Notable Point · 32:34-34:48
Blas de Lezo and Sebastián de Eslava use the warning well
Experienced Spanish commanders turn Britain's year-long warning into repaired defenses, trained troops, prepared militia, and stronger engineering works.