A well-devised scheme, ruined by the stupidity of the agent
chosen to carry it out. Lord Castlereagh's instructions were “to
advance instantly in full force against Antwerp,” but Lord
Chatham wasted his time and strength in reducing Flushing. Ultimately,
the red-tape “Incapable” got possession of the island of
Walcheren, but 7,000 men died of malaria, and as many more were
permanently disabled.
More on Walcheren Expedition from Infoplease:
- Walcheren Expedition - Walcheren Expedition A well-devised scheme, ruined by the stupidity of the agent chosen to carry it ...
- Dictionary of Phrase and Fable: W - Definitions, origins, and illustrative excerpts for words, phases, and literary allusions starting with "W"
See a map of "" in the Visual Thesaurus