In January, 1762, after the accession of Charles III to the Spanish throne, Spain was again at war with England . Havana fell to the English on August 13, 1762, and Veracruz was under imminent threat of a landing. Montserrat strengthened the fortifications at Veracruz and made sure they were well supplied. He raised more troops and ensured that they were organized and trained to fight effectively. To guard the trade merchandise, he organized two companies of grenadiers, of Negroes and Mulattoes. The population dubbed these "Los Morenos" . The merchants of Veracruz formed another company and paid their salaries, arms and equipment. Other battalions and regiments were raised in the provinces, including battalions in Valladolid, León, Puebla and Oaxaca. Cavalry and militia were also raised in the large cities. A peace ending the Seven Years' War was signed at Paris on February 10, 1763. Spain received Louisiana and regained Havana and Manila, but ceded Florida to England, as well as the right of settlement and timber-harvesting in Belize. In 1764 he organized the postal service, sent aid to Cuba, and continued work on the drainage system of Mexico City.. How many months was it before Havana was handed over to the English after Charles II took the Spanish  throne?