The batteries were opened by a furious assauit upon the breast-work, on the evening of the 5th instant, and continued, without intermission, until the 9th, when a partial calm succeeded. Shortly after, the enemy, with a devilish spirit, aided by a supernatural power, introduced into the citadel the light-winged god (until which time it had been considered bum proof); and with an extraordinary agility, aided by the thunder of his artillery, possessed himself of the breach. The enemy, touched by the feeling of the besieged, consented to allow a truce for twenty-four hours; declaring, upon his honour, his only object to be an amelioration of the fortress, according to the principles of the constitution. His argument, I confess, somewhat softened the irritability of my nature, and I did not hesitate to accede to terms, which I thought honourable and just. I have thought it right to give your Excellency this account of my proceedings; trusting your Excellency will consider, that in the discharge of my duty I have no object but that of upholding your dignity and mine own honour and safety. I cannot omit making favourable mention of my Aide-de-camp, who, upon all occasions during this dreadful conflict, manifested the most unremitted exertions, and contributed, in a material degree, to soften and repel the horrors of the siege. Indeed, the Amazon chief, together with the whole corps of Infantry, have been constantly upon the alert, and deserve my highest and best commendation. I have the honour to be, Your Excellency's true and faithful Servant, B. O. To Miss OAKLEY, CLAPHAM COMMON. MY DEAR ADRIANA, Cheltenham, September 25, 1810. I HAVE been agreeably relieved from a dull and heavy morning, by the receipt of your letter. I do not mean dull and heavy weather, but lowness and heaviness of spirits: so much so, that understanding Dr. Jenner is a resident here, I called to ask his advice, which call he returned, and sat with me nearly two hours. He went completely into my complaint; and understanding me to be a friend of Mr. Thomas, he put off the physician, and became an intimate. The Doctor has ordered me to drink the chalybeate water, which I have this day taken for the first time, and to repeat it every day at noon, as well as a repetition of the saline. You are to consider that my letters, although individually addressed, are meant collectively: I can have no partial feeling: you are all equally necessary to my happiness and comfort. I am glad to find Benjamin left you in good spirits: I wish you to write to him, and say how I am. Tell your mamma to kiss your little sisters, and not to forget Richard. Doctor Jenner informs me, that the potatoe is a very unwholesome vegetable-" I pray you avoid it." My kind love and affection to all. B. O. To MISS MARY OAKLEY, CLAPHAM COMMON. MY DEAR MARY, Cheltenham, October 1, 1810. I AM pleased with your interesting letter, which was more welcome as it was unexpected. I find that Mr. Ravenhill is expected home: say to him, I shall be glad he will take the trouble to send me all the news, as I collect nothing here but what I get from the public papers. I hope you give great satisfaction to Mr. Worgan. Indeed, I think he will be pleased with his pupil, as I have ever observed you endeavour to do your best. Be sure you get the trio perfect against my return: you will then please and delight Your loving Father, B. O. TO MISS ELIZABETH OAKLEY, CLAPHAM COMMON. MY DEAR ELIZABETH, Cheltenham, October 1, 1810. I'AM much obliged to you for your pretty letter, and glad to remove from you the impression made in consequence of Doctor Jenner's visit, by saying, his advice has been beneficial to me, and that I am going on very well. I suppose Benjamin did not object to his uncle taking him to Astley's: if you should find that he is displeased, let me know, and I will scold the Captain for it. I think to set off for Weobly on Wednesday morning, and, after passing a few days with your grandpapa and |