surely, Excellenz; no
defence possible!' Which is a prophecy and a fulfilment, both in one.
Why Schmettau did not shoot forth a spy or two, to ascertain for him
What, or whether Nothing whatever, was passing outside Dresden? I never
understand! Beyond his own Walls, the world is a vacancy and blank to
Schmettau, and he seems content it should be so.

"SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 2d. Though Schmettau's cannonade was very loud, and
had been so all night, divine service was held as usual, streets safe
again,--Austrians, I suppose, not firing with cannon. About 4 P.M.,
after a great deal of powder spent, General Maguire, stepping out on
Elbe Bridge, blows or beats Appeal, three times; 'wishes a moment's
conversation with his Excellency.' Granted at once; witnesses attending
on both sides. 'Defence is impossible; in the name of humanity,
consider!' urges Maguire. 'Defence to the last man of us is certain,'
answers Schmettau, from the teeth outwards;--but, in the end, engages to
put on paper, in case he, by extremity of ill-luck, have at any time
to accept terms, what his terms will inflexibly be. Upon which there is
'Armistice till To-morrow:' and Maguire, I doubt not, reports joyfully
on this feeling of the enemy's pulse. Zweibruck and Maguire are very
well aware of what is passing in these neighborhoods (General Wunsch
back at Wittenberg by forced marches; blew it open in an hour); and are
growing highly anxious that Dresden on any terms were theirs.

"MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 3d, The death-day of the Siege; an uncommonly busy
day,--though Armistice lasted perfect till 3 P.M., and soon came back
more perfect than ever. A Siege not killed by cannon, but by medical
industry. Let us note with brevity the successive symptoms and
appliances. About seven in the morning Maguire had his Messenger in
Dresden, 'Your Excellency's Paper ready?' 'Nearly ready,' answers
Schmettau; 'we will send it by a Messenger of our own.' And about eleven
of the day Maguire does get it;--the same Captain Kollas (whose name we
recollect) handing it in; and statue-like waiting Answer. 'Pshaw, this
will never do,' ejaculates Maguire; 'terms irrationally high!' Captain
Kollas 'knows nothing of what is IN the Paper; and is charged only to
bring a Written Answer from Excellenz.' Excellenz, before writing, 'will
have to consult with Durchlaucht;' can, however, as if confidentially
and from feelings of friendship, can assure you, Sir, on my honor, That
the Garrison will be