in
pursuit of the enemy. The victorious troops swept through a country,
full of Jews, and utterly undefended. It was a garden of plenty, a rich
and fertile country. Instead of presenting a picture of desolation and
ruin after the Russian army had passed, its cattle still grazed in the
fields, the fields were full of shocks of grain, and chickens, ducks,
and swine wandered about the streets of the town.

There was not a single wrecked house in the town itself, only a few
buildings, such as warehouses near the railway station, having been
demolished by the Russians in order to hasten the departure of the
enemy.

There was another significant incident at the neighboring town of
Botszonce. Here the retiring Austrians attempted to make a stand, but
were shelled out by the Russians with their heavy guns. There were only
three buildings in the city which were not reduced to ruins. These were
two churches and the Town Hall, which, having a church-like spire, the
Russians evidently took for a church of worship, also. In this
connection, we may quote here a second proclamation which the Grand Duke
Nicholas, as Commander in Chief of the Russian forces, distributed in
the districts of Austria captured by the Russians. It was designed to
prevent ill feeling between the people and the invaders. It was dated
September 17, and read:

"To the inhabitants of Austria-Hungary:

"The Government of Austria declared war against Russia because the great
empire, ever faithful to its historical traditions, could not forsake
inoffensive Serbia, nor acknowledge its enslavement.

"On entering the Austro-Hungarian territory, I declare to you in the
name of the great Emperor, that Russia, which has spent its blood many
times for the emancipation of nations from the yoke of foreigners, only
seeks the rehabilitation of right and justice.

"Russia also brings liberty and the realization of your national views.
For many centuries the Austro-Hungarian Government planted among you
discord and enmity, for it knew that as a result of this strife its
dominion over you would continue.

"On the contrary, my sole aim is that each and every one of you may grow
and prosper and keep at the same time the precious inheritance of
language and faith of your fathers.

"Let every one of you, united to his brothers, live in peace and harmony
with his neighbors, respecting their national rights. Being convinced
that you will cooperate with all your strength to re