thout a foundation. These fears were rational enough, for the bastion
began to give way in all directions. About one o'clock we expected our
grand shelling-battery to open, which must certainly have completed the
demolition of the fort, for our shells were of enormous calibre. About
this time we generally broke off firing, for the purpose of the men
getting their dinners; and this was the only time that the inmates of
the fort dared to show their noses. Many were now gazing on the falling
and dilapidated tower. Its top had giving warning of its being tired of
the contest, having found out that iron is harder than stone. I thought
I should like to take a nearer peep; so I asked Captain Cruikshank if
he would accompany me to take a nearer view of the fort, that we might
know what kind of ground we had to go over. I would advise all young
soldiers to ascertain this grand point, whenever they can do so without
risk of discovery or personal danger, that, when storming on dark
nights, they may know where to run, and where to walk. I need not say
that Captain Cruikshank, who was a most gallant officer, readily
assented to my proposal. We crept down within a hundred yards of the
bastion, and were so close, that we were observed peeping by those upon
the wall. One of them said, "Come on; do not be afraid; we will not fire
on you." This was repeated by several others, who stood on the walls. We
asked them what they wanted by inviting us to go nearer; and they told
us that, if we would cease firing, they would give up the fort. We
replied that, if they were really inclined to do so, we would come
nearer, and listen to their proposals and wishes. They swore most
positively it was the wish of the keeledar and garrison. For myself, I
scarcely thought that their oaths were to be trusted; but Captain
Cruikshank said, if I would go, he would; so I had no alternative left,
as, of course, after such an invitation, I could not say no. We
accordingly approached close to the bastion, and they faithfully
promised to surrender the fort, if we would cease firing. As we now felt
assured that they were in earnest, their wishes were promptly
communicated to the commander; and Brigadier-General Watson came down to
where we had been standing, when it was settled, that all the occupants
of the fort should be permitted to march out, with their families and
private property, but that they should lay down their arms. This they
readily assented to, and, as