Frequently large bodies of men showed from behind their shelter, and,
carrying ladders, advanced as if with the determination of making an
assault. Each time, however, the withering fire opened upon them from the
line of earthworks, from the roof of every house, and the storm of grape
from the batteries, caused them to waver and fall back. Each fresh effort
was led by brave men, fanatics, who advanced alone far in front of the
rest, shrieking, "Death to the infidel!"

But they died, and their spirit failed to animate their followers. Only
once or twice did the assailing parties get near the line of
intrenchments, and then but to fall back rapidly after heavy loss.

Day after day the position of the besieged grew more unendurable. The
buildings were crumbling away under the heavy and continued fire; and as
one after another became absolutely untenable, the ladies and children
were more closely crowded in those which still offered some sort of
shelter. Even death, fearful as were its ravages, did not suffice to
counteract the closeness of the packing. Crowded in dark rooms, living on
the most meager food--for all the comforts, such as tea, sugar, wine,
spirits, etc., were exhausted, and even the bread was made of flour
ground, each for himself, between rough stones--without proper medicines,
attendance, or even bedding; tormented by a plague of flies, sickened by
disgusting smells, condemned to inaction and confinement, the women and
children died off rapidly, and the men, although better off with regard to
light and air, sickened fast. Half the officers were laid up with disease,
and all were lowered in health and strength.

On the 18th, as the Warreners had just returned from a heavy night's work,
strengthening the defenses, and burying horses and cattle, a great
explosion was heard, and one of those posted on the roof ran down