But the Representatives of the People had nearly spoiled everything.

These gentlemen, walking their rounds, discovered the battery behind the olives, and inquiring how long it had been ready, were told for eight days.

Not guessing with what views so many guns had been kept so long idle, they ordered an immediate cannonade.

The English made a vigorous sally, and spiked the guns before Buonaparte could reach the spot.

On his arrival at the eminence behind, he perceived a long deep ditch, fringed with brambles and willows, which he thought might be turned to advantage.