Nothing could be more provoking than this scandalous malevolence to a great man who had done so much honour to his country, and was then actually exposing his life in her service.
BOUCHAIN REDUCED.
On the tenth day of August Bouchain was invested, and the duke of Marlborough exerted himself to the utmost extent of his vigilance and capacity, well knowing the difficulties of the undertaking, and how much his reputation would depend upon his success.

Villars had taken every precaution that his skill and experience could suggest, to baffle the endeavours of the English general.

He had reinforced the garrison to the number of six thousand chosen men, commanded by officers of known courage and ability.

He made some efforts to raise the siege; but they were rendered ineffectual by the consummate prudence and activity of the duke of Marlborough.

Then he laid a scheme for surprising Douay, which likewise miscarried.