[History of Friedrich II. of Prussia Vol. XVII. (of XXI.) by Thomas Carlyle]@TWC D-Link bookHistory of Friedrich II. of Prussia Vol. XVII. (of XXI.) CHAPTER VII 6/27
He had a week to do those eight bad miles in; and 2,000 lean horses, picking grass or brown leaves, while their riders threshed.
"We will drag our pontoons by water, by the Elbe tow-path," thought Rutowski, "that will be easier;"-- and forthwith sets about preparing for it, secretly collecting boats at Pirna, steersmen, towing-men, bridge-tackle and what else will be necessary. Rutowski made, at least, no delay.
Browne's messenger, we find, had come to him, "Thursday, 7th:" and on Friday night Rutowski has a squad of boatmen, steersmen and twoscore of towing peasants ready; and actually gets under way.
They are escorted by the due battalions with field-pieces;--who are to fire upon the Prussian batteries, and keep up such a blaze of musketry and heavier shot, as will screen the boats in passing.
Surely a ticklish operation, this;--arguing a sanguine temper in General Rutowski! The south bank of the River is ours; but there are various Prussian batteries, three of them very strong, along the north bank, which will not fail to pelt us terribly as we pass.
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