From Novi Marshal Laudohn advanced to Gradiska; but the overflowing of the Save obliged him to suspend his operations, and to retire into winter quarters.
The campaign is now closed, except in the environs of Oczakow, where the Russian fleet being froze in, the army is obliged to remain for their defence, notwithstanding that immense numbers of their men are every day carried off by the severity of the weather, and the scarcity and badness of provisions.
In the mean while the Captain Bashaw has brought his fleet here to refit, and will resume the blockade of the Russians as soon as the ice breaks. The success of this Admiral has not been so great as his force, abilities, and resolution gave the Porte reason to expect; but they are satisfied, that by engaging almost the whole attention of the Russians, he paved the way for the success of the Grand Vizir, whose victories have more than compensated in the eyes of the Turks, for the disappointment of the Captain Bashaw.
The squadron from the southward have brought in three Russian Privateers, and since there is reason to hope that Oczakow[[8]] will hold out, this campaign has, upon the whole, exceeded the most sanguine expectations of the Turks. I am astonished that they have made it out so well, for their army is really little better than an animated mob under the command of a popular leader. I have searched in vain for field-days or reviews, even among the standing forces. The only thing like military exercise, that I could ever discover, was now and then two or three men firing at a mark, or practising themselves in throwing the lance on horseback.
At present the grand army is elated with victory, and formidable by the spirit infused by success; but as one or two defeats will destroy that religious confidence and enthusiastic fury, which, for a time, supply the want of discipline and skill, the third campaign, I am afraid, will shake this very capital, unless England and Prussia forbid such a catastrophe, and by resolute measures, confirm the expectations of the Porte, and of all those who wish well to the honor and interest of the Triple Alliance.
[8]. A magazine having blown up, and made a practicable breach, the Russians immediately advanced to the assault, and, after sacrificing four thousand men, carried the town.