230. — It follows from the above observations,
and from what was previously said on the same
subject, that such principal works of any fortress
as are liable to be stormed should be retrench-
ed ; and particularly those which compose the
body of the place ; for, without retrenchments,
the defeat of the troops who have defended the
la,tter would not only enable the enemy to take
Immediate possession of the town, but would
expose the garrison to dreadful consequences,
as well as the inhabitants ; so that the garrison
would be justified in a great measure in sur-
rendering the place before the assault is given.
When on the contrary the works in ques-



338 ON THE ATTACK AND

tion are properly retrenched, the besieged troops
may defend them to the last^ and then retire be-
hind the retreDchmentSj in order to capitulate
upon honourable and advantageous terms.
