In the mean while, the Seraskier and his detachment, after securing the magazines, remained in the neighbourhood of Meadia some days, waiting the arrival of the Grand Vizir, who immediately advanced, to offer battle to the grand Imperial army, and, on the 10th of September, encamped in sight of the enemy. The Emperor, however, declined the attack. The Grand Vizir, therefore, began a war of posts, by which, in a few days, he reduced the enemy to the alternative of either quitting their position, or of seeing their retreat cut off, should their intrenchments be stormed. Among other movements, a considerable corps were ordered, on the 14th, to turn the right wing of the Austrians. The Turks made this attack with such impetuosity, that they completely routed all this part of the enemy's line, and the Spahis cut to pieces the whole regiment of Wurmser Hussars. The Grand Vizir was now enabled to cannonade the Emperor's camp; and, on the 21st, having brought all his schemes to bear, and taken every means to frustrate the enemy's retreat, should victory crown the Ottoman arms, he advanced to attack the grand Imperial army. The Emperor, however, did not think fit to risk the event, but broke up his camp, and retreated with the greatest precipitation. The Turks had now all the honour and advantages of a victory, without the trouble of fighting for one. The Emperor fled before them; and his rear, with a great part of his baggage and artillery, fell a prey to the enemy. Some thousands of his troops were killed, or taken, and his whole army thrown into such confusion, that, in the night, two of his columns, meeting unexpectedly, fired on each other. It is said that the Emperor once attempted to rally his troops, but that, on this occasion, he himself was very near being taken prisoner. This glorious success was announced by the guns of the Seraglio, on the 3d of October. A general Thanksgiving was immediately performed, and orders issued for proclaiming the Grand Signior _gazi_, or victorious. LETTER XXVIII. TO CAPTAIN SMITH. Constantinople, Jan. 1st, 1789. MY DEAR FRIEND, An unexpected opportunity having offered to carry us to Constantinople, we set sail for the Dardanelles on the 25th Oct. having previously sent to desire an express might meet us there, with the Grand Signior's permission to pass the forts, and go up to his capital. A favor, which, through the interest of Sir Robert Ainslie, our Ambassador, the Porte very readily granted.