[74] It is notorious, that in the bosom of the truly brave, a spark of humanity is always smouldering, even when the ferocity of war rouses the savage passions to the greatest fury. The case above, that of major Toole, 32d regiment, (page 57,) that of general Pelet, (page 132, note,) together with the anecdote of the French skirmisher with lieutenant-colonel F. Ponsomby, (Appendix, No. VI,) prove the difficulty of making brave men hate each other. [75] Good proof, were it wanting, who first drove the French back, and led the van in pursuit. [76] Let it be recorded to general Pelet’s credit, that he prevented the butchery of some Prussian prisoners, whom their captors, in their fruitless rage, were eager to sacrifice. [77] _See_ Appendix, No. II, p. 216; or _Dispatches_, vol. XII, p. 488-489. CHAPTER IX. Morning after the battle.—Extraordinary and distressing appearance of the field.—Solicitude for the wounded.—The Duke goes back to Brussels to consult the authorities and soothe the extreme excitement.—Humane conduct of all classes towards the wounded.—The allied army proceeds to Nivelles; joined by our detached force.—His Grace issues a general order.—Overtakes the army. On the 21st we cross the frontier into France.—Proclamation to the French people.—Napoleon abdicates in favour of his son.—Cambray and Péronne taken.—Narrow escape of the Duke.—Grouchy retreats upon Paris, closely pursued by the Prussians.—The British and Prussian armies arrive before Paris.—Combat of Issy.—Military convention.—The allies enter the capital on the 7th of July.—Louis XVIII enters next day.—Napoleon surrenders at sea, July 15th.—He is exiled to St.-Helena, where he dies in 1821.—Reflections.