BRIDGE OF BOATS OF XERXES.--This bridge was connected from shore to shore in the following manner: They connected vessels of different kinds, some long vessels of fifty oars, others three banked galleys, to the number of 360 on the side of the Euxine sea, and thirteen on that of the Hellespont. When these vessels were firmly fixed together they were secured by anchors of great length on the upper side, because of the winds which set in from the Euxine; on the lower toward the Ægean sea, on account of the south and south-east winds. They left openings in three places, sufficient to afford a passage for light vessels which might have occasion to sail into the Euxine or from it--having performed this they extended cables from the shore stretching them on large capstans of wood. Then they sawed out rafters of wood making their length equal to that space required for the bridge--these they laid in order across the extended cables and then bound all fast together. Then they placed unwrought wood regularly upon the rafters; over all they threw earth, and fenced both sides in, that the horses and other animals might not be frightened by looking down into the sea. BRIGADE.--A party or division of troops or soldiers, whether cavalry or infantry--regular, volunteer or militia, commanded by a brigadier. A brigade of artillery consists of six pieces, with usually about 140 men; a brigade of sappers consists of eight men. BRIGADIER.--A general officer who commands a brigade, whether of horse or foot, and ranks next to a major-general--commonly called a brigadier-general. BRUSSELS.--Bombarded by Marshal Villeroy, in 1695--taken by the French 1746. Again by Dumouriez, in 1792; near it is the celebrated field of Waterloo. BUCHAREST, TREATY OF.--A treaty of peace between Russia and Turkey, signed May 28th, 1812. BUDA.--Once called the _Key of Christendom_. It was taken by Soleyman II at the memorable battle of Mohatz, when the Hungarian King Louis was killed, and 200,000 of his subjects carried away as slaves, 1526. Buda was sacked a second time, and Hungary annexed to the Ottoman Umpire, 1540. Retaken by the Imperialists, and the Mohammedans delivered up to the fury of the soldiers, 1626. BUENOS AYRES, BRITISH DESCENTS UPON.--A British fleet and army, under Sir Home Popham and General Beresford, took the city, with slight resistance, in 1806, but it was retaken August 12th, after six weeks’ possession. Monte-Video was taken by storm by Sir Samuel Auchmuty, February 3rd, 1807, but evacuated July 7th following. The British suffered a dreadful repulse here in an expedition of 8000 men, under general Whitelock (who was disgraced) July 6th, 1807. On entering the town they were attacked by a superior force with musketry and grape from every quarter, and perished in great numbers, but at last they were allowed to re-embark in their vessels.