The Peril of the Republic of the United States of America - Percy T. Magan

or by the hand of God. My own fate is indifferent
to me, not so the city entrusted to my care. I know
that we shall starve if not soon relieved; but
starvation is preferable to the dishonored death
which is the only alternative. Your menaces move
me not; my life is at your disposal; here is my
sword, plunge it into my breast, and divide my
flesh among you. Take my body to appease your
hunger, but expect no surrender so long as I remain
alive.” His words inspired courage, and a shout of
applause went up from the assembled throng.
At length the last dike was pierced, and the
ocean, aided by a strong equinoctial gale, swept
over the land. In a light flotilla came the relieving
force with supplies for the people of Leyden.
Terror took possession of the Spaniards, and in the
gray light of the early morning they poured out of
their entrenchments, and fled toward The Hague.
They were none too early in their flight. Rapidly
did their narrow path vanish in the waves, and
hundreds sank beneath the deepening and
treacherous flood. Leyden was relieved.
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