30 October–5 November 1854

Odessa. Since the landing of the Anglo-French army, we have had three engagements with them. The first at Alma (September 8 *) in which the enemy attacked and defeated us. The second was Liprandi’s affair on September 13, in which we attacked and remained victors, and the third was Dannenberg’s terrible affair in which we attacked and were again defeated. The treachery business is revolting. The 10th and nth Divisions attacked the enemy’s left flank, drove them back, and spiked thirty-seven guns. Then the enemy put forward 6000 men — only 6000 against 30,000 — and we retreated having lost about 6000 brave fellows, and we had to retreat because half our army had no cannon owing to the impassable roads, and — Heaven only knows why — there were no battalions of sharp-shooters. Terrible slaughter ! It will weigh on the souls of many. Lord, forgive them ! The news of this affair has produced an impression. I have met old men who wept aloud, and young ones who swore to kill Dannenberg. Great is the moral strength of the Russian people. Many political truths will emerge and develop in these days of difficulty for Russia. The feeling of passionate love for the Father- land that is arising and flowing from Russia’s misfortunes will long leave its traces in her. These men, who are now offering their*lives, will be Russia’s citizens and will not forget their sacrifice. They will play their part in public affairs with dignity and pride, and the enthusiasm aroused in them by the war will stamp self-sacrifice and nobleness for ever on their character. Among the gratuitous victims of that unfortunate affair were Soymonov and Komstddius, who were killed. Of the first it is said that he was one of the few honourable and intelligent Generals in the Russian army. I knew the second rather well : he was a member of our Society and of our magazine. It is chiefly his death that has caused me to ask to be sent to Sevastopol. I felt, as it were, ashamed before him. English steamers continue to blockade Odessa. The sea, unfortunately, is calm. It is said that on the 27th there was an engagement — again indecisive, and that on the 3rd there will be an attack. I cannot get there before the 5th, but have a presentiment that I shall still not be too late.