one of the flags, and retired to the interior of the tower; in a few minutes he re-appeared, took a second and descended.  The French continued to cannonade, and the breach appeared almost practicable, when suddenly they were astounded by a terrific explosion, which shook the whole ground as with an earthquake; an immense column of smoke, mixed with streaks of flame, burst from the centre of the fortress, masses of solid masonry were hurled into the air to an amazing height, while cannon, stones, timbers, projectiles, and dead bodies, were scattered in every direction—­the negro had done his duty—­the fort was blown up.

In half an hour the French sappers and miners were at work repairing the smoking ruins, their advanced guards had effected a reconnoissance along the side of the hill towards the fort Bab-azoona, and their engineers had broken ground for new works within seven hundred yards of the Cassaubah.  But these preparations were unnecessary; the Dey had resigned all further intention of resistance, and at two o’clock a flag of truce was announced, which proved to be Sidy Mustapha, the Dey’s private secretary, charged with offers of paying the whole expense of the campaign, relinquishing all his demands on France, and making any further reparation that the French general might require, on condition that the troops should not enter Algiers.  These proposals met with an instant negative:—­Bourmont felt that Algiers was in his power, and declared that he would grant no other terms than an assurance of life to the Dey and inhabitants, adding that if the gates were not opened he should recommence his fire.  Scarcely had Mustapha gone, than two other deputies appeared, sent by the townsmen to plead in their behalf.  They were a Turk called Omar, and a Moor named Bouderba, who having lived for some time at Marseilles, spoke French perfectly.  They received nearly the same answer as Mustapha; but they proved themselves better diplomatists, for they spoke so much to the general of the danger, there would be in refusing the Janissaries all terms, and the probability that if thus driven to despair they might make a murderous resistance, and afterwards destroy all the wealth and blow up all the forts before surrendering, that Bourmont, yielding to their representations, became less stern in his demands; and Mustapha having returned about the same time with the English vice-consul, as a mediator, the following terms were finally committed to paper, and sent to the Dey by an interpreter.

“1.  The fort of the Cassaubah, with all the other forts dependent on Algiers, and the harbor, shall be placed in the hands of the French troops the 5th of July, at 10 o’clock, A.M.

“2.  The general-in-chief of the French army ensures the Dey of Algiers personal liberty, and all his private property.

“3.  The Dey shall be free to retire with his family and wealth wherever he pleases.  While he remains at Algiers he and his family shall be under the protection of the commander-in-chief.  A guard shall insure his safety, and that of his family.