The defeat of the Servians has been complete. On the
24th inst. Prince Alexander repulsed their final attack with heavy slaughter, and on the 26th he crossed the frontier with his forces and advanced towards Pirot. The Servians are believed to have lost altogether at least seven thousand men, and their retreat has been carried out in hopeless disorder. The King has gone back to Belgrade, and the Imperial Powers are endeavouring to secure an armistice, to which, however, the victorious Prince objects. He desires an indemnity from Servia for an unjustifiable invasion. It is probable, as Austria must protect Servia, that Prince Alexander will be obliged to yield ; but, in return, he may stipulate for support at Constantinople, where he has practically demanded the recognition of his claim to govern East Roumelia. This must be the meaning of his refusal to allow a Turkish Commissioner to visit Philippopolis " lest the public peace should be disturbed," which has greatly irritated the Porte, who forgot that his "sub- mission " was made before he had fought a battle. All feeling against him, however, has died away in Russia, England is supporting him, and the Sultan will hardly risk a collision with Bulgaria, aided as she would be by a Macedonian rising, and guided as she is by a Prince who is a general, as well as a cool- headed diplomatist.
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