New York Daily Tribune

HISTORICAL REMINISCENCE.

To the Editor of The N. Y. Tribune.

Sir: It may be a matter of interest to know that the late unfortunate collision between our troops is not without precedent in the history of modern warfare. Tomes gives the following account of a similar, though far more disastrous, affair, which happened in the French Army, in Canada, in July, 1750, during the "Seven Years' War" between France and England. It occurred in an attempted night attack upon the British camp near Point Levi, and would seem to be a peril peculiarly incident to night marches.

"Two thousand French, Canadians, and savages, as soon as the shades of evening had begun to fall, took up their silent march. De Levis, a brave man, Lord of the domain of Point Levi, and familiar with every landmark and forest path, led the force. This was separated, as it approached the British camp, into two divisions. One was sent in advance, and the other followed at some distance in the rear. As the first proceeded through the woods in the increasing darkness, the men became suddenly alarmed and fled back in confusion. The other division coming up, and hearing the approaching footsteps of their retreating comrades, took them for the enemy, and commenced a deadly fire, which was returned; and the awful mistake was not discovered until seventy had been killed, and both parties had been put to flight in opposite directions. The only result of this unfortunate expedition was this sad, suicidal slaughter."

M.