The Daily Advertiser

Extract of a letter from Amsterdam, September 17.

"I had a great deal to write you, but at present every thing here is in the utmost ferment and confusion, on account of 20,000 Prussian troops having entered Guelderland, and being in full march towards Holland; which will be a capital stroke against us. This news has thrown us into the greatest consternation, and in particular has cast such a damp on my mind, that I am entirely unfit for my business. We are indeed assured of France's assistance, and it is said the French troops at Ghent are actually under marching orders for this province; but this will take up some days, and in the mean time the Prussians may do a great deal of mischief. Utrecht has been evacuated by our people, because the garrison, consisting of between 7 and 8000 men, could be better employed in defending the Province of Holland than the town of Utrecht, which after all could not have held out a siege.

"Thus far I had written this morning -- and this afternoon, my dear, all the gates are shut, the bridges drawn up, all communication stopped between the city and country. This is, indeed, a melancholy sight.

"The various reports arriving here every minute are often of so contradictory a nature, that they only serve to increase our perplexity. This afternoon it was asserted the Prussian troops were already in the Province of Holland, even as near as Weesp, which is but two miles from us. This probably has been the occasion of shutting the gates. In short, every thing wears a wretched aspect, and I am of opinion that our patriotic party are undone, and then--farewell, dear Holland, for ever.

"This moment we hear that Naarden and Weesp are already taken, which is but a few hours distance between us and the enemy, so that by to-morrow they may with the greatest ease be before our gates. It is not difficult to foresee that they will be admitted, as no resistance can be made. Fatal consequences of quarrelling for years, without putting themselves into a state of defence. O heavens! what dreadful dispensation is this!

"Good night dear, I could burst out a crying when I think of it. God knows whether we shall not be totally plundered, for the mob will be outrageous against the patriots."