In half an hour not an Imperialist was left alive in the town. Then
guards were placed at the gate and breaches, and they waited till
morning. Not a sign of an Imperialist was to be seen on the plain,
and parties sallying out found that they had fled in the utmost
disorder. Arms, accoutrements, and portions of plunder lay scattered
thickly about, and it was clear that in the belief that the Swedish
army was on them, the Imperialists had fled panic stricken, and
were now far away. Upwards of two hundred bodies were found in the
streets and houses.
A huge grave was dug outside the walls, and here the fallen foes
were buried. Only three or four of the defenders of the town were
killed and a score or so wounded in the whole affair. Although there
was little fear of a return, as the Imperialists would probably
continue their headlong flight for a long distance, and would then
march with all haste to rejoin their main army with the news that
a strong Swedish force was at Mansfeld, the count set the townspeople
at once to repair the breaches.
The people were overjoyed with their success, and delighted at
having preserved their homes from destruction, for they knew that
the Imperialists would, if unsuccessful against the castle, have
given the town to the flames before retiring. The women and children
flocked down to their homes again, and although much furniture had
been destroyed and damage done, this was little heeded when so much
was saved.
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