A few cannon-shots, or even a demonstration of cavalry, generally brought out the white flag.

In quick succession, Spandau, Stettin, Kuestrin, Magdeburg, and Hameln opened their gates, the governor of the last-named being mainly concerned about securing his future retiring pension from the French as soon as Hanover passed into their keeping.
Amidst these shameful surrenders the capital fell into the hands of Davoust (October 25th).

Varnhagen von Ense had described his mingled surprise and admiration at seeing those "lively, impudent, mean-looking little fellows," who had beaten the splendid soldiers trained in the school of Frederick the Great.

His wonder was natural; but all who looked beneath the surface well knew that Prussia was overthrown before the first shot was fired.

She was the victim of a deadening barrack routine, of official apathy or corruption, and of a degrading policy which dulled the enthusiasm of her sons.
Thirteen days after the great battle, Napoleon himself entered Berlin in triumph.