GABIONS

, in Fortisication, are large cylindrical baskets, open at both ends, made of ozier twigs, of 3 or 4 feet in diameter, and from 3 to 6 feet high. Thefe, being filled with earth, are sometimes used as merlons for the batteries, and sometimes as a parapet for the lines of approach, when the attacks are carried on through a stony or rocky ground, and to advance them with extraordinary vigour. They serve also to make lodgments in some posts, and to secure other places from the shot of the enemy; who, on their part, endeavour to burn and destroy the Gabions, by throwing pitched faggots among them.