Uncle Toby and the siege of Messina

Alas there is little remaining of antique Messina - and only the faintest of echoes of the Shandyian age on Sicily.  But some inspirations, and faint indirections, none the less.

"to say nothing of the train of little brass-artillery you bespoke last week, with twenty other preparations for the siege of Messina; believe me, dear brother Toby, continued my father, taking him kindly by the hand, -- these military operations of yours are above your strength; Generous souls! -- God prosper you both, and your mortar-pieces too, quoth my father to himself.2  111 Chapter XX11