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H IS TO RIC A. L. R. E. C. O R. D
OF
Clijt #onourable 3East #mbia Companp'g
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT:
CONTAIN ING
AN ACCOUNT OF THE ESTABLISHMENT OF
INDEPENDENT COMPANIES IN 1645; THEIR FORMATION INTO
A REGIMENT IN 1748; AND ITS SUBSEQUENT
SERVICES TO 1842.
*** *
BY A STAFF OFFICER.
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- LONDON :
SMITH, ELDER AND CO., 65, CORNHILL.
*
1843.
UM A
6 5 2.
, R 386
W 37
LONDON ?
Printed by STEwART AND MURRAY,
Old Bailey.
TO
MAJOR-GENERAL SIR ROBERT HENRY DICK,
K.C.B. K.C.H. &c. &c. &c.
COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF OF THE FORCES IN THE
PRESIDENCY OF FORT ST. GEORGE,
THIS RECORD
OF
THE SERVICES OF THE OLDEST REGIMENT IN THE ARMY
Is MOST RESPECTFULLY DEDICATED,
JBY
HIS VERY FAITH FUL SERVANT,
THE AUTHOR.
P R E F A C E .
Nothing can more fully excite and encourage that
spirit of emulation which ought to exist in every
regiment, than a detailed chronicle of the noble
deeds of which the military history of the land
affords such numerous and brilliant instances. To
hold forth these bright examples for imitation and
incitement, as well as to record seriatim the services
of one of the oldest corps in the British army, are
the motives that have led to the publication of the
present work.
It had not, until very lately, been the practice in
the Anglo-Indian army to keep regular data of
the services and achievements of the different
regiments; and, when these were ordered to be
vi PREFACE.
compiled, considerable difficulty was experienced in
obtaining information; and the records of many are,
in consequence, meagre and defective. Orme's
splendid “History of India,” as well as the different
journals kept by its first colonel, General Lawrence
and several other distinguished characters, furnish a
correct and graphic account of the earliest services
of the Madras European Infantry; after-historians,
and old official and regimental records have added
to this stock of information ; and from the material
thus collected, this work is prepared.
The operations of the British troops in Indian
warfare created little or no interest in Europe until
after the battle of Plassey, when, as the foundation
of the British power became more securely planted,
and began to extend, the achievements of our arms
in the East became better known, and the heroic
deeds of her sons in this distant land were first
proclaimed to Britain, and they began to receive
that tribute of praise and admiration to which they
were so justly entitled.
The supremacy of the British soldier has in no
country been so pre-eminently displayed as in all
the wars in India, where Great Britain has pro-
PREFACE. vii
duced a band of heroes, who, in scenes of peril
and privation—seldom, if ever, equalled—have
stood “firm as the rocks of their native shores;”
and have not only repelled the incessant attacks
of overwhelming numbers, but have gradually and
irresistibly advanced through the length and breadth
of India; establishing at last, by a series of splendid
victories, an empire in the East, vast, magnificent
and wonderful, beyond parallel in the history of the
world. In fighting the battles of their native land,
the Madras European Infantry corps have ever
been famous for their valour and fortitude; having
borne a distinguished part in almost every service in
Asia where British troops have been engaged.
To the members of the regiment, a history of its
services cannot but prove highly gratifying and
instructive; and, existing as there does among most
men in the Indian army, an esprit de corps, and a
strong attachment to every thing relating to the
service,—to them an authentic narrative of the
different events in which so many illustrious and
great characters belonging to it have taken so con-
spicuous a part, must also be of interest. The
want of the necessary information prevented the
viii PREFACE.
more frequent mention of the many different native
corps which have so often, from their earliest for-
mation, rivalled their European comrades in gallant
bearing in the field: but it is hoped that the native
army will follow the example of the Madras Artillery
and the First Madras European Regiment, by
compiling historical records of the formation and
subsequent services of its native regiments; and
thus complete the history of the army of Fort
St. George.
CEDED DISTRICTs,
March, 1842.

- -be-paid-off on April-6. The 102nd Royal Madras Fusiliers,
2- (late 1st Madras Fusiliers), were raised by the East India Com-
pany in the year 1645, chiefly from the 2nd Foot. The Ioznd
zºº was engaged in all the earlier wars and operations in India, in-
cluding the siege of Arcot and battle of Plassey, subsequently
in both the Burman wars, and latterly the suppression of the
rebellion in Bengal, where it formed part of the force under Sir
H. Havelock in the advance to and defence of the Presidency
|- of Lucknow : was afterwards with Sir J. Outram's corps of obser-
vationat the Alumbagh, and at the capture of the cityof Lucknow;
then, after a campaign in Oude under Sir Hope Grant, the regi-
ment returned to its own presidency, being received at Calcuttaby
the Viceroy with the highest honours, the fort and Her Majesty's
ship Pearl firing royal salutes. The Pearl was specially ordered
|to man yards, being the first and last time such an honour was
| | paid to a regiment. After being addressed by the Viceroy, the
| regiment embarked for Madras, where it was received under a
| royal salute from Fort St. George. This is the first time the
*ioznd has been in England, and it may be remarked that they
display the names of more battles on their colours than any
other Indian regiment.
THE East India Company’s European troops, of
the Presidency of Fort St. George, were, from the
earliest times, armed, disciplined, clothed and
accoutred, exactly after the fashion of the Royal
Army. In 1645, a company of infantry varied from
100 to 300 men, half of whom were armed with
muskets, and the rest with pikes from fourteen to
eighteen feet long, each man having also a sword.
When formed up in line, the musketeers were
divided on each flank, and the pikemen in the
centre, where also was the colour or standard of the
company. In 1665, a company consisted of 100
men, sixty of whom were armed with muskets, ten
with light firelocks and thirty with long pikes, who
formed in the centre on each side of the colours.
Each soldier carried a sword, and those with fire-
arms a dagger, the handle of which was made to fit
when required into the muzzle of the musket.
Bandoleers were used for the carriage of the ammu-
nition, and a proportion of the largest and stoutest
X INTRODUCTION.
men, in addition to their other arms, carried hand-
grenades, and were subsequently called grenadiers.
In 1686, bayonets, of nearly the present pattern,
were introduced instead of the daggers, and a com-
pany of infantry consisted of sixty men, forty-six of
whom carried muskets, and the rest pikes. The
captain of the company carried a pike, the lieuten-
ants partisans, the ensigns half-pikes, and sergeants
halberds,-all in addition wore swords. In 1703,
pikes in the ranks were abolished, and every infan-
try soldier was armed with musket, bayonet and
sword ; the officers and non-commissioned, in ad-
dition to their swords, carried, the former spontoons,
the latter halberds. The ammunition was carried
in a leather pouch, suspended by a broad buff belt
over the left shoulder, and hanging over the right
hip; the bayonet and sword were attached on the
left side to a broad buff waist-belt. In 1748, when
the different companies of the corps were formed
into a regular battalion, a grenadier company was
established, when all the men of the battalion, ex-
cept the grenadiers, ceased to wear swords, and the
officers carried, in addition to their swords, light
fuzils, the sergeants halberds. Little change took
place until 1766, when the corps was formed into
three battalions, each of which had a grenadier
company of 100 men, and eight battalion compa-
nies each seventy-five strong. In 1770, another
battalion of the same strength was added to the
INTRODUCTION. xi
corps, and shortly afterwards cross-belts were intro-
duced instead of the single one, and the grenadiers
laid aside their swords.
In 1786, each battalion consisted of two grena-
dier and six battalion companies, the strength of
each being seventy-five rank and file, and the offi-
cers laid aside the fuzil, retaining the sword only.
On the formation of the four battalions into two
regiments of ten companies each, in 1796, light com-
panies were first established, the non-commissioned
officers of which were armed with fuzil and bayo-
net instead of halberds and swords. The arms and
accoutrements of the regiment have remained very
nearly the same up to the present time, except that
in 1828 the halberd and sword with all the non-
commissioned were exchanged for the fuzil and
bayonet, and in 1838 the flank companies of the
regiment were armed with an improved double-
sighted musket, with spring-bayonet. A still further
improvement in the arms is shortly expected, in the
substitution, for the flint and steel, of the percussion-
lock-musket, a weapon particularly adapted for
India, and which has already been issued to the
2d Madras European Light Infantry Regiment, a
young corps raised in 1840, which has attained a
very high state of efficiency and discipline.
The 2d Regiment is differently accoutred from
the 1st, having, after the fashion of olden times,
only one (the pouch) belt, the bayonet being sus-
xii INTRODUCTION.
pended in a frog on the left side of the waist-belt.
For light infantry, particularly Europeans in a
country like India, the alteration is a very great
improvement, and might, with much advantage and
comfort to the soldier, and a considerable saving of
expence to the State, be adopted by all infantry
regiments in the army. It would particularly, if the
breastplate was also dispensed with, relieve the sol-
dier, already too much burdened for a hot climate,
of some weight, and very considerable restraint,
besides leaving his right arm and shoulder unen-
cumbered, and free for action.
Until 1841, the clothing of the European regi-
ment, although considerably improved of late years,
had been very inferior to that issued to H. M.'s
troops. A great alteration for the better has, how-
ever, taken place, and the clothing of the Madras
European Regiments at present is quite equal to
that of any regiment in H. M.'s service.
Ever since its formation into a battalion, the
Madras European Infantry have furnished details
at different times for the performance of other du-
ties besides those of infantry soldiers. From 1751,
until the arrival of the first English regiment of
dragoons in India, in 1783, details from the regi-
ment, frequently upwards of a troop, were mounted
and served as dragoons, and on all occasions acted
with the greatest gallantry. From the earliest times,
field-pieces were attached to each battalion, and
INTRODUCTION. xiii
were worked by the men of the regiment; and each
battalion retained its field-pieces until near the
close of the last century, since which time, how-
ever, the men of the corps have been from time to
time instructed in the management of artillery, with
which at present all are perfectly acquainted, field-
pieces being attached to the corps for the purpose.
From 1761, detachments of the corps have re-
peatedly acted as sappers and miners at several
places, among the most important of which may be
instanced the fall of Seringapatam, at Java, and
Nagpore.
From the first formation of the Sepoys into inde-
pendent companies, a European sergeant was at-
tached to each company. As battalions were
formed, these sergeants were continued, with the
addition of a drill-sergeant and sergeant-major to
each battalion of natives, and this establishment
remained until the battalions were regimented and
officered from the army, when the company ser-
geants were discontinued, and a sergeant-major and
a quarter-master-sergeant constituted the European
non-commissioned in each native corps. No alte-
ration has hitherto taken place in this establishment,
and the European non-commissioned staff of na-
tive regiments, both cavalry and infantry, continue
to be supplied from the Company’s European
service, in equal proportions from the Artillery and
Infantry. In addition to 120 appointments of this
description, nearly 200 more on the general non-
xiv INTRODUCTION.
commissioned staff, and eighty-three warrants in the
Sappers, Horse Artillery, Cavalry, and the Ord-
nance and Commissariat Departments, besides about
ten non-effective commissions in the Veteran Batta-
lions are open, as the reward of merit, to men of
good character and ability; and, considering the
paucity of Europeans in the Company's service
eligible for posts of these descriptions, the system
adopted extends vast advantages and unparalleled
encouragement to good behaviour.
The general system of discipline in the 1st Ma-
dras European Regiment, at the present day, does
not vary from that in the Royal Army, which is in
general taken as its standard; in the interior eco-
nomy alone there is a slight difference in a few
peculiarities, which the experience of upwards of a
century has sanctioned—of late years, in particular,
every pains has been taken to increase the soldier's
comfort, to supply him with amusing occupation for
his leisure hours, and to discourage intemperance;
and the extraordinary improvement that has been
effected in this most important object is strikingly
evident to those who have had the opportunity of
observing it. The establishment of an excellent
library and reading-room, a school for adults, and
temperance societies have, under the present com-
manding officer, who shews an equal solicitude for
the discipline of the mind, as the body, been the
means of diffusing an intellectual and high moral
feeling among the majority of the soldiers that bids
INTRODUCTION. XV
fair, under his zealous superintendence, almost
entirely to check drunkenness: besides which, in
order to encourage manly exercise, every proper and
possible liberty is granted to the men to be absent
a considerable distance from their barracks, for the
enjoyment of hunting, fishing, or other field sports;
a horticultural garden, in which any man who chooses
has a plot of ground for his own cultivation, and a
school of trades, in which every artisan is encou-
raged, at his option, to exercise his calling, and dis-
pose of the article made for his own profit, have
been established : all these regimental institutions
have, by providing employment and amusement,
materially improved the moral as well as physical
condition of the soldier. A reference to official
documents will, in the former case, shew a very
small average of minor punishments and courts-
martial, and in the latter a remarkably small
average of mortality and sickness, compared with
most European corps: whether the latter is to be
attributed to the system of messing in the regiment,
which encourages generous living and allows the
soldier whatever change and variety of wholesome
food he fancies, or any other cause, it is not for the
author of these pages to give an opinion; but the
subject of the soldier's food and style of living is
one of the most vital importance, and there is
nothing wherein corps or detachments differ so
much from each other as in the quality and quantity
of their messing.
xvi INTRODUCTION.
Since 1664, the recruiting for the corps has
entirely been from Great Britain, except during the
campaigns in 1752, 53, 54, when a few Swiss merce-
naries were incorporated with the regiment; and at
different periods on the conclusion of peace between
the two nations, a few French prisoners of war
would, on their release, enlist in the corps, a system
which was only resorted to from the great scarcity
of Europeans in India: it, however, was not long
persisted in : the French were very frequently found
to disgrace themselves when acting against native
powers, and very seldom, whilst in the English
service, did they behave well : besides, they inva-
riably deserted on the breaking out of hostilities
with their own country.
After the capture of the Cape of Good Hope in
1795, nearly 400 Germans, made prisoners there,
took service in the corps: these were good soldiers
in every respect, and an acquisition to the regiment,
as also were a number more of the same nation,
taken by the corps in the Eastern Islands in 1810;
since which time none but British have been
enlisted. -
From 1758, it has been customary to receive
volunteers into the corps from H. M.'s regiments
returning home; but the practice has been almost
discontinued for the last sixteen years, on account
of the present regulation, by which H. M.'s soldier,
on entering the Company's, is not allowed to
count former service in the Royal Army. In former
INTRODUCTION. xvii
years, when this indulgence was granted, the Com-
pany, whilst getting many excellent men, frequently
received many old worn-out soldiers, who, after one
or two years’ service, were found unfit for further
effective duty. Were the Company to take volun-
teers only under thirty years of age, and who had
not served more than seven years, allowing them the
benefit of their service, they would be gainers, and,
besides, obtain climatised soldiers.
For some years, the East India Company were
permitted to enlist in some parts only of England
and Ireland: lately, however, leave has been ex-
tended over the United Kingdom, the head-quarters
of the depot being at Chatham.
The number of recruits annually rejected, as
unfit for the service, after landing in India, and
those also who are subsequently, after joining their
regiment, found to be diseased, and from other
causes unlikely ever to become effective soldiers,
are sufficient proofs that there is a serious defect
somewhere in the home recruiting service, whereby
the Government have been, for years past, put to a
very considerable expense and loss. It has been
suggested that the services of officers at home,
belonging to the European Service, might be taken
advantage of in recruiting for the army to which
they belonged, as they would be likely to take more
interest in procuring strong healthy men, than
others who do not belong to the particular service,
and whose interest it may be to look more to the
al
xviii INTRODUCTION.
number than efficiency of the men they enlist; and
also that well-behaved non-commissioned and
privates from India might, after a certain service,
as a reward for good conduct, be sent home on
furlough in charge of invalids, and whilst in Eng-
land, be employed on the recruiting service ; an
arrangement of the kind would effect a certain
saving, by the consequent reduction in the present
home recruiting establishment, which, with the
saving of life from the renovation of the constitu-
tions of those Indian soldiers employed, would far
more than cover the expense of their passages home
and out, together with the loss of their services in
India: the prospect also of being allowed to re-visit
his native land as a reward of merit, would be some-
thing for a soldier to look forward to, and a very
great incitement to all, particularly to those who,
from want of education, are debarred from pro-
motion : a greater intercourse with home would,
besides, cause the many great advantages of the
service to be more fully known, and would be
the means of procuring a superior class of men to
enter the ranks of the Indian army.
THE
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN RE GIMENT
BEARS ON ITS colours, As A REGIMENTAL BADGE,
“THE ROYAL TIGER,”
witH THE MOTTO,
“SPECTAMUR AGENDo,”
AND THE FOLLOWING INSCRIPTIONS,-
“ARCOT,” “PLASSEY,” “CoNDORE,” “w ANDIw Ash,”
“SHolingur,” “NUNDYDRoog,”
“AMBOYNA,” “TERNATE,” “BANDA,”
“PONDICHERRY,”
“MAHIDPoor,” “AvA.”
a 2
CON TE N T S.
Anno
1644–1645 ORIGIN of THE CoRPs e º
1677 Defence of Madras . º e e
1682 Expedition to Calcutta º
1683 Second Expedition to Bengal . •e
1685 War with the Great Mogul
1686 Battle of Hooghly
Defence of Calcutta . º
Capture of Tanna and Injellee
Burning of Balasore and the Mogul Fleet
1689 Expedition to Dacca and Chittagong
1690–91–92 Re-organization of the Corps
1703 Defence of Madras e º c
1706 Defence of Forts St. George and St. David .
1741 Defence of Fort St. George . º º
1746 Madras taken by the French . -> te
1747 Defence of Fort St. David—Repulse of the French
1748 Formation of the Corps into a Battalion tº
Affair at Cuddalore . º to º
Siege of Pondicherry
1749 Tanjore Campaign te e
Defence of Trichinopoly e
Defence of Tanjore e º ſº
1750 Affair at Villanore º e & ©
Reduction of Madura and Tinnevelly .
1751 Affair at Volcondah . e
Battle at Utatoor g & &
Passage of the Coleroon &
Defence of Trichinopoly º s
Affair at Condore º © e
Capture and defence of Arcot .
Page
xxii
CONTENTS.
Ammo
1751
1752
1753
Affair at Trivatore
Battle of Arnee • ... • tº tº
Affair at Kistnaveram and other places near Trichi-
nopoly . * e e º e
Battle at Conerpauk
Battle at Elmiseram
Capture of Elmiseram - º * º
Affairs at Seringam, Munsurpet, Samiaveram, Utatoor,
and Putchandah ë º
Siege of Trichinopoly raised . º e e
Capture of French investing force &
Battle of Bahoor e º
Capture of Chingleput and Covelong .
Night attack at Seringam
Capture of Ulore tº º
Affairs at Trivadi and Fort St. David
Affair at Faqueer's Tope
Affair at Seringam
Battle of the Golden Rock
Page
42
48
49
59
62
64
66–71
72
73
76
79
81
82
84
89
90
92
1754
1755
1756
1757
1758
Battle of the Sugar-loaf Rock º &
Capture of Weycondah
Battle near Trivadi º º &
Defence of Trichinopoly º e º
Second battle of Sugar-loaf Rock º º e
Battle of French Rock &
Battle at French and Sugar-loaf Rocks
Expedition against Angria
Capture of Gheira
Expedition to Bengal
Capture of Budge-Budge ... •
Recapture of Calcutta, Hooghly, &c.
Capture of Chandernagore
Battle of Plassey * &
Storm and Capture of Madura
Defence of Trichinopoly
Defence of Tanjore
Capture of Trivatore
Capture of Trinomalee
Capture of Terriore
Battle of Condore
Capture of Rajamundry º
Defence of Fort St. George . º
Affairs at the Mount . º
97
106
107
108
114
115
116
120
120
121
122
122
123
128
134
135
141
142
143
143
145
146 .
148
149
CONTENTS.
xxiii
Anno
1759
1760
1761
1762
1763
1764
1765
1766
Affair near St. Thome wº
Affair at St. Thomas’s Mount .
Raising the siege of Fort St. George
Capture of Conjeveram o
Siege and capture of Masulipatam . º
Affair at Munsurpet . º e ©
Capture of Trivatore º g º
Capture of Wandiwash
Capture of Carangooly
Affair at Coconadah
Defence of Wandiwash
Battle of Wandiwash ->
Capture of Chittapett and Arcot º
Iłaising the investment of Trichinopoly º e
Capture of Trinomallee, Permacoil, Amalparrah, Kar-
rical, Villaporam, Valdore, and Chillamberam .
Defence of Cuddalore º
Affair at Trivadi
Capture of Villenore e
Siege of Pondicherry -
Capture of Pondicherry, Gingee and Thiagur
Capture of Mahé and Tellicherry º
Operations in Bengal
Defence of Patna
Affair at Chandernagore
Battle of Bedarra º J.
Relief and defence of Patna
Battle near Patna
Siege of Patna raised ©
Battle of Gyah-Maunpore
Corps in Cantonments
Capture of Moorshedabad . ſº e
Storm of the Lines and battle at Mootejil
Battle of Gheria e ©
Storm of the Lines and battle at the Oodwa
Capture of Mongheer
Storm of Patna
Campaign in Madura
Battle of Patna º - º e
Battle of Buxar © º
Operations against Sujah Dowla
Battle of Calpy e º
Reorganization of the Corps into three Battalions
Page
154
157
160
164
165
171
172
172
173
175
175
177
185
187
188
190
192
192
194
203
203
206
2O7
209
209
210.
213
214
214
214
215
215
215
216.
216
217
218,
218
219
219
219.
220
xxiv
CONTENTS.
Anno
1767
1768
1769
1770
1771
1774
1775
1776
1777
1778
1780
Mysore War * , e. º e
Advance to Seringapatam
Defence of the Carnatic tº © O
Battle of Changama º e
Battle of Trinomallee p e &
Relief of Amboor
Battle of Vaniambaddy
Battle of Singarpetta º º o
Capture of Kistnagherry e e º
Capture of sixteen hill-forts in Salem, Erroad,
batoor, and Dindegul
Capture of Vencatigherry º o
Capture of Mulwalgul and Colar e e
Invasion of Mysore e e º
Capture of Oosoor, Anicul, and Dencanicota .
Battle of Mulwalgul e tº ©
Relief of Oossoor º º © e
Battle near Arlier e e º º
Battle near Carroor . se e ©
Termination of the Mysore Wa
Corps in Cantonments.
Tanjore Campaign
Capture of Ramanad tº
Capture of Callacoil tº &
Capture of Tanjore tº gº e
Reorganization of the Corps into four Battalion
Coim-
of the
Regulation regarding the posting of Serjeants
Corps to Sepoy Corps º o
Campaign in Guzerat -> e e
Battle of Hossamlee
Battle of Daboun e º e
Affair at Neriad wº ſº o
Battle of Arras e º G
Affair at Bowa-Peer º e te tº
Stations at which the different Battalions of the Corps
were posted . º * º
Change of Uniform of the Corp ©
French War tº & tº e
Third Siege and second Capture of Pondicherry
Capture of Mahe e e º
Defence of Tellicherry ū º
Campaign in Guzerat . º º º
Siege and Capture of Bassein . e
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272
contents.
XXV
Anno
1780
1781
1782
1783
1784
1785
1786
1787
Battle in forcing the Bhore Ghaut
Defence of the position at Kandalla . e
Battle near Chouke . e e e
Battle near Panwell º º g
Invasion of the Carnatic by Hyder . º e
Relief of Arcot º
Affair near Perambaucum º e º
Affair at Pallilore e e
Capture of Carrangooly
First relief of Wandiwash
Battle of Porto Novo
Second relief of Wandiwash
Capture of Tripasore © º &
Battle of Pallilore e º e º
Battle of Sholingur
First relief of Vellore .
Capture of Chittoor
Defence of Tanjore . © e
Storm of Mahadapatam
Capture of Nagore
Capture of Negapatam
Third relief of Wandiwash º º
Battle of Arnee º º º º e
Passage of the Poony River
Second relief of Vellore
Battle near Vellore º e º
Battle before Cuddalore º e º º
Repulse of the French Sortie . . º © ©
Campaign in Mysore . e º e e
Capture of Caroor, Avaracourchy, Dindigul, and
Davaporam e º º e
Reduction of Madura and Tinnevelly ". e º
Capture of Paulghaut . e & ©
Operations against the Poligars of Tinnevelly .
Reorganization of the Corps . o
Reorganization of the Corps
Stations of the different Battalions
1788–89 Alteration of uniform
1790
Mysore Campaign (A º e
Capture of Avaracourchy and Davaporam
Capture of Dindigul . o
Capture of Ootampollam e
Capture of Paulghautcherry . e
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315
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335
336
337
338
339
xxvi
CONTENTS.
Anno
1791
1792
1793
1794
1795
1796
1797
1798
1799
Invasion of Mysore . e é i. e
Operations before Bangalore
Storm and Capture of Bangalore
Affair near Ballipoor
Battle of Seringapatam &
Capture of Oossoor . º º
Capture and Storm of Rayacott e º
Capture of Anchitty, Durgum, Neelagherrie, Rutna-
gherie, Oodeadurgum, and Chinraydurgu
Capture of Raymaughur tº e e e
Storm and capture of Nundidroog
Capture of Savendroog © º * ©
Capture of Ootradroog & º
Storm of the Enemy's lines, and battle on the Island
of Seringapatam e e
Operations of the siege e e
Capture of Damicotta and Sattimungulum
Stations of the different battalions G e
Fourth siege and third capture of Pondicherry
Service in the Northern Circars e •
Expedition against the Dutch East Indian Islands
Capture of Trincomallee º e • - ©
Capture of Colombo, Point De Galle, Malacca, Am-
boyna, and Banda e • •
Formation of a detachment of the Corps into a Corps
of Sappers
Stations of the Battalions º •
Formation of the four Battalions into two Regiments
Expedition to Manilla . º tº e o
New Pay-warrant published—Stations of the different
detachments of the Corps º º -
A detachment from the Corps acting as Sappers at the
fall of Seringapatam te tº ©
Formation of the two Regiments into one, styled the
Madras European Regiment
List of Officers of the Corps
Capture of Ternate . g g g o
The Moluccas being restored to the Dutch, the detach-
ment joins the rest of the Regiment at Ma-
sulipatam º º tº º
Campaign in Cuttack—Capture of Barrabuttee
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37O
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377
1800
1801
1802
-1803
1804–08 The Corps stationed at Masulipatam
1809 : Second expedition to the Molucca Islands
377
379
383
384
385
389
392
CONTENTS.
xxvii
Anrio
1810
1811
1812
1813
1814
1815
1816
Capture of Amboyna
Capture of Ternate and Banda º ©
Regiment ordered to Java but countermanded; a de-
tachment of Sappers from the Corps accompany
the expedition
Regiment at Poonamallee
Regiment at Wallajabad
Regiment at Trichinopoly tº &
Flank companies with army on the Tumboodra
At the capture of Kurnool
March to Hyderabad
e
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443
451
453
453
453
460
464
468
468
469
472
1817
1818
1819
1820–21 Regiment at Nagpore
1822
1823
1824
1825
1826
Return of detachment from the Eastern Islands
Mahratta Campaign .
Battle of Mahidpoor .
Operations before Nagpore
Storm of Talneir e ©
Reduction of the Candeish hill forts
Siege and surrender of Malligaum
Capture of Ummulneir
Siege and surrender of Asseerghur
End of the war º º e º g
March to Masulipatam
Stationed at Masulipatam
Embark for Burmah
Capture of Rangoon º
Operations near Kemmendine .
Operations near Syriam
Operations near Dallah
Capture of Pegue
Defence of Kemmendine
Actions before Rangoon
Storm of Kokeen
Storm of Panlang Stockades
Storm of White Pagodah Stockades
Operations before Donabew .
Garrison Donabew º e e
Division of the Madras European Regiment into two,
designated the 1st and 2nd European Regiments
Expedition to Pegue
Capture of Shoeghein .
Storm and capture of Sittang
End of the war
474
476
481
489
516
xxviii z CONTENTS.
.*
Anno
Return to Masulipatam - tº º tº
Organization of 2nd European Regiment at Kamptee .
1827 Reorganization of the 1st Regiment at Masulipatam .
1828 1st Regiment at Masulipatam . e º
2nd Regiment at Kamptee . i.e.
1829 1st Regiment marches to Kamptee * º
1830. The two Regiments again joined and designated the
Madras European Regiment—The right wing
arrives at Kamptee, and relieves left wing, which
marches vià Hyderabad to Masulipatam Q
Forced march into Hyderabad .
Arrival of left wing at Masulipatam
1832 Expedition to Malacca & º º de
1832 Return of left wing to Masulipatam and march to Se-
.* cunderabad . * g-
1833 Left wing marches to Kamptee º
Joins Regimental Head-quarters at Kamptee
1834—38 Regiment stationed at Kamptee . e º
1839 Marches to Hyderabad º ºt e *
1840 Reorganization of the regiment i.e. e º
1841–42 Stationed at Secunderabad-Conclusion
Page
525
526
534
534
534
535
535
536
537
537
537
537
537
547
552
553
555
LIST OF ILLUSTR, ATIONS.
Arms of the Regiment . . . . To face Title Page.
Plan of Trichinopoly . . . . . . page 50 -
Plan of Pondicherry * º & tº . 203 -
Statue of General Lawrence . g e º sº d . 205
The Plassey Medal e º e º ſº e e , 262
Portrait of Lord Clive . & º & e e © . 266
Plan of Seringapatam . . º e * º © . 359
The Seringapatam Medal . . . . . . . . 360
Monument to Sir Barry Close & . 404
The Ava Medal . ſº º ſº tº º º . . 525
Statue of Sir T. Munro . . g º º tº . . 532
Statue of Sir J. Malcolm º o e º ſº e . 546
ER RATA.
Page 7, line 2, for Fort of Tauna read Tanna.
,, 16, , , 1, for early in 1707 read 1747.
THIS work having been passed through the Printers hands at
Home, without the benefit of the Author’s revision, is the
cause of the length of the following additional Errata.
Page
33
53
55
52
22
35
92
52
39
92
22
35
92
22
99
32
25
32
55
23
35
35
52
22
53
55
35
52
22
2?
32
27
92
22
22
35
53
22
... read Boocowens.
read. Sooba.
read Nazir Jung.
read Decr.
read short.
read Condore.
*ead Coverpauk.
... read Surgeons.
zead Amboor.
Tead Sankeral. –
read Wellore.
read the.
... read Bauglore.
tead Hartley.
read changed.
tead outworks.
zead 1784.
read supernumerary,
read 18th.
read gabions.
Yead a rocket.
read Floyer.
zead H. M.'s 67th.
, read row.
16 line 1 . . . . . for St. George. ... read St. David.
18 , 4. . . . . . for Boocomans.
22 , 9 ..... for Taaba. . . . . .
25 , 24 ..... for Muzafa Jung. .
81 , 9 Jor Sept. . . . . . . .
131 , 1 . . . . . for shot. . . . . . . .
; 22 i . . . . for Candore... . . .
22
# 32 º ... ... for Connenpauk . .
190 , 23 . . . . . for Tangeons. . . .
195 , 21 . . . . . for Amboon... . . .
208 , 22 . . . . . for Saukewal.....
232 , 26 )
257 , 9 |
267 , 24
& 25 × . . . . . for Nellore . . . . .
268 , 19
273 , 20
331 , 24 j
242 , 18 . . . . . for that. . . . . . . .
236 , 10
242 , 20
243 , 8.) . . . . . for Bangalore ...
245 , 27
246 , 7
242 , 17
& 29 | ... . . for Oossoon.....
444 , 27
272 & #} . . . . . for Hantley. . . . .
288 , 10 ..... for charged.....
301 , 1 . . . . . jor outwards......
326 , 25 ... for 1748. . . . . . .
330 , 29 . . . . . jor superintending.
354 , 7 . . . . . for 13th. . . . . . . .
361 , 23 , for gabins.. . . . . .
409 , 30 ... for or rocket. . . .
409 , 27 ... for Floyan.......
º, & i. : ... . . for H. M.'s 57th...
470 , 13 . . . . . for new...... tº e is
525 , 29
... . . . for J. Deare, Esq.. read J. Deane, Esq.
S E R W I C E S
OF THE
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT.
THE 1st Madras European Regiment ranks the
second corps in the service of the Honourable the
East India Company, and next to the Bombay
Regiment raised in 1661, by Charles II., for the
occupation and defence of the island of Bombay,
and transferred to the East India Company on the
23d of September, 1668. Although the former was
not consolidated into a regular battalion until 1748,
by its first commandant, the celebrated Colonel
Lawrence, it nevertheless existed in small detach-
ments, or independent companies distributed among
the different factories belonging to the Company,
for nearly a century previous to that period; besides
the different factories on the Coromandel Coast,
detachments were sent from Fort St. George to the
factories at Bantam, Java, Priaman, and Fermosa.
These factories were either fortifications, or structures
sufficiently strong to afford protection from the
B
2 SERVICES OF THE
dangers constantly threatened, by the rapacity of
the native princes in whose territories they were
situated.
By a charter granted in 1661, the president and
council of each factory were entrusted with powers
of martial law for the government of the troops
kept for its defence. The president was com-
mander-in-chief of the forces belonging to his
Presidency, which consisted, with few exceptions,
of English soldiers sent out in the Company's ships,
and, on occasions of emergency, a few European
mercenaries or deserters from the various French,
Dutch, and Portuguese settlements, in India : in
addition to these, were a few half castes, called
Topasses, and African slaves, the latter imported
from the Company’s stations on the east coast of
Africa.
In 1628, the English factory at Armegon was
garrisoned by twenty-eight soldiers and twelve
pieces of cannon.
In 1639, Mr. Day, the chief of that factory, re-
moved it to Madras, and in 1644, Fort St. George
was built, and the following year had a garrison of
100 soldiers.
In 1652, the garrison had dwindled down to
twenty-six soldiers, and a number of Caffres re-
ceived from Africa. - -
In 1653, Fort St. George was raised to the rank
of a Presidency.
During 1662-63, a great many Africans were
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 3
introduced into the different factories as labourers,
and to be trained to the use of arms; a number of
Portuguese soldiers had also been entertained at
Madras, to fill up vacancies; in the following year,
the conduct of these Portuguese had been so infa-
mous, that the Court of Directors ordered their
immediate discharge, and prohibited any more of
that nation being entertained.
In 1644, thirty English recruits and a large quan-
tity of ordnance and military stores, arrived from
England; and early in the following year, twenty
more recruits landed. The fortifications at the same
time were much strengthened and improved.
In 1665, an armed-ship with a number of recruits
on board arrived at Madras.
In 1671, the garrison of Fort St. George being
much reduced from detachments, deaths, and the
expiration of the time of service of several soldiers,
the agent and council were authorized to engage
from the ships as many men as would fill up the
complement of the troops for the garrison. -
During the year 1676, despatches from the Court
of Directors were received, directing that the gar-
rison of Fort St. George should wholly consist of
English, and intimating that more recruits had been
sent out in ships of the season; the soldiers'
pay was likewise determined to be at the rate of
11. 1s. per mensem in full, for provisions and ne-
cessaries of every kind. The custom of training
civil servants to the use of arms, was prohibited, also
B 2
4 SERVICES OF THE
the removal of any officer from a civil to a military
station. -
During the year 1677, the great Mahratta Gene-
ral, Seragee, appeared within a short distance of
Madras, which he intended surprising; he, however,
took Gingee and Nellore from the Nabob, and
shortly after left the Carnatic at the head of a select
body of cavalry, leaving the rest of his army behind,
with strict orders to surprise and plunder Madras on
the first favourable opportunity. At the same time
he confirmed Pondicherry to the French, who had
settled at, and fortified that place in 1672.
In 1678, an order arrived from the Court of
Directors allowing ten fanams monthly to every
soldier after completing seven years' service ; this
regulation was intended to encourage soldiers
who had completed their term of seven years, to
re-enlist. -
In 1681-82, an act of parliament authorized the
Company to seize and send home all British sub-
jects trading to the East Indies unauthorized by
them ; and these persons were styled “Interlopers:”
a number of adventurers of this description had
assembled at Hoogly, in Bengal, and threatened
the agent of the English factory there : “an ensign
of tried courage and fidelity,” was sent from Fort
St. George with thirty soldiers for his protection,
and were the first European soldiers sent to
Bengal. - -
1683-84. In the following year the Court of
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 5
Directors constituted the agency of Fort St.
George a governorship. Mr. Gyfford was its first
governor, and was also directed to proceed to
Bengal, and assume the supreme command there.
Mr. Gyfford was to be attended to Bengal by a
company of soldiers from Fort St. George, and
to take with him arms and accoutrements for an
additional one to be formed of volunteers from
the fleet, to give the appearance of strength and
dignity to his mission and transactions. These
soldiers, when affairs were settled, were intended
to return to Madras, and the company of seamen
to be employed under Mr. Gyfford and his council
in Bengal, as they might think proper, for the
protection of the trade. King's and Company’s
commissions were at the same time granted to
Sir John Wetway, and Sir Thomas Grantham.
Instructions were received from the Company in
1685-86, sanctioned by his Majesty, for their ser-
wants in India to retaliate, on the native powers,
the injuries sustained, and their loss of privileges in
Bengal. War was thus declared against the Nabob
of Dacca and his superior, the Great Mogul. An
expedition had been fitted out in England by the
Company, for this service, and consisted of ten
ships, from seventy to twelve guns each, under the
command of Captain Nicholson, with the rank of
vice-admiral until his arrival in the Ganges, when
the President of Bengal was to act as admiral
and commander-in-chief of the land forces. On
6 - SERVICES OF THE
board this fleet were embarked six companies of
infantry, nearly eight hundred men, without captains,
it being intended that the different members in
council should act in that capacity. This force was
to be joined by a detachment from Fort St. George,
and a company from Priaman, on the Island of
Sumatra, the Company’s chief settlement in that
part of the world, and garrisoned by three hundred
soldiers and forty-nine pieces of cannon; by which
means an effective regiment of ten companies and
one thousand men was formed.
- In 1686, the English were involved in hostilities
at Hooghly, from a quarrel in the bazar between
some of the nabobs and three English soldiers, in
which the latter were wounded. The garrison im-
mediately beat to arms, and turned out : a severe
action ensued, in which the Nabob's troops were
defeated, sixty being killed, and many more
wounded ; a battery of eleven guns was carried by
the British, and all either spiked or destroyed.
Captain Nicholson's fleet at the same time bom-
barded the town, and destroyed more than five
hundred houses, besides a great many of the inhabi-
tants killed and wounded. This was the first action
fought by the English in Bengal, and although a
very gallant one, and the enemy were perfectly
routed, yet the settlement of Hooghly was obliged
to be moved towards Calcutta, where, shortly after-
wards, it was again attacked. The chief, Mr.
Charnock, made a gallant defence,—not only re-
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 7
pulsing repeated assaults of the Nabob's troops, but
eventually storming the fort of Tauna. The Island
of Injellee was also seized by the English, and
strongly fortified; and the fine town of Balasore
was completely burnt, with forty of the Mogul's fleet.
Shortly afterwards, however, the Moguls took the
factories of Cossimbazar and Patna, plundering
every thing, and putting nearly every one of the
English to death. During the absence of so large
a detachment in Bengal, the Governor of Madras
was in a state of great anxiety for the safety of Fort
St. George, which was constantly threatened by
Arungzebe's army. -
During 1688-89, a large reinforcement of recruits
arrived; about sixty were landed from the “Chandos”
Indiaman, also large quantities of military stores ;
the fort had been, besides, strengthened;—to all
which causes the president and council attributed
the backwardness of the enemy to attack them.
The factory at Vizagapatam had not been so fortu-
nate; one of Arungzebe's armies appeared before it
and took it by surprise: every person belonging to
the factory was killed.
In the end of 1689, Captain Nicholson's fleet
appeared before Chittagong, and created a great
alarm ; no troops were, however, landed, and little
or nothing belonging to the enemy was destroyed.
In 1690-91, a company of European artillery,
and a troop of horse, formed part of the garrison of
Fort St. George, and were ordered to be increased
8 SERVICES of THE
and regularly exercised. One of the three com-
panies of infantry was, however, to be disbanded,
and the men, if willing, entertained either in the
artillery or horse, sent to the Bombay Regiment, or
to Bencoolen. During the same year Fort St.
David was established. -
In 1691-92, the order regarding the increase of
the artillery and horse was repeated, but the one
regarding the disbanding the company of infantry
countermanded: the infantry companies were, how-
ever, to be commanded by lieutenants only ; the
president and first of council were to be captains,
but to draw no pay in time of peace ; and the duty
was to be performed by an aid-major or adjutant,
who was to draw four shillings per diem as pay, and
twenty shillings per mensem as maintenance, being
the sum allowed for aid-majors in all the Company’s
other military stations. A troop of horse and a
company of artillery, formed of the civil servants,
were all ordered to be continued embodied. The
country all about Madras had been for some time in
a most unsettled state, and the settlement constantly
threatened.
In 1693-94, orders were received from the home
government, directing all goods to be sent home
from Tonquin, Malacca, and Batavia, and to
strengthen the fortifications of Madras and Fort St.
David. Seventy recruits landed at Madras this
year. -
Pondicherry, which had been occupied by the
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMIENT. 9
French since 1672, was, at this time, taken by the
Dutch, but restored in 1697 by the treaty of
Ryswick.
Daood Khan, the Nabob of Madras, was a con-
stant source of uneasiness to the settlement : he
was a person much addicted to drinking, and when
sober, of very uncertain temper; but, when supplied
with the liquors he liked, was very free and gener-
ous: he was often in the habit of dining with the
president and council, at the council chamber in
Fort St. George. At one dinner, in 1701, different
toasts were drunk, accompanied by the discharge of
cannon, the Nabob pledging the governor largely in
cordial waters and French brandy; and, after the
entertainment, mounted his horse very steadily, and
returned home.
A few mornings afterwards, a message was
brought to the governor that the nabob, “at the
head of his army, to enhance the compliment,”
was on his way to visit him at his country house,
The best possible preparations were made to
receive him with all honours, as well as to guard
against any treachery; but, before they were con-
cluded, intelligence was brought that his highness
had reeled dead drunk into a Portuguese chapel,
where he had fallen asleep, his own army remaining
with him. After a few hours he awoke, and sud-
denly marched off several miles to the west, where
he encamped, without sending any explanation to
the governor and council, who had remained at the
10 - SERVICES OF THE
government house to receive him. This year a
detachment of recruits arrived from England.
During 1703-4, Madras was besieged by the
Mahomedans, who were repulsed. An urgent re-
quest from the governor and council for more
troops to resist the aggressions of the Moors, and
prevent insult and oppression, obtained a further
reinforcement from England. There was, however,
great mortality among the troops; as, out of one
batch of sixteen recruits, twelve had died. The
manufacture of gunpowder was also at this time
first commenced at Madras. -
Complaints were sent home in 1705-6 that very
few recruits were sent out, whereas the French at
Pondicherry were continually receiving reinforce-
ments. Some of the time-expired men were de-
scribed as pressing for their discharges.
President Pitt, of Fort St. George, was in 1706-7
threatened with an attack from the Arab fleet: he
made strong representations regarding the weakness
of the garrisons of both Fort St. George and Fort
St. David, each of which required 400 European
soldiers to complete them to their proper strength.
On the departure of Daood Khan to Arungabad
in 1709-10, Saadut-Oalla was appointed Nabob, and
he continued to reign until 1732, when he died, and
his nephew, Doost Ally, succeeded him. Nothing
particular occurred during his reign, except the
discontinuance of presents to the Nabob by the
Governor of Madras, which in a letter from the
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 11
Court of Directors, dated 1725, was highly ap-
proved of. The Court likewise authorised a mint
being erected at Madras, and the powder manufac-
tory repaired and added to. Forts St. George and
St. David were also repaired.
In 1732, Doost Ally's son, Sudben Ally, took
Trichinopoly: large reinforcements of recruits ar-
rived from England at Madras: the government
much annoyed by the exactions and oppression of
the Nabob's servants.
In 1736, Chundah Saib, the Dewan of the Nabob,
took Trichinopoly, and shortly afterwards formed a
connexion with the French, and revolted, keeping
possession of Trichinopoly and the adjacent coun-
tries.
In 1737 the Court of Directors called for every
information regarding the French on the Coroman-
del Coast, and by the next ships of the season sent
out reinforcements, and military stores and ord-
Ilan Ce.
A very large army of Mahrattas approached the
Carnatic early in 1741, and Doost Ally, Nabob of
Madras, marched to oppose them with a small force,
his son being absent in the southern country acting
against Chundah Saib. The Nabob's army was
defeated with great slaughter, himself and his
younger son killed: the action was fought near the
Damal Cherry Pass. Sudber Ally had advanced
as far as Arcot, when he heard of his father’s defeat
and death, when he took refuge in Nellore: the
12. SERVICES OF THE
Mahrattas plundered the country in all directions;
but as the inhabitants had removed their valua-
bles into the different strongholds in the Carnatic,
they got less plunder than they expected; a large
party of their troops appeared before Madras, and
demanded tribute from the English, who answered
their demands with the fire of their guns. The
Mahrattas lost several officers and some men on
this occasion. After investing the place for some
time, they withdrew from near Madras, and eventu-
ally left the Carnatic in June. In December, how-
ever, they again returned, appeared before Madras,
which they again invested, but were driven back.
On the 26th of March, 1742, after a siege of three
months, they took Trichinopoly, and carried away
Chundah Saib prisoner. The Home Government,
about the beginning of the year, sent out more
recruits from England, and directed the Governor
of Madras to put the fort in the best posture of
defence, and give contributions to neither Moors
nor Mahrattas. - -
During 1742, Sudber Ally was assassinated whilst
at Nellore, by his relation Mortiz Ally. The
Nabob's family being at Madras at the time, threw
themselves under the protection of the English, who
resisted all Mortiz Ally’s demands and threats to
give them up. In the following year, Mortiz Ally,
who had proclaimed himself Nabob, was driven
from Arcot and obliged to take shelter in Nellore,
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 13
and Seyd Mahomed, the infant son of the late
Nabob, was proclaimed Nabob.
Early in 1744, Nizam ul Muluck entered the
Carnatic at the head of a large army, and appointed
his commander-in-chief, Colla Abdulla, Nabob of
Arcot during Seyd Mahomed’s minority: he also
besieged Trichinopoly, which surrendered to him in
August, and the Mahrattas left the Carnatic.
Colla Abdulla having been found dead, he was
supposed to have been poisoned. An-war-oodean
was immediately nominated to succeed him, and
the young Prince, Seyd Mahomed, was given into
his charge. In June, a wedding of one of the
young prince's relations was celebrated at Arcot,
and as a relation of the family, Mortiz Ally was
invited from Nellore. During the entertainment,
Seyd Mahomed was suddenly attacked by some
Patans, and stabbed to the heart. The act was
imputed to both An-war-oodean and Mortiz Ally,
but the secret was never revealed ; and as the
former protested his innocence, he was regularly
installed Nabob of Arcot.
1745. War having been declared between Eng-
land and France, an English squadron of four small
ships, under command of Commodore Barnet, ap-
peared on the Coromandel Coast in July, 1745,
and landed a few recruits at Fort St. George ; the
garrison at Pondicherry at the same time amounted
to 436 Europeans, that of the English at Forts St.
George and St. David about 150 each. M. Dupleix,
14 SERVICES OF THE
the Governor of Pondicherry, had the address to in-
duce the Nabob to prohibit the English from commit-
ting hostilities against his government on land, under
pain of his instantly attacking Madras and the other
English stations. Barnet continued on the coast,
destroying the French trade, and took many good
prizes. In April, the following year, he died at
Fort St. David : his loss was a very severe blow to
the British interests in India.
In June the French fleet of nine ships of war,
under M. De la Bourdonaise, arrived on the coast,
having on board 3300 soldiers, 700 of whom were
Caffres or Lascars. The two fleets came to action,
but attended with no decided results; the English,
whose ships wanted repair, and were much shat-
tered, lost 36 men, the French 300, and one vessel
dismasted; but the English fleet was obliged to go
into harbour. The French returned to Pondicherry,
and shortly afterwards sailed with a large armament
for the reduction of Madras. The only troops the
English had at this time on the coast were the gar-
risons of Fort St. David and Fort St. George, each
about 200 men. Fort St. George, although strong
enough to resist the natives, was not adapted to
stand a siege from a large European force. It was,
besides, in other respects unprepared ; its garrison,
although composed of good enough troops, was very
weak, and quite unequal to defend the line of
works. The French at this time had nearly 3000
European troops in India. On the 3d September,
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 15
1746, their squadron anchored a short distance to
the south of Madras, having on board 1100 soldiers,
400 Caffres, and 400natives of India, disciplined after
the European fashion; on board the squadron there
were nearly 2000 French seamen. The troops,
with their artillery and stores, were landed next day,
and on the 7th bombarded the fort from a battery of
nine mortars, which they erected to the westward,
within five hundred yards of the walls. The same
evening some of their ships drew in towards the land,
and cannonaded the town. On the following day
another battery of five mortars was erected to the
south, and commenced firing: the bombardment was
kept up until the 10th September, when the fort
surrendered, and Madras was given up, after having
been in the possession of the British upwards of one
hundred years. The enemy sustained little or no
loss; the English had seven men killed and wounded.
The Company's troops were made prisoners of
war, the officers on their parole; but the French
having broken the terms settled when the place
surrendered, the majority of the English merchants
and officers, with several of the soldiers, contrived
to make their escape to Fort St. David, which, on
the surrender of Madras, became the seat of govern-
ment on the Coromandel Coast. At this time Mr.,
afterwards Lord Robert Clive, was a civilian at
Madras. He became a prisoner of war to the
French, but afterwards escaped with his friend Mr.
Edmund Maskelyn, disguised as natives, to Fort
16 SERVICES OF THE
J. St. George. Early in 1787 Mr. Clive obtained an
ensign's commission in the European battalion,
which he immediately joined, and assisted in the
defence of Fort St. David.
1746, The force the French, on the 1st De-
cember, had at Pondicherry amounted to nearly
3000 European soldiers, besides Sepoys. The Eng-
lish, including all who had escaped from Madras,
had no more than 200 Europeans, and 100 To-
passes, which garrisoned Fort St. David.
On the 9th of December a French force, con-
sisting of 1700 men, almost entirely Europeans, of
whom fifty were cavalry ; two companies of Caffres,
six field-pieces, and six mortars, appeared before
Fort St. David, and regularly invested it. Two
thousand irregularly armed and undisciplined peons
were at this time in the English service, among
whom had been distributed eight hundred or nine
hundred musquets; they were intended to protect
the Company’s territory round Fort St. David. In
crossing the river Panar, the French were fired upon
by these men, and the Nabob's army suddenly
coming up to the assistance of the English, after
the enemy had driven back the peons, and piled
their arms, the French were surprised and thrown
into confusion ; which the garrison taking advan-
tage of, sallied out and drove them back several
miles, with the loss of nearly 150 Frenchmen.
Another unsuccessful attack was made by the
enemy, who continued investing the place until
FIRST MAD RAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 17
the 19th of February, when the garrison, having
been reinforced by twenty recruits from England,
marched out and gave them battle: twelve on the
side of the English and twenty-two of the French
were killed ; and on the appearance of an English
squadron in the offing, the enemy raised the siege.
The squadron landed 100 European recruits. Shortly
after, 100 more arrived from the Bombay European
regiments; and in September 150 recruits from
England. The European battalion at this time was
500 strong. -
In January, 1748, Major Stringer Lawrence ar-
rived from England at Fort St. David, with a com-
mission to command the East India Company's
forces in India. After detecting some treachery on
the part of the Tellicherry Sepoys, the organization
of the Company’s Madras forces was completed by
him. From the beginning of this year may be
dated the first formation of the independent Euro-
pean companies on the Coast of Coromandel, into
a regular battalion. *
On the evening of the 17th June, 1748, the
French, with 800 Europeans, and 1000 Sepoys,
attacked Cuddalore, but were repulsed with some
loss by the European battalion under Lawrence, the
enemy never halting until driven within the boundary
hedge at Pondicherry. -
On the 8th of August the Company’s forces,
under Major Lawrence, consisting of the European
battalion, 400 men, 70 artillerymen, 300 topasses,
C
18 SERVICES OF THE
also 120 Europeans, an independent company from
Negapatam, and 2000 undisciplined Sepoys, march-
ed to the siege of Pondicherry with Admiral Bos-
comar's force. At the attack on the fort of Arian-
copang, Major Lawrence was made prisoner, and
taken into Pondicherry. On the 30th August
ground was opened before Pondicherry ; two sor-
ties were made by the garrison, in repulsing which
the battalion were engaged, and inflicted on the
enemy a severe loss; Ensign Clive particularly dis-
tinguishing himself on the occasion. On the 5th
of October the siege of Pondicherry was raised,
during which upwards of 1000 Europeans, belong-
ing to the English, and 300 of the enemy perished;
the monsoon setting in heavily, had its effects in
raising the siege, and causing a great mortality
among the troops. -
In January, 1749, intelligence arrived of a cessa-
tion of arms between Great Britain and France; a
stop was, therefore, put to hostilities between the
two nations in India; but both, notwithstanding,
employed their forces in contests with the native
princes. A force of 430 of the European battalion,
1000 Sepoys, with four field-pieces, and four mor-
tars, was assembled at Fort St. David in March,
and accompanied by Sahojee, the ex-Rajah of Tan-
jore, marched about the end of the same month for
the purpose of reinstating him on his throne. This
force was under the command of Captain Cape, of
the European battalion. On the 13th of April it
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 19
suffered so severely from a storm, whilst encamped
near Porto Novo, as to be obliged to march into
that place to repair the damage of torn tents, and
the destruction of the stores. This same hurricane
had committed severe ravages on the coast, several
of H. M.'s ships of war, and two belonging to
the Company, having been lost. When the da-
mages were repaired, the force proceeded and
encamped on the north bank of the Coleroon.
After crossing that river it penetrated some dis-
tance into the Tanjore country, driving the enemy
before it; but not being joined by a single person,
and a large and overpowering army closing round,
Captain Cope retired in good order, and without
loss, to his former encamping ground ; the loss the
enemy sustained during this retreat was very severe.
On the following day the force marched to attack
the strong fort of Devi Cottah; but having no bat-
tering train, and the provisions being exhausted, it
was obliged again to retire, and after a constant
skirmish for fifteen miles reached its former en-
camping ground, and from thence returned to
Fort St. David. This expedition having failed,
and the possession of the fort of Devi Cottah being
considered of vital importance, (the Coleroon inside
the bar being navigable for large ships,) the Govern-
ment ordered a force against it, consisting of 800
European troops, being the Madras European bat-
talion, a detachment of the Bombay regiment, and
the artillerymen attached to it, with 1500 Sepoys.
C 2
20 . SERVICES OF THE
Major Lawrence was placed in command. The troops
having been sent down by sea, passed in boats up
the river, and landed on the north bank opposite the
fort, where a battery was constructed, and a practi-
cable breach effected in three days. The enemy
covering the opposite bank of the river with skir-
mishers, constructed an embankment across the face
of the fort that had been breached. The river being
very rapid, and not passable with safety, a raft,
capable of conveying four hundred men, was con-
structed by Mr. Moore, a carpenter in the Royal
Navy, and a rope having been fastened during the
night to the trunk of a tree on the opposite bank,
the following morning 400 Europeans and three
field-pieces were conveyed safely across the stream,
exposed to a severe fire from the enemy, answered
by the battering guns and field-pieces not embarked.
The troops, on landing, soon cleared the thickets
in front of them, and in less than two hours the
remainder of the force had been conveyed across on
the raft in the same manner: the enemy were driven
behind their works, and the column advanced to
storm the breach, led by Lieutenant Clive and 30
Europeans, as an advanced party; 70 Sepoys, who
were to have followed close to Lieutenant Clive,
having opened out, left the rear of his small party
of Europeans uncovered, which some cavalry, con-
cealed on the south side of the fort, perceiving,
wheeled round, and whilst the Europeans were
engaged in charging to their front, rode over and
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 21.
cut twenty-six of them to pieces. Lieutenant Clive
and the four survivors with the greatest difficulty
escaped to the Sepoys, who, however, stood firm
and repulsed the horse. The Grenadiers of the
corps now taking the lead, stormed and carried the
intrenchment; but, whilst proceeding to the breach,
the cavalry again charged, and were suffered to
approach within fourteen paces before fire was
opened upon them, when they were nearly all
destroyed. The fort was immediately carried, the
garrison escaping by the opposite gateway. The
enemy suffered severely; the battalion lost thirty
men. After a few days spent in repairing and
improving the defences of the fort, Major Lawrence
detached 100 of the Europeans and 300 Sepoys, to
take possession of the strong pagoda of Atchaveram,
which was immediately surrendered, on condition
that the more sacred places in it were not to be
entered or defiled. The same night the Tanjoreans,
amounting to 5000, attacked the place with the
utmost vigour. The attack was continued all night,
but the enemy were repulsed and retreated at day-
break, leaving 300 men dead on the ground: only
five of the battalion were killed. A treaty was soon
afterwards concluded with Tanjore; the fort of Devi
Cottah, with some extent of territory being ceded
to the Company, whose expenses were likewise paid
by the Rajah. -
In August, the same year, the English received
back Madras : its fortifications had been much
22 SERVICES OF THE
improved by the French whilst in their possession.
St. Thome was also at the same time occupied by
the English. - -
Ever since the capture of Chundah Saib by the
Mahrattas at Trichinopoly in 1742, he had been
kept in confinement at Sattara, and his family had
remained at Pondicherry. In the early part of
1749 he had been released from confinement, and
joined Murzafa Jung, a nephew of the Taaba, in
rebellion against that prince. Their united forces,
amounting to 40,000 men, marched towards the
Carnatic, to dispossess An-war-oodean. Intelli-
gence of their intentions having been communicated
to M. Dupleix at Pondicherry, who had all along
kept up a correspondence with Chundah Saib, he
was invited to join, and promised considerable
advantages to the French East India Company for
his assistance. As soon as he heard of their
advance, he dispatched 400 Europeans and 2000
Sepoys to their assistance, under command of
M. D’Auteuil, accompanied by Rajah Saib,
Chundah Saib's son. An-war-oodean, the Nabob
of Arcot, no sooner heard of Chundah Saib's
release, than he prepared for war, and in a short
time had enlisted an excellent army of 12,000
horse and 5000 infantry, but neglected to ask for
assistance from the English, who were at that time
engaged in the Tanjore country. In the meantime,
Chundah Saib and Murzafa Jung approached the
borders of the Carnatic, where they were joined by
* . . FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 23.
the French corps. The Nabob had occupied a
strong position under the fort of Amboor, near
Damal Cherry, where Doost Ally Khan had been
defeated by the Mahrattas in 1740. The Nabob
had thrown up a strong intrenchment across the
pass, defended by cannon, which were served by
some European renegades. The ground in front
of his position had also been inundated, but not
sufficiently to render it impassable. On the 23d of
July, the French and their allies arrived at the pass,
and M. D'Auteuil immediately offered to storm
the intrenchment with his own troops. The offer
was accepted; the first assault of the French was
defeated chiefly by the Nabob's artillery, which was
well served and did considerable execution : a
second was made, and although many of them
mounted the breastwork, they were eventually beaten
back, and obliged to retire with much loss. Among
others, M. D’Auteuil was wounded. Shortly after-
wards they again formed for the assault, and being
led by Mr. Bussy, after considerable resistance, got
over the breastwork, on which the different parties
posted for its defence retired to the main body
drawn up at some distance. The French soon
formed, and advanced in order against that part of
the line where the Nabob, mounted on his elephant,
and surrounded by the chosen troops of his army,
had taken up his position. The troops of Chundah
Saib and Murzafa Jung had also joined them, and
all had approached within a short distance. When
24 SERVICES OF THE
the Nabob perceived the elephant of his rival,
Chundah Saib, he immediately ordered his Mahout
to push his own elephant on directly against it. A
part of the French battalion was in the way, but the
elephant was driven on within a few yards of its
ranks, when a musket shot, fired by a Caffre in the
French corps, shot the Nabob through the heart,
and he fell dead on the plain. On seeing this, his
troops turned and fled; many were taken prisoners,
and more killed. Amongst the prisoners was
Maphuze Khan, the Nabob's eldest son. His son,
Mahomed Ally, saved himself by flight, and reached
Trichinopoly. On the following day the victorious
armies marched towards Arcot, which they took
possession of, and Murzafa Jung assumed the title
of Soobah, and appointed Chundah Saib Nabob of
the Carnatic and all the other dominions lately
belonging to An-war-oodean. After some time
spent at Arcot, the French corps, with the two
princes and their armies, moved to Trichinopoly,
when the French company received a large grant of
land in its neighbourhood, and the three Allies
determined a plan for future operations.
In the meantime the English had returned from
Devi Cottah, and after some deliberation, decided
upon assisting Mahomed Ally, and sent 120 of the
battalion, with some officers, to Trichinopoly, to
assist in defending that city. Thus were the rival
companies in India, although the French and
English were at peace in Europe, lending assistance
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 25
with their troops to the rival princes of the Car-
natic. wº
On the 21st October, the English squadron left
Madras to avoid the monsoon, leaving behind
300 men to reinforce the European battalion
and the artillery at Madras; the next day Mur-
Zafa Jung's army left Pondicherry, accompanied
by 800 French, 300 Caffres and Topasses, with
a train of artillery. This army crossed the Cole-
roon, and entered the Tanjore country. The
French wished to proceed at once against Trichino-
poly; but their allies objected, on account of the
difficulty and length of time it would take to reduce
Trichinopoly, whereas the city of Tanjore was an
easier and richer prize. The king of Tanjore
entreating the English for assistance, thirty men
of the regiment from the detachment garrisoning
Trichinopoly were sent to him : these few men
defeated several attacks, and protracted the defence
of Tanjore until the Rajah was able to conclude a
treaty with the besiegers, but which was, however,
broken off by the precipitate retreat of their armies
towards Pondicherry, on receiving intelligence that
Murzafa Jung, the Soobah, was approaching from
Golcondah. Before they reached Pondicherry,
they were attacked by Morai Row, the Mahratta,
who, with a large force of cavalry under his com-
mand, formed the advanced guard of light cavalry
to that prince's army. The French repulsed the
Mahratta's attack with trifling loss, but lost a good
26 SERVICES OF THE
deal of their baggage, and were much harassed
until they entered Pondicherry, where the French
battalion was augmented to 2000 Europeans.
About the middle of February, 1750, the detach-
ment of the regiment from Trinchinopoly, under
Captain Cope, accompanied by the Nabob with a
large army of horse, joined, the Soobah at Valdore.
On Captain Cope being presented to him by the
Nabob, the Soobah was much pleased, and conferred
Some honours upon him.
In the mean time Murzafa Jung and Chundah
Saib marched out of Pondicherry with their ar-
mies, besides 2000 Europeans, under M. D'Auteuil,
a large train of artillery, and a numerous body of
Sepoys. They entrenched themselves within a
short distance of the Soobah, at whose earnest and
repeated request, Lawrence marched with 600
men of the regiment, and some artillery, ac-
companied by Mr. Westcott, one of the council,
and joined him at Villanore, where they were gra-
ciously received, and Lawrence declared Generalis-
simo. Nazir Jung's army amounted to 300,000
men, and 800 pieces of artillery. He was most
anxious to attack the enemy immediately, and
would not listen to Lawrence’s proposal, of mov-
ing between them and Pondicherry, and cutting
off their communication, and obliging them to
fight at disadvantage. To this he replied, that it
would be derogatory to the dignity of so great a
prince, for any advantage, to seem to retreat before
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 27
so despicable a foe : that he would march at once
and attack them. Although a very numerous one,
the army of the Soobah was unwieldy, and undisci-
plined : he had one European, an Irishman, in his
service,—and as all natives at that time thought
every European was an engineer, this person was
his principal officer of artillery, although he was
perfectly ignorant of his profession. Lawrence
happened to find fault with the disposition of his
artillery, which was in a hollow, where his guns were
entirely hid. The Irishman gravely asked him, “If
he thought him mad or foolish enough to expose
his Excellency's cannon, by placing it on rising
ground?” The following day the army was drawn
out in order of battle; the battalion, 700 strong,
with its guns on each flank, and beyond them
the Sepoys. The enemy were drawn up behind
their field-works, and in a very strong position;
the Soobah’s army formed up in large bodies, out-
flanking the French position, and his guns had been
moved up to high ground, so as to be of some ser-
vice. Before a shot had been fired, the French
commander, D'Auteuil, sent a messenger to Law-
rence, acquainting him, “That although the two
battalions were engaged in different causes, yet it
was not his design nor inclination that any European
blood should be spilt ; but, as he did not know the
post of the British battalion, should any of his shot
come that way, and hurt the English, he could not
be blamed.” Lawrence sent him, as answer;--
28 - SERVICES OF THE
“That he had the honour of carrying on his flag-gun
the English colours, which, if he pleased to look out
for, he might know from thence where the English
were posted; and assured him, he also should be
very loth to spill European blood; but if any shot
came that way, he might be assured he would return
them.” To know, Lawrence supposed, whether or
not he was in earnest, a shot was fired from their
battery over the battalion; three guns were instantly
ordered to answer it, and Lawrence himself saw that
they were well pointed. The French General seeing
that Lawrence was not to be trifled with, and fearing
the result of an action, thought it more prudent to
retire during the night; and, lest his heavy artillery
should retard him, he left eleven pieces behind, and,
what was little to his credit, part of his artillerymen
with them, to mask his designs, for he gave out that
he was going to beat up the British camp, and
would return before morning. When the retreat of
the French was known, Chundah Saib, and several
squadrons of his cavalry, followed. The Soobah's
army pressed on early in the morning, and attacked
Murzafa Jung's troops with much vigour, which
were in a very short time dispersed and cut up with
great slaughter, no quarter being given. A party of
cavalry fell in with the unfortunate French gunners
who had been left behind, and cut most of them to
pieces: the regiment had much difficulty in saving
a very few, whom they rescued by main force out of
the hands of the Soobah's troops. The surgeon of
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 29
the regiment dressed the wounds of these unfortu-
nate men, and showed them the same care and
attention as he had it in his power to bestow on the
men of his own regiment. In return for which
kindness, M. Dupleix wrote a long protest against
Major Lawrence, for making French subjects pri-
soners in time of peace. But the poor gunners,
who had been so disgracefully abandoned by their
commander, were more sensible of the obligations
they were under to the British, and willingly ac-
knowledged it was entirely owing to them their lives
had been saved. During this affair the regiment was
not engaged, and took no active part, beyond
rescuing the French gunners. The British Artillery
replied to the French guns as long only as they kept
firing. There was nothing like fighting; the con-
duct of the Soobah’s troops was cruel and barbarous
in the extreme, in slaughtering an unresisting
enemy. A large detachment of Mahratta cavalry,
under Morai Row, were sent in pursuit of M. D’Au-
teuil. They came up with him next day. The
French formed square, which the Mahratta charged,
and broke with only fifteen men, thinking that the
rest of his men were following him : looking round,
and seeing his danger, he with his handful, when
surrounded, boldly pushed for it, and broke through
the other side. Six of his men got away with him,
the rest were bayonetted inside the square. Had
Morai Row's men followed him, the battalion
would have been utterly destroyed; as it was, nine-
30 - SERVICES OF THE
teen men were killed in this attack. The Mahrattas
continued harassing the enemy until they got in-
side the boundary hedge of Pondicherry; and were
only prevented inflicting a further loss, by the
devoted gallantry of Chundah Saib's cavalry.
Shortly after this, much against Lawrence's advice,
the Soobah proceeded to Arcot, and the British
retired towards Madras.
In July, 400 of the regiment, under Captain
Cope, Lawrence being acting governor until the
arrival of Mr. Saunders, again marched with the
Nabob to join the Soobah; but French intrigues
prevailing in that prince's camp, they were soon
obliged to return to Madras, when, the night after
their departure, the French and Chundah Saib
attacked the Nabob in his camp, and completely
routed him, he with much difficulty escaping
to the Soobah's camp. The French immediately
marched and took Gingee. This at last roused the
Soobah, who advanced to retake it ; but, being
attacked by the French, he was assassinated by the
nabobs of Cuddapah and Condanore, and his
nephew, Murzafa Jung, proclaimed Viceroy of the
Deckan in his stead. The Soobah's tents were
plundered by the French, and an immense treasure
found, by which many, particularly M. Dupleix,
made very large fortunes. -
Until January, 1751, the British remained inac-
tive, but from the turn affairs took after the assassi-
nation of the Soobah, they again decided upon
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 31
rendering Mahomed Ally assistance at Trichino-
poly; and the same month, Captain Cope was
dispatched to that city with 280 Europeans, in-
cluding artillery of the battalion, and 300 Sepoys.
He reached Trichinopoly the beginning of Febru-
ary, at the same time that Chundah Saib left
Pondicherry with an army of 8000 men, and a
battalion of 800 French, and proceeded to Arcot.
On the arrival of Captain Cope at Trichinopoly,
he found Mohamed Ally’s troops in a state of dis-
satisfaction, and his country in the neighbourhood in
open revolt, particularly at Tinnevelly and Madura.
A detachment of his troops, under the Nabob's
brother, consisting of 2500 cavalry and 3000 infantry,
were dispatched to Tinnevelly, accompanied by 30
Europeans of the battalion under Lieutenant Innes.
No resistance was made by the people of the country,
but much difficulty was experienced in preventing the
Native troops from mutinying, Lieutenant Innes
and the men of the battalion being the only check
upon them. Madura was in open revolt, and, at the
desire of Mahomed Ally, Captain Cope marched
to reduce it, with 150 Europeans, one battering
gun, three field-pieces, and two cohorns, ac-
companied by 600 of the Nabob's cavalry. Lieu-
tenant Innes’ detachment, on its return from
Tinnevelly, having joined them, the united force
proceeded to invest the fort. Madura was sur-
rounded by a square double wall and ditch; the
outer being ruinous in many places, the inner was
32 SERVICES OF THE
easily breached through it, and in two days rendered
practicable, had fascines been procurable. Difficult,
indeed impracticable as the breach was, there was
no alternative, and as all the shot of the great gun
was expended, it became necessary either to storm
or raise the siege. As the Nabob's troops showed
every inclination to mutiny, an immediate attack
was ordered; the Sepoys having received some
money, and the promise of more, if the place fell,
gallantly followed their European comrades. The
first wall was passed without resistance, and al-
though the storming party was severely annoyed
with arrows, stones, and matchlocks, and the forlorn
hope had some difficulty in despatching several men
in complete armour, who for a short time defended
the breach with their swords, yet the bayonet pre-
vailed,—the breach was mounted, and the parapet
gained. Here the enemy had, however, on each
side of the entrance, raised a mound, and laid the
stems of palm-trees horizontally along it to some
height; and, leaving spaces between each tree, they
thrust their long pikes through these intervals with
such effect, that every man who mounted was se-
verely wounded. At the bottom of the wall, within
the breach, a strong intrenchment, with a deep
ditch, had been made, behind which about 4000
of the enemy kept up a hot fire from matchlocks
and arrows, and appeared prepared to defend the
intrenchment with spears, and all other kinds of
weapons. Ninety of the Europeans being rendered
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 33
hors de combat with wounds, and four killed, the
attack was relinquished. The Sepoys suffered much
more than the Europeans, upwards of two-thirds
having been disabled, and four of their officers mor-
tally wounded. The Nabob's troops rendered no
assistance; and, being encouraged by this reverse,
500 horse, and 1000 peons, immediately went over
to Allam Khan, the governor of the fort: and,
two days afterwards, nearly 3000 horsemen likewise
deserted to the enemy. Captain Cope, after de-
stroying the battering-gun, which had been injured,
(he was unable to carry it away) returned to
Trichinopoly with all his wounded and baggage.
This reverse reduced the dominions and army of
the English ally to the lowest ebb.
At the same time these transactions occurred,
intelligence was received that Chundah Saib and
the French were on their march from Arcot to
besiege Trichinopoly. Mahomed Ally strenuously
represented his distresses to the Governor of Madras,
earnestly requesting assistance, and offered to cede
a large territory near Madras for the same ; and,
further, to defray the expences of the war. In the
beginning of April, 1751, this assistance, on his own
terms, was granted: 450 of the European battalion,
fifty of the battalion mounted as dragoons, 100
Caffres, and 1000 Sepoys, with eight field-pieces,
took the field, under Captain De Gingens, of the
battalion, and were ordered to remain near fort St.
David, until joined by Mahomed Ally’s troops from
D
34 - SERVICES OF THE
Trichinopoly. In the following month these troops,
to the number of 600 horse, and 1000 peons, joined
the British. The united force proceeded to Verda-
chelum, a large and strong pagoda, garrisoned by
300 of Chundah Saib’s troops, which, after some
show of resistance, surrendered. Leaving thirty
Europeans and fifty Sepoys as a garrison, the
force marched to the westward, and were joined
by 100 Europeans, despatched by Captain Cope,
from Trichinopoly; also 2000 horse, and 2000
foot, belonging to the Nabob. After this junc-
tion, the force came in sight of Chundah Saib's
army, encamped near the strong fort of Vol-
Condah, which was assaulted, but without suc-
cess, although the town was entered and set fire
to. The French and Chundah Saib’s army were
afterwards brought to action, in a distant can-
nonade, and effected their object of throwing a
detachment into the fort. The British, eventually,
were forced to retire, although with no loss. Cap-
tains De Gingens, Dalton, Kirkpatrick, and Lieu-
tenant Clive, were conspicuous for their good
conduct and gallantry on the occasion. The force
fell back on Trichinopoly, and took up a position at
the straits of Utatoor; the Grenadier Company,
the Company of Caffres, and two field-pieces at the
mouth of the pass; the main body in the valley, and
a party in the rear at the south outlet. Two days
afterwards the enemy followed on the same route;
and in front of the village, at the entrance of
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 35
the pass, a body of 3000 horse intercepted a
small reconnoitering party, headed by Captain De
Gingens, and seven of the principal officers of the
European battalion. The party consisted of twelve
dragoons and these officers, who charged through
the enemy's horse, sword in hand, all cut their
way through, except Lieutenant Maskelyne and
three troopers, who were taken prisoners; a party of
Sepoys were also surprised by these horse, and
cut up.
On the 15th of July the enemy advanced to force
their way through the pass, but were severely checked
by Captain Dalton, with his grenadiers and the Caf-
fres in the village, who, when directed, retreated in
splendid order, sustaining and repulsing a constant
succession of charges from the entire body of the
enemy's cavalry, supported by 4000 Sepoys, 100
topasses, and eleven guns. The grenadiers of the
battalion particularly distinguished themselves : the
enemy were imperceptibly led on by them into broken
and rocky ground, where cavalry could not act; and
some of the guns from the main body having been
advanced, the enemy were obliged to fly in disorder.
After losing upwards of 300 men, the English
brought off their guns and baggage, with little or
no loss. The French battalion, this day, was not
engaged. The British continued their retreat next
day, and reached the river near Trichinopoly at
2 P.M., after a march of eighteen miles, in the heat
of the sun, during the hottest season of the year,
D 2
36 •ºr * "SERVICES OF THE
surrounded by an overwhelming cavalry who, how-
ever, were dispirited by the loss they had sustained
the previous day. The British encamped on the
north bank of the Coleroon: the following day the
river was crossed in boats, and with such secresy
and dispatch, that every boat but one containing
the grenadiers (the rear guard), and four field-
pieces, had reached the opposite side before the
enemy were aware of the movement: their guns
were, however, quickly brought up, and the boat
which had grounded on a sand-bank, was cannon-
aded: the boatmen abandoned it, but the grena-
diers brought it off, and the whole army passed with
no other loss than one small iron gun belonging to
the Nabob.
The English battalion being now reduced to
400 men, and the Nabob's army not to be
depended upon, it was decided, two days after
crossing the river, to encamp under the walls of the
fort; the European battalion under the west side of
the city, the Nabob's army under the south. The
enemy followed and encamped at a distance to the
east. . . -
In June, the same year, the arrival of some
recruits from England induced the government to
send to Trichinopoly a reinforcement of eighty
Europeans, 300 Sepoys, and a large quantity of
stores, which left Fort St. David the middle of July.
Lieutenant Clive commanded this detachment,
which on its march surprised a large force of Poli-
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 37
gars besieging the strong post of Verdachellum,
whom he dispersed with severe loss. The post
having been relieved, the detachment proceeded
with their convoy through Tanjore, and reached
Trichinopoly without loss or interruption. Lieute-
nant Clive was immediately recalled to Fort St.
David, for the purpose of conducting another rein-
forcement to Trichinopoly. After narrowly escaping
capture on his journey to Madras, he arrived there,
and assumed charge of his detachment, which con-
sisted of only 100 Europeans, 50 Sepoys, and a
small field-piece. Before he left he was promoted
to captain. On the arrival of the detachment in
the Tanjore country, the Rajah of which gave both
the French and English free passage through his
dominions, the French stationed at Coiladdy des-
patched thirty Europeans and 500 Sepoys to inter-
cept the English. Both parties suddenly met in the
streets of the small village of Gondore, about ten
miles from Tanjore : a combat ensued, in which
nearly all the French and a number of their Sepoys
were destroyed, and the rest dispersed. The French
lost their commanding officer. The English,
making a slight circuit to avoid the enemy's camp,
reached Trichinopoly in safety. Notwithstanding
these augmentations, the battalion numbered only
600 men; that of the enemy exceeded 900.
Captain Clive again returned to Madras, and by
his advice it was decided to attack Arcot, and
thereby create a diversion from Trichinopoly; Fort
38 - SERVICES OF THE
St. David and Madras being left with only 150
Europeans between them, in order to place as
many men as possible at Captain Clive's disposal
for the attack on Arcot. The entire force that
could be collected did not exceed 200 Europeans,
with seven officers of the battalion and one of the
Artillery (not more than two of whom had ever
been in action), together with 300 Sepoys, who
were by this time disciplined and armed like the
Europeans, and, with justice, considered very supe-
rior native troops. This handful of men, with three
field-pieces, left Madras on the 26th, and arrived
within ten miles of Arcot on the 31st of August,
where the enemy's spies first discovered the English
continuing their march during a violent thunder-
storm. This circumstance, from the native opinion
of omens, discouraged the garrison to such an
extent, that they instantly abandoned the fort, and
the English shortly afterwards arriving, marched
through the city to the astonishment of about
100,000 of the inhabitants, and took possession of
it. The garrison which had abandoned their post
amounted to upwards of 1100 men: 600 cavalry
and 600 foot were, besides, encamped at some
distance from the fort. On the 4th and 5th of Sep-
tember, Clive attacked them, and on both days
the enemy were defeated; after which the troops,
for ten days, were busily engaged in repairing the
defences of the place, and constructing some neces-
sary additions, during which time they discovered a
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMIENT. 39
large quantity of gunpowder and lead, eight pieces
of cannon, from four to eight-pounders, and one
large seventy-two pound iron gun, said to have
been sent by Aurungzebe from Delhi, and repre-
sented to have required 1000 oxen to drag it. The
enemy being encouraged by the intermission of
sallies from the fort, and attributing the same to
fear, became more confident, and encamped within
three miles of Arcot. Advantage was taken of
their fancied security, and an attack made upon
them on the night of the 14th, in which, with no
loss to the English, they were entirely routed and
dispersed with much slaughter. When the day
broke, none of the enemy were in sight.
When the detachment left Madras, it was in-
tended that two eighteen-pounders, with military
stores, should follow, escorted by some Sepoys.
These being on their march, the enemy hoped to
intercept them by occupying Conjeveram, a large
and celebrated Hindoo pagoda between Madras and
Arcot: thirty Europeans and fifty Sepoys were des-
patched from Arcot to occupy this post, which was
abandoned by the enemy on their approach. Much
depending on the safe arrival of the convoy, Captain
Clive, reserving fifty Sepoys and thirty Europeans for
the defence of Arcot, detached all the rest of his
detachment to bring it in : the enemy immediately
changed their design, thinking to gain possession of
the fort during the absence of the greater part of its
garrison: they suddenly attacked it in the evening,
40 SERVICES OF THE
kept up an uninterrupted fire, and twice attempted to
force the gates; but they were repulsed with severe
loss, and in the morning, on the approach of the
convoy, which arrived in safety, they retreated with
precipitation. .
The taking of Arcot had the desired effect on
Chundah Saib, who immediately detached from
Trichinopoly 4000 troops, which were joined by
150 French Europeans from Pondicherry: these
arriving at Arcot, were joined by the rest of the
enemy before the place, and on the 23d of Septem-
ber occupied the town, and regularly invested the
fort; Rajah Saib, Chundah Saib's son, fixing his
head-quarters in the Nabob’s palace, which was
near the walls. On the 24th, Clive, at the head of
his garrison, made a sortie towards the Nabob's
palace, in front of which, with four field-pieces, the
French troops were drawn up. These being in-
stantly driven from their guns at the point of the
bayonet, ran into the palace, where they kept up so
severe a fire of musketry, that fourteen men, who
made an attempt to bring away the captured guns
were killed or wounded : the English, having
entered a choultry, a covered building open in
front, continued cannonading the palace until their
guns had recoiled out of fire; they then left the
choultry, and proceeded with their guns to the fort.
Another party, under Lieutenant Glass of the bat-
talion, had dispersed a large body of Sepoys. The
loss to the English in these operations was fifteen
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 41
men of the battalion, who were either killed or
shortly died of their wounds; and Lieutenant
Trenwith, who was shot through the body, Lieute-
nant Revel, the only artillery officer, and sixteen
other men, were disabled. The following day, the
enemy were joined by 2000 men from Vellore, and
took possession of all the streets and avenues lead-
ing to the fort. The fort of Arcot was about a
mile in circumference; the walls, in many places,
ruinous; the ramparts too weak and narrow to
admit of the firing of artillery; the parapet low and
slightly built; the towers were mostly decayed, and
none capable of receiving more than one piece of
ordnance; the ditch was in most places fordable, in
many dry and choked up ; the gateways were solid
projections of masonry, and instead of a drawbridge
over, the ditch had a large causeway built across it.
Lieutenant Glass had been disabled in an attempt
to destroy a house outside the fort, from which the
enemy annoyed the garrison: thus, at the beginning
of the siege, the services of four out of the eight
officers were lost, one being killed, two wounded,
and one had been despatched to Madras: the troops .
fit for duty were diminished to 120 Europeans and
200 Sepoys; these had to contend with 150 Euro-
peans, 2000 Sepoys, 5000 Peons, and 3000 cavalry.
There being only sixty days’ consumption of provi-
sions in the fort, all the inhabitants, with the excep-
tion of a few artificers, were turned out of it for
fourteen days, until the 24th of October. The fort
42 SERVICES OF THE
was bombarded from four mortars, when the
French, receiving a reinforcement from Pondicherry
of two eighteen-pounders, and seven pieces of
smaller calibre, formed a battery, and in six days
made a practicable breach, fifty feet wide, in the
curtain of the north-west wall. The garrison con-
structed intrenchments behind it, and planted artil-
lery to defend the same, and to shew their confi-
dence, mounted the large seventy-two pound gun
on one of the towers which was raised with mud for
the purpose, and pointing it at the Nabob's house,
it was fired with a charge of thirty-two pounds of
powder every day, at the time the principal officers
were in attendance at head-quarters. This, for the
time, created some alarm in the town; but on the
fourth day the gun burst. The enemy, following
the same example, mounted a gun on the roof of a
house, on which a mound was raised, sufficiently
high to command the inside of the fort. They
were allowed to finish their work, and fire their gun,
when a few rounds from an eighteen-pounder in the
fort knocked the house down, and under its ruins
about fifty of the enemy were killed and injured.
Government being anxious to relieve Arcot, a
reinforcement of 100 Europeans and 200 Sepoys,
under Lieutenant Innes of the battalion, were
despatched from Madras, and proceeded about
thirty miles, as far as Trivatone, where they were
surrounded by about 2000 Natives, twenty French,
and two field-pieces, detached from Arcot to inter-
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 43
cept them. The English, having no guns, were
much annoyed by the fire of those of the enemy,
which Lieutenant Innes charged and took, with the
loss of twenty Europeans and two officers of the
battalion killed, and a great many wounded. The
enemy were repulsed, and suffered heavily ; but the
loss the detachment sustained prevented its advanc-
ing, and it returned to Poonamallee, then a frontier
fort of the Company.
On the south-west side, Arcot had also been
breached, and Lieutenant Innes’ retreat left the
garrison little hope of succour from Madras.
Captain Clive having secured and strengthened the
south-west breach in the same manner as he had
the other, returned an answer of defiance to the
summons of the enemy, who being alarmed at the
expected arrival of a reinforcement from Madras,
and the approach of a party of Mahratta cavalry,
who, at the solicitation of Captain Clive, were
hastening to the assistance of the brave defenders
of Arcot, from the foot of the mountains about
thirty miles off, determined upon an immediate
storm, which on the morning of the 14th of No-
vember took place. Two divisions advanced to
the gates, and two to the breaches, with a multitude
besides, who came with ladders, and attempted to
escalade the numerous parts of the wall which were
accessible; the columns which attacked the gates
drove in front of them several elephants, protected
with armour on their heads, for the purpose of
44 *: SERVICES OF THE
pushing open the gates. These, after a heavy fire
of musketry and hand-grenades, were wounded,
driven back unmanageable and in confusion, tramp-
ling down the storming party in their rear, who
dispersed and sought safety in flight. The division
that attacked the north-west breach, crossed the
ditch, which was fordable, and in a few moments
the fausse braye was crowded with the enemy, who
mounted the breach with the greatest intrepidity,
which they were suffered to approach and crowd
with impunity, and some even to surmount the first
intrenchment, before the defenders gave fire, when
it fell with fearful execution, every shot telling: the
field-pieces also kept up continued discharges; but
as soon as one body of the enemy were driven back
and destroyed, another and another immediately
crowded up the breach to the assault, until some
bombs, with short fuses, thrown into the fausse
braye, burst and destroyed many, and drove
the rest of the enemy there away from the breach,
and over the ditch. At the breach to the south-
west, the ditch not being fordable, the enemy
brought a raft, on which nearly one hundred em-
barked, and attempted to cross, but, after a few
rounds of grape, it was capsized, several drowned
and killed, and the rest reached the other side of
the ditch. These different attacks continued for
upwards of an hour, after which the enemy at once
desisted, and employed themselves in carrying off
their dead, among whom was the commander of
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT, 45
their Sepoys, who fell in the fausse braye, and had
distinguished himself with great bravery during the
storm. Two hours after these repulses, the enemy
again opened a heavy fire of musketry and cannon.
At two in the afternoon they requested leave to bury
their dead, which was allowed, and a truce granted
until four P. M., when they again recommenced their
fire, and continued it until two in the morning, when
it ceased entirely. At daybreak it was discovered
that they had abandoned the town : the garrison
immediately marched out, and took four pieces of
artillery, four mortars, and a large quantity of am-
munition, which in their hurry had been left behind.
Thus, after fifty days, ended the siege of Arcot,
maintained, under every disadvantage, by a small
body of men, with the utmost resolution, and the
most undaunted courage. During the time they were
shut up in the fort, forty-five Europeans and thirty
Sepoys were killed, and a greater number of both
wounded. From so many of the garrison being
disabled, there were no more than eighty Europeans,
officers included, and 120 Sepoys, to repulse the
storm, in doing which their loss was only four Euro-
peans killed, and two Sepoys wounded; the loss of
the enemy was upwards of 400 killed.
Among the numerous gallant and desperate ser-
vices any part of the European corps has ever at any
period of its existence been engaged in, the defence
of Arcot must always rank as one reflecting the most
honour on it. The resources employed by the
46 SERVICES OF THE
young commandant, the talent, activity, and cou-
rage, displayed by him, on every occasion, in the
successful defence of an untenable post, — were
nobly seconded by the devoted gallantry and con-
fidence of the small band of heroes under his com-
mand. The Sepoys, flattered and elevated by the
confidence reposed in them, rivalled their European
comrades in feats of daring: and, when provisions
became so scarce, that it was feared famine might
compel them to surrender, they came forward and
offered Clive to take, as their share of food, the
water in which the rice was boiled, saying, “that it
was sufficient for their support, but the Europeans
required the grain, which was more nourishing.”
On the evening of the day on which the siege was
raised, Lieutenant Innes' party, reinforced to the
number of 150 Europeans, and four field-pieces,
arrived under command of Captain Kilpatrick, of
the European corps. The enemy had passed off
towards Vellore, under the walls of which they
encamped. On the 19th of November, Captain
Clive, leaving Kilpatrick with a garrison in the
fort, took the field with 200 Europeans, 700 Sepoys,
and three field-pieces, and marched to Timery,
which surrendered on the first summons. The
Mahrattas having joined, with 600 of their cavalry,
Clive made a forced march of twenty miles, and
came up with the enemy, as they were preparing to
cross the river to the north of Arnee. The enemy,
confident of their superiority—for they numbered
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 47
300 French (Europeans), 2500 Sepoys, 2000 horse
and four field-pieces,—immediately they perceived
the English, formed and advanced to the attack.
Captain Clive drew up in position, the Sepoys on
the right, the Mahratta cavalry on the left, and the
Europeans, with the field-pieces, in the centre. The
entire front of his position being covered by wet rice-
fields, the only approach was by a causeway to the
right, along which all the French, with their field-
pieces, and 1500 Sepoys, marched to the attack;
the cavalry, and the remainder of their Sepoys,
moving round to the left, attacked the 600 Mahratta
cavalry, and a severe action commenced between
these two bodies; the Mahrattas, fighting in a man-
ner peculiar to themselves: every horseman was
accompanied by a man on foot, armed with a sword
and club, or short spear; and when a horse was
killed or disabled, the rider fought on foot; and
when a horseman, one of the foot soldiers, seized the
horse and mounted it. The Mahrattas, against
overwhelming numbers, stood their ground, repeat-
edly charging the enemy. The French, who ad-
vanced along the ditch, received so heavy and
galling a fire from the field-pieces, that all, except
their artillerymen and guns, left the causeway, and
formed across the rice fields, extending towards
where the cavalry were engaged. The Mahrattas,
having been reinforced with two field-pieces, stood
their ground; and Clive, advancing along the cause-
way, forced the enemy there to retire in confusion,
48. - SERVICES OF THE
on which the whole of their line retired, and, being
followed up and driven out of two other positions,
they took shelter within and under the walls of
Arnee. About fifty French, and 150 of their Sepoys,
were killed : the English lost no Europeans, and
only eight Sepoys: the Mahrattas suffered a loss of
fifty. The following day the enemy retreated to
Gingee, having left Arnee, with precipitation, at
midnight. On entering the town the next day, the
battalion captured many tents, a large quantity of
baggage, an elephant, and several horses. The
Mahratta cavalry continued the pursuit, Sabreing
and plundering the fugitives, and returned before
night with 400 horses, quantities of plunder, and the
enemy's cash-chest, containing 100,000 rupees. A
great number of the enemy’s Sepoys came in and
offered their services: Clive, selecting those only
who brought good arms, enlisted 600.
The Governor of Arnee refused to deliver up the
fort, but took the oath of fealty to Mahomed Ally.
During the siege of Arcot, the French had occu-
pied Conjeveram with thirty Europeans and 300
Sepoys: these interrupted the communication to
Madras, and had surprised a number of disabled
men returning from the siege ; among others, Lieu-
tenants Revel and Glass, and six Europeans. The
officers were spared, but the six soldiers were barba-
rously murdered in their litters. Captain Clive
determined to reduce this place; and three days
after his victory, marched thither at the head of his
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 49
forces. On the French officer being summoned,
and not understanding English, he desired his pri-
soners to write, that if his post was attacked, he
would expose them on the works. This the captive
officers wrote, but at the same time pressed Clive to
attack the place instantly. He had to wait two days
for two breaching-guns from Madras, which, on their
arrival, began to batter the wall. The garrison
returned a hot fire, which killed Lieutenant Bulkley
and several men of the battalion. Fearing the
just resentment of the English, for the murder of
their defenceless and wounded comrades, the enemy
abandoned their post during the night, and escaped.
After the defences at Conjeveram had been
ruined, Clive sent 200 Europeans and 500 Sepoys
back to Arcot, and returned in the middle of
December with the rest to Madras.
While one part of the corps was carrying on the
war in the Arcot provinces, another, although the
service it was employed upon did not offer so many
opportunities for distinction, was upholding the
honour and credit of the service, in a number of
gallant combats in the neighbourhood of Trichino-
poly, which the French and Chundah Saib, notwith-
standing the capture of Arcot, continued to invest.
1751. The city of Trichinopoly is situated on a
plain; which, before the wars between the French and
English, was in a high state of cultivation, and
covered with rich villages and plantations, since
which botn have almost entirely disappeared. The
E
50 SERVICES OF THE
fort is in the shape of an oblong square, the longest
sides of which face east and west. On the north runs
the river Cavery, less than half a mile from the city
walls, which are nearly four miles in circumference;
a ditch nearly thirty feet wide, but not very deep,
surrounds the whole. Some of the round towers
had been improved as far as possible by the Eng-
lish, to hold cannon, and an old projecting gateway
had been formed into an outwork, mounting several
guns, by Captain Dalton, of the corps, and had
received the name of Dalton's Battery. A rock,
about 300 feet high, stands in the middle of the
city, its height commanding as far as Tanjore, and
it was of the utmost use to the British during the
whole war; a soldier was constantly posted there,
and communicated by signals the movements of the
enemy. The island of Seringam is formed by the
river dividing itself into two branches, about six
miles north-west of the fort. The northern branch
is called the Coleroon; the southern, the Cavery,
passes near the walls. Seringam, fifteen miles east
of Trichinopoly, is so narrow that both rivers would
join were they not prevented by a high embank-
ment, by which means the waters of the Cavery
are conducted into Tanjore and irrigate that coun-
try, and for which the King of Tanjore paid a high
tribute to whoever held Trichinopoly. The bank
in question was commonly called by the British,
“the Pass,” from the excellent position it afforded
for a small body of men against a very large force
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FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 51 -
(it was the same bank the French afterwards cut
through in 1754). About a mile distant to the
east was the strong little fort of Koilladdy. On the
island, nearly due north of the city, are the famous
pagodahs of Seringam, and some others a little dis-
tant to the east, called Jumba Kistna. The first are
little more than a mile from Trichinopoly, and are
surrounded by seven distinct square walls of stone,
and were occupied by the enemy during all the
operations under the walls of the city. The plain
round the city extends in length, from east to west,
about nineteen miles; its breadth, from seven to
twelve miles. It is bounded on the west by the
Tanjore country, on the south by Tondiman's, and
to the north by the river. The different rocks on
the plain, within a few miles of the fort, were re-
peatedly the scenes of hard-fought battles, particu-
larly the Golden and Sugar-loaf Rocks to the south,
and the French Rock to the west of the city walls.
The plain was interspersed and cut up with hollows
and water-courses, sufficient to conceal or cover
troops, and to a person who knew his ground af.
forded great advantages. A small fortified post on
the top of the hill of Elmiseram, was on the high
road from Tanjore through Koilladdy. The island
of Seringam was also an excellent position for any
army that could keep its communications open; and
was besides so full of difficulties in ravines, hollows,
and water-courses, that an investing force could
only attack at great disadvantage.
E 2
52 SERVICES OF THE
The French and Chundah Saib's armies were
encamped on the south bank of the Cavery, at Da-
laway's Choultry: in the beginning of September
they erected three batteries against the city; one at
about 1200 yards distance, to the east of the north-
east angle of the fort, was called the Grand Battery,
and mounted three eighteen-pounders and three
mortars; it was enclosed on all sides as a regular
redoubt, and had a constant guard of 100 Euro-
peans and 400 Sepoys. Another battery of two
eighteen-pounders was erected on the northern
bank of the river, across which it fired at the north-
ern gate of the city. Two eighteen-pounders were
also mounted on the top of a rock, about 2000
yards directly east from the south-east angle of the
city, from which it got the name of the French
Rock. These batteries were all erected at too
great a distance to make the slightest impression
on the city walls, and their insufficiency soon raised
in the battalion a feeling of contempt for the military
ability of the French. Captain de Gingens was an
officer of undoubted courage, and had before he en-
tered the regiment seen much service in Europe: he
very prudently preserved his own men, and deter-
mined to allow the enemy to exhaust their means
and resources, and at the same time to save his
own. To preserve that part of the wall against
which the enemy’s principal battery was erected, a
glacis was raised sufficiently high to protect all but
the parapet, and the grenadiers under Captain Dal-
IRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 53
ton were posted behind it. They succeeded in
surprising one of the enemy's batteries in a night
attack. The enemy's fire, however, although smart
and continued, made no impression on the defences;
and as the shot were the same that had been fired
into Pondicherry by Admiral Boscawen's fleet, they
not only did no damage to the British, but supplied
them with a great many cannon-balls, of which they
stood in some need. Mahomed Ally's troops, in
the meantime, were reduced to the greatest dis-
tress; want of pay would have annihilated his army
entirely, had not the King of Mysore been induced
to send from Seringapatam a small party of seventy
Mysoreans, escorting treasure to the amount of
500,000 or 600,000 rupees. Fortunately, the day
after their arrival a skirmish took place, which, trifling
as it was, gave them a high opinion of European
courage. A small party of Europeans, and some
Sepoys, had been sent out to cut fire-wood; on their
return the French thought to intercept them, and
sent off a large party of cavalry, including all their
mounted Europeans, for the purpose. This having
been perceived from the city, Captain Dalton, with
the grenadiers and one field-piece, was despatched
to their assistance. He, meeting the loaded wood-
carts, sent them off to the city by another route, and
forming up, both parties marched towards the enemy,
the small party of Mysoreans accompanying him.
The enemy charged several times up to the bayo-
nets of the British, but were repulsed and put to
54 SERVICES OF THE
flight, leaving nearly thirty dead horses, and many
more men : on the plain five prisoners with their
horses were secured by the Mysoreans, who took
them in triumph next day to their own country,
from whence, in the latter end of November, the
Mysore King advanced to the assistance of Maho-
med Ally and the English, with a large army. He,
however, had taken 6000 Mahrattas into his pay,
and 500 of them arrived in advance at Trichino-
poly in December. The day following their arrival
they moved boldly out on to the plain where Ma-
homed Ally's cavalry had never ventured. Observ-
ing a camp of 200 horse near the French Rock,
they charged into it sword in hand, destroyed and
put to flight every one of the enemy, and quietly
brought off all the horses and property worth
having, although pressed by all Chundah Saib's
cavalry. The Mahratta leader observing the
French hussars to be very alert on all occasions
(for the Mahrattas skirmished daily on the plain),
formed a plan, which he put into execution with
success, of drawing them into an ambuscade.
This was done by a party galloping up to the
French tents, sabring and driving in every person
they came across. The French dragoons, provoked
beyond measure, mounted, and Sallied out, the Mah-
rattas retreating before them until they were near
their supports, who charging the dragoons in flank,
at the same time that the retreating party wheeled
round, and attacked them in front, every Frenchman
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 55
was cut to pieces; Chundah Saib's cavalry rendered
no assistance. The officer on the French Rock de-
tached 100 men to support the dragoons; but
they were too late, and he recalled them just in time
to save that post, which Lieutenant Taishan of the
battalion, with a few men, had advanced to attack.
This affair dispirited the enemy so much, that they
did not venture into the plain to bury their dead,
and the English proceeding three days afterwards
to perform that office for them, found the bodies
devoured by jackals.
In proportion as the enemy were dispirited, their
opponents became elated, and the Mahrattas were
most anxious to attack the enemy at once, promis-
ing, if the battalion would take the Frenchmen and
infantry, they would dispose of Chundah Saib's
12,000 cavalry. They were, with difficulty, rea-
soned against persisting in this wild project; but
when the 1000, who had been employed with Clive
after the affair of Arcot, and at the action near Arnee,
arrived in camp, they again became most clamorous
to engage ; and finding that the English would risk
nothing until the arrival of the rest of the Mysore
army, and a reinforcement of Europeans from the
presidency, they taunted them by saying they were
not the same men as those they had seen defending
Arcot.
In the meantime the army of Mysore, with 4000
Mahratta cavalry, had arrived within a few marches,
and the French despatched a strong force of Euro-
56 - SERVICES OF THE
peans and natives to occupy Kistnaveram, a strong
post on the high road from Mysore. They had
time to strengthen its defences, and threatened
either to attack the Mysoreans on their march, or
enter and plunder their country. This alarmed the
Rajah, a weak and ignorant man, so much, that he
halted, and sent a demand for a strong party of
Europeans to come to his assistance without delay,
as he felt himself quite incapable of fighting against
white men. Captain Cope and Lieutenant Tai-
shan of the battalion were sent on this service, with
100 soldiers, 100 Sepoys, and two small field-
pieces; their orders being to dislodge the enemy,
whom Captain Cope found more numerous than he
expected, and very strongly posted. The defences
consisted of a double wall, flanked with towers, one
side protected by the river Cavery, and the others
by a morass, only one approachable road leading to
the works, and it was defended by a strong out-
work. The few men of the battalion attempted to
carry this by assault ; but after a heavy loss of
killed and wounded, they were forced to retire,
having Lieutenant Felix shot through the body, and
Captain Cope, a most deserving officer, and highly
respected, most severely wounded. Captain Dalton
was ordered from Trichinopoly to take the com-
mand, and on his arrival, found the detachment
joined by the van of the Mysore army. The
Regent received him with great distinction and
kindness, and expressed himself with astonishment
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 57
and admiration of the Europeans, whose martial
appearance particularly struck him, and forming the
same opinion of the French, this small party of the
battalion being the first European soldiers he had
ever seen, he declared his fear of engaging the
French, and proceeded at midnight towards Trichi-
nopoly, by a circuitous route, not only insisting that
Captain Dalton should keep the enemy engaged
and prevent them from attacking him, but even had
a number of the men to accompany him as a body-
guard. Dalton commenced skirmishing about mid-
night, and distracted the enemy's attention, which,
as it turned out, was most necessary; the Regent’s
line of march being crowded with torch-bearers,
resembled a procession rather than the march of an
army. At daylight, the English retired towards
Trichinopoly without loss, covering the Mysore
army, the junction of which with Mahomed Ally,
induced the king of Tanjore to take the same side:
he sent 3000 horse and 2000 infantry, under his
General, Monackjee. The Poligar Tondiman also
sent 400 horse and 3000 colleries, or, in the
native language of the country, thieves: these men
were nearly savages: they were chiefly used for
cutting off small parties, surprising convoys, or
stealing or disabling horses or cattle, at which they
were most expert : their weapon was a lance
eighteen feet long. Thus the forces of Mahomed
Ally and his allies outnumbered those of Chundah
Saib, the force of the former amounting to 26,000
58 SERVICES OF THE
horse, 6000 of which were Mahrattas, and 20,000
foot: that of the latter 15,000 horse, and 20,000
foot. The Regent was now most anxious to
attack the enemy's camp, proposing that the
English battalion should attack the French, which
far outnumbered it, and that the other troops would
fight against the natives. Captain De Gingens
wisely determining not to risk the loss the battalion
must suffer in the attack, which, if severe, would be
irreparable, he determined to wait for the reinforce-
ment from Arcot.
On the reduction of Conjeveram and retire-
ment of the English into garrison, the enemy had
strengthened, and again occupied that part, com-
mitting depredations, and plundering the country
up to St. Thomas's Mount and the gates of Poona-
mallee: it was therefore determined to reduce and
disperse them, before advancing to Trichinopoly;
and Captain Clive, who had returned from Calcutta,
was put in command of 380 Europeans, 1300
Sepoys, with six field-pieces for this purpose.
Clive left Madras on the 22d of February, and
the enemy intrenched themselves in their camp
at Vendalore, twenty-five miles from Madras. On
the approach of the English, they suddenly aban-
doned it, and it was discovered they had marched
off in haste to Arcot, in hopes that the Sepoys who
garrisoned that fort, might betray their trust: in
this, however, they were disappointed, and repulsed
in an attack made on the gateways. Clive rapidly
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 59
followed them up on the way, took Conjeveram,
and arrived after sunset at Coverpank, where he
suddenly found himself in presence of the enemy,
and his van fired upon, at about 200 yards distance,
by nine pieces of artillery. The British sustained
some loss, before the baggage was sent half a mile
to the rear, under a proper guard, and the infantry
had taken up a position in a water-course. The
night was a bright moonlight one; a heavy fire was
kept up for two hours, and the enemy's cavalry
repeatedly charged, and were as often repulsed:
their artillery, however, being only answered by
three of the British, did proportionate execution,
and either killed or disabled so many of the artil-
lery-men, that it became an alternative either to
take their guns or retreat. A serjeant of the regi-
ment, named Shawlum, who spoke the language of
the country, was, with two Sepoys, sent to reconnoitre.
He returned, and reported that no troops were
posted in rear of the enemy's guns: 200 Europeans
and 400 Sepoys were at once detached under
Lieutenant Keene of the battalion, with Serjeant
Shawlum as their guide, to penetrate to the rear of
the enemy, and take the guns in reverse. Keene's
party got unperceived to within 300 yards of the
rear of the enemy’s artillery, when Ensign Simmons
was sent forward to reconnoitre: he suddenly came
upon a water-course full of Sepoys, and as he
replied to them in French, he was permitted to
pass, and having seen that the guns were protected
60 SERVICES OF THE
by 100 Europeans, who were looking out towards
their front, he returned by another route, to avoid
the Sepoys; and having conducted the party unper-
ceived to within thirty yards of the artillery, a
well directed volley, followed up by a charge, swept
the French from their guns, and entirely routed
them: a few took shelter in a choultry close at
hand, where they surrendered. The enemy in the
water-course in front, who had been bearing hard
upon the British, weakened by the party detached
under Lieutenant Keene, no sooner saw their artil-
lery silenced, than they dispersed, the English
remaining under arms until daylight, when they
found sixty Frenchmen prisoners, and fifty dead on
the field, besides 300 Sepoys. The artillery cap-
tured, were nine field-pieces and three mortars: of
the battalion, forty were killed and upwards of sixty
wounded: thirty-one Sepoys were killed and several
wounded. This victory, achieved by the skill of
their commander and the gallantry of the troops,
destroyed the French force in that quarter, and
established the reputation of the British arms in
India, besides convincing the natives of the country
that the British, as soldiers, were superior to the
French. On the return of the detachment to Fort
St. David, it passed through the spot where Nazir
Sing had been assassinated, and where a town had
been built by the French, to which the name of
“Dupliex Tatha Bad” (Dupliex’s Town of Victory)
had been given. A pillar was also erected, com-
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 61
memorating, with an inscription in every language,
the event deemed by them a victory. Clive and
his troops not being of the same opinion, razed
everything to the ground, after which they proceeded
to the presidency. By their late successes, the
part of the battalion engaged had mainly contributed
to recover for Mahomed Ally an extent of country
sixty miles by thirty.
Three days after their arrival at fort St. David,
part of the battalion was ready to take the field
under Captain Clive; when, on the 15th of March,
Major Lawrence arrived from England, and two
days afterwards placed himself at its head. The
detachment consisted of 400 Europeans, 1100 Se-
poys, and eight field-pieces, which, with a large
quantity of military stores, proceeded through Tan-
jore to Trichinopoly, where the Mysoreans and
Mahrattas had become so displeased with Captain
De Gingens, for his precaution in not attacking the
enemy until Lawrence's reinforcements arrived, that
the king of Mysore was about to retire to his own
country: and the Mahrattas, disappointed in oppor-
tunities of acquiring plunder, began to treat with the
enemy. Both armies were most anxious about the
approaching convoy, which reached the fort of Tri-
catapolly, in the Tanjore country, about twenty
miles from Trichinopoly, on the 26th of March,
1752, where Lawrence deposited such part of the
stores as impeded his march. Next morning he was
proceeding along the high road, which passed under
62 SERVICES OF THE
the guns of the small fort of Koilladdy, when he
received intelligence that the enemy had there posted
themselves, in force with artillery, for the purpose of
attacking him. He decided upon taking another
road, and avoiding it; but his guides, either through
design or ignorance, brought him within its fire ;
and, before he could withdraw, he suffered a loss of
twenty Europeans killed and wounded. The convoy
continued its march, and that night reached within
ten miles of Trichinopoly without any further inter-
ruption. To this place Captain De Gingens had
detached, the same night, a reinforcement of 100
Europeans, and 50 dragoons; and early next morn-
ing Captain Dalton, with his grenadiers, and another
company of the battalion under Captain Clarke, in
all, 200 Europeans, 400 Sepoys, and four field-
pieces, were ordered to advance to the Sugar Loaf
Rock, and there remain until the convoy arrived in
sight, and then proceed and join it. Lawrence
advanced next morning, and found the enemy drawn
up : their right resting on Chucklepollam, a village
on the banks of the Cavery; and their left on the
inaccessible fortified rock of Elmiseram ; round
which he moved, covering his baggage, which was on
his left flank. Near the Sugar Loaf Rock he was
met by Dalton's reinforcements from the fort,
accompanied by the Nabob's army, and the Mah-
rattas, whose cavalry kept up a slight skirmish on
the plain. Being noon, and the sun striking very
hot, the troops were halted to refresh themselves;
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 63
but in about an hour the enemy were observed
advancing to the attack. A small choultry, in front
of the French battalion, was instantly occupied by
the grenadiers and the first division of artillery.
The French battalion, advancing to dislodge them,
were severely handled, and kept in check until the
rest of the force came up, followed at a distance by
the Mysore and Mahratta allies, who were unwilling
to expose their horses. A cannonade began from
twenty-two French guns against nine English. The
fire of the English did most execution, as they were
under shelter of the choultry, whereas the enemy's
were exposed on the open plain. After sustaining
the fire of the British for some time, the French
battalion began to waver, and ultimately retired,
followed by all their allies. Captains Clive and
Dalton continued the pursuit until the French were
thrown into confusion and dispersed, when Major
Lawrence recalled them, unwilling longer to expose
his over-worked soldiers to the excessive heat : the
pursuit then ceased. Seven men of the battalion
were struck down dead from the heat of the sun,
sixteen were killed, and thirty wounded. The
enemy left 40 Europeans, 300 of Chundah Saib's
troops, including their commander Allum Khan,
280 horses, and one elephant dead on the plain.
This action was fought almost entirely by the Euro-
peans: had the allies acted with the slightest spirit,
the entire French force might have been destroyed.
The Mahrattas had been trying to make terms with :
64 - SERVICES OF THE
the enemy, and were therefore, if not hostile, very
lukewarm. They remained idle spectators all the
time of the action, and neither threats nor entreaties
would induce them to make a single charge. Major
Lawrence proceeded the same night, 27th March,
with his convoy, and deposited it in Trichinopoly.
Next day he lost no time in preparing various
attacks to harass and enfeeble the enemy. Captain
Dalton, with 400 of the corps, was sent the night of
the 29th to beat up Chundah Saib's camp, but
losing his way in the dark, at daylight he found him-
self some miles from it. He therefore returned to-
wards the fort; but having been perceived by the
enemy, who guessed his design, they considered
themselves no longer safe in their present position,
and, on the 3rd of April, hastily retreated to the
pagodas on the Island of Seringam, leaving a large
quantity of provisions and stores they were unable in
their hurry and confusion to remove. A French
detachment, however, kept the post of Elmiseram,
to the south-east of the city; and Captain Dalton,
with 100 grenadiers, and some Mahrattas and Se-
poys, marched against it on the 30th, and took it
after a loss of only five men. The garrison were
taken prisoners; and some guns, one a fine eigh-
teen-pounder, were captured. After garrisoning the
place, Dalton returned to the fort, and the eighteen-
pounder was presented to the Nabob, as the first
piece of ordnance captured during the campaign.
On the 2nd of April, the grenadiers, who had always
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 65
been remarkable for great spirit and gallantry, at-
tacked at noon a battery in the enemy's camp, took
a large gun, and brought it across the river in the
face of their entire army. The gun was taken into
Trichinopoly.
In European warfare, slight skirmishes, and affairs
of the kind here described, would be considered
unworthy of notice; but in India the entire brunt
of war rests on the Europeans. No reflection is
intended to be cast on the native part of the army,
who, even at that time, beyond the advantage they
gained by the arms, muskets, and bayonets served
out to them by Government, had neither been
drilled nor disciplined as regular troops: at all
times their devotion and gallantry was second only
to that of the Europeans, whom they invariably fol-
lowed on the most dangerous and desperate services;
and several of the defences and attacks made by
Sepoys, unaccompanied by any Europeans, except a
European officer and the serjeants, one of whom was
at that time attached to each 100 Sepoys, could
not be surpassed, for determined gallantry, by any
troops whatever. The Europeans in India at that
time, (the troops of the rival companies of the two
nations inclusive,) rarely exceeded 1000 men each
corps: their superiority in arms was as marked at that
period as it has ever been since over the troops of
the Native Powers in India. The fate of battle
always depended on the Europeans; and any affair
in which only half or quarter of a company were
F
66 SERVICES OF THE
engaged was considered of as much consequence as
that of a division of an army in European warfare.
The enemy, keeping close in their intrenchments,
Major Lawrence decided upon dividing his force,
and manoeuvring to induce them to quit their
ground; and a position within a forced march having
been fixed upon as a point of concentration, on the 6th
of April, 1752, Captain Clive, with 400 Europeans,
700 Sepoys, 3000 Mahrattas, 1000 Tanjore horse,
and six pieces of field and two of battering guns,
marched to the north of the Coleroon to interrupt
the enemy's communication with Pondicherry. The
first position was seven miles to the north of the
river, at Samiaveram, where two pagodas were
occupied and strongly intrenched. The following
day the post of Musurpet was attacked, and the
enemy driven out, after killing one officer and three
men of the corps. On the 8th, the small fort of
Lalguddy was taken : the enemy had a magazine of
provisions in it, which were destroyed or carried off.
The government of Pondicherry had sent off a
large convoy of provisions and stores to Seringam,
which arrived at Utatoor on the 14th of April. The
same night Clive set out, with a considerable part of
his force, to intercept it; but the enemy receiving in-
telligence of his advance, retreated. Clive returned
with the utmost celerity to his post at Samiaveram,
and arrived early in the morning, making a march of
twenty-six miles during the night. On the afternoon
of the 15th the French heard of his departure, and,
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT, 67
not expecting his return, thought to surprise the post
during his absence; and at nightfall sent eighty Euro-
peans and 700 Sepoys to attack it. They arrived
at midnight, and having answered in English, were
allowed to march through the Mahratta and Mysore
camp to the smaller pagoda, where, being again
challenged, they replied by firing a volley into the
guard-rooms and a choultry, in which Clive was
asleep. They immediately rushed into the pagoda,
and bayonetted all they met. Clive, starting from
his sleep, imagined that his Sepoys had been alarmed
at some attack on the outskirts of the camp : he,
however, ran to the larger pagoda, where the Euro-
peans there quartered had taken the alarm, and were
under arms. Seeing a large body of Sepoys drawn
up, and firing at random, their confusion confirmed
him in believing them to be his own men. The
Europeans were therefore drawn up twenty paces in
their rear, and he went forward to order them to
cease firing. A Sepoy, perceiving he was an
English officer, attacked and wounded him in two
places. Following the Sepoy to the gate, he was
accosted by a French officer and six men, when
his presence of mind did not forsake him ; for, by
representing that their detachment was surrounded,
and no quarter would be given unless they instantly
surrendered, he induced them to lay down their
arms, and follow him to the large pagoda, where he
hastened to order the Europeans to attack the
Sepoys. On his arrival he found they had marched
F 2
68 . SERVICES OF THE
off unmolested; the Europeans continuing under
the impression that they were their own troops.
Whilst Clive was giving his directions to the
Europeans, a party of eight French came up,
and were instantly seized, and, along with those
who had been before taken, were marched off,
under a small escort, to be lodged in the small
pagodah; on their arrival there it was found to
be in the possession of the enemy, when the
escort were made prisoners, and the French re-
leased. Clive being speedily informed of this,
determined to attack it, and a party moved off on
the instant to the assault; it was beat back with
the loss of an officer and fifteen men of the battalion,
but the enemy making a sally immediately after,
were received so warmly that their officer and twenty
men were struck down by the first fire; the rest re-
treated into the place. Captain Clive going forward
to parley, was fired at, and two serjeants on whom he
was leaning, were shot dead; the enemy then sur-
rendered. During all these transactions the Sepoys
had got out of camp with as little difficulty and
interruption as they had entered it; but orders
having been sent to the Mahrattas to pursue them,
they hastily mounted and overtook them on the
plain; the Sepoys threw away their arms, and
attempted to save themselves by dispersing; but
this savage cavalry, who figure in exploits of the
kind, did, in this instance, fully act up to their usual
custom : not one of the 700 escaped—they were all
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 69
killed to a man. Of the entire French detachment
which entered Samiaveram, not a man returned;
and although the affair on the 15th of April, was
one of the most extraordinary, and from first to
last, a series of the strangest blunders and mis-
takes, and the English in repulsing it, lost many
very valuable lives, yet the serious loss to the
enemy of fully 800 good troops, was as severe a
blow as had been inflicted during the war.
Of the only two posts to the north of the river,
the French remained in possession. The one at
Utatoor, where the convoy remained waiting for an
opportunity to enter Seringam, was the most im-
portant. On the 9th of May, Dalton, with his
grenadiers, and a company of the batallion, in all,
150 Europeans, 400 Sepoys, and 500 Mahratta
cavalry, with four field-pieces, marched to attack it.
Arriving at five o'clock in the afternoon within two
miles of the place, Dalton sent forward a party to
occupy a choultry in his front, intending to rest where
he was, and make a night attack: however, the
choultry was occupied by the enemy; a skirmish
ensued, in which the French were driven out
and followed to within sight of their main body,
which advanced to their support. The English
having lost their officer, mortally wounded, retreated
to the choultry, followed closely by the enemy. On
Dalton's advance, the enemy were in their turn
driven back in much confusion under the walls of
the fort, and the English were only prevented enter-
70 SERVICES. OF THE
ing with them, from being attacked in the rear by
cavalry, who unexpectedly appeared. The Mah-
rattas boldly flung themselves between, and a cav-
alry combat ensued, which was kept up with much
spirit until an English gun was brought to bear ;
the enemy then gave way, and were driven into the
fort, which the French during the night had evacu-
ated ; and made a rapid retreat to Wolcondah,
leaving behind a large quantity of military stores and
ammunition, as well as refreshments for the French
troops at Seringam, who, supposing that Dalton's
detachment was part of Clive's force at Samiaveram,
crossed over to attack it on the 11th ; but Clive
advancing to meet them, they at once retired.
Dalton having remained two days at Utatoor,
marched to join Clive ; and the united forces, as
the river was flooded and impassable, determined to
attack Putchandah, which kept up the enemy's
communication with the country to the north of
the Coleroon: a battery was formed to breach it;
and at a short distance, six pieces were on the 13th
planted on a mound, for the purpose of cannon-
ading the encampment on Seringam. The gar-
rison of Putchandah attempted to interrupt this
cannonade, but failed ; and the breach being prac-
table on the 14th, they made a signal of surrender,
which was agreed to ; but the Sepoys misunder-
standing it, rushed up the breach, carried the place,
and were proceeding to put all to the sword: the
Europeans followed to put a stop to the carnage,
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT, 71
and only succeeded after several of the garrison
had been killed, and fifteen French had jumped into
the river and were drowned. To add to the confu-
sion, the Mahratta cavalry, thinking the Sepoys
would get all the plunder, charged up the breach
sword-in-hand, and were with much difficulty pre-
vented from falling upon the prisoners. The enemy
were spectators of this affair from the opposite side
of the river; and knowing that their camp would
be exposed to a cannonade, besides the other diffi-
culties they had to contend with, in scarcity of
provisions, Chundah Saib's officers tendered their
resignations, and on the 14th of May sent into the
English camp, offering their services, or requesting
a free pass through their posts. After violent ob-
jections on the part of the allies, particularly the
Mahrattas, who wished to plunder them, the pass-
ports were given. Chundah Saib was immediately
deserted ; 2000 of his best horse, and 1,500 foot,
joined Captain Clive; some joined the Mysoreans,
but the rest returned to their own countries. By
the 18th of May not a tent stood on Seringham.
Chundah Saib withdrew within the pagodah, with
no more than 2000 horse and 3000 foot, amongst
whom 1000 Rajpoots undertook to defend the inner
temples. The French occupied Jumba Kistnah
Pagodah, the wall of which was stronger, and more
defensible.
On the 18th of May, (the same day the French
withdrew within the pagodah,) Lawrence invested
72 . SERVICES OF THE
it, although the troops of the enemy were, in num-
ber, double his ; having no battering guns, a train
was sent for from Devi Cottah. -
In the mean time it was of the utmost importance
that the convoy driven from Utatoor, by Dalton,
should be destroyed ; it had taken shelter at Vol-
condah, from which place intelligence had arrived of
its again advancing. Clive marched for this pur-
pose, on the evening of the 27th of May, with 100
Europeans, 1000 Sepoys, 1000 Mahratta horse,
and six field-pieces, and arrived at Utatoor next
morning, to within two or three miles of which the
French had reached; but suspecting Clive's advance,
they suddenly retreated. The Mahrattas were sent
in pursuit; and by showing a small party, at first
amused the enemy, who allowing themselves to
be detained, the rest of the Mahrattas and the
Sepoys, who had outmarched the Europeans, came
upon them, when they hastily retreated, harassed
by the cavalry, and took up a position under the
walls of Volcondah. Six hundred of the English
Sepoys had been in the service of the enemy at the
siege of Arcot, and were part of the remains of those
who had so gallantly stormed the breaches on that
occasion—they were the same men whom Clive had
enlisted after the action at Arnee; since then they
had been repeatedly engaged under Clive, and had
acquired great confidence in themselves, particularly
when supported by Europeans. These men advan-
cing with the utmost rapidity, but in little order,
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 73
were not checked when they got within fire of the
enemy's field-pieces and musketry, which killed and
wounded several, but rushed on at the charge, and
with the bayonet alone, drove all before them
through the barrier; in this they were assisted by
the cavalry, who charged in upon both flanks. The
enemy having gained the wall of the pettah, opened
fire, and checked their further advance. The
Europeans now coming up, forced the barrier, and
again drove back the enemy, who attempted to get
into the fort, the governor of which shut the gates;
but ladders being at hand, they escaladed the wall,
and got in ; the governor in the upper fort threaten-
ing to fire upon them, and the English preparing
to batter in the gate, M. D'Auteuil hung out the
white flag, and terms were soon settled. The whole
party, 100 Europeans, 400 Sepoys, and 340 horse
surrendered themselves prisoners: their artillery
was only three pieces; but three large magazines,
containing, besides a variety of military stores, 800
barrels of powder and 3000 muskets, were found in
the pettah : there was also a large sum of money;
but part had been concealed in M. D'Auteuil's
baggage, and the troops on both sides had also
plundered, so that only 50,000 rupees were regu-
larly taken possession of. The booty regularly
secured, was valued at 10,000l. The native horse
and foot prisoners were disarmed, and set at
liberty, Captain Clive returning to his camp with
his European prisoners and booty, on the 30th of
74 SERVICES OF THE
May. On the following day, Chundah Saib, on
the Sacred promise of not being detained a prisoner,
and being properly used, was induced to give him-
self up to the Tanjore General, who likewise pro-
mised to forward him with a passport to Karecal.
Monackjee broke his oath, seized and put in chains
the captive Prince : the possession of him created
a violent jealousy and ill feeling between all the
native allies, which was carried to such an extent,
that the existence of the confederacy was seriously
endangered. Monackjee, to get rid of the cause of so
much anxiety and danger, came to the determination
of taking the fallen Prince's life, and proceeded
to put this barbarous intention into execution. The
murderer was a Patan, who found the unfortunate
man lying on the ground, unable from sickness to
raise himself up : the entrance of the assassin im-
mediately suggested to his victim the errand on
which he had come. To a request that he might
see Monackjee, to communicate something of the
utmost importance, he was stabbed to the heart,
and his head immediately severed from his body,
and sent to the Nabob Mohamed Ally, at Trichi-
nopoly, who thus for the first time saw the face of
his rival ; after his Court had been gratified with
the sight, the head was tied to the neck of a camel,
and carried several times round the walls of the
city, followed by thousands, insulting it with all the
obsceneness peculiar to natives of India; it was
afterwards packed in a box, and despatched with
an escort to the great Mogul at Delhi.
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 75
By the ignominious and cruel death of this un-
fortunate prince, the war in the south of India was
brought to a close. In his private character Chun-
dah Saib was acknowledged to have been a brave,
generous, and humane man; his military abilities
were much greater than those of most natives; and
had he been in absolute command of the whole
troops, there is every reason to believe that he
would not have committed the many mistakes which
brought about his fall, and the total destruction of
his army; and had the war not terminated to his
advantage he would at least have given the British
much greater trouble. After his death, on the 3d
of June, the French force, materiel, and baggage,
amounting to 800 Europeans, thirty-five commis-
sioned officers, and 2000 Sepoys, surrendered pri-
soners of war. Four mortars, eight cohorns, and
thirty-one pieces of cannon, besides large quantities
of ammunition, stores, and carriages, all in excellent
order, fell into the hands of the British at the same
time. Four hundred of the French prisoners were
escorted by Captain Campbell of the regiment into
Fort St. David, the rest with the artillery and stores
to Trichinopoly.
On the 28th of June the battalion, leaving be-
hind 200 men, with 1500 Sepoys under Captain
Dalton, to garrison Trichinopoly, marched with
2500 Sepoys, and the Nabob at the head of 2000
horse, towards the Carnatic. The Tanjoreans re-
turned to their own country, but the Mahrattas
76 > SERVICES OF THE
and Mysoreans hoping to obtain possession of Tri-
chinopoly by some treachery, remained in their en-
campment to the west of the city. -
. On the arrival of the battalion at Wolcondah the
governor was summoned; he took the oath of alle-
giance, and paid down 80,000 rupees, but refused
to give up his fort. The force from thence marched
to Trivadi, where, after a garrison of French Se-
poys had surrendered, it encamped; Major Law-
rence leaving the command to Captain De Gingens,
went to Fort St. David for his health.
In the latter end of July the French proclaimed
Rajah Saib, the late Chundah Saib's son, Nabob of
the Carnatic, and having received a large reinforce-
ment from Europe, they prepared to take the field.
Shortly afterwards a force, consisting of 500 French
Europeans, 1500 Sepoys, and 500 horse, marched
and encamped within a short distance to the north
of Fort St. David; on which the English marched
from Trivadi, and encamped within the boundary
hedge to the west of the same fort. On the 16th
of August Major Lawrence arrived with a reinforce-
ment and joined the force, which amounted to 400
of the battalion, eight field-pieces, 1700 Sepoys,
and 4000 Nabob's troops, cavalry, and peons. The
French immediately retreated, and after some ma-
noeuvring, the rival armies met at Bahoor. The
Sepoys formed the first line, the battalion the
second with the artillery on its flanks, the Nabob's
troop on the flanks of both lines. The English
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 77
advanced to the attack at daylight, on the 26th of
August, 1752, and their Sepoys coming into con-
tact with those of the French, a heavy fire was kept
up until the day began to dawn, when the French
battalion was discovered drawn up opposite to the
English. After a warm fire both advanced to
charge, and the English grenadiers and two pla-
toons having forced their way through the line, the
French dispersed in all directions, throwing away
their arms to expedite their flight. Upwards of 100
of the French fell by the bayonet alone, besides a
number of others who were killed and wounded by
the fire. Thirteen officers, among them their com-
mander-in-chief Mr. Kerjean, and upwards of 100
men were made prisoners; and had the Nabob’s
cavalry done their duty for half an hour, instead of
rushing to plunder the camp, not one of the enemy
could have escaped. All their guns, fourteen field-
pieces, ammunition and baggage, were taken. The
French force was on this day so completely broken
and destroyed, that they could not again take the
field. -
The battle of Bahoor was one of the very few
affairs on record in modern warfare, where two
corps of about the same strength, after a hot fire,
both at the same time advanced to charge, and ac-
tually met and crossed bayonets; it was not till
after some minutes’ hand-to-hand close fighting,
when the British grenadiers broke through the cen-
tre of the French line, that it gave way; and from
78 - SERVICES OF THE
the loss the regiment sustained, being one officer
killed, four wounded, and seventy-eight men killed
and wounded, mostly by bayonet-thrusts, the resist-
ance the enemy made was very determined and
gallant.
No sooner had the battalion left Trichinopoly,
than the Mysoreans made various treacherous at-
tempts to take the city from the British under Dal-
ton. Five hundred of the Nabob's peons had been
gained over, and promised to join the 700 Myso-
reans, who partly composed the garrison, whenever
they should make the attempt, at a parade of his
troop. Captain Dalton ordered these peons' flints
to be removed, on pretence that he intended giving
them better; but the ringleaders took the alarm,
voluntarily came forward to confess their crime, and
implored pardon ; each of the Jemadars brought
the money he had received in bribe from the Myso-
reans, the principal having received as his share
15,000 rupees. Captain Dalton ordered them to
march next morning, and join Lawrence and the
Nabob at Trivadi. This plot having been frus-
trated, the Mysore Regent bribed two men to shoot
Dalton, who fortunately received intelligence of
their design a few minutes before it was to have
been carried into execution. The assassins having
been secured, one confessed, but the other remained
sullen. The Regent denied all knowledge of the
plot, and at the solicitation of the Mahratta chief,
the men were pardoned after they had been tied up
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 79
to a gun. Five days afterwards, two other Myso-
reans came to a Jemadar, who commanded 180 men
at one of the gates, and attempted to seduce him;
he, however, secured them, and on their being
searched before Captain Dalton the articles signed
by the Regent were found upon their persons.
They confessed the fact, and were immediately
blown away from a gun. This execution struck so
much terror into the Mysore and Mahratta forces,
that the Regent could get no more of his people to
undertake commissions of the kind. He, however,
at last made overtures to a Neapolitan, command-
ing a company of Topasses in the Nabob's service;
but he reported all to Dalton, who directed him to
try and induce the Mysoreans to attempt to enter
the city, by promising to open the gates for them.
This was agreed to, but the Regent was unfortu-
nately deterred from making the attempt, and with-
drew his forces from near the city, and entered into
a treaty with the French.
After the victory at Bahoor, Major Lawrence
recommended the reduction of Chingleput and
Covelong; and a force of 200 European recruits of
the corps lately landed, and 500 undisciplined
Sepoys were sent from Madras for the purpose.
Clive volunteered to command them. On the 10th
of September the party marched against Covelong
with four twenty-four pounders. Before the guns
had been placed in battery, the fort surrendered;
the next morning a party of the enemy were ob-
80 SERVICES OF THE
served advancing to the relief of the place. The
detachment marched out to meet them, and sud"
denly falling upon them, delivered their fire with
such execution, that upwards of 100 men were
knocked over by the first volley. The commanding
officer, twenty-five Europeans, and 250 Sepoys, with
two field-pieces, being besides taken prisoners, in a
charge that instantly followed; the rest flung away
their arms and fled in all directions towards Chin-
gleput, whither Clive immediately followed them.
On his arrival there, the guns were opened, and,
after a partial breach had been made in the outer
wall, the fort surrendered on the 31st of October.
The capture of these two places, effected against a
superior enemy by a handful of raw recruits of the
corps, esteemed at the time much inferior to those
generally sent out by the Company, and a few
undisciplined Sepoys, completed the reduction of
all the country to the north of the Paliar river, be-
tween Sadras and Arcot. The works at Covelong
were blown up, and Chingleput repaired and garri-
soned by the British.
Captain Clive's health requiring change of cli-
mate, he proceeded to Madras for the purpose of
embarking for Europe. The troops returned to
Trivadi, and on the 15th of November, on account
of the monsoon setting in, marched into Fort St.
David. - -
The Regent at Trichinopoly, having recovered
from the alarm he was thrown into, on hearing of
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 81
the victory at Bahoor, sent to Pondicherry for a
reinforcement of French ; and although protesting
that he wished to be the ally of and at peace
with the English, continued to stop and carry into
his camp all supplies entering the city. Dalton
having received instructions from Madras to treat
him as an enemy, marched out of the fort with a
large detachment of his Europeans, and all the
Sepoys, on the night of the 23d of Sept., for the
purpose of beating up his camp. An artillery-officer
was posted opposite the great pagodah of Sering-
am, with directions, when the main body entered .
the camp, to keep up a heavy fire upon it. The
Europeans and Sepoys under Dalton, crossing the
river, entered the camp, bayoneted the sentries
and advanced pickets, whom they found asleep ;
and continuing their advance in double files
from the centre, penetrated well in among the
enemy's tents without opposition, and unperceived,
when they commenced a fire on both flanks from
front to rear. The enemy were quite taken by
surprise, and thrown into the utmost confusion.
Nothing was heard on all sides but the cries of
the wounded, the noise of horses, elephants, and
cattle that had broken loose, and parties firing at'
and fighting with one another in mistake. A few
blue lights, burnt for a short time by the enemy,
only served to shew them more distinctly, and ena-
bled the English to fire with greater effect and pre-
cision: had a petard been brought, the gate of the
G.
82 SERVICES OF THE
pagodah might easily have been forced, and the
Regent taken prisoner. The detachment continued
their fire, until every opponent outside the pagodah
had disappeared; then only did the enemy who
lined its walls think of firing, and in a short time
about twenty men were killed and wounded.—
When the Sepoys had collected as many horses
and as much baggage as they could effectually
secure, they leisurely retired towards the city,
covered by the Europeans. At day-break the
enemy were discovered returning to their en-
campment, but during the day were busily em-
ployed striking and removing their tents and bag-
gage, and before evening had all retired inside
the pagodah. On the 25th, Dalton determined to
bombard it, and took up a position on the bank of
the river. A party of eighty of the regiment and 500
Sepoys, crossing over, were exposed to a sudden
attack of nearly 4000 horse, led by Hera Sing, a
Rajpoot Jemadar of cavalry—the rival at that time,
in military distinction, of the famous Hyder Ali,
afterwards Sultan of Mysore. The English were
unformed, and the cavalry were among them before
they could get into position to receive them ; all but
fifteen men were cut down; and the Sepoys dispers-
ing when they saw the fate of their English com-
rades, had nearly 300 of their best men killed or
disabled; two officers of the regiment, Lieutenants
Wakely and Crowe, fell on this occasion. On the
night of the 30th a small party of the corps attacked
and carried a strongly fortified post called Ulore,
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 83
where a considerable garrison of Mysoreans were
put to the sword. The following day Dalton de-
termined to confine all his exertions to the defence
of Trichinopoly, and in order to rid himself of a
number of troublesome troops, turned all the My-
Soreans out of the city, retaining their commandant,
Gopaulrauze, the Regent's brother.
From this time until the end of March, 1753,
Trichinopoly was closely invested; the enemy di-
recting all their efforts to prevent supplies being
introduced ; and the English commander, having but
few troops under his command, was unable to give
sufficient protection to the stray natives he could
induce to run the risk of bringing provisions into
the place. A party of the enemy's horse every
night lay in wait to intercept these people; and
having, on one occasion, captured a few, they were
instantly horribly mutilated, in order that the ex-
ample might deter others. The following night a
small detachment of Europeans, with two field-
pieces, marched out to surprise this party of horse :
this they effected, inflicting upon them so severe a
loss, that no more parties of the kind were after-
wards sent out in the neighbourhood of the city:
but, to make the investment more secure, the
enemy's army was divided ; one half remaining on
its own ground, and the other occupying an en-
trenched encampment at the Faqueer's Tope, about
two miles south-west of the city. Grain had been
for some time sold at famine prices; and Dalton,
G 2
84 SERVICES OF THE
having reason to doubt the person (an officer of the
Nabob) in charge of the provisions of the garrison,
inspected them, and found that, instead of several
months' consumption, barely fifteen days' rations
remained ; the Nabob's officer having sold the rest,
and appropriated the money. The garrison were
immediately put on short rations, and a dispatch,
communicating their condition, sent off to Major
Lawrence, who, with the greatest part of the corps,
was in the Arcot provinces.
Early in January, 1753, the French equipped a
force of 500 European infantry, a troop of 60
European cavalry, 2000 regularly disciplined Se-
poys, and a superior corps of 4000 Mahratta horse,
under Morai Row, justly considered the best Indian
cavalry, and under the most daring and skilful native
leader of the day. These marched to within sight
of Trivadi, under the walls of which the English
forces, consisting of 700 of the corps, 2000 Sepoys,
and 1500 wretched horse, belonging to the Nabob,
were encamped. Although superior to the French
in Europeans, the British were so miserably off for
cavalry, and their Sepoys were so inferior in point
of discipline, that the superiority of the enemy for
the purposes of a campaign was too obvious.
Could a general action have been effected, the
result of a close conflict could not but have been
favourable to the corps. The enemy prudently
avoided this, hoping, by protracting the war in
the Arcot provinces, to prevent the relief of
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 85
Trichinopoly: the French, accordingly, fortified
their position.
Four days after the armies came in sight of each
other, a large body of Mahratta cavalry, with two
companies of Topasses, and three field-pieces, ad-
vanced towards Trivadi, and cannonaded it. The
grenadiers of the corps, followed by some Sepoys,
advanced rapidly against them, captured their guns,
and drove them, with much loss, about two miles
back towards the French lines, turning the three
captured field-pieces upon them. The Mahrattas,
however, rallied, and again came galloping on
to the attack. The grenadiers reserved their fire
until the enemy were close upon them, when every
shot told; and the artillerymen, serving the guns
with effect, beat them off, with the loss of 100 men
and horses killed. From the great superiority of
the Mahratta Cavalry, and the perfect inefficiency
of the Nabob's, the country people were prevented
bringing any supplies into the English camp; this
obliged Lawrence to draw every thing he required
from fort St. David, and to escort it with the whole
or the greater part of his force, always harassed
by the Mahrattas, who, whenever they thought it
might be attempted with effect, charged up to the
very bayonets of the line. On the 28th of January,
in particular, they accompanied the corps from Tri-
vadi to fort St. David, twelve miles; and the whole
march was one continued series of charges on differ-
ent parts of the line of march, which were as often
86 SERVICES OF THE
repulsed. Their loss in the different attacks was
upwards of 300 men and horses killed: under these
circumstances, they ultimately became so dispirited,
that no attempt was made to molest the troops
on their return to camp with the convoy.
From the beginning of January to the end of
April, the two armies remained within sight of each
other, and on no occasion had the European troops
of the two nations come in contact. Although the
Mahrattas over-ran the whole country between the
Paliar and Coleroon rivers, their constant, almost
daily, attacks on every part of the force at Trivadi,
proved eminently unsuccessful The loss to them-
selves was upwards of 500 horses killed, and more
than 600 men killed and disabled. Nothing could
have been more desperate and spirited than their
attacks; but, although they advanced within almost
touching distance of the bayonet, they were gallantly
repulsed by the steady and resolute firing of the
artillery and the corps. On one occasion only
were they victorious. In February, one of their
detachments galloped up within a short distance of
a redoubt, at the western boundary hedge of fort St.
David : this post was held by a brave but inex-
perienced serjeant of the corps, who, irritated at
their insolent gestures, and thinking to chastise them
and gain reputation and promotion for himself,
marched out into the plain at the head of his party,
consisting of 25 of the corps, and 50 Sepoys.
The enemy retreated, and drew him about half a
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 87
mile from the redoubt, when they suddenly wheeled
about, galloped up, and instantly surrounded him.
The serjeant formed up in a good position, and,
thinking that a general volley would disperse them,
gave the order when they had approached within a
few yards of him. It told with deadly execution;
but, before they could reload, the Mahrattas were
among them, and every swordsman singling out a
particular man, they were all cut to pieces in a few
moments.
The presidency having sanctioned Major Law-
rence’s proposition of storming the French camp,
200 Europeans, of whom 100 were Swiss from
Bengal, with a large convoy of provisions, were
assembled at fort St. David. The battalion marched
from Trivadi to escort them. Returning from Fort
St. David, on passing the boundary hedge, they found
the entire force of the Mahrattas waiting their
approach. Their conduct this day was even more
spirited and determined than usual: whenever the
line was in the least broken or impeded by the
baggage, there was an instant charge upon it. The
convoy could thus, fighting the whole of the way,
advance very slowly. The weather was excessively
hot, and several of the corps fell down dead from
the heat and want of water. When about three
miles from Trivadi, a general attack was made on
the whole line at once, front, flanks and rear, and
was with difficulty repulsed. Many horses fell
within a few paces of the ranks, and among the slain
88 - SERVICES OF THE
was the nephew of Morai Row, the same who came
to Clive's assistance at the siege of Arcot. His
death dispirited his troops, and they retreated to a
distance, having suffered severely. The convoy
then continued their march, and were surprised to
find the French force drawn up in a line on their
right, about a mile from Trivadi. The two Euro-
pean corps advanced towards each other, until the
French came to the side of a water-course, where
they came to a halt, leaving the Sepoys and guns to
protect the convoy. Lawrence pushed on with the
corps to the charge. The French kept up a heavy
fire until the regiment approached within a short
distance, when they broke and ran away. The
English could not follow them, but waited until the
convoy came up, when they continued their march,
and reached Trivadi without any further molesta-
tion. The next day an attack on an advanced
post in front of the enemy's camp, in which the
Grenadiers were perfectly successful, enabled Law-
rence more closely to reconnoitre their works, and
convinced him that they were too strong to be at-
tacked with the force under his command. Whilst
he was considering the necessity of carrying the war
into another quarter, Dalton's dispatch regard-
ing the low state of his provisions, arrived from
Trichinopoly. It was received on the night of the
19th ; and the following morning, leaving a garrison
under the command of Captain Chase, of 150 of
the corps, and 500 Sepoys in Trivadi, he marched
17IRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 89
with the rest of his force to Fort St. David, to
collect the necessary military stores for the relief of
Trichinopoly. As the want of cavalry had been so
much felt in the late operations before Trivadi, it
was arranged that the force for the relief of Trichi-
nopoly should march through Tanjore, and that
Lawrence should endeavour to procure from the
king of that country an efficient body of cavalry.
In the meantime Dalton, at Trichinopoly, had
not been inactive in annoying the enemy, and
procuring small supplies of provisions for the daily
consumption of his garrison. Knowing the Mysore
general, who commanded the force in the intrenched
camp at the Faqueer's Tope, to be a very timid man
in night attacks, he determined, by frequent annoy-
ances, to drive him from his position, and thus, on
one side of the city, open the blockade. To effect
this, a redoubt near the city, and within random-
shot of the enemy, was thrown up, and two pieces of
heavy cannon mounted in it. This post having
been well secured, the guard frequently sallied out
at night with two field-pieces, and fired grape into
the Mysore camp, returning with their guns in the
morning. The enemy never once attempted to
intercept them; and, encouraged by their timidity,
on the night of the 15th of April they fired thirty
rounds of grape, at a short range from each of the
field-pieces, into the camp. The execution was so
severe, that the enemy abandoned their camp in no
little hurry and confusion the following morning,
90 SERVICES OF THE
and joined the rest of the investing army at Sering-
am. The country people were thus induced to
supply the garrison with abundance of provisions,
and on entering the deserted camp, a quantity of
baggage, and a large quantity of grain, was found
and carried into the city.
On the 6th of May, Lawrence entered Trichino-
poly with his convoy, but he had failed in procuring
the Tanjore cavalry; and the number of his Euro-
peans, from the great heat, had been sadly dimi-
nished by deaths on the march: desertions had
also taken place from the Swiss company, and
100 sick were carried into the city. The effective
state, therefore, of the whole corps for field duty,
including what the garrison could spare, was only
500 Europeans, 80 artillery-men, 2000 Sepoys,
and 3000 of the Nabob’s rabble of cavalry. The
day after the English arrived, a reinforcement of
200 French, with four field-pieces, and 500 Sepoys,
joined the Mysoreans at Seringam.
Lawrence having allowed his men three days to
refresh themselves, on the 10th passed over to the
island, to offer the enemy battle. The Nabob's
horse refused to fight, and would not leave their
encampment. On arriving on the island, the corps
was attacked by all the enemy's cavalry. The
Sepoys of the first line were, at first, fairly thrown
into confusion, but speedily recovering, stood their
ground with firmness, and being promptly supported
by part of the European corps, they defeated the
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 91
enemy with severe loss. After a cannonade, from
which the enemy greatly suffered, and a variety of
manoeuvres, the English withdrew at night, with a
loss of two officers killed and three wounded, and a
few men killed and wounded. From the excessive
heat, combined with the want of water and provi-
sions, the troops, after nearly twenty hours’ exposure,
were quite worn out: the operations of the day, how-
ever, proved that in the French commander, M. As-
true, Lawrence had a more able opponent than any
he had yet contended with, and as there would be no
likelihood of dislodging the Mysoreans as long as he
was with them, the English commander devoted his
entire attention to provisioning the garrison : for
this purpose, agents were sent into the neighbour-
ing country, to collect supplies; but as the enemy
had also sent theirs, from one cause and another,
there was hardly a sufficient stock daily procured to
subsist the troops. Lawrence, to secure the com-
munication with Tondiman's country, had occupied
the intrenched camp at Faqueer's Tope, out of which
Dalton had driven the Mysore general. " .
Another reinforcement of 300 Europeans and
1000 Sepoys having joined the enemy, their combined
force exceeded that of the English, and amounted
to 550 Europeans, ten guns, 2500 well-trained
Sepoys, 8000 Mysore and 4000 Mahratta Horse,
200 Topasses, and 15,000 Peons, or irregularly
armed foot-soldiers. To oppose these, Lawrence
had his 500 Europeans, eight field-pieces, and 2000
92 - - SERVICES OF THE
Sepoys, 700 of whom were absent, trying to collect
provisions: 100 Nabob's Horse encamped with the
English, but were worth nothing: the remainder
encamped under the walls of the city. The French
endeavoured to drive the English from the encamp-
ment at Faqueer's Tope, and took possession of
some rocks which commanded it; Lawrence was
consequently obliged to leave his intrenchments and
encamp nearer the city. The enemy, on the 26th
of June, then attacked the Golden Rock, a small
post to the north-east, which, after a gallant resist-
ance from its guard of 200 Sepoys, they carried,
but not before their entire army had been moved
forward to the support of their attacking party.
Lawrence, seeing that the occupation of this rock
would entirely cut off all his communications, and
oblige him to encamp under the walls of the city,
sent a party of Europeans to support the Sepoys;
but the post was carried before they had advanced
many yards: he then ordered all the troops under
arms, and leaving 100 of the corps to protect the
camp, instantly set off with the rest of his force,
consisting of 300 of the Corps, 80 Artillery-men,
and 1300 Sepoys (the rest being absent procuring
rice), and hastened to reach the rock before the
main body of the enemy : the French battalion,
however, arrived some time before him, and formed
in line, their right flank resting on the rock, which
was held by their Sepoys, supported by the French
Grenadiers: their artillery were divided, some in
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT, 93
position to the right of the rock, the others on the
left flank of the French battalion : the Mysoreans
were drawn up in masses on the flanks, and the
Mahratta cavalry threatened the flank and rear of
the English. In the meantime, the British conti-
nued to advance: the Grenadiers, and about 400
Sepoys, were directed to carry the rock with the
bayonet, whilst Lawrence led on the rest to the
attack of the French battalion. The Grenadiers
received their orders with three cheers, dashed on,
keeping their ranks and order, at a rapid run,
followed by the Sepoys, neither returning nor
noticing the shattering fire from the enemy’s line
and guns, and did not halt until the summit of the
rock was gained, and the enemy driven off in
disorder. The French line was drawn up within
pistol-shot below them, and changed its position
slightly to the right to meet Lawrence, who,
wheeling his corps round the base of the hill,
formed up in beautiful line, within twenty paces
of it. The Grenadiers and Sepoys had been,
from the time they carried the hill, firing hotly
on those below ; but after Lawrence's line had
delivered one volley, all rushed down on the enemy,
who instantly fled :—the Mahratta horse gallantly
pushed forward to cover and protect them; a few
of the Grenadiers were cut down whilst seizing the
field-pieces of the Battalion of India, but the guns
were captured and secured, and the cavalry re-
pulsed. The Mahrattas again charged, and were
94 SERVICES OF THE
received in line with so much steadiness and with so
severe a fire, that after a loss of several chiefs and
many men and horses, they gallopped out of shot.
Among the slain was Ballapah, the son-in-law of
Morai Row, a young chief well known and highly
esteemed by all the English regiment, who had
often witnessed his determined gallantry in the for-
mer campaign, whilst fighting on their side. He
and four others had ridden up to the ranks, and cut
at and mortally wounded a Grenadier of the regi-
ment, but in doing so, had broken his sword ; a
grenadier of the corps was loading at the instant
behind his comrade, and, not taking time to with-
draw his ramrod, fired at the chief and shot
him through the body with both ball and rod.*
The French were not rallied until they had got to
the rear of the Mysore army, and all retired to
some distance out of gun-range. Lawrence rested
on the field of battle for three hours to refresh
his men and give the enemy an opportunity of
renewing the engagement: on their showing no
inclination to do so, the prisoners and three cap-
tured guns were secured in the centre of the
column, and he proceeded towards his camp. The
rear had hardly left the Golden Rock, before all
the Mysore and Mahratta cavalry surrounded the
column, and advanced to the attack at speed, ap-
* As a mark of respect to so gallant an officer, Major Lawrence, who had
also known him well when he served with the British in the former war, had
his body conveyed from the field and sent in his own palankeen to his friends
in the Mahratta Camp.
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT, 95
proaching on all sides at the same time, shouting,
cheering, and flourishing their swords and spears.
A spectator would have supposed a handful of
Infantry, scarcely 400 Europeans and 1300 Sepoys,
guarding at the same time seventy European priso-
ners and three captured guns, could not possibly
withstand the furious charge of at least 10,000
of the finest cavalry in India. Whatever may
be their discipline, the appearance alone of so
large a body in rapid motion must have been
most imposing; and such an onset, particularly
from troops who bore the high character of the
Mysore and Mahratta horse of that day, was more
than sufficient to try the courage of the best
soldiers; but the enemy had to deal with tried and
veteran troops, confident in themselves, and con-
vinced that well-disciplined infantry must always
prevail against any cavalry, however powerful.—
Thus was the column halted, and square formed,
and with the most perfect steadiness did it await
this furious onset: when the enemy had approached
within a few yards, a rapid and well directed fire of
both musketry and grape was opened upon them;
the greater number pulled up and stood at gaze for
some minutes,—the remainder still pushed on, al-
though impeded by falling men and horses; a good
many fell within one or two yards of the muzzles of
the guns and the points of the bayonets, and several
were destroyed whilst vainly attempting to ride at and
cut down the men in the ranks: hardly a musket-
shot but told at this short distance on so dense a
96 - SERVICES OF THE
mass. Men and horses rolled over in all directions,
and every discharge of grape from the well-served
field-pieces, opened up lanes in the crowded
ranks of the enemy: nothing could withstand this
slaughter; upwards of 600 men and horses had
fallen in a very few minutes, and the survivors
wheeled about and retired out of shot as rapidly
as they had advanced, leaving the column to return
at its leisure to camp. Thus by the victory at the
Golden Rock was Trichinopoly saved by the de-
termined and desperate gallantry of a handful of
Iſleſ).
The enemy were so dispirited by their defeat,
that neither during the following day or night did
they send out a single patrol, which the English
took advantage of, and in a few hours fifty days’
provisions, which had been collected by the 700
Sepoys sent out for that purpose, were safely
lodged in the city. This main object gained,
Lawrence determined to avoid an engagement until
the arrival of his reinforcement from Madras, which
he directed to join him at Tanjore, whither he
marched on the 2nd of July, accompanied by
the Nabob and fifty of his cavalry : the rest, after
his departure, joined Dalton, the commandant
of Trichinopoly, and relieved him of a dan-
gerous and troublesome incumbrance. Lawrence
was fortunate enough to induce the Tanjore Rajah
to declare in favour of the British, and order his
troops to assemble.
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 97
On the 3d of August a reinforement of 170 men
from the regiment, and 300 Sepoys under the com-
mand of Lieut. Repington, arrived at Tanjore ;
and on the 5th, 3000 Tanjore cavalry and 2000
infantry also joined Lawrence, who on the same
day, (Trichinopoly being in distress for provisions,)
marched towards it, and on the 7th arrived at
Dolaway's Choultry about ten miles east of the
Fort. A heavy fall of rain having flooded the
river, he was detained there the next day, but
on the morning of the 9th commenced his march
with a convoy of some thousands of bullocks laden
with provisions. By the signals made by Dalton
from an observatory on the top of the Rock of
Trichinopoly, the British were given to understand
that the enemy shewed a determination to oppose
them; and as he advanced, Lawrence discovered
them drawn up in force in a strong position ex-
tending from the French to the Golden Rock, at
each of which some of their infantry was posted,
and also at the Sugar-loaf Rock; between both, was
the French battalion with their artillery planted to
advantage; between these rocks were their cavalry
drawn up in different bodies. Lawrence's object
being to avoid an engagement, if possible, and to
deposit his large convoy in safety at Trichinopoly,
he changed his route so as to go round by the
Golden Rock, and at the same time keep out of
the reach of the guns near their centre position.
By this order of march, the provisions and baggage
H
98 - SERVICES OF THE
were on the left flank, with the Nabob, the Tanjore
General Monagee, and the Tanjore troops; whilst
half the Sepoys formed an advanced guard, supported
by a party of Europeans and the first division of
artillery. After these came the regiment, with the
second division of artillery supported by a piquet
of Europeans in its rear; the other half of the
Sepoys brought up the rear of the whole. On
the approach of the British, the French General
Brennier, who had superseded M. Astrue after the
last battle, detached a party of the French battalion
to reinforce the Golden Rock, where they had a
great many Sepoys posted; their main body also
made a motion to support them, and attack the
convoy as it approached. Finding it impossible
to avoid an action, Lawrence determined to prevent
the party from reinforcing the Sepoys on the rock,
and eventually to carry that post. The grenadiers,
the advanced piquet and advanced Sepoys were ac-
cordingly ordered to push for it. The enemy's party
did the same to support it, but notwith the same spirit.
The British outmarched them, and carried the rock,
driving the enemy off with much loss : on seeing
this, their advanced party halted, and presently also
the main body which had moved a very short dis-
tance from the Sugar-loaf Hill to support them.
When the convoy reached the Golden Rock, it was
placed behind it, out of gunshot, the cavalry re-
maining there to protect it; the rest of the British
force was formed to attack the enemy, and cut
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMIENT. 99
off their detached party from the main body, for
which purpose the piquet, grenadiers, and four
platoons of the corps were immediately ordered to
attack them ; and the rest of the force followed,
either to support, or, if they were successful, to join
and push on to the attack of the main body of the
enemy. The British artillery were on each flank of
the main body, to keep in check the enemy’s cavalry
which hovered on the flanks in great force. The
British advanced party were without guns, and ex-
posed to a heavy cannonade; and there being some
misunderstanding regarding the orders of attack,
Lawrence galloped up and assumed command,
sending the commandant he had superseded back
to command the main body. Captain Kirk at the
head of the grenadiers, Captain Kilpatrick with the
piquet, and Lawrence at the head of the four pla-
toons, marched on in line, keeping in admirable
order, in spite of a very smart fire from the enemy's
artillery, by which many men of the regiment fell,
and among the rest the brave Captain Kirk was
killed at the head of his favourite grenadiers, by
whom he was much and deservedly beloved. These
gallant fellows could not see their leader fall without
some emotion: Captain Kilpatrick seeing them at
a stand, put himself at their head, and called upon
them to avenge their beloved Captain's death ; a
speech of the kind delivered by a person whose
spirit and courage was so well known, had its pro-
per effect; the grenadiers roused in a moment,
H 2
100 SERVICES OF THE
swore, after their fashion, they would follow him
to the gates of h-ll! and rushing on to the attack,
drove the enemy before them. The main body,
according to orders, moved on to the support, and
joined in the attack on the French battalion, which
was unable to stand the shock, and did not even
stay to deliver its fire, but ran off in great disorder
round the Golden Rock towards the Five Hills.
To increase their confusion, the division which
had been left behind to secure the baggage, opened
its guns upon them with considerable execution ;
and had the Tanjore horse done their duty, few
could have escaped. The enemy had time to strike
their tents and remove their baggage, leaving little
else on the field but their dead and wounded,
amounting to upwards of 100; three field-pieces
were also captured ; the regiment lost one officer,
killed, and forty men killed and wounded at this
second battle of the Golden Rock on the 8th of
August.
During this affair, Lawrence's empty palankeen
had straggled out of the line of march, and was
captured by the Mahratta horsemen. He sent to
their chief to ransom it ; and as it was the same
the body of Morai Row's nephew had been con-
veyed in to their camp, after the former action, they
were very willing to send it back; but the French
commander hearing of it, secured the palankeen,
and forwarded it to Pondicherry, where, by M.
Dupleix's order, it was carried about the streets
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 101
of that city in triumph, at the same time that it
was reported that Lawrence had been killed, and
the British completely defeated.
After the action, the enemy retreated towards
Weycondah, and the British marched to Trichi-
nopoly, from whence, after two days employed in
securing the provisions inside the city, they moved
towards the Five Rocks. On their approach, the
enemy retreated nearer Seringam to Moutechille-
nour, on the south bank of the river, in such a hurry
as to leave behind a fine 9-pounder and some am-
munition. The strength of their position rendering
it impossible to attack them, Lawrence marched
to cover the arrival of some convoys from Tanjore,
and the same day the enemy received a large re-
inforcement equal to the whole British force,
consisting of 400 Europeans, six guns, 2000
Sepoys, and 3000 Mahratta cavalry, under M.
Astrue, who had been reinstated in his former
command.
After this, several of the British convoys were
attacked, particularly one on the 28th of August,
by 3000 Mahratta horse, who advanced so boldly
to the charge, that several horses were bayoneted ;
the enemy were, however, repulsed with very
severe loss.
A number of the men of the regiment dying and
falling sick, the camp was moved to the French
Rock on the 1st of September ; the enemy at the
same time moved and encamped with the Sugar-
102 SERVICES OF THE
loaf Rock on their right and the Golden Rock on
their left. They threw up a line of strong field-
works, commencing from the Sugar-loaf Rock and
extending along their front about 500 yards towards
the rock on their left; a line had also been com-
menced, pointing south, to protect the left flank,
but had not been finished : within this, protected
on their right and front by the Sugar-loaf Rock
and the field works, and on their left by the unfi-
nished line, were encamped the French battalion,
their artillery and Sepoys; to their right beyond
the rock were the Mahratta and Mysore infantry,
whose front and right flank was secured by a line of
intrenchments. All the cavalry were distributed in
rear of both camps, and a few between the French
unfinished intrenchments and the Golden Rock,
which was occupied by 100 of the French bat-
talion, 1,500 Sepoys, and two guns.
Until the 16th of September, both forces remained
within sight of each other, the French in their in-
trenched camp, the British on the plain: on that
day a reinforcement from Madras arrived within
sight of Trichinopoly. To distract the enemy's
attention, the force drew up and offered battle,
which was refused, but an affair was brought on
between two parties of Europeans on each side,
which ended in the repulse of the French; and in
the mean time the reinforcement of 237 Europeans
and 300 Sepoys arrived in the British camp under
the command of Captains Calliaud and Ridge.
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 103
This instilled great spirit into the corps, and
determined Lawrence to attack the enemy as
soon as possible; indeed his necessities compelled
him to do so: there was a scarcity of every thing in
camp, not above three days’ provisions, and no con-
voys could be brought in without risking an engage-
ment; it was a great object therefore to engage the
enemy with the utmost promptitude. On the 20th
of September, the better to mask his intentions,
he marched out into the plain and cannonaded their
camp from an 18-pounder, intending the following
day to storm it.
Early on the morning of the 21st of September,
before 4 A. M., Lawrence formed his column of
attack. The regiment, 600 strong, was divided
into three divisions, and formed a column at suffi-
cient distance to wheel into line if required on
either flank: the Sepoys followed in the rear to the
right and left of the divisions, and the Nabob and
Monagee with their cavalry, brought up the rear of
all; the artillery were divided on each flank of the
regiment. The leading division of the corps con-
sisted of the grenadiers, the piquets, and two pla:
toons; it was ordered to advance upon the Golden
Rock and carry it. The whole left their camp in
the utmost silence, and the moon, which was shining
brightly, having suddenly become clouded as they
neared the rock, they approached within a few yards
before they were perceived, when the enemy were
so much surprised, that they even forgot to fire
104. - SERVICES OF THE
their two pieces of cannon, which were loaded with
grape, and the infantry fired their muskets off at
random without injuring any one. The rock was
carried in an instant, and its defenders fled with the
greatest precipitation towards the French camp :
little time was spent in dismounting the guns and
securing the post. The leading division of the
corps being again formed, all advanced briskly in
the same order to attack the enemy’s camp, which
they entered by the unfinished works on its left:
the enemy had by this time drawn up to receive
them, and the day began to dawn as the British
advanced to where the French corps was formed up
in line ; their fire, both from artillery and musketry,
was brisk but badly directed. A large body of
Sepoys were drawn up on the left flank of the
French corps, and were firing heavily, but the Sepoys
on the right of the British were ordered up and
forming line with it quickly drove them back. The
left wing of English Sepoys having pushed on out-
side the entrenched works to the right of the French
regiment, attacked the Sugar-loaf Hill, and carried
it in gallant style, keeping up a heavy fire on the
masses running about the Mahratta and Mysore
camp. During this time the regiment had formed a
line to the front on its leading division, and advanced
briskly towards the French battalion. Captain Kil-
patrick was, on this occasion, severely wounded, and
several officers and many men had fallen. Captain
Calliaud, who had succeeded Kilpatrick in command
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 105
of the grenadiers, observing the flank of the French
regiment exposed, from the flight of their Sepoys,
wheeled rapidly to his left, charged in upon it, and,
after a very short melée, drove them in confusion
upon their centre; the other two divisions advan-
cing at the same time at the charge, completed the
rout; and the enemy broke and fled, hotly pursued
by the grenadiers, who bayoneted several and took
many prisoners. The enemy were defeated at all
points, and abandoned their camp, leaving their
tents standing, and all their artillery (eleven pieces),
ammunition, and baggage. The French battalion lost
100 men killed, and 100 wounded, and prisoners;
among the latter were M. Astrue and nine officers.
The English Sepoys behaved exceedingly well, and
did much execution among the enemy : nearly 1000
Mahrattas and Mysoreans were killed and wounded.
The plain was covered with the flying enemy making
for the island in the greatest hurry and confusion.
The Tanjore cavalry for a time acted with great
spirit, but as the day dawned, and they could more
distinctly see the camp, they could not withstand
the temptation, and all were soon busily engaged in
plundering: had they continued the pursuit, few of
the French battalion could have escaped. In addi-
tion to the prisoners taken during the action, about
200 of the French battalion were picked up or killed
wandering in Tondiman's and the Tanjore country;
and after the action, whilst they were passing towards
Seringam, Dalton sallied out of Trichinopoly, and
106 SERVICES OF THE
captured nearly thirty, making a total loss in priso-
ners to the French regiment of about 300 men.
In this action, called the battle of the Sugar-loaf
Rock, the regiment lost seventy men and six offi-
cers killed and wounded. Lawrence was wounded
slightly in the arm; Kilpatrick was shot through
the body, and thinking it was mortal, he would not
permit any of the men to remain by him, but sent
them on in pursuit of the enemy. Some straggling
Mahratta horsemen having come round towards
the rear of the regiment, discovered him lying in
a helpless state, and as they passed, cut at him
with their sabres : he received several wounds, and
would no doubt have been killed, had not the
surgeon of the regiment come up, and with his small
party of assistants dispersed the cowardly assailants.
In the evening, Lawrence moved to attack Wey-
condah, a strong fortified place a few miles off.
During the following day and night he had nearly
made a practicable breach, and early in the morning,
some of the enemy having been observed attempting
to escape by a sally-port, they were driven back by
a body of Sepoys, who following them up, made a
dash at the unfinished breach, from which they were
repulsed with some loss. Nothing daunted, they
made a rush at the gateway, and an English serjeant
of the corps having mounted on a Sepoy's shoulders,
scaled the wall, and planted the colours of one of the
Sepoy companies on it; he was soon joined by
about twenty Sepoys, some of whom unfastened the
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 107
gate, and in a few minutes the fort was taken and
nearly all the garrison killed. -
On the following day the force marched and
encamped at the French Rock, and Lawrence
dispatched an officer to the King of Tanjore to
hasten the supply of provisions, who succeeded in
part, and a three months’ supply was laid up in
Trichinopoly. -
The monsoon setting in, Lawrence, in addition
to the sick, left 150 men of the regiment to aug-
ment the garrison of Trichinopoly, under command
of Captain Kilpatrick (Dalton being obliged to go
to the Presidency on account of his health), and
marched his force into cantonments at Koillady,
about fifteen miles to the east of Trichinopoly. A
small garrison was also left in the small fort of
Elmiseram ; by this means the communication was
kept open, and the troops were subsisted from the
Tanjore country without indenting on the stores at
Trichinopoly. The regiment was very sickly at
Koillady; six officers and a great many soldiers
died in less than six weeks.
About the same time, a very gallant action was
fought near Tripetty by about forty men of the
regiment, two companies of Sepoys, and three field-
pieces, under command of Lieut. Holt and Ensign
M“Kensie. This detachment was ordered to march
from Madras and defend Tripetty, then threatened
by a predatory Chief named Mahomed Camal, with
5000 horse and foot, and several pieces of artillery.
108 SERVICES OF THE
It was attacked on the open plain near Trivadi by
the entire force of the enemy, who were defeated
after an obstinate resistance; their chief, his stand-
ard, and all his artillery, with a large quantity of
baggage, being taken. The detachment suffered
severely, having lost Lieut. Holt, a brave young
officer, who was killed leading his men on to the
charge : the enemy suffered severely, and were
entirely dispersed. Mahomed Camal was delivered
over to the Nabob, who beheaded him.
In the beginning of November, the French at
Seringam had received a reinforcement of 300
Europeans, 200 Topasses, and 1000 Sepoys, with
some artillery, but they did not venture out into
the plain, although Lawrence remained at Koillady,
and no reinforcement had joined him from Madras.
On the morning of the 28th, the piquets reported to
Lawrence their having heard heavy firing towards
Trichinopoly ; he remained in much suspense until
the evening, when a dispatch from Kilpatrick arri-
ved, informing him that on the night of the 27th the
whole French force had crossed over from the
island and attacked Trichinopoly; the Mysoreans
and Mahrattas were distributed round the city for
the purpose of distracting the attention of the gar-
rison, whilst the real attack was made on what was
called Dalton's battery, formerly a gateway, but
lately formed by that officer into an outwork, cut off
from and commanded by the works in the body of
the place, on which three field-pieces were planted
FIRST MADRAs EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 109
for the express purpose; 600 of the French bat-
talion were to escalade at this point, and 200 more,
with a body of Sepoys under M. Maissin, formed
the reserve, and were prepared to follow the first
party when they got over the walls. At three in
the morning of the 28th of November, they passed
the ditch at a place nearly dry, planted their ladders,
and all entered the battery without alarming the
guard of fifty Sepoys and two European gunners, who
were at once dispatched without disturbing the gar-
rison. Some of the enemy, however, stumbling
into a pit in the dark, their muskets went off and
gave the alarm. The French immediately turned
the guns in the battery against the place, and two
parties moved forward, one to force open the small
gate leading into the fort, the other to escalade.
The garrison had by this time got to their posts, and
Lieut. Harrison, a young officer of great intelli-
gence, being second in command, assumed the chief
controul. His commandant, Captain Kilpatrick,
being confined to his bed from his late wounds, he
directed a heavy fire to be kept up by a party he
detailed for the purpose on the approach to the
small gate; and it was fortunate he did so, as the
petardier and his guide were afterwards discovered
killed within ten yards of it. The escaladers had
so far succeeded as to plant their ladders against
the inner wall, and began to mount : the command-
ing officer of the party, preceded by his drummer,
were the first to reach the top ; the latter was killed
110 SERVICES OF THE
and thrust over the wall, the officer received a shot
and cut at the same time, and was pulled inside.
The frequent flashes of fire were the only guide the
artillery officer had to point his guns, with which
he so well succeeded, having loaded them with
grape, as to shatter the ladders, kill a number of
men, and entirely disconcert their well concerted
scheme.
*Phe enemy attempted to retreat, but all their
ladders being broken, they had no other alternative
than to leap down to the bottom of the wall on the
hard rock, a drop of upwards of twenty-eight feet;
about one hundred made the attempt, but not one
escaped fractures or other most serious injuries: the
rest, in despair, turned and recommenced a fire upon
the works. Lieutenant Harrison, with the greatest
part of the Europeans, remained at this post, and
the fire was kept up at about twenty paces distance
between the two parties; the French exposed from
head to foot, and the English in a higher position
behind the ramparts. The enemy at last ceased
firing, and concealed themselves behind the guns in
the embrasures, or wherever they could find shelter;
when the day dawned and discovered their situation,
they threw down their arms and surrendered: 360
prisoners were taken, and about 100 killed and
wounded; eight officers of the French battalion
were made prisoners, nearly all wounded, and one
killed; of those who escaped over the wall several
were killed, and all the rest much disabled and in-
jured.
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 1 II
Trichinopoly was thus saved from the greatest
risk it had ever been exposed to during the war, and
at an unprecedented loss to the enemy of fully 500
Europeans. Three nights after, about 8000 dis-
mounted Mahratta and Mysore horse volunteered
to storm at the same place, and at midnight they
advanced to within a short distance of it, but finding
the garrison on the alert, their courage failed them.
To Lieutenant Harrison's courage and intelli-
gence may be entirely attributed the successful
repulse of so daring and determined an attack.
Kilpatrick could not leave his bed, but continued to
issue his orders, giving his second in command dis-
cretionary powers to act for the best. Shortly after
this, Lieutenant Harrison died ; he was an officer of
great promise and much respected.
Lawrence arrived to the relief of the city on the
3d December ; the number of the prisoners obliged
him to augment its garrison to 300 Enropeans, and
1500 Sepoys; 150 of the corps were likewise in
hospital : the whole force he had in the field was
600 of the corps, including artillery-men, and 1800
Sepoys. The French battalion, reinforced by 200
men, was equal to the English; they had besides
400 Topasses, 6000 Sepoys, and the Mysore and
Mahratta armies ; but notwithstanding this su-
periority, and the Tanjore troops not having joined
the English, the enemy did not quit their encamp-
ment. .
The plain of Trichinopoly, from being so long a
112 SERVICES OF THE
battle-ground, had scarcely a tree standing for miles
round; firewood could only be procured at a distance;
provisions likewise came chiefly from the Tanjore
and Tondiman's countries, and were escorted into Tri-
chinopoly with detachments of about 150 Europeans,
and 500 Sepoys, a force the enemy's cavalry were
always afraid to attack; convoys were safely
brought in by detachments of this strength, during
January and the early part of February (1754); in
the middle of the latter month a large detachment
was sent to escort about 3000 bullocks loaded with
military stores as well as provisions; it consisted of
100 grenadiers, and eighty of the European corps,
four field pieces, and 800 Sepoys; this, although a
third of the force, was inadequate to the protection
of the convoy, which unfortunately was commanded,
in regular turn of duty, by an officer of little ex-
perience and less ability. The enemy receiving intel-
ligence of its return, despatched 400 French, 6000
Sepoys, and 12,000 Mahratta and Mysore horse to
attack it. On the 15th at daybreak it was con-
tinuing its march, not suspecting danger, and al-
though several small parties of horse were seen on
both flanks at a distance, no proper dispositions were
made; on the contrary, the detachment was kept dis-
persed in small parties along the flanks of the carts
and bullocks who covered an extended straggling line.
The Mahrattas and Mysoreans (being commanded
by Hyder Naik, afterwards the famous Hyder Ali,
Morai Row, and Juneskhan,) soon perceived the
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. II.3
defect, and at once charged at the head of all their
cavalry, and falling at once on the fronts, flanks,
and rear of all the little detached parties at the
same time, they had only time to give one discharge,
when their resistance became confused and pell-
mell, although protracted until the French came up,
who forced the Mahrattas to draw off and give
quarter. Only thirty of the detachment were unin-
jured, 100 were wounded and fifty killed; the
whole convoy, guns, military stores, and 7000l. in
money, was captured ; of eight officers of the corps,
five were killed and the rest wounded, one, the com-
manding officer, mortally. Lieutenant Revel, the
same who served with so much distinction at the de-
fence of Arcot, under Clive, was cut down in the
act of serving one of his guns; he was justly con-
sidered one of the most gallant officers of his day.
This was by far the most severe reverse sustained
by the English during the whole of the war; it
swept off one-third of the battalion, and what
rendered it irreparable was the loss to the East
India Company of that gallant company of grena-
diers, whose courage had on all occasions decided
the victory, and who had rendered more sterling ser-
vice to the state, than the same number of troops
belonging to any nation in any part of the world.
On the receipt of this disastrous intelligence at
Madras, 180 Europeans, under Captain Pegou,
were sent by sea to Devi Cotta, where they were
ordered to halt until joined by some eavalry.
I
I 14 - SERVICES OF THE
Notwithstanding this loss, Lawrence kept his
ground on the plain of Trichinopoly, and by ad-
vancing his patrols and foraging parties towards
Tondiman's country, succeeded in daily procuring
scanty supplies. In this harassing duty, he was
much assisted by Mahomed Issoof, an excellent
partizan officer, and at that time commander-in-
chief of all the Sepoys in the British service.
1754. On the 12th of May, a party under Cap-
tain Calliaud, of 120 of the corps, two field-pieces,
and 500 Sepoys, accompanied by Mahomed Issoof,
marched early in the morning beyond the Sugar-
loaf Rock to meet and escort into camp a convoy of
provisions. On arriving at their ground they found it
already occupied by the enemy. Calliaud lost no
time, but at once formed line, placing the Euro-
peans on the left, and natives on the right, and
directed Mahomed Issoof to attack the left, whilst
he advanced against the right of their position;
both attacks were made at the same time, with the
utmost vigour, and the enemy were driven out of
their position in confusion, and with much loss.
After day had dawned, the enemy, who numbered
250 Europeans with four guns, 1000 Sepoys, and
4000 Mysore horse, made an effort to recover their
lost ground, and their entire army crossed the river
from Seringam, and advanced to their support.
Captain Polier who commanded in Trichinopoly, in
room of Lawrence confined to his bed, imme-
diately marched with the rest of the force to the
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 115
assistance of his convoy, and reached Sugar-loaf
Rock with very little loss beyond the disabling
of two of his gun-carriages; but before the two
guns could be placed on spare ones, the entire army
of the enemy, amounting to 700 European infantry,
50 European dragoons, 5000 Sepoys, and 10,000
horse, were drawn up to oppose them. The corps had
only 360 men on the field, 1500 Sepoys, and twelve
troopers. Polier took up a position of great strength
near his own camp, not, however, without the loss of
several killed and wounded, (himself in two places,)
which obliged him to give up the command to Cal-
liaud. In the meantime, the French advanced to
the attack, but were received so warmly by the fire
of the English guns, that they were thrown into
slight confusion. Perceiving this, Calliaud ad-
vanced against them at the charge, and drove them
back far out of the reach of gunshot, and no in-
ducement of their officers could persuade them
again to advance to the attack. Their Sepoys and
cavalry, seeing the flight of their European allies,
also retired, and the whole retreated together to
their camp on the island, with a loss of 200 of their
Europeans and 300 Sepoys killed and wounded ;
whereas that of the English was only fifty-nine Eu-
ropeans killed and wounded, six out of nine officers
wounded, and 150 Sepoys killed and wounded. The
detachment brought up the convoy, and quietly re-
gained their camp. -
After this severe check, the enemy, fearing to
I 2
116 SERVICES OF THE
attack the corps in their camp, over-ran the neigh-
bouring countries and entered Tanjore; cutting the
bank over the river at Koillady. Lawrence, expect-
ing this would induce the Tanjoreans again to join
him, determined to move towards that country.
Having left 100 Europeans in the city to make up its
garrison to 400, he marched to Tanjore, where Pe-
gou with his reinforcement joined him; he remained
there until the 22d July, by which time the King of
Tanjore had agreed to assemble an army to assist.
in carrying on war against the French. He subse-
quently encamped within a short distance of Tan-
jore, until joined by another reinforcement of two
companies of the Bombay regiment, about eighty
of the corps, and 200 Topasses from Madras; and
the Tanjore contingent being collected on the 15th
of August, the united force were reviewed before
the king. The English consisted of 1000 men in
battalion, 200 Topasses, 3000 Sepoys, and fourteen
guns; the Tanjoreans 2500 cavalry, and 3000
infantry, mostly armed with muskets, besides
Some small guns. .* F. s
On the 16th, this force entered the plains to the
south of Trichinopoly, intending to reach it by the
Sugar-loaf and French Rocks; the enemy marched
out of Seringam to oppose them. The French had
900 Europeans and 400 Topasses in battalion, 5000
disciplined and well-armed Sepoys, and 10,000 My-
sore and Mahratta cavalry. The British took up a
position of some strength, having their Europeans,
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT, I 17
Topasses, Sepoys and guns in the first line, and the
Tanjoreans on the flanks and rear to protect the con-
voy. The French came on with much confidence,
but were so warmly received that, after sustaining
considerable loss, they retreated in much disorder,
which Lawrence was prevented taking advantage of
by a daring and successful attack made by Hyder
Naik, afterwards Hyder Alli, sultan of Mysore, on
his baggage. This skilful soldier perceiving, from
a false movement of the Tanjore general, that the
baggage was exposed, swept round the base of the
French Rock, and fell upon it, capturing and carry-
ing off thirty-six carts before he could be driven off.
The enemy profited by the time spent in collecting
the baggage and restoring order,and before the Bri-
tish could advance they had withdrawn to Seringam.
Lawrence, meanwhile, proceeded with his convoy,
and encamped under the city walls; his loss in this
engagement was eighteen men killed, and among
them Captain Pegou, an officer of spirit and great
promise: that of the French battalion was 160 killed
and severely wounded. This action, called the
battle of the French Rock, was almost entirely a
cannonade; and the British, having a large convoy
under their protection, fought under every dis-
advantage.
The following day, after driving the enemy into
Seringam, Lawrence detached the Tanjore troops
with 220 Europeans and 600 Sepoys, under Cap-
tain Joseph Smith of the corps, to the great tank of
118 . SERVICES OF THE
Koillady, the bunds of which the enemy had de-
stroyed in May, the Tanjore king having requested
that the labourers repairing it might be protected.
The monsoon setting in on the 13th of September,
the rest of the corps and the Sepoys went into can-
tonments at the Warriore Pagodas. At this time, a
squadron under Admiral Watson, with some Com-
pany's ships, arrived at Madras, having on board a
king's regiment, “Aldercorn's,” now H. M.'s 39th,
about 700 strong, which being the first of H. M.'s
regiments that set foot in India, has the honour of
wearing the distinguishing motto of “Primus in
Indus.” From the same fleet also were landed forty
of the Royal Artillery, and 200 recruits for the
corps. The French had also, about the same pe-
riod, received 1200 Europeans, of whom 600 were
a regiment of hussars, commanded by Fitcher, a
partizan officer of considerable reputation and merit;
each side was thus able to bring into the field about
2000 Europeans.
From its formation into a regular regiment in
1748, until the arrival of the first of H. M.'s re-
giments at Madras in September, 1754, the Com-
pany's Madras European regiment with the two
detachments from the Bombay European regiment,
under command of Captains Andrews and Forbes,
sent to the Coromandel Coast, had been engaged,
and borne the principal share in all the very mu-
merous affairs and actions fought in Southern India :
its devotion and gallantry had invariably been con-

FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 119
spicuous, and there are few instances on record
where so many distinguished services have been
performed by such a handful of men, with such uni-
form determination and valour, on most occasions,
under particularly disadvantageous circumstances
and against Superior numbers. It is not too much
to assert that the early services of the Com-
pany’s Madras European regiment, under its dis-
tinguished commanders Lawrence and Clive, up to
the arrival of the first king's regiment at Madras,
laid the foundation of the British power in Southern
India. During the eight years' operations against
the French, in which the corps was engaged, nearly
2000 of the French had been killed in action, up-
wards of 2000 taken prisoners, of whom sixty-
two were officers, and 105 pieces of cannon cap-
tured. -
In the beginning of the following year, when
peace was proclaimed at Madras, there were 900
French soldiers of the battalion of India prisoners
of war, whereas only 250 of the corps were in the
enemy's prisons. - -
On the 11th of January, 1755, peace was con-
cluded between the French and English in India,
and the battalion for a time was not called upon to
act against its European rivals, the French battalion
of India. During the whole of the year it was,
however, actively employed in a very harassing
and cruel warfare, bringing under subjection to the
Nabob his revolted subjects the Polygar chiefs, in
120 SERVICES OF THE
the countries round Madura and Tinnevelly. This
was entirely a jungle warfare.
The Polygars and Colleries, a rude, warlike and
Savage people, fought with every advantage, in
their native fastnesses, against regular troops; and
although European discipline and gallantry even-
tually prevailed, the war was not brought to a suc-
cessful conclusion before many valuable men had
been lost to the corps, and some severe examples,
particularly at the fort of Nellicottah, where the
garrison were put to the sword, had taught the
enemy that it was useless to contend longer.
During this year also, several attempts were made
by the Regent of Mysore, to gain possession of
Trichinopoly through treachery; but all were frus-
trated by the vigilance and determination of part of
the corps that garrisoned it. In October, Clive ar-
rived at Bombay from England with 300 European
recruits for the Company; soon after his arrival
there, it was decided to attack the Pirate Angrias'
forts on the western coast of India.
On the 11th February, 1756, the fleet under
Admiral Watson, having on board 800 Europeans,
the greater part composed of the Bombay European
Regiment, and 1000 Sepoys under Clive, arrived
off the famous fort of Gheira. After a severe can-
nonade from the ships, the troops were landed, and
the forts taken possession of by Colonel Clive. In
them were found 200 pieces of cannon, and a large
quantity of ammunition, besides naval and military
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 121
stores; the money and effects of other kinds
amounted to upwards of 120,000l. In the begin-
ning of April, the fleet returned to Bombay and re-
fitted; about the end of the month it sailed, having
on board Clive, and a number of the Europeans
who were at Gheira, and arrived at Madras on the
12th May.
Clive proceeded to take charge of Fort St.
David, where he arrived on the 20th of June, the
very day on which the Nabob of Bengal took Cal-
cutta, intelligence of which unfortunate event, to-
gether with the melancholy loss of life from the
confinement of the English prisoners in the Black-
hole, reached Madras on the 16th August. On
the 18th, Clive was offered the command of the
expedition to retake Calcutta. After some consul-
tations regarding the force to be employed,—as by
this time advices had been received from England,
that war between France and England would shortly
be declared, and that reinforcements were on their
voyage out from France,—it was decided to des-
patch a sufficient force not only to retake Calcutta,
but to attack the Nabob of Bengal in his capital.
At this time, the forces of the rival nations on the
coast of Coromandel amounted each to about 2,000
Europeans, and 10,000 Sepoys, both separated in
detachments, in different garrisons, in an extent of
about 600 miles.
A sloop of war was despatched to Fulta, to in-
form the English, who had taken refuge there after
122 SERVICES OF THE
the loss of Calcutta, of the intended armament,
and on the 16th October, the fleet, consisting of six
ships of war, and several transports, having on board
900 Europeans and 1500 Sepoys, sailed from
Madras Roads: of the Europeans 250 were of
H. M.'s 39th, the rest were picked men from the
Madras European battalion. -
On the 20th December, the fleet, with the ex-
ception of two vessels containing 250 Europeans,
arrived, and found Major Kilpatrick with a small
detachment of not more than 100 men, only fifty of
whom were fit for duty; these, however, daily re-
covering their health, and a company of seventy
volunteers, in a measure made up the loss of the 250
troops not arrived. On the 27th December, all the
ships weighed and stood up the river as far as
Moyapore, ten miles from the Fort of Budge-Budge,
which it was determined to attack the following day;
on the morning of which, all the men of H.M.'s 39th
who were present, amounting to 120, the remainder not
having arrived, were kept on board ship ; whilst 500
of the Madras Europeans, with 1500 Sepoys, and two
field-pieces, were landed a few miles from the fort
under Colonel Clive, and proceeded to its attack.
Whilst the troops were resting after the fatigue of a
long march and dragging their guns through the
mud, they were attacked by Mouick Chund, the
Governor of Calcutta, with 2,000 foot and 1500
horse; the enemy being under cover, stood for a
short time, but were ultimately dislodged and re-
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 123
pulsed with considerable loss; several of the corps
were wounded, and one ensign killed. The follow-
ing day the fort having been previously fired upon
from the fleet, was evacuated; but in a skirmish
with some of the retreating enemy, Captain Camp-
bell of the corps was killed.
On the 1st of January, 1757, the fleet arrived
before Alighur, which, with Thanah, was found
abandoned; in them fifty pieces of cannon were
found. The next morning Clive landed with most
of the Europeans and Sepoys, and marched to-
wards Calcutta. The ships had, however, arrived
before him, and after a short cannonade the enemy
evacuated the fort, and it was taken possession of,
and the English colours hoisted by Captain, after-
wards Sir Eyre Coote, who was landed from the
ships with the detachment of his regiment, the 39th.
On the 12th the fort of Hooghly was captured by
a small party of Europeans of both corps, under
Coote, who detached a party to the northward,
which captured and destroyed several granaries. On
the 19th all returned to Calcutta. -
During this time, news arrived, vid Aleppo, of
war between Great Britain and France, and there
being 300 Europeans and a train of field-artillery
at the French settlement of Chandernagore, it was
determined to treat with the Nabob, and thus pre-
vent the junction of the French with him ; but the
attempt was unsuccessful, and he advanced to re-
take Calcutta and punish the English. On the 2d
124 SERVICES OF THE
of February his army entered the Company's limits,
and on the following day closely invested Calcutta.
On the 4th Colonel Clive determined to attack him
in his camp. At midnight 600 sailors having been
landed, the whole, consisting of 650 Europeans in
battalion : 100 artillerymen, 800 sepoys, six field-
pieces, and the sailors marched out of the fort; at
day-light they came upon the enemy's advanced
guards, which were quickly driven in. A dense fog
coming on, they continued their march towards
where the Nabob was supposed to have encamped;
and after repulsing a well-executed charge by a
body of Persian cavalry, continued on through the
enemy's camp, and returned to Calcutta on the
opposite quarter from whence they had set out.
The troops were much exhausted by the day's work,
and the loss was considerable. Twenty-seven of the
Europeans, twelve sailors, and eighteen Sepoys were
killed; seventy Europeans, twelve sailors, and thirty-
five Sepoys wounded ; Captains Pye and Bridges
of the corps were killed, also Mr. Belcher, Colonel
Clive's secretary; Mr. Ellis of the civil service, a
volunteer, lost his leg by a round shot. The ene-
my's loss was severe; twenty-two officers of distinc-
tion, 600 men, 500 horses, four elephants, and
several camels were killed and wounded ; and the
Nabob, from being so near the tumult of the fight,
from which he could not escape, was impressed with
such dread of his enemies, as on the following day
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 125
to make terms with the English, and withdraw from
their territory. -
In the meantime, one of the missing ships of
war, with the remainder of the detachment of Alder-
corn's (the 39th) regiment, having arrived together
with two companies, 400 men of the Bombay Euro-
pean regiment, under Captains Bucannan and Arm-
strong, and one of artillery from Bombay in Com-
modore James' squadron, it was determined at once
to attack the French settlement of Chandernagore.
On the 14th of March hostilities commenced. The
ship containing the detachment of Aldercorn's re-
giment, having so many sick on board, was obliged
to leave the river, and proceeded to Vizagapatam,
where ninety of the corps were landed to reinforce
that garrison. The vessel then proceeded to Ma-
dras, and landed the rest ; thus was the army, at
the commencement of the campaign, deprived of the
services of a considerable number of soldiers, both
of H. M.'s 39th, and the corps. - - -
On the 22nd, the batteries against Chandernagore
were completed; the ships moved up next day, and
commenced the bombardment. At sunrise on the
23d, the batteries on shore opened their fire, and
shortly afterwards, the ships having dropt anchor at
their several stations, a furious cannonade was kept
up until 9 o'clock A. M., when a flag of truce was
hoisted, and at 3 P. M. the fort capitulated. The
loss to the army on shore was about forty Euro-
peans killed and wounded, of whom about twenty
126 SERVICES OF THE
belonged to the corps: on board the ships thirty-
two were killed and 120 wounded; among the for-
mer, Mr. Perrot, first lieutenant of H. M. S. Kent,
and among the latter, Captain Speke, of the same
ship: the shot which carried away part of the
latter's leg, killed his son, a midshipman, who was
standing close to him. Captain Speke's abilities
had eminently contributed to the successes of the
squadron, and his character and reputation justly
stood very high in India. The loss to the enemy
was forty killed and seventy wounded ; the garrison
consisted of 600 Europeans and 300 Sepoys; only
300 of the former were, however, regulars, the rest
being European inhabitants of the town, and some
sailors; their defence was most gallant, as few had
before seen service. The immediate reduction of
the place was entirely owing to the navy, whose
fire, during the three hours it lasted, did more
execution than the batteries on shore could have
effected in several days. Before Chandernagore
surrendered, about fifty Europeans and several
officers marched away towards Patna : the plunder
of Chandernagore was estimated at 100,000l.
Contrary to the orders of the Madras govern-
ment, Clive determined to remain, with his entire
army, in Bengal, convinced that no treaties, during
the absence of an English force, would be binding
with the Nabob, or prevent him on the first fa-
vourable opportunity from attacking the English
possessions in Bengal; the army was therefore
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 127
encamped on the plain to the north of Hoogly, a
position well adapted either to awe or act against
the Nabob.
In April, the Nabob assisted, with money and
arms, the small body of adventurers who had esca-
ped from Chandernagore; and, when called upon
to give Clive permission to attack the French in
their factory at Cossimbazar, his conduct was so
violent and insulting that an immediate rupture was
expected. Until the 17th of May, affairs continued
in a most unsettled state, the Nabob intriguing
against, and endeavouring, by favouring the French,
to do every injury to the British. His own court
became disaffected; and Meer Jaffer, his principal
general, found himself obliged, in self-defence, to
conspire against his master. On the 19th of May,
treaties were entered into with Meer Jaffer to de-
throne the Nabob. On the 12th of June, the
troops at Calcutta, with 150 sailors from the squa-
dron, proceeded to join the remainder stationed at
Chandernagore. All necessary preparations had
been made to attack the Nabob ; and leaving 100
sailors to garrison Chandernagore, every soldier was
available for field duty; the Europeans and guns
were placed in boats, 200 of which were rowed up
the river; the Sepoys marched along the banks.
On the 16th the army landed at Paltee, and Major
Coote, with a detachment of 200 Europeans, partly
H. M.'s 39th, and partly the Madras Europeans,
with 500 Sepoys, was sent to take the Fort of Cut-
128 { SERVICES OF THE
wah, which the enemy evacuated after a slight
resistance. On the evening of the same day, the
main body of the British arrived, and encamped
near that fort. On the 22nd it crossed the river;
on the same evening, before sunset, it again moved,
and at one o’clock in the morning, after a very
fatiguing march through a whole night's rain, up to
the soldiers' middles in mud, the army reached
Plassey, and took possession of a tope of trees.
Information was shortly brought to Clive that the
enemy were encamped within two miles; the ad-
vance guard of 200 Europeans, 300 Sepoys, and
two field-pieces, had been posted in a small hunting
house of the Nabob's, and had thrown out piquets
in front of the tope or grove of trees, which ex-
tended about 800 yards north and south, and 300
broad, and was surrounded by a slight bank and
ditch ; the Nabob's house was a little in front of it,
and on the bank of the river, which at the nearest
point was about fifty yards distant from the tope.
At day-break on the morning of the 23d June,
the enemy was observed marching out of his lines
towards the grove of Plassey, his intention appear-
ing to surround it. The small handful of British
viewed with wonder this numerous and imposing
army, at least 50,000 foot, 18,000 horse, and
fifty pieces of artillery, slowly advancing towards
them ; the infantry were mostly armed with match-
locks, pikes, swords, bows and arrows, and a con-
siderable number with rockets: the cavalry were
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 129
particularly fine, the men a very superior class from
upper Hindoostan, and their horses of a larger and
stronger breed than any the British had before met
with in India, and both far superior to any cavalry
they had seen in the late wars in the Carnatic: the
guns were chiefly 18, 24, and 32-pounders, and each
of these, with its carriage and tumbril, was mounted
on a large wooden stage raised on wheels about six
feet from the ground, and conveying also the ar-
tillerymen who worked it; these machines were
each drawn by forty or fifty yoke of very large
white bullocks, and behind each gun walked an ele-
phant trained to assist by shoving with his head
when required. A party of forty Frenchmen under
an officer of the name of Sinfray manned four
French field-pieces which were attached to this
army. On the advance of the enemy, Colonel
Clive formed his force outside the bank which sur-
rounded the grove ; the Europeans were formed
up into four divisions; the first under Major Kil-
patrick of the corps, were composed of the Madras
Regiment; the 2nd, under Major Grant, partly
Madras and partly Bengal Regiments; the 3d,
under Major Coote, were Aldercorn's Regiment,
and the 4th, the Bombay Europeans under Major
Gauh; the Sepoys were formed on each wing;
three field-pieces were on each flank of the Euro-
peans, and these and the two guns with the ad-
vanced guards, were manned by 100 artillerymen,
and fifty sailors; in all, the British had not more
K
130 SERVICES OF THE
than 1200 Europeans in the ranks, and 2,100 Se-
poys. The formation of the enemy on this occasion
differed materially from that on any former, and the
position of their artillery was much more judicious,
for instead of it being all drawn up together in one
line, as was the usual practice, it was dispersed in
brigades of not more than two or four guns between
the divisions of their troops, which were formed in
deep masses; an attack on any one part of their
artillery could not, therefore, have been decisive. In
this order the enemy slowly advanced and attempted
to surround the tope, which the river and the occu-
pation of Plassey house prevented; he then halted,
and the Frenchman, Sinfray, advanced in front of a
large body of infantry commanded by Meer Moo-
deen, with his four guns, and posting them on the
bund of a tank near the grove, about 8 A.M. began
a brisk cannonade, the first shot of which killed one
and wounded another of the grenadiers of the corps.
The British, drawn up outside the grove, their left
flank resting on Plassey House and the river, and
their right on the grove, remained for some time ex-
posed to the fire of all the enemy's artillery, and in
a few minutes, having lost about twenty Europeans
and thirty Sepoys killed by the cannonade, Colonel
Clive ordered them to retire within the tope under
shelter of the mound and ditch ; this was done
leisurely and in order, the left flank being still
covered by Plassey house and the river; the enemy
were much elated, and pushed forward all their
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 13}
artillery within shot range ; the English field-pieces
were beautifully served, and continued a heavy fire
on those of the enemy ; in this situation both
armies remained until twelve o’clock, when some
explosions of tumbrils were heard in rear of their
guns, and on a shower of rain falling, their fire was
very much slackened. A large and select body of
their cavalry at this time attempted to charge; but
notwithstanding the heavy rain, were received with so
constant and well-directed a fire from the field-
pieces, that they broke and drew out of shot; on
the rain clearing up, the enemy again resumed their
cannonade, which was kept up on both sides until
3 P.M., when the enemy having lost many men, and
several of consequence,—among others Meer Moo-
deen, one of his best generals, retired leisurely
into his camp, the artillery marching first ; the
French artilleryman, Sinfray, however, still kept his
position.
The entrenchment occupied by the enemy was
about three miles in extent, on a peninsula formed
by the winding of the river. In the centre of this
position, the bund of a tank formed a sort of mound,
on which some guns were mounted, about 300 yards
from which, outside, was another mound or hillock,
and about 800 or 900 yards further off to the south
were two others. After the enemy had retired,
Colonel Clive intended to refresh his wearied troops
and renew the attack at night; he therefore with-
drew to Plassey House, and had not been long
K 2
132 SERVICES OF THE
absent from the grove, before Sinfray withdrew his
men and guns from the position he had held during
the action. Major Kilpatrick perceiving this, in-
stantly pushed forward with his division and two
guns, and occupied it. Colonel Clive, joining him
on the spot at once, determined to renew the attack,
and ordered the rest of the troops to advance. All
the British artillery were formed up in the position
the French had lately occupied, and kept up a
galling and heavy fire on the crowds in the enemy's
camp, which completely threw their artillery into
confusion, killing and wounding many of the gun-
ners, bullocks and elephants. At this juncture, a
large corps of the enemy, on the right of their line,
was seen to separate itself and advance, in such a
manner as made it doubtful whether they were
friends or enemies; but being at first kept at a
distance by a few cannon-shot, they remained aloof.
The British were now ordered to storm the en-
trenchments in two columns, one led by Kilpatrick
and headed by the Madras Europeans, the other by
Coote and the Grenadiers of H. M.’s 39th. The
former stormed and captured Sinfray's guns, and
drove the enemy out of their camp in that quarter;
the other were opposed by a large body of the
enemy, who were soon dispersed and completely
routed. Cavalry, artillerymen, and infantry, all fled
in one confused mass, throwing away their arms and
everything that impeded their flight. All their
artillery were abandoned. Many of the elephants
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 133.
had been wounded, and had become quite unruly;
and a great many of the gun-bullocks had been
killed, and nearly all wounded.
The victorious columns halted on the field of
battle only sufficiently long to enable them to pro-
cure fresh bullocks to drag their guns, when they
continued the pursuit, and halted at midnight at
Doudpore. Meer Jafter joined on the field of
battle, where he remained all night, and entered
Doudpore next morning, where he was proclaimed
Nabob of Bengal.
This important victory was gained with little loss
to the English: the corps only lost fifteen killed ;
the enemy upwards of 500 killed and wounded;
besides all their guns, elephants, a great many
horses, and all their baggage, camp equipage, and
tents captured. The defeated Nabob fled from the
field on a fleet dromedary, escorted by 2000 cavalry,
and reached his capital late that night. On the
following morning he despatched his harem and
treasure to Patna, intending to place himself under
the protection of the Frenchman, Mr. Law: in the
evening he left his palace in disguise as Meer Jaffer
was about to enter it. On the 25th the English
force arrived before the city; and on the 29th,
Clive, escorted by 200 of the corps and 300 Sepoys,
entered it, and solemnly placed Meer Jaffer on the
throne. On the night of the 2nd July, the ex-nabob
was brought into his former capital, having been
betrayed by a person towards whom, in the days of
134 SERVICES OF THE
his prosperity, he had behaved unjustly. About
midnight he was brought before Meer Jaffer, his
late servant, now raised to the dignity he himself so
shortly before enjoyed; he prostrated himself with
the utmost humility and begged his life. Jaffer
ordered him to be removed, and held a lengthened
consultation as to how he was to be disposed of.
Meeran, his son, a youth of seventeen, of a fierce
and cruel disposition, whilst they were consulting,
secretly gave orders for his assassination, and the
unfortunate man was cruelly murdered by a party
chosen by the young prince for the purpose.
The victory at Plassey was one of the last occa-
sions of importance on which a large portion of the
corps was engaged in action under the eye of its
distinguished commander, Clive, emphatically de-
signated by the great Chatham “a heaven-born
general.” * - - -
From the beginning of the year, part of the corps
at Trichinopoly had been employed under Calliaud
in reducing the country round Madura, which city,
after having twice stood the assault, was carried by
storm on the 8th of September, the very day a large
French squadron, having on board the Regiment of
Lorrain and 50 artillerymen, arrived at Pondicherry.
On the 12th of May, a French force of 1000
Europeans in battalion, 150 Hussars, 3000 Sepoys,
and ten field-pieces, arrived at Seringam. Seve-
ral attacks were made on Trichinopoly, the garrison
of which was much weakened by the detachment
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 135
sent to Madura, and amounted to only 150 of the
corps, 15 artillerymen, and 700 Sepoys, who had
besides to guard 500 European prisoners in confine-
ment in the Fort. On the 10th, in expectation of
these prisoners breaking loose, the enemy attempted
to carry the place by escalade, but were severely
repulsed. On the 25th they also failed in prevent-
ing Captain Calliaud's detachment of 120 men and
1200 Sepoys from forcing their way through their
lines and entering the city. - .
Intelligence of the French being at Trichinopoly
was received at Madras on the 15th of May, and on
the 25th Colonel Aldercorn, at the head of his
regiment, marched out towards Wandiwash, which
he took after a slight resistance. This had the de-
sired effect of alarming the French, who withdrew
as quickly as possible from Trichinopoly; but
Colonel Aldercorn having returned to the Presi-
dency, the enemy sent out light detachments to
plunder the country. Early on the 15th of June,
a detachment of 200 French and 500 Sepoys, with
two field-pieces, appeared before Conjeveram, for
the purpose of burning and plundering it. The large
pagodah was, at the time, garrisoned by two com-
panies of Sepoys, commanded by Sergeant Lam-
berton of the corps, who disputed every street of the
town until driven in upon the pagodah, where the
Sergeant had made such excellent dispositions for
receiving them, that they were repulsed with severe
loss, and obliged to leave the town, which, however,
136 SERVICES OF THE
this small party could not prevent them from plun-
dering and setting fire to. Sergeant Lamberton
got a commission for his gallantry.
The terror inspired by these inroads, convincing
the Government of the impolicy of withdrawing
Aldercorn's force, it was augmented by part of the
corps, and left St. Thomas's Mount on the 19th
June, Colonel Lawrence accompanying it as a volun-
teer,-his commission being junior to Colonel Alder-
corn's, and marched towards Ootramalore, wherean
uncommon sickness broke out in camp. For the first
four days the force remained stationary, and the
mortality was very great, men dying in less than
twelve hours' illness; on the fifth day it changed
ground, and the disease entirely disappeared. On
the advance of the English, the French retired to-
wards Wandiwash, where, on the 11th of July, the
English force encamped within sight of them. The
strength of the two armies was nearly equal, the
French being 800 Europeans, of whom 100 were
Hussars, and 1500 Sepoys; the English, 700 Eu-
ropeans, partly of Aldercorn's and partly of the
corps, and 2000 Sepoys. -
On the 16th, Lawrence, who had received a
superior commission, and assumed command,
marched out and offered the enemy battle, which
they declined, and the 26th he retired towards Con-
jeweram, where 500 Europeans, and 1500 Sepoys
remained in cantonment, the rest retiring to the
different posts they had been taken from.
TIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 137
During the remainder of the year, the corps in
the Carnatic was employed in attacking and defend-
ing small posts and harassing the enemy's countries.
The French, notwithstanding their great reinforce-
ments, were anxiously waiting the arrivals of others;
the English, from the same cause, and the doubtful
state of affairs in Bengal, remained entirely on the
defensive. .* -
Clive, in the mean time, was engaged settling
Meer Jaffer's country, and endeavouring to capture
and disperse bodies of French adventurers, who were
moving about the provinces; and fearing, from the
arrival of the French squadron on the coast, that
Calcutta might again be attacked, he could not
return to Madras the part of the corps which had
been originally sent, and had since been employed
at the different affairs from the recapture of Calcutta
until the end of the following year.
In August, orders from England arrived, recalling
Colonel Aldercorn and his regiment, but the
War Office allowing the men to enter the Com-
pany's service, most of them volunteered; those
in Bengal remaining there, and those at Madras
joining the part of the corps serving in the Carnatic.
Until the middle of the year, nothing of conse-
quence occurred at either presidency, and the new
year opened with as little activity as the one just
closed, with the exception that, at daybreak on
the 28th of April, twelve French men-of-war were
discovered entering the roads of Fort St. David,
138 - "SERVICES OF THE
in which two English frigates, lying at anchor, were
obliged to run on shore : the crews were saved, and
added to that garrison. This fleet brought out large
reinforcements to the French, consisting of 1080
men of the regiment of Lally, fifty artillery, a num-
ber of officers of distinction, also the Count De
Lally, colonel of the regiment of that name, and
governor-general of the French possessions in the
East, who, on his arrival at Pondicherry on the
following day, immediately set about dispatching a
force to reduce Fort St. David ; and such was his
activity, that before sunset of the same day, 1000
Europeans and as many Sepoys were on their
march to that place under the Count D'Estaign,
who had landed with him. Early on the following
morning they arrived near Cuddalore, and approach-
ed so close to the fortifications, driving in the ad-
vanced posts of Sepoys, that they were exposed to a
fire from the ramparts, and lost several men; six
prisoners were besides taken during the morning,
from whom the garrison received intelligence of the
enemy's force. In the afternoon, the firing between
the French and English squadrons, under the Count
D'Ache and Admiral Pollock, at the time almost
out of sight, was heard. This action took place
the day after Lally and part of the troops had
landed; and although no ships were captured or
destroyed on either side, the loss, in killed and
wounded in the French squadron, besides damage
done, was more than double that of the English,
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMIENT. 139
who were only prevented coming to close quarters
by the superior sailing of the enemy. On the
following day, a reinforcement of troops with a
battering train arrived from Pondicherry: and on
the 1st of May, Lally, escorted by two troops of
hussars, arrrived, and occupied, as his head quar-
ters, Garden House. Cuddalore being quite un-
tenable, a conference was opened about its surren-
der, which it was eventually agreed should take
place on the morning of the 4th of May, provided
by that time the enemy had been able to construct
a battery of heavy cannon, ready to open, the
garrison being allowed to march back into Fort St.
David, and 150 French prisoners to proceed to any
neutral port in the South until exchanged. On
the day agreed upon, Cuddalore was surrendered.
On the 6th of May, the French squadron, after
its action, arrived at Pondicherry, and disembarked
the remainder of the troops on board, which were
instantly marched to Fort St. David. Lally re-
turned to Cuddalore on the 14th, having left it
immediately after its surrender, and on the follow-
ing night batteries were erected about 1000 yards
from the works of Fort St. David. On the 16th,
all the out-posts and field-works were occupied by
the enemy, and the place closely invested. On
the 26th, four batteries, besides the guns from the
works on Cuddalore, opened their fire. By the
30th, the trenches were advanced within 200 yards
of the glaces, and the works on the north face
140 - SERVICES OF THE
had suffered much, not only having been shaken by
the fire of their own guns, but by a constant fire of
both shot and shell from the enemy. The ammunition
of the besieged began, moreover, to fail. All hopes
were now turned to the squadron, which, from ad-
verse winds and currents, could not approach. The
enemy's fire had ruined the reservoirs and wells so
much, that little water could be procured except that
from the ditch, which was brackish. On the 1st of
June, an incessant fire was kept up from twenty-one
guns and thirteen mortars, which, for want of
powder, could not be returned by a single gun: at
noon, the French squadron were discovered enter-
ing the roads, when Major Palier determined upon
making terms, which were concluded in the evening,
and the garrison surrendered prisoners of war. The
force before Fort St. David, amounted to 2,500
Europeans, and about 3000 Sepoys. -
The French having found a pretender to the
throne of Tanjore, who had been kept in confine-
ment in Fort St. David, determined to make use of
him to extort money from the king of Tanjore.
On the 18th, Lally marched for Tanjore, leaving
behind 600 Europeans, and 200 Sepoys, for the de-
fence of the French territory. On account of his
violent conduct towards the natives in paying no at-
tention to caste, and making all, without distinction,
carry burdens, Lally could procure neither Coolies
nor followers to accompany his army; his Sepoys
even deserted, disgusted at his conduct, and although
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 141
their heavy baggage and guns were conveyed by sea
to Karrical, yet they moved with much difficulty,
and the Regiment of Lorrain left their tents at
Cuddalore for want of carriage, and when it arrived
at Devi Cottah, the army was twelve hours without
food. On entering the Tanjore country, the king
endeavoured to come to terms, but the enormous
sum demanded by Lally prevented him ; and on his
earnest entreaty, Calliaud sent him from Trichi-
nopoly 500 of his best Sepoys with ten Europeans,
and 300 Colleries, as also 4000 of the latter, who
were induced by Calliaud to accept service under
him. The French remained at Trivatore until the
12th July, sweeping the country round of all the
cattle, which they drove down to the coast: on the
arrival of the Colleries, however, they were dis-
patched to forage in the rear of the French, and
recaptured most of what the French plundered,
which, however, they again sold to the highest
bidder.
On the 18th, the French arrived within sight of
the city of Tanjore, and in the evening, after break-
ing off all negociations, occupied the town and
suburbs. On the following day, batteries were
erected, but being much exposed to a superior fire
from the walls, the French lost many men, and were
unable to make any impression. On the 1st Au-
gust, the king again rejected the terms offered, and
on the 6th, a further reinforcement of 500 Sepoys,
two excellent serjeants, and twenty-seven men from
142 SERVICES OF THE
the corps, reached him from Calliaud; on the 7th,
batteries were opened against the south side, and a
practicable breach effected : on the 8th, reports ar-
rived of the arrival of the English fleet before
Karrical, and the enemy being exceedingly pressed
for provisions, and their ammunition failing, Lally
decided upon raising the siege, and on the following
day, the sick and wounded, upwards of 150, were
sent to the rear, and preparations made for a retreat.
On the morning of the 10th, the Tanjore General
attacked and beat up the French camp, a party of
horse penetrating towards Lally's tent; he was se-
verely wounded and trampled upon, but saved. The
English Sepoys captured two field-pieces, and the
French camp was thrown into the greatest confusion
before they could repulse their assailants. On the
following night, after having spiked all his guns, Lally
retired, harassed during his retreat by the Tanjo-
rean horse and the Colleries, who plundered and
cut off nearly all his baggage.
The English Sepoys, and the few European ar-
tillerymen, and men of the battalion, returned to
Trichinopoly, having, by their gallantry, foiled the
French in their attack upon Tanjore, which would
certainly have fallen into the hands of the enemy
had it not been for the assistance they rendered,
and the confidence their presence inspired. r
On the 18th, Lawrence, with 520 of the corps,
and 1200 Sepoys from Madras, took the field, and
a party of the Nabob's troops took Trivatore by
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 143
assault. At about the same time, Trinomalee was
also taken from the enemy. When Calliaud sent
troops to assist at the defence of Tanjore he was
obliged to abandon his outposts, and among others
Seringam. The Mysoreans immediately re-occu-
pied it ; but on the return of the detachment from
Tanjore, Calliaud dispatched parties of the corps to
disperse these troops, which they did, and drove
them out of the place. A detachment also, under
command of Captain Joseph Smith, (afterwards
General Smith,) of the corps, consisting of his
company of seventy Europeans, fifty Caffres, and
two field-pieces with ten companies of Sepoys, un-
der Mahomed Issoff, was sent to dispossess the
reigning chief of Terriore, a person favourable to
the French, and to restore his cousin. This service
was executed with some loss to the detachment, but
much greater to the enemy, in whose fort were
found several ladders ready made for the French,
on the first favourable opportunity, to use in esca-
lading Trichinopoly.
In September, accounts arrived at Calcutta of the
fall of Fort St. David, the failure of the enemy
before Tanjore, and the different actions between
the squadrons; nevertheless, Clive determined not
to send troops to Madras, but to employ all that
could be spared against the French in the northern
circars; for this purpose, Colonel Forde, who
had left Aldercorn's regiment, was put in com-
mand of 500 of the corps, all of whom had for-
144 SERVICEs of THE -
merly embarked from Madras; 2000 Sepoys and
100 Lascars, with six best brass field-pieces, and
six 24-pounders for battering. This force being
embarked on board six ships, sailed for Vizagapatam.
During the month of August, after the reduction
of Fort St. David, the French took all the small
posts in the neighbourhood of Madras, except
Chinglyputt, which still held out, and it was rein-
forced with three companies of Sepoys under Lieu-
tenant Airey. On the 14th of September, several
Company's ships, and two men-of-war, arrived at
Madras with 900 king's troops, under Colonel Dra-
per, styled Draper’s Regiment. One hundred more
having arrived shortly afterwards, a further rein-
forcement was sent to Chinglyputt, and augmented
its garrison to nine companies of Sepoys, with
twelve gunners, and about 30 chosen Europeans,
which were placed under command of Captain
Richard Smith of the corps, and ordered to defend
the fort to the last. The garrison from Trichino-
poly being also called in, arrived on the 25th of
October at Madras, under Calliaud, and this in-
creasing the means of defending Chinglyputt, four
more field-pieces, with a complement of Lascars to
work them, were sent thither. Lally, too late see-
ing the importance of this place, resolved to march
against it with his entire force as soon as possible.
On the 2d November, 800 Europeans, and some
native cavalry and Sepoys, marched against Chingly-
putt; but Draper and Lawrence having preceded them
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 145
the enemy returned, and a convoy of provisions
and ammunition was safely deposited in the
fort.
On the 20th of October, Colonel Forde and his
force arrived from Bengal at Vizagapatam ; on
the 1st of November the troops moved from that
place; on the 3rd arrived at Cossimcottah, where
they were joined by the Rajah, and it was deter-
mined to march upon Rajamundry, near which M.
Conflans had assembled all his forces. On the 21st
of November, a Mr. Andrews arrived at Madras,
to re-establish the factories on that coast, as well as
Captain Callender of the corps, to act as Colonel
Forde’s second in command. On the 1st of
December the united forces moved, and on the 3rd
came in sight of M. Conflans, with his force drawn
up in a strong position near Condore: he had up-
wards of 500 Europeans, thirty-six pieces of cannon,
some mortars, 8000 native foot, and 500 horse ;
the English had 470 Europeans, and 1900 Sepoys,
six field-pieces, and a howitzer, eight battering guns,
and three mortars; the Rajah had 500 indifferent
horse, and 5000 variously armed infantry; but he
had about forty renegade Europeans under a Mr.
Bristol, an Englishman, who managed four pieces
of artillery.
On the 10th, after some manoeuvring, both
forces came in presence of each other, the French
batallion in the centre of their line, with thirteen
field-pieces on each of its flanks, 500 horse on their
L
146 $ SERVICES OF THE *
right flank, 3000 Sepoys forming their left wing, and
the same number on their right. Colonel Forde,
placing no reliance on the Rajah’s army, ordered it
to form aloof, and they drew up in the rear, far out of
shot, with the exception of the renegade Europeans,
who formed up in line with the British guns, on the
left of the European corps, which was in the centre of
the line, having the artillery equally divided on each
of its flanks, and the Sepoys forming on each wing ;
both forces advanced in line towards each other, but
a field of high Indian corn intervening, the French,
by obliquing to their right, got in front of the left
wing of Sepoys, who having lately, for the first time,
been dressed in red jackets, were mistaken, at a
distance, for the European regiment. The French
halted, and commenced platoon firing, which was
returned stoutly by the Sepoys for some time, until
the French advanced, when they began to give way,
on seeing which the Battalion of India rushed eagerly
on ; but the European regiment filing steadily to
their left, led by Captain Adnet, formed line in
front of the Sepoys, and after pouring in one close
and well-directed volley, which knocked over
half of the enemy's grenadiers, rushed on to the
charge; the French did not stand it, but turned
and ran, seeking shelter behind their guns, under
a heavy fire of which, they rallied; but nothing
could withstand the corps, who moved swiftly
on, capturing every gun, and driving the French
before them for some distance, in confusion. The
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 147
enemy, who had been pressing the Sepoys on the
flank, also immediately retreated, and were pursued
for some distance with severe loss. The French
again rallied in their entrenched camp, near Talla-
pool, to which they had retreated; but being followed
up Smartly, they again broke, and took to flight, in
much disorder, abandoning their camp and baggage.
Six officers and eighty men were killed, or mortally
wounded, and six officers and seventy men made
prisoners, and wounded, all belonging to the Battalion
of India; thirty-two pieces of brass cannon, fifty
tumbrils and other carriages, seven mortars, 3000
draught bullocks, and all the tents of the French
corps were captured. Of the regiment, Captain
Adnet (who had particularly distinguished himself),
and fifteen men, were killed ; four officers and
twenty-nine men wounded; of the Sepoys 100 men
were killed and wounded, one or two of the Rajah's
were killed by random shots during the engagement,
in which, however, they took no part. In the after-
noon, Captain Knox, with 500 of the Sepoys, (those
who had been mistaken for the European corps,
and which in the army were ranked as the best bat-
talion,) were sent off, in pursuit, towards Rajamun-
dry: to these 1000 more, under Captain M'Lean,
were added, and the whole arrived there early in the
morning, took prisoners fifteen Europeans, and
captured all the stores, baggage, and bullocks which
had escaped from the field the previous day; four
brass guns which the enemy had attempted to re-
L 2
148 SERVICES OF THE
move from the fort of Rajamundry, and a brass
mortar were also abandoned, and fell into the hands
of the Sepoys. Colonel Forde, with the rest of his
force, arrived at the fort early next morning, and
found a large quantity of military stores. ~
Whilst these operations were going on in the
Northern Circars, Lally, with his entire force, was
advancing to the siege of Madras, and as every
delay that retarded his march, was an advantage
gained, Captain Joseph Smith, who commanded at
Trichinopoly, equipped a body of 2000 Sepoys, and
two field-pieces, under Mahomed Issoof, and des-
patched him across the Coleroon, to act in the rear
of the enemy. On the 29th November, the French
army left Conjeveram, and advanced towards Ma-
dras. Lally reconnoitred Chinglyputt on the 4th
December, and finding it impracticable except by
regular approaches, he committed the dangerous
error of leaving it in his rear. On the 8th, he ad-
vanced from Vendaloor to Saint Thomas' Mount,
and Lawrence, who commanded the troops stationed
there, retired to Choultry plain. It was never the
intention of the British commander to risk an action
with so superior a force, who had alone 300 Euro-
pean cavalry, excellently mounted, and in higher
order than any that had ever before been seen in
India. On the 12th December, the enemy's cavalry
experienced some loss in the Triplicane road, where
they got exposed to a fire from two field-pieces, and
some musketry. On the same day, the enemy's
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 149
line approached, and there was a distant cannonade;
but Lawrence retired leisurely into the fort after
withdrawing all his outposts, and placing his guards
at the different avenues leading into Black Town ;
the same day the French occupied the ground the
English had left. A party of 300 Europeans, and
two 12-pounders, had been despatched by the enemy
whilst they were marching from the Mount to at-
tack Poonamallee, which was garrisoned by Ensign
Crowly, and a small detachment; they were re-
pulsed in their assault with a loss of about thirty
killed, but the natives of Crowly's garrison, were so
terrified at the threats held out by the French, that
they began to waver, and he marched them out at
midnight in silence, and early next morning reached
Madras undiscovered.
The roll of the English European military, in-
cluding sixty-four Topasses, and eighty-four Caffres,
besides officers, amounted to 1,758; the Sepoys
were 2,220; of the Europeans, twenty-four were
mounted troopers. The Nabob's horse, perfectly
useless, were 500. Of Europeans of all ranks, not
military, there were 150, and they, without distinc-
tion, were appropriated to take charge of and serve
out stores. On the 14th, the enemy entered the
avenues leading into Black Town, and experienced
a loss of eleven men from the small parties left to
protect them, who got safely into the fort. The
regiment of Lally took up their quarters near the
150 SERVICES OF THE
beach, that of Lorrain, with the Battalion of India,
on the rising ground to its right.
A number of the natives who had remained in
their houses to the last hour, now crowded up to the
works, but were refused admittance. The French
troops being all employed plundering, and having
been reported in a state of intoxication from the
cellars of arrack they had broken open, it was de-
cided to Sally out upon them ; 500 picked men
from the European regiments, with two field-pieces,
were accordingly placed under command of Colonel
Draper, who suggested the design; 100 with Major
Brereton, followed as a support. Such was the negli-
gence of the French, that the approach of the party
was not observed until it had entered the streets of
Black Town, when the drum-boys, by mistake,
struck up the Grenadier's March; the men cheered,
and alarmed the enemy, who advanced a party to
meet them, which delivering their fire, did some
execution. Draper, however, pushed on, leaving a
platoon to occupy the entrance into one of the side
streets, and wheeling suddenly round a corner into
a broad street, he came on the flank of the Lorrain
regiment and Battalion of India; the leading troops
fired heavily, and the guns having been advanced,
also opened with execution; the French did not
stand a moment, but ran into the houses on
either side of the street; their guns were even
deserted and taken possession of by Colonel Draper,
and a few of his men, until the Battalion of India
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 151
crowded up together, and opened a hot fire, which
was kept up for about twenty minutes, when Draper,
fearing that Lally's regiment might intercept his
retreat, gave orders to retire; the order, from no
drummer being procurable, was not fully understood,
and the grenadiers of the Madras European regiment,
who had been placed in an enclosure, and were hotly
engaged, were not aware of the retreat of the rest of
the party until it was too late to follow them, and
being surrounded by the whole French force in an un-
tenable post, were obliged, after a gallant resistance,
to surrender; there were eighty of them, and their
loss was severely felt, being justly considered the
best soldiers of the garrison. Draper returned with
the rest of his party, which, as it neared the fort,
got into some confusion, but closed upon its sup-
ports who stood firm. The regiment of Lally were
too drunk to act with effect. No officer but Lieu-
tenant Bullock was killed on the spot ; but Major
Palier, Captain Hunce, and Ensign Chase, of the
corps, were very severely wounded. Palier came
into the fort, but the other two were taken. Lieu-
tenant Elliot, of the corps, was shot through the body,
but recovered ; three other officers—Smith, Blair,
and Cook, were wounded and taken prisoners, also
103 men, eighty of whom were of the corps, and
nineteen of them wounded. Fifty returned wounded,
and upwards of fifty were killed, of whom twenty
were found in houses in Black Town, stabbed with
bayonets, their antagonists lying dead beside them.
152 SERVICES OF THE
The garrison lost 200 men and six officers, killed,
taken, and wounded, by this unfortunate sortie.
The enemy suffered a much greater loss, –
twelve officers wounded, Saubenet mortally, and
three killed on the spot; only four prisoners were
taken, of whom one was the Count D’Estaigne.
The following day, under cover of the houses, the
enemy commenced their batteries; some shells from
the fort were thrown among them when a good
chance offered; their battering guns were however
still at sea, not having arrived ; and on the day of
the sally, a party under Lieutenant Airey from Chin-
glyputt captured on its way from Pondicherry the
only mortar they had. The experience of a few days
had convinced the Nabob that quarters in a be-
leaguered fort were far from comfortable : on the
night of the 20th he and all his family were em-
barked in a small vessel and landed at Negapatam,
from whence he proceeded to Trichinopoly; his fol-
lowers gradually disappeared every night, and in a
few days not one remained; a most fortunate event,
as relieving the garrison from a very great nuisance.*
On the nights of the 19th, 20th, and 21st, sallies
were made by small parties of natives headed by
twenty or thirty Europeans, but attended with little
success and as trifling loss. Captain Preston from
* On the 17th, Mr. Pigot issued the following general order:—“As soon
as we have obliged the enemy to raise the siege, the Governor promises, in
the name of the Company, to present the garrison with 50,000 rupees, which
SUID) shall be divided among them within five days after the enemy's
retreat.” -
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 153
Chinglyputt, endeavoured to intercept the detach-
ment escorting the prisoners taken on the late sally,
who on the 17th were sent off to Pondicherry, but
unfortunately he missed the party during the night.
On the 22nd the guns for the breaching batteries
arrived on board the sloop Harlem.
On the 26th, Mahomed Issooff arrived at Ching-
lyputt, and joined Captain Preston; he had reduced
several small posts and ravaged the enemy's country
in all directions. On the 27th, his horse were des-
patched to ravage with fire and sword the country
round Conjeveram, from which the enemy drew their
supplies, and the same day marched with his infantry,
supported by Preston's detachment of eighty Euro-
peans of the corps, two field-pieces, and six compa-
nies of Sepoys, and arrived at the Mount on the -
29th, where they were joined by the horse from
Conjeveram. Early in the morning of the 30th,
they were attacked by 500 Europeans, of whom 100
were cavalry, 300 Sepoys and 800 cavalry, sent by
Lally to surprise them ; these they repulsed, and
the Europeans in a charge took two field-pieces
from the enemy. On the 28th December, another
sally through Triplicane was made from the fort,
and a despatch was intercepted, but nothing else
of consequence occurred, and the year ended with
the completion of two batteries, one called the
Lorrain, from being near where that corps was
posted, the other, for the same reason, named the
Lally.
154 SERVICES OF THE
Since 1751, when the English received back
Madras, much improved in its fortification, they
had done much towards perfecting what the French
had begun : the area of the fort had been much
enlarged; the north and western faces were ex-
tended and strengthened; the glaces were complete,
and nothing but mines were wanting to make the
fort strong in every respect; before the sea-gate a
strong work had been thrown up sufficient to pre-
vent a surprise, which was all that was required on
that side.
At break of day on the 2nd January, the Lorrain
battery opened from both cannon and mortars, and
also Lally's shortly after from four 13-inch mortars.
The fort soon silenced the guns, but the mortars
continued their fire, and during the day threw eighty
shells into the fort, but which, although they caused
much mischief to the buildings, neither killed nor
wounded a single person. On the 3d, an affair took
place near St. Thome, between Captain Preston's
and Mahomed Issooff’s troops, and the French: the
enemy, 650 Europeans, of whom 150 were horse,
fell unexpectedly upon Mahomed Issooft's troops,
whom they quickly routed. Preston coming up
suddenly with his small party of eighty of the corps
and 600 Sepoys, attacked the French and drove
them back in disorder, recapturing Mahomed Is-
sooff’s guns: the enemy had nearly 100 killed and
wounded; among the former were two officers. Of
the corps only six were killed and wounded, and
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 155
of the Sepoys 180. On the 6th, the enemy received
some more battering guns, and again opened fire
on the fort with both shot and shell; this continued
during the 7th, when Lieutenant Brooke of the ar-
tillery was killed. On the 11th, several guns in the
Fort were dismounted: before daylight on the morn-
ing of the 12th, a sally was made towards Tripli-
cane by a detachment of Europeans, who captured
and brought in two guns and some prisoners, one
an officer. By this time it was evident that the
enemy directed the brunt of their attack against
the northern bastions of the fort, and additional
defences in that quarter were begun to be thrown
up by the garrison. On the 13th, some mischief
was caused by a shell from the fort falling behind
Lally's battery, and setting fire to a few houses
which communicated to a powder magazine and
blew it up. Until the 16th, an incessant fire was
continued from the batteries, which had mounted
more guns; the trenches were also much advanced.
On the 17th, the enemy's fire dismounted three guns
on the works. On the 18th, additional guns were
placed in Lally's battery, and the corps lost five men
killed by the fire. On the 20th, two sallies were
made from the fort with little loss and less success.
On the 21st, another Sally was made, when part of
the enemy's works were destroyed, and many of
them killed and wounded. On this occasion a de-
tachment of the corps were very conspicuous. On
the 23d, the enemy advanced a battery nearer the
156 SERVICES OF THE
works, and for some time fired with considerable
effect, until ammunition began to fail, and its fire
slackened. Repeated sallies were made during the
night, and part of their works destroyed. On the
24th, intelligence was received of the arrival on the
coast of some ships with reinforcements from Eng-
land. On the 25th, another successful sally was
made, in which Captain Black and Lieutenant Fitz-
patrick of the corps were wounded. Until the 1st
February, the enemy's batteries never ceased, and a
Company’s ship, one of the squadron from England,
having anchored in the roads, was exposed to a con-
stant fire. -
On the 3rd, Preston, advancing with his small
force, took up a strong position between the Mount
and St. Thome; and Lally, with 300 Europeans,
600 Sepoys, and six field-pieces, advanced against
him. Preston stood his ground, and the enemy
retreated with considerable loss. At two on the
morning of the 5th, the enemy sprung a mine, which
however did little mischief. Soon afterwards their
shipping were seen to stand out to sea, in conse-
quence, as it was afterwards discovered, of their
learning of the approach of the English squadron.
On the 6th, the enemy's breaching battery was
silent; but the mortars and another battery kept up
their fire. In the evening, all the horse and Sepoys,
and a strong detachment of European infantry were
seen to move into the plain. -
Preston and Mahomed Issooff were at the Mount,
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 157
and Calliaud had joined them, with a small detach-
ment of the corps, with some Sepoys, from Trichi-
nopoly. Early on the morning of the 7th, the
French were seen advancing towards the Mount.
Calliaud's force consisted of 103 of the corps, twelve
of whom were gunners, and ten troopers; the artil-
lery were six three-pounders. He had 2000 horse
little to be depended upon, and about 2500 Sepoys,
only 1500 of whom were well-disciplined; he occu-
pied the houses and enclosures at the bottom of the
steps on the east side of the Mount ; the strongest
walled enclosure was round a house of Colonel
Lawrence, and to the east of it was another called
Carvalho's garden, which was considered the key of
his position, and in it were stationed eighty Euro-
peans and four field-pieces; twenty Europeans, 300
Sepoys, and two field-pieces, were posted at the
Sawmy house or choultry to the south of the enclo-
sure. The left of this position was protected by
paddy-fields, which extended all round the north
and north-east of the enclosures, The inlets to the
different lanes were barricaded, and the mud walls
lowered for the guns or loopholed for musketry.
The cavalry were encamped to the north under the
hill, and the rest of the Sepoys occupied different
posts along the north and faces of the Mount ; about
1700 were also distributed in the enclosures along
the front (the south) of the hill, and communications
opened in their different walls and enclosures. In
this position, the detachment awaited the attack.
158 SERVICES OF THE
At dawn on the 9th, the enemy were perceived
advancing in two columns, one on the east or left
flank, from the direction of Manmelong; the other,
having no guns, on the front or south, across the
plain, now the artillery parade-ground. The for-
mer column consisted of 300 European cavalry and
600 infantry, with eight guns; the other were en-
tirely natives, 1200 Sepoys and 500 horse: the
whole were commanded by a Colonel Lally, a rela-
tion of the Count. The native cavalry under Cal-
liaud, headed by the ten mounted troopers, formed
in front of the enclosures with resolution; and on
the French advancing to the front, it was Calliaud's
intention to let them approach within a flanking
fire of the field-pieces at the Sawmy house, and
then to have charged ; but his troops pressed on
and neared the French, who came on at a trot, but
suddenly halting, poured in a fire from their carbines,
which knocking over a few men and horses, all, with
the exception of Calliaud and his ten troopers, went
to the right about and fled. Some pushed into the
lane in their rear, followed by the French, who, coming
within range of the guns at the Sawmy house, were
severely checked and obliged to retire ; the rest
rushed towards the lane between the left enclosure
and the foot of the Mount, hotly pursued by the
French hussars, who, whilst wedged up in the nar-
row road, fell under a close and galling fire from
some of the Sepoys posted there. This obliged
them in turn to fly, and they rejoined their line of
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 159
infantry, which advanced to within 200 yards of the
front of the English position.
Lally, seeing that, before he could attack the en-
closures, the advanced post at the Sawmy house
(the same the ruins of which are now standing at
the north-east corner of the artillery parade-ground)
must be taken, directed 100 Europeans to storm it;
these approached to within thirty yards, when they
were driven back with loss; shortly after, they made
another attack, with as little success; and half-an-
hour afterwards, being reinforced with 200 Euro-
peans, they again advanced, and were again beaten
back. This last repulse so encouraged the de-
fenders, that, with Lieutenant Airey at their head,
all the Sepoys and a few of the Europeans sallied
out and followed them about sixty yards from their
post. Getting into disorder in hot pursuit, they
were charged by the enemy's horse, who, falling
suddenly upon them before they had time to
form, were instantly scattered, and many cut down
before they could reach their post. Having been
thrown into a panic, the Sepoys continued their
flight towards the enclosures, when the cavalry again
got in among them, and followed them up to the
gate of Lawrence's compound, where the French
were suddenly fired upon by a number of Mahomed
Issoof’s Sepoys, drawn up by him on seeing their
advance. The French cavalry experienced so much
loss that they got confused, and gallopped along the
face and round the flank of the enclosures, severely
160 SERVICES OF THE
galled in passing, by the fire of all the guns and
musketry from the walls. Although many fell, their
loss was trifling compared to the havoc they had
made among the party at the Sawmy house, most
of whom were, however, Sepoys. The Europeans,
having remained at their post, with the exception of
a few that accompanied Airey, suffered very little ;
the post was, however, abandoned, and soon after-
wards taken possession of by the enemy, who during
the rest of the day kept up a cannonade against the
enclosures. In the evening the enemy, finding they
could not force the position, retired, having lost
upwards of fifty Europeans killed and wounded,
whereas the loss to the detachment was only seven
killed and thirteen wounded. During the early part
of next morning, Calliaud retired to Vendaloor.
Up to the 14th of February, the fire on Fort St.
George continued brisk and incessant, and the
trenches were advanced; on the morning of the
15th, the long-expected ships, with reinforcements
from Europe and Bombay, were seen in the offing;
in the evening they anchored in the roads, and
although a heavy fire from the batteries was kept
up all that night, at daylight next morning, the
French army was seen en route to the Mount, and as
they crossed Choultry plain, the powder mills at Eg-
more Buildings, which had cost the Company 50,000l,
were blown up by a party detached for the purpose.
In his hurry, Lally forgot to fire Black Town,
which he intended, in the event of being obliged
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 161
to raise the siege, to level and burn to the ground.
By noon on the 17th, the reinforcements from Eng-
land, amounting to 600 men, of Draper's corps,
were landed. On marching out to the enemy's
batteries, the garrison found fifty-two pieces of
cannon, only twenty-six of which were spiked or
otherwise destroyed, and 150 barrels of powder;
such was the hurry of their retreat, that they left be-
hind forty-four sick Europeans. Thus, after fifty
days' duration, ended the siege of Madras, the most
strenuous and regular ever conducted in India,
during which time, one Major (Palier, of the corps,)
two Captains, six Lieutenants, and four Ensigns
were killed, one Captain and two Lieutenants
died of sickness, fourteen officers were wounded,
and four were taken prisoners—in all thirty-three.
Of the rank and file of the Europeans, infantry,
and artillery, 198 were killed, fifty-two died in the
hospital, 122 were taken prisoners, and 167 wound-
ed. The loss in Europeans was more than com-
pensated by the troops landed from the ships.
Mr. Pigot, the Governor, had daily visited the
stores and works, encouraged all ranks by his
presence, and on the spot rewarded those who were
more exposed, or who distinguished themselves.
Provisions were in the greatest abundance, and
in excellent condition. The officers of the corps,
consisting of three battalions, who served during
the sieges under their old commander Lawrence,
were — Major Palier, Captain Pascall, Charles
M
162 SERVICES OF THE
Campbell, Beaver, Richard Smith, Guntler, De-
beck, Freishman, Black, Hume, Donald Campbell,
and Greig; the Company's artillery was served by
Captain Robert Barker; but Captain Hyslop, of the
Royal Artillery, who came out with Aldercorn's regi-
ment, being senior officer, commanded the whole of
the artillery. Colonel Draper and Major Brereton
belonged to the Royal Army. Every individual of
standing in the Madras Service was employed on this
service except those absent with parts of the corps
in Bengal, or in the Northern provinces. Captains
Calliaud, Preston and Airey, of the corps, were
employed in acting on the enemy's flanks and rear,
and Captain Joseph Smith, was left in command
of Trichinopoly, a particularly responsible charge,
where the French European prisoners outnumbered,
by five to one, the few weak and invalid Europeans
of the corps forming its garrison.*
During their operations before Madras, the
French lost 700 Europeans by deaths and prisoners,
besides the wounded they took with them. Of 2700
men of the battalions of Lorrain, Lally, and India,
who marched from Chinglyputt to Madras, 2000
only returned, and these were worn out, dispirited,
wretchedly clothed, and in arrears of pay for several
* On the 20th of February, the following General Order was published by
Mr. Pigot:—“Returns to be given in to the Town Major, of the non-com-
missioned and private men in the several corps that are entitled to share the
present the Governor intended for them, as in the General Order of the 17th
of December last, solely as a mark of his regard, knowing they needed no
spur to make them exert themselves against the common enemy.”
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 163
months. Although the reinforcements from Eng-
land made up the Europeans to 1500 effective men,
who were well able to meet the French in the field,
yet, for want of carriage of any description (the coun-
try being drained of every thing), they were prevent-
ed from moving from Choultry plain until the 6th of
March, when 200 more men of Draper's regiment
arrived ; the whole army then moved out under
Lawrence, towards Conjeveram, where the enemy
were entrenched.
Accounts having arrived from Colonel Forde of
his distress for money and reinforcements, when be-
fore Masulipatam, the army was halted. M. Lally
falling sick, left his army and returned to Pondi-
cherry. Colonel Lawrence, from the same cause,
was obliged to return to the coast;* his successor,
Colonel Draper, also losing his health, the com-
mand of the King's troops fell upon Major Brere-
ton; that of the Company’s on Major Calliaud.
The rival armies remained in sight of each other
until the 1st of April, the French wishing to be at-
tacked in their entrenchments, the English in the
open plain.
When the English moved towards Wandiwash,
and laid siege to it, the French moved out of their
entrenchments, leaving Conjeveram strongly gar-
risoned, and advanced to Trivatore. Lally hearing
* On the 20th of March, when he arrived at Madras, he declared his
inability, from the impaired state of his health, of longer holding the command
of the army, and received from Government the highest encomiums.
M 2
164 SERVICES OF THE
of the English attack on Wandiwash, left Pondi-
chery with 300 Europeans, and ordered the army to
meet him at Chinglyputt. Brereton, hearing of this
on the 13th, set off at night, reached Trivatore the
following morning, and finding it abandoned,
destroyed its works. Continuing his march, he
arrived early next morning, the 15th, at Conjeveram,
and in the evening invested it, when Colonel Mori-
son was wounded. Before the gateway of the pago-
da the French had thrown up a strong ravelin en
barbette, on which were mounted guns, as also on
each angle of the pagoda. During the night a para-
pet was thrown up in front of the ravelin, and guns
mounted in it before morning. By 8 A.M. it was
sufficiently destroyed, and the grenadiers of the corps,
led by Calliaud, rushed in and drove the defenders
inside. The officers having got into the ravelin, were
forming up their men for an attack on the gateway,
when an old gun, loaded to the muzzle with musket
balls, &c., was fired among them, by which eight men
were killed, and ten wounded on the spot. Of the
killed, were Captains Stewart and Bannatyn, and
Lieuts. Hunter and Elliot; of the wounded, Major
Calliaud, Lieutenant Vaughan, dangerously, a lieu-
tenant and two ensigns. During this time, however,
Lieutenant Airey, with a small party of Europeans,
and the Sepoys under Mahomed Issoof, had entered
the pagoda on the other side; the place was instantly
carried, and the garrison received quarter. The news
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 165
of this success, with accounts from Colonel Forde,
reached Madras the same day. - - - -
After the defeat of the French at Candore, by the
force under Colonel Forde, he was detained there
(from the Rajah breaking all promises with him,)
until about the 28th January, 1759, nearly fifty days
after the victory. On the 6th February, he arrived
at Ellore, and after much time lost in waiting
for the Rajah, the united forces left that place
on the 1st March, and proceeded to Masulipatam.
On the 2d they crossed the dry bed of the Lake Co-
lar, and on the 3d, reached the small fort of Koncale,
which, after considerableresistance, was taken by some
Sepoys, under Captain McLean. Three days after-
wards, Forde reached Masulipatam, the fort of which,
situated on the bank of one of the small arms of
the Kistnah, which washes its southern face, is sur-
rounded on all sides by a swamp; that towards the
east is of less extent, the sand-hills on the sea
shore having encroached upon it, and formed firm
soil. The approach to the Pettah, or western gate,
is by a raised causeway across this swamp, which the
Rajah’s troops occupied ; and as it was impossible,
unless with a force ten times stronger than Forde's,
to make regular approaches against it, even were it
practicable in swampy soil, he determined to batter
it from the nearest sand-hills to the east, in rear of
which, on the bank of the river between it and the
sea, was a small fishing-village called Gilkindindy:
this situation was the more convenient as being near
166 - SERVICES OF THE
the shore, on which heavy artillery would be landed
from the two ships that had followed him down the
coast. Between this village and the fort was a wet
nullah ; when the tide was in, it was perfectly im-
passable; it ran from north to south, parallel to the
east side of the fort, and about 800 yards from it,
and entered the river close to the village; at the
junction one battery of four guns was erected; to
its north, about 400 yards on the bank of the nullah,
was another, and in rear, and between both, about
100 yards off, was a third. The east side of the
fort had four bastions; the southern battery fired
against the two southern bastions, called the François
and Dutch bastions; the centre battery, on the
centre, on St. John’s bastion ; and the northern
battery against the north or Camelion bastion. The
enemy erected a battery on the south side of the
river, which took the English in flank, and as the
guard in it had the river between them and the fort,
it was strongly garrisoned by Europeans and natives
to ensure it against attack; it did not, however,
annoy the English much, or in any way impede the
operations of the siege. On the 25th March, the
batteries opened and continued a hot fire until the
4th of April. On the 5th, a severe storm put a stop to
the fire, and on the 6th, only two days’ supply of am-
munition for the guns remaining, and the French
army of observation, with a large force under Sa-
labut Jung, advancing rapidly upon Masulipatam,
Forde kept up a heavy fire next day, and formed his
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 167
column for attack at night. The ditch on the
south-west angle of the fort was unfinished, but the
swamp that surrounded it, was deemed most difficult
of approach. Captain Knox, with his Sepoys, was
despatched to make a false attack upon it, if pos-
sible to be converted into a real one; the Rajah was
directed to skirmish against the ravelin at the Pettah
gateway. The real attack was upon the north-east
or Camelion, (now called Forde's bastion,) and all
the Europeans, including the artillery, and thirty
sailors from the Hardwicke, numbering only 362
men, were allotted to the main attack. Knox and
his party of Sepoys, having further to go, marched
first, and as his fire was heard, the Rajah's party at-
tacked the gates with more resolution and noise than
was expected, whilst the main attack advanced
rapidly against the north-east bastion, crossed the
morass, and waded the ditch up to their breasts.
They were discovered just before they got to the
pallisade on the berme, which took some minutes to
tear down, and before the troops could gain the
breach, they had experienced a heavy loss; but all
pushed boldly on, and the bastion was instantly
cleared. Captain Fisher's division moving towards
the left, Captain Yorke's towards the right; both
divisions swept along the works, and as prisoners
were taken, they were despatched to the north-east
bastion, where the reserve was posted. Captain
Yorke, and a number of his men, having been
struck down by a discharge of grape, his column
168 * SERVICES OF THE
was thrown into slight confusion, but soon recover-
ing, advanced; the troops in the ravelin, having
been kept employed by the Rajah, suffered the
Pettah gate to be shut upon them; after this the
guards on all the other bastions surrendered, except
that at the Pettah, from whence a few shots were
fired, one of which killed Captain Callender.
Forde, in reply to M. Conflans' offer of surrender
on terms, threatened to put every one to the sword
if further resistance was offered, on which the enemy
surrendered at discretion. In the morning the
enemy were found far to exceed Colonel Forde's
force, being 500 Europeans, of whom 100 were
either officers, or men of better condition, and 2539
Caffres, Topasses, and Sepoys. Of the assailants,
Captains Callender and Mallitore, and twenty-two
soldiers of the corps, were killed, and sixty-two
wounded. The Sepoys, who behaved with the
utmost gallantry, had fifty killed, and 150 wounded;
150 excellent cannon were taken, also abundance
of military stores. The plunder of other effects
was very valuable,_Masulipatam and the adjacent
countries having been ceded to the English.
Forde continued in command; his success had
been as brilliant and complete as it was unex-
pected.
During the month of April, an exchange of pri-
soners took place, and 100 of the corps, who were
taken when Fort St. David was surrendered, re-
joined their regiment. In the latter end of June,
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 169
200 recruits arrived from England; at the same time,
200 European prisoners were received from Pondi-
cherry, in exchange for the same number released
from Trichinopoly. On the 25th July, 500 men,
being the first division of Colonel Coote's, the 84th
regiment, arrived at Madras, and were immediately
sent off to join the army in the cantonments at Con-
jeveram, where Colonel Brereton, of Draper's regi-
ment, commanded. - - -
In August, 300 of the corps, with guns and am-
munition, marched against Trivatore. About the
same time, a large French fleet having arrived from
Europe, the Government wished to defer the attack
on Wandiwash; but at Colonel Brereton’s earnest
solicitation he was allowed to advance ; and on the
25th his force,—including part of Coote's regiment,
Draper's and part of the European Corps, consisting
of 1500 Europeans, 80 Caffres, 2500 Sepoys, 100
Europeans of the corps mounted and serving as
dragoons, 700 native cavalry, and ten field-pieces,—
marched out of cantonment. On the 27th the
European dragoons came up with a party of French
hussars, whom they defeated, taking one officer and
eight men prisoners with their horses. This skirmish
took place about three miles from Trivatore, which
surrendered on the main body of the force coming
up. The army then advanced rapidly towards
Wandiwash; and Brereton, being ignorant of the
enemy's force, which he believed to be only 900
Europeans, whereas it amounted to 1600, of whom
170 SERVICEs of THE
300 were cavalry, and anxious to distinguish himself
before Colonel Coote's arrival, made a night attack
in three quarters, hoping to carry both fort and
pettah by coup de main. In this, however, although
the corps behaved with the utmost gallantry, he
failed, after an attack which continued all night;
and in the morning he was obliged to retire, which
he did in excellent order, with a loss of twelve
officers and 195 soldiers killed, wounded, and pri-
soners; two officers, one of the corps, and seventy
soldiers, of whom thirty belonged to the corps, were
killed. The enemy's loss was—General Mainville,
who commanded against Lawrence at Trichinopoly
in 1753-54, and two officers killed, and upwards of
200 men of the French corps killed and wounded ;
about thirty prisoners were also taken.
Although the attack was unsuccessful, the spirits
and courage of the force were far from being de-
pressed. -
On the 5th of . October the force returned to
Conjeveram, and on the 18th the French concen-
trated their troops at Wandiwash.
On the 26th of October, the remainder of Coote's
regiment, 600 men, arrived at Madras; and as soon
as they were landed, 200 of the corps under Calliaud
were sent to Calcutta, Colonel Clive having ap-
pointed that officer commander-in-chief of the troops
in Bengal. Sixty men of the corps were also sent
to Masulipatam. -
About the end of October, 170 of the regiment,
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 171
(the last of the prisoners who remained for exchange
at Pondicherry), rejoined the corps in cantonment;
the prisons at Trichinopoly had also been cleared of
670 French non-commissioned rank and file, who
had been taken at different times under the walls of
the city during Lawrence's last campaign. Trichi-
nopoly at this time had only 250 of the corps and
3000 Sepoys to garrison it.
On the 11th of November, 1759, a French force
of 1000 Europeans, 100 of whom were hussars,
1000 Sepoys, 200 native cavalry, and ten pieces of
artillery, under General Crillon, assembled at Thia-
gur. A few days afterwards, it proceeded towards
Trichinopoly, and on the 17th of the same month
its advanced guard occupied Munsurpet, near the
Cavery, at Seringam. Early the following morning,
a small detachment of Europeans and natives from
the garrison, under command of Captain Richard
Smith, of the regiment, crossing the river unper-
ceived, suddenly fell upon the French detachment
in Munsurpet, and drove them out of it with very
severe loss; following them up rapidly, they obliged
them to throw down their arms, when they were all
taken prisoners, and two guns, with a large quantity
of ammunition, and all their baggage, captured.
On the 20th, the French force arrived at Seringam,
and at once began to batter the pagodah, occupied
by 300 Sepoys, 500 Colleries, and two field-pieces
manned by European gunners. On the following
day, the wall having been battered down, the place
172 SERVICES OF THE
was stormed and taken. After all resistance was
over, the French inhumanly refused quarter until
nearly the whole of the garrison had been put to
the sword. A very few of the Sepoys regained the
city, and the Colleries were either all destroyed or
entirely dispersed. Captain Smith severely re-
proached Crillon for this act of barbarity.
On the 21st, Colonel Coote arrived at Conjeve-
ram, and assumed command of the army. He
immediately dispatched Captain Preston of the
corps to Wandiwash with about 200 of the regi-
ment and the materiel for a siege. He likewise
detached another party from his own regiment and
the Madras Europeans, under Colonel Brereton, to
attack Trivatore, which was taken on the 25th, and
Brereton pushed on next day, and joined Preston
before Wandiwash. On the following morning, the
pettah was stormed and taken; a battery was im-
mediately begun, and by the time Colonel Coote
arrived, he having pushed forward on hearing that
the pettah had fallen, it was quite finished, and the
guns in it. During the two following days, the
defences had been nearly destroyed, and the wall
breached. On the 29th the fort surrendered. The
besiegers sustained a very trifling loss: the corps
had only five men wounded. The French lost five
officers, 100 Europeans, and 500 natives taken
prisoners, besides ordnance and stores.
As the enemy had made no attempt to interrupt
the siege of Wandiwash, Coote moved against the
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 173
strong fort of Carangooly, distant about thirty-five
miles to the south-west. The fort was a large irre-
gular four-sided one, built of stone after the native
fashion, with round bastions at each of the corners,
and square towers at intervals along the faces;
before the main wall and bastions was a fausse-bray
and wet ditch; the sides faced the points of the
compass, the north being nearest the pettah at 300
yards distance. The French had thrown up a glacis,
all along, before it, except under the north-east bas-
tion, where it had not been finished. On the 4th
of December, the troops occupied the pettah, and
by the 6th had erected two batteries, which the
same day commenced playing upon the towers and
bastions along the north face. On the following
day, a mortar was planted to the north-west, so as to
enfilade the face attacked. The fire continued until
the 10th, when the garrison surrendered. Five of
the French were killed, and one officer of the Eng-
lish artillery, and two privates of the corps, mortally
wounded.
When marching on Wandiwash, Colonel Coote
had directed Captains Wood and Elliot, who were
en route with small detachments of Europeans and
natives, the one from Connenpauk, the other from
Nellore, to proceed to Arcot, occupy the city, and
prevent the enemy in the fort from drawing pro-
visions from the country. These two detachments
entered the town on the 28th of November, and not
only invested the fort completely, but erected a
174 SERVICES OF THE
battery and prepared fascines. On the near approach
of the Marquis Bussy's troops of 350 French in-
fantry, 150 hussars, 3500 Sepoys, 500 Arabs, and
800 native cavalry, with ten field-pieces, on the 9th
of December, both these officers fell back, and
joined the army before Wandiwash. Bussy arrived
at Arcot the morning after they left it. On the
19th of December, Coote's army entered canton-
ments at Connenpauk, and he repaired to Madras.
On the 9th December M. Lally despatched 600
French infantry from Seringam to join the army
in the field. On their departure, Captain Smith, the
commandant of Trichinopoly, sent out parties to
possess themselves of some of the small forts and
posts in the neighbourhood, in order that the rents
of the district might be received, the harvest being
nearly ready. In three days, parties under Ensigns
Bridges and Hart of the Regiment had taken the
Forts of Cortalum and Totcum, captured a convoy,
dispersed several parties of the enemy, and taken
prisoners two officers and thirty-eight French grena-
diers, besides collecting 100,000 rupees, the revenue
of the district.
On the 25th December, Coote's force moved out
of cantonments to Chinesimandsum : on the 29th
both armies were in sight of each other, and on the
French General's reconnoitering, there was some
skirmishing at the outposts. On the 30th a body
of the enemy's horse cut down a few Sepoys at an
advanced post, but were ultimately repulsed with
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 175
considerable loss. Early on the morning of the
31st, three companies of English Sepoys entered the
Mahratta camp; the enemy were completely sur-
prised, and fled in all directions, but Ensign Mere-
dith, who led the party, having been wounded, the
Sepoys became discouraged, and did not attempt
to improve their success, but retired without
capturing any horses or baggage. Thus ended
the third year of a doubtful war in the Carnatic,
with the rival armies in sight of each other, but
neither ready nor willing for immediate action.
About the 15th October, Colonel Forde left
Masulipatam by sea for Calcutta, and delivered
over command of the garrison, 300 of the corps,
and 800 Sepoys, to Captain Fisher of the Regi-
ment. On the 5th December, Fisher marched with
the greater part of his garrison to Coconadah, near
Rajahmundry, and captured nearly all the Chevalier
Poete's detachment of Europeans, the Chevalier
and a few of his men only escaping in a vessel
lying at anchor off the Dutch factory at that place.
Until the 9th of January, 1760, both armies re-
mained in sight of each other, awaiting the result of
their respective negotiations with Innes Khan and
his Mahratta horse: on the following day 5000
joined the French and only 200 the English.
On the evening of the 11th, Coote reconnoitered
the French, and supposing that their first movement
would be directed against Wandiwash, made his
dispositions accordingly, and dispatched orders to
176 SERVICES OF THE
Captain Sherlock, who commanded that fort, to de-
fend it to the last; also to the two companies at Tri-
vatore to join Sherlock immediately. On the fol-
lowing day the French troops were drawn out and
manoeuvred until nightfall, when they turned off
from their right flank and suddenly appeared before
Conjeveram, at that time the hospital and store of
the English force. The place being well defended
by Lieutenant Chisholm with a small party, held out,
and the enemy after plundering the pettah, moved
off next day. The first intelligence Coote heard of
their route, was by an express sent by Chisholm ;
the British force was at once in motion, and by one
o'clock in the morning reached Conjeveram. On
the 16th, intelligence was received of Lally's arrival
before Wandiwash; the force immediately marched
in that direction, and by the 17th had reached Ou-
tramalore, which, although almost a ruinous fort,
was much better than an open plain in which to
secure the surplus stores aud baggage of the army.
Sherlock had thirty Europeans of the corps and
300 Sepoys stationed in the pettah of Wandiwash,
which Lally attacked early in the morning before
daybreak, with all his infantry in two columns.
They were discovered and fired upon before they
gained the foot of the wall, and the marines,
who formed one column of attack, broke, and in
their panic ran towards the other composed of
Lally's regiment, which, thinking they were the
British making a sortie, fired upon them for some
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 177
time with much execution, before the mistake was
discovered, after which both columns retired. At
eight o'clock the same morning the French were
again formed for the attack, and shortly after
that hour moved on to the assault; but were soon
brought to a stand from the heavy fire poured in
upon them from the Pettah walls. Lally galloped
up to the head of his regiment, which was leading,
dismounted and calling for volunteers, rushed for-
ward and was the first man to mount the walls; the
whole column poured over after him, and the troops
in the Pettah, having no orders to defend it to ex-
tremity, gradually retired in good order and without
loss into the fort. During the morning's skirmish,
the corps lost five men, but the enemy had upwards
of thirty killed and 100 wounded. -
Colonel Coote had by this time advanced within
an easy march of Wandiwash, and deferred his at-
tack until the enemy were prepared to commence
the assault. On the 20th, their batteries began
firing with such spirit and effect that by the evening
of that day the wall of the fausse bray was opened
up. On the receipt of this intelligence, Coote
advanced his whole army to Trumbourge, seven
miles from Wandiwash. -
The enemy's position in front of the fort was a
very strong one, the bunds of several dry tanks
acting as intrenchments. The Mahrattas were en-
camped on their left, and no sooner heard of Coote's
approach, than they all mounted, and with 300
N
178 . SERVICES OF THE
French hussars, rode out to meet him : their skir-
mishers were driven back, and a division of Sepoys
with two field-pieces marching unperceived in rear
of the British cavalry, the whole advanced slowly to
the attack, which the French and Mahrattas pulled
up to receive. On arriving within 200 yards, the
cavalry suddenly opened out from its centre to un-
mask the guns in its rear, and formed up on each
flank of the Sepoys. The enemy, mistaking this
movement for unsteadiness preparatory to a retreat,
at once pushed forward in great haste, and were
galloping up to take advantage of it when the field-
pieces opened upon them with grape : every dis-
charge knocked over many men and horses, and
the Sepoys delivered their fire of musketry with so
much steadiness and execution, that the Mahrattas
soon broke and fled off the field. The French
hussars for some time stood firmly, but on the flight
of the other cavalry, the entire fire of the British
became directed upon them, and they were obliged
to go about, but retired in good order, leaving the
ground open up to the French camp. After this,
Coote halted his cavalry and waited the arrival of
the rest of his force, which shortly came up, in order
of battle, across a hard and level plain: the cavalry
were formed up in the rear and on the flanks of the
line, which halted and offered battle, but the enemy
declined it. After some time spent in reconnoiter-
ing, Coote moved to his right, thereby gaining the
enemy's flank, and resting his own on the rough
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 179
broken ground impassable to cavalry along the foot
of the hills to the north of Wandiwash ; the bag-
gage and followers of the camp were at the same
time placed in a small village in the rear. As the
British drew up in order of battle, the French beat
to arms and formed up in front of their lines:
during all this time the two forces had cannonaded
each other, and skirmished with their advanced posts
and Mahratta horse, but the latter were soon
driven back and took no further share in the
action. The French hussars 300 strong, on the
right of the regiment of Lorrain consisting of
400 bayonets, formed the right of their line; the
battalion of India 700 strong in the centre; next
the regiment of Lally, 400 men, whose left flank
rested on the entrenched bund of a dry tank,
in which were posted the marines of the squa-
dron, and the troops which had escaped from
the northern circars under Chevalier Poete, in all
300, with four field-pieces: between this post and
Lally's regiment were three guns, and the same
number between each corps, in all sixteen pieces of
field artillery in position along the line : 400 Sepoys
were stationed in the rear of Poete, and 900 were
distributed in rear of each of the French regiments,
besides an entrenchment at each extremity occupied
by fifty Europeans, and a field-piece secured both
extremities of the line ; the whole force thus in po-
sition, including the artillery and hussars, amounted
to 2,250 Europeans, 300 Caffres, nearly 6000 na-
N 2
180 SERVICES OF THE
tives, and 20 pieces of artillery; 150 Europeans
and 300 Sepoys besides remained in the batteries
before Wandiwash, and 3000 Mahratta cavalry
were drawn up in front of their own camp.
The British force, formed up in three lines, num-
bered, including eighty dragoons, 1700 Europeans,
2,100 Sepoys, 16 field-pieces, and 1,250 native
cavalry. In the first line was Coote's regiment on
the right, Draper's on the left, and the battalions
of the corps in the centre, all without their grena-
diers, and between them, ten pieces of artillery were
placed in position. In the second line, as a reserve,
were all the grenadiers of the European corps, 300
bayonets, with two field-pieces, and on their flanks
were 1900 Sepoys. The cavalry formed the third
line, the eighty dragoons being in the centre : two
companies of Sepoys and two guns remained on the
left, and a little in advance of the first line at a
short distance from it. -
As the English were advancing across the plain in
this manner, Lally, at the head of all his cavalry,
made a detour, and swept round to attack the left
flank of the British cavalry, the native part of which,
in forming to their left to receive them, got con-
fused, and ultimately galloped off the field, leaving
the eighty dragoons to stand the charge. The ad-
vanced guard on the left had, however, opened their
two guns on the enemy, as they were galloping up ;
it fell so heavily on their flanks as at once to stop
them, and immediately afterwards oblige them to
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 181
hurry out of fire. The native cavalry of the British,
at the same time recovering from their panic, formed
up, and led by the dragoons, in their turn charged
the enemy, and pursued them to the rear of their
camp. The line having advanced within gun-shot,
a Smart cannonade was commenced, the fire from the
British guns telling with much execution on the
French line, which, growing impatient under the
fire, and having been rejoined by Lally, advanced to
the attack. Coote, at the same time, moved on with
all his Europeans to meet them, leaving all his
Sepoys and cavalry to remain behind, where they
were. About one o’clock, both lines halted within
200 yards of each other, and opened a heavy fire
of musketry, which had continued a very short time,
when the regiment of Lorrain, breaking rapidly into
column, rushed on to the charge. Coote's, the
regiment attacked, reserved its fire until the French
had arrived within twenty paces, when it was de-
livered with effect in front and on both flanks of the
column; it did not, however, stop its advance, and
the two regiments were instantly mingled in a close
conflict with the bayonet: in a few minutes the
ground was strewed with wounded and dead of both
corps. Lorrain, being crowded up in column, and at-
tacked fiercely on both flanks, gave way, and ran
back in disorder to camp. Coote's regiment being
also in some confusion, was called back from the
pursuit, and formed up in line in its original
position. At this time, a shot from one of the guns
182 SERVICES OF THE .
near Draper's regiment, striking a tumbril in the en-
trenched post, to the left of Lally's, caused an ex-
plosion, by which eighty of the marines were blown
up, and nearly all, including the Chevalier Poete,
killed. The confusion the enemy were thus thrown
into, was instantly taken advantage of by Draper
who led on by Colonel Brereton, stormed that post,
and, although losing many men, among the number
their gallant leader very severely wounded,—drove all
the enemy before them, occupied their position, and
opened so hot a fire on the field-pieces, to the left
of Lally's, that the artillerymen ran away from their
guns. The Marquess of Bussy coming up, endea-
voured at the head of the regiment of Lally, to re-
take the position; he had advanced some distance,
when his horse being shot under him, and part of
Draper's regiment advancing to the charge, his men.
ran away, and left him a prisoner to an officer of
Draper's corps. On his removal to the rear, he ex-
pressed much astonishment and admiration at the re-
serve of grenadiers, who had moved up into the
position in line lately occupied by Draper. During
this conflict on both flanks, the two corps of the rival
East India Companies in the centre, were keeping
up a heavy fire upon each other, the British keeping
in hand until the result of the other attacks were
known. On Lally's repulse, the two battalions of the
corps, Coote's regiment, and the reserve of grena-
diers, were ordered to advance upon the enemy in
their front, and after driving them in, to storm their
FjRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMIENT. 183
camp; leaving their guns behind, they pushed on
rapidly at the charge. The battalion of India, although
joined by the marines, and the remainder of the two
regiments of Lally and Lorrain, could not stand
their ground; but were all obliged to retire within
their lines, whither they were vigorously followed,
again repulsed, and driven in total disorder
beyond the rear of their camp, where the French
hussars, who had from the first been kept in check
by the British cavalry, gallantly threw themselves
between them and their assailants; and three guns,
and their tumbrils, which had been left in rear of
their camp, having been manned by some of the de-
feated French gunners, they restored such confi-
dence, that the routed infantry instantly rallied and
retreated in good order, covered by the cavalry and
guns, towards the Pettah of Wandiwash, where the
detachment in the trenches joined them, having
abandoned all their breaching, guns, ammunition,
&c., none of which they had time to destroy.
During the action, the Mahratta cavalry made
several attempts upon the rear and baggage, but
were uniformly repulsed. When they saw the regi-
ment of Lorrain broken, they at once moved to the
rear, with all their baggage and camp, but rendered
no assistance to the French until they had passed
Wandiwash, when they joined the Hussars, and pre-
vented the English cavalry, commanded by Captain
De Wassevot, from continuing to harass and impede
the retreat. The native cavalry on neither side had
-º-
184 - SERVICES OF THE
acted with much spirit. The Mahrattas had been, for
some time, dissatisfied from want of pay, and the
defeat this day induced their General to move
off towards his own country.
The fighting at the battle of Wandiwash was al-
most entirely between the Europeans, the natives on
neither side having scarcely any share in it after the
cannonade had commenced. After the battle, the
commandants of the native troops complimented
Coote on his victory, and for having shown them a
fight the like of which they had never before seen.
Twenty-two pieces of cannon were taken from the
French, seventeen on the field, and five in the
batteries before Wandiwash : 800 of the French
were killed and wounded, 200 were counted dead on
the field, 240 were taken prisoners, of which number
nearly 200 were wounded, and thirty died before
next morning; six of the killed, and twenty of the
prisoners were officers, the principal of whom were
Brigadier General de Bussy and Le Chevalier Gode-
vile, Quarter-Master-General; of the regiment of
Lally, Lieutenant-Colonel Murphy, two captains, and
two lieutenants; of the Lorrain regiment, one
captain, and one lieutenant; of the battalion of
India, two lieutenants, and two ensigns and Le
Chevalier De Poete, Knight of Malta, who died of
his wounds; all these officers were wounded except
General De Bussy, and an ensign of the battalion of
India. The British lost sixty-three Europeans,
officers included, killed, and 141 wounded, several
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 185
of whom died of their wounds, among others, the
gallant Brereton, who had so great a share in the
success of that glorious day; thirty-six of the killed,
and fourteen of the wounded belonged to the corps;
thirteen and thirty-six to Draper's, and seventeen
and sixty-six to Coote's regiment; four of the
European cavalry were wounded; of the native
cavalry, seventeen were killed, and thirty-two
wounded; of the Sepoys six and fifteen.
A rumour of this important victory was received
at Madras early next morning, and at noon, a note
written in pencil, by Coote, on the field of battle,
arrived at Government House; the joy it diffused -
throughout the presidency, was equal to that felt at
Calcutta on the receipt of the news of the victory
at Plassey.
The enemy retreated as fast as possible, and in
complete disorder, to Chittapett, and the following
day to Gingee, where the broken remains of the
army were collected. In the meantime, the British
cavalry, under Captain De Vassevot, was despatched
to lay waste the country round Pondicherry,
where the French army had retired from Gingee.
On the 26th of January, after repairing and
strengthening Wandiwash, Coote determined to re-
duce Chittapett; he invested it on the 28th of
January, during the night, erected a battery, which
opened early in the morning, and by 11 A.M. the wall
was nearly breached, when the place surrendered.
The garrison commanded by the Chevalier De Tilly,
186 SERVICES OF THE
consisted of four officers, fifty-four Europeans, be-
sides seventy-three, who had been wounded in the
late battle, and were in hospital, and 300 Se-
poys; nine guns, a large store of ammunition, and
300 new muskets were captured, the latter were dis-
tributed among the Sepoys. -
After the victory at Wandiwash, Captain (after-
wards Colonel) Wood, of the regiment, was
ordered to advance with a small detachment of
Europeans and natives from Conerpauk, and invest
Arcot. On the 30th, intelligence arrived of his
having done so, and driven the enemy out of the
Pettah with considerable loss. On the 31st, Coote
marched to Arnee, where Captain Stephen Smith,
of the corps, who had been detached with a small
party to intercept some of the enemy, returned with
twenty Europeans, fifty Sepoys, and two brass field-
pieces. Captain Smith had also picked up three
commissaries who were travelling comfortably towards
Pondicherry in their palankeens. On the 1st of
February, Coote arrived before Arcot, the fortifi-
cations of which had been greatly improved since its
defence under Clive, in 1752. The English had con-
tributed most, but the French had finished what
they had begun; the ditch had been deepened, and
a glacis and covered way carried all round ; from
the centre of the north face projected a strong rave-
lin, mounting six guns; in the interior, the walls had
been widened, and ramparts raised; the towers or
bastions at each angle admitted of three guns,
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 187
and each of the others along the faces one ; the
British erected three batteries, one to the east, at
360 yards, another at 260, and one to the south,
nearly opposite the S.W. angle of the fort, at 200
yards. On the 5th, all three opened their fire. On
the 6th and 7th, approaches were advanced, and by
the 9th the wall was breached in two places, when
the enemy surrendered. Early next morning, the
grenadiers took possession of the gates, and the
garrison, consisting of eleven officers, 247 Euro-
peans, and 300 Sepoys were made prisoners; four
mortars, twenty-two guns, and a large quantity of
ammunition, and stores of all kinds were captured.
The news of the victory at Wandiwash reached
Trichinopoly on the 30th of January, and M. Lally,
at the same time sent peremptory orders to the
French to evacuate Seringam, and join him as soon
as possible. They could not conceal their intended
retreat from Captain Joseph Smith, of the regiment
(afterwards General) the commandant at Trichin-
opoly, who marched after them, and before they
reached Utatoor, captured thirty European pri-
soners, and the following day, a small detachment,
under Ensign Horne, of the corps, took the small
forts of Tokum and Cortalum, the only remaining
posts occupied by the enemy, and thus, for the first
time since any part of the corps garrisoned Trichin-
opoly, was its neighbourhood entirely free from the
French.
After the reduction of Arcot, Coote's force en-
188 - SERVICES OF THE
camped under Vellore, which to spare the attack,
paid a tribute of 30,000 rupees. On the 20th
February, it marched and arrived at Arnee; on the
22d, and following day, at Chittapet, from whence
Captain Stephen Smith was detached, with part of
the regiment and some natives, to take Trinomallee,
which after a slight resistance surrendered on
the 29th. * -
On the 1st March, Coote marched against the
hill-fort of Permacoil, lately occupied by a French
garrison, thrown into it after the battle of Wandi-
wash. The fort had never before been invested by
Europeans; it was situated on the top of a steep
rock, the upper part regularly and strongly fortified
after the native fashion: the lower fort was merely
a wall and breast-work of loose stones, for protec-
tion against cavalry or sudden alarm. Coote arrived
at the north-east gateway of the Pettah, and was
attacked by a sortie, which was repulsed, and the
assailants and defendants entering the gateway
together in confusion, the Pettah was, after good
resistance, taken, and four guns captured. After
an attempt to escalade the upper fort had been
made, in which Coote was wounded in the knee, the
place surrendered, the garrison were made prisoners,
and twenty-two guns captured. On the 9th, the
force pushed forward to Pondicherry, where the
Regiment of Lorrain retiring towards the boundary
hedge, were charged with such spirit by the Com-
pany's European dragoons, as to be thrown into
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 189
considerable confusion, and had several men sabred.
On the following day, the 12th March, the fort of
Amalparrah was taken by assault, the garrison were
made prisoners, and twenty guns captured.
On the 28th, Karical was invested ; this fort was
an oblong square, completely fortified after the
modern fashion by the French ; although each of the
four bastions only mounted three guns, each curtain
was covered by a large ravelin mounting six, whilst a
covered way and excellent glacis surrounded the
whole; the Pettah, however, approached within 100
yards of the north face, and was occupied by the
British, who erected three batteries under cover of
the houses; another was also erected to the east,
and enfiladed the whole of the north face. The
bombardment and cannonade was kept up until the
5th, when the garrison surrendered ; 115 Euro-
peans, seventy-two Topasses, and 250 Sepoys, were
made prisoners. Besides small arms and stores of
all sorts, 155 pieces of cannon, nine mortars, with a
large quantity of ammunition for both, were cap-
tured. The fort of Karrical and the surrounding
districts were thus transferred to the English.
On the 3d April, the small fort of Villaporam,
garrisoned by 1000 natives, was assaulted and taken
by a small detachment under Captain Wood of the
regiment. On the 7th, Colonel Coote having re-
covered from the wound in his knee, rejoined the
army, and the following day reconnoitered Valdore ;
on the 12th, his entire force invested it; on the
190 . . . SERVICES OF THE
14th, the batteries opened their fire and continued
it until the 18th, when the fort surrendered, although
the entire French force was marching to its relief,
and at the time of its surrender, were drawn up in
position against the English, who covered their
besieging party and trenches; twenty pieces of
cannon were captured in this fort.
In the mean time, the division, which had taken
Karical, marched vià Devi-Cottah against Chilam-
beram, which was given up shortly after being sum-
moned. In every one of these captures part of the
corps was engaged. On the 1st May, the French
withdrew close to the boundary hedge of Pondi-
cherry. -
When Cuddalore was abandoned by the French, they
had demolished the parapets of the bastions, made
several breaches, and removed the three gates; in-
formation had been received of Lally’s intention to
retake Cuddalore, and its garrison had been kept on
the alert in consequence. On the night of the 10th,
a strong detachment of Europeans suddenly at-
tacked it, dispersed the Sepoys, and captured five
Tangeons, six warrant officers, and about seventy
sick left in hospital there. On the following night,
the attack was repeated, but a party of the regi-
ment having reinforced the garrison, the enemy were
beat back with a loss of three officers, and thirty-
two men killed and wounded. On the 20th, another
night attack was made with as little success; the
enemy, 700 French infantry, 150 hussars, and 500
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 191
Sepoys, were repulsed with a loss of two officers
killed, and upwards of eighty men killed and
wounded. On the 25th, three companies of royal
artillery, with their guns complete, consisting of 178
men, lately arrived from England, joined the army.
By this time, the enemy were confined within
the limits of their camp near the boundary hedge, and
were reduced to the greatest distress for provisions.
On the 4th June, the first division of the Mysore army
for the relief of Pondicherry arrived at Thiagur,
which, according to treaty, was given up to them.
On the 10th they had advanced as far as Tricatore,
before which they were repulsed, but their cavalry
setting out with a large drove of bullocks, reached
the French camp, although several parties were out
to intercept them; they however only passed in 300
bullocks, leaving several large herds behind in diffe-
rent places to be escorted in the following day; this,
however, they did not effect, as Ensign Turner cap-
tured and brought into the English camp 900. On
the 28th, the Mysore horse marched towards Thia-
gur to collect more cattle and grain for the French,
and on the 30th, Coote despatched some of his
dragoons, 500 native cavalry, fifty Europeans of the
corps, and 400 Sepoys, to reinforce Major More's
detachment at Tricalore; the Major's party con-
sisted of 180 European infantry, thirty Caffres, fifty
dragoons, and 1600 inferior native cavalry and in-
fantry belonging to Kistnarow : the enemy had 4000
192 - SERVICES OF THE
excellent cavalry, 1000 Sepoys, and 200 Europeans,
with eight guns. -
On the 17th July, the British and Mysoreans were
advancing by different routes towards Trivadi, and
suddenly came upon one another not far from that
place. Notwithstanding the enemy's superiority,
More at once advanced briskly to the attack, but
a panic all at once seizing his Sepoys and na-
tive cavalry, they immediately went about and fled;
the Europeans and Caffres stood firm and made a
gallant resistance; the dragoons were all either
killed or wounded, and the infantry, fighting as they
retired, reached Trivadi with a loss of fifteen killed,
and forty wounded. The Mysore army the following
day formed a junction with the French, and it was
expected that the united forces would prevent the
reduction of the French fort of Villenore at that
time invested.
The left of the British rested on the foot of the
hill of Perimbé, the right extended 1500 yards
across the plain towards Villenore; to the centre
and right of this position, two elevated roads led to
Pondicherry from Tanjore and Trichinopoly. On
the 18th, Coote threw up entrenchments across
these two roads, and in line with them, a field-work
mounting three guns, was constructed on a small
detached hill in front of the left of the line; the
plain between the right of the British position and
Villenore was open, but it was secured by the de-
tachments holding the villages near that fort and the
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT, 193
besieging party bombarding it. On the 20th the
French and Mysore armies advanced along the bank
of the river, threatening to raise the siege; Coote
immediately moved out with the two battalions of
the corps, the company of the Bombay regiment,
their guns, and half the Sepoys and cavalry in camp
to meet them, on which they drew up in position, but
Draper's and Coote's regiments having marched from
the left and threatened their left flank and rear, they
at onceretired under the boundary hedge. In the even-
ing, however, the Mysore cavalry brought 900 bul-
locks into their camp, having crossed the river to the
south of the city; the same evening the guards be-
fore Villenore were doubled, and increased diligence
employed in carrying on the operations of the siege.
The fort was triangular, of solid masonry, sur-
rounded by a ditch with covered way and glacis;
the fortifications were strong, and laid out after the
modern fashion ; the gateway and drawbridge were
complete, but the passage through the glacis
being straight, and no traverse or work thrown up
to protect them, a battery was erected against the
gateway, and another near the villages to the north
occupied by part of the troops, and about 300 yards
off. Both opened early on the morning of the 16th,
and about three hours afterwards, the French and
Mysore armies were seen advancing along the bank
of the river as they had done the previous day;
some cavalry and Sepoys with three field-pieces
were pushed forward to skirmish, whilst the rest of
O
194 SERVICES OF THE
the line got under arms: a strong reinforcement of
Europeans, with four guns, were likewise sent to the
two villages near the fort, the fire of which the
batteries had already silenced ; in the meantime, two
companies of Sepoys rushed forward and got behind
the brick-facing of the covered way, where the glacis
had not been filled up; a few jumped over into the
covered way, but still there was the ditch to cross, and
an impracticable breach to scramble up. Notwith-
standing, the commandant held out a flag of truce, and
the gates were immediately opened to a detachment,
which hurried up and pulled down the French and
hoisted the British flag. On seeing this, the enemy
halted, and immediately retired under the guns of
the fort of Ariancopang. Had the garrison of Vil-
lenore, consisting of thirty Europeans, twelve Caffres,
with eight field-pieces, held out for a quarter of an
hour longer, and it might easily have held out for
two days, there would have been a general action.
Up to the end of the month, the army remained
stationary, during which time the Mysore cavalry,
whilst foraging, met with several reverses, which had
the effect of preventing them spreading about so
much ; the French were, consequently, much strait-
ened for provisions. About this time 600 men
arrived to replace vacancies in Coote's and Dra-
per's regiments.
On the 13th August, provisions had become so
searce in Pondicherry, that the Mysore troops left
the French camp. On passing near the British
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 195
lines, their cavalry were very severely handled by
Lieutenant Eiser of the corps, with thirty of his
own men, 400 Sepoys, and 100 native cavalry;
about sixty were killed, and 200, with their horses,
and 900 bullocks, with all their baggage, captured.
By the 17th, all the Mysoreans had left Pondicherry
and advanced against Trinomalee, which they laid
siege to. It was defended by a British detachment,
consisting of a few Europeans of the regiment and
four campanies of Sepoys. The enemy stormed
twice with much resolution, but were repulsed with
great slaughter, and eventually abandoned their
guns, and retired to Thiagur.
The marines of the squadron, 422 men, having
been landed, Coote determined to drive the enemy
within the boundary hedge, and take the fort of Arian-
copang. On the 2nd of September, a further rein-
forcement of part of a Highland regiment arrived,
the first of those sent to India by the great Chatham.
On the 4th, Lally made an attack on the English
camp, which was repulsed after one redoubt had
been taken by the enemy, and an officer and three
men taken prisoners, one field-piece captured, and
two other guns spiked. The regiment of Lally was
particularly distinguished on this occasion, and lost
eight sergeants and twenty-five privates killed. Four
French prisoners were taken on the occasion: one
of them was M. D’Autueil, the same who com-
manded at the affair of Amboon in 1749, and after-
wards surrendered to Clive at Volcondah.
O 2
196 - SERVICES OF THE
At this time, commissions of a senior date having
arrived from England for Major Monson, Coote
was superseded and retired to Madras, leaving
Colonel Monson to command, who determined to
make a simultaneous night attack on all the re-
doubts at the four openings in the boundary hedge.
The redoubt on the north was called the Madras;
on the west were two, the Valdore and Villenore ;
and the Ariancopang on the south: all were strongly
fortified and well garrisoned. During the night,
the force was formed in two columns: the first,
Draper's and Coote's regiments, 1000 strong, 200
marines, 150 Highlanders, and 500 Sepoys, was led
by Colonel Monson, and destined to attack the
Valdore redoubt and hedge to its west; the other,
composed of 800 of the corps, two companies of
foreigners, 120, the Bombay detachment of 350
Europeans, and Topasses under Captain Gore, of
the Bombay European Regiment, and 600 Sepoys,
led by Major (afterwards General) Joseph Smith,
were to carry the village of Oulgarry, and afterwards
to attack the Villenore redoubt.
Colonel Monson's column pushed on, but having
a considerable distance to march, and the rear
having lost its way, there was some little delay;
and the head of the column having been brought on
a road enfiladed by the enemy's guns, a single dis-
charge of grape from an 18-pounder killed eighteen
and wounded twenty-six of the leading division, and
among the wounded (shot through the thigh) was
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 197
Colonel Monson. The troops, nothing daunted,
rushed on to the attack; and after several repulses,
the Valdore redoubt was carried.
Smith’s column had been discovered before Mon-
son's had been fired upon, at a village in front of
the Oulgarry redoubt, occupied in force by the
enemy. After a determined resistance, the grena-
diers in a bayonet conflict cleared the village, and
the troops, entering through the embrasures in the
works, carried them in gallant style, driving out
the defenders, the two regiments of Lally and Lor-
rain, taking nearly 100 prisoners, and capturing ten
pieces of cannon. On this occasion, Ensign (after-
wards Sir Henry) Cosby served with the first grena-
dier company of the corps, and distinguished himself.
The two French regiments, after their defeat, drew
up in front of the Villenore redoubt; but, hearing
the firing of Monson's column on their flank, and
being pressed by Smith, whose column moved on to
attack them again, they retired in such haste and
confusion, that they did not attempt to reinforce the
redoubt, the guard of which, taking the alarm, after
discharging their guns, abandoned it, and retired
with these regiments to the glacis of the fort. The
Battalion of India continued in possession of the
works at Ariancopang, which had only been threat-
ened by the cavalry. The total loss to the British
in these attacks was 115 men killed and wounded.
Monson's column suffered most, more particularly
his grenadiers, who had two officers killed. During
198 SERVICES OF THE
the night, the enemy made a determined attempt to
retake these posts, but were repulsed with much loss
by the Bombay detachment, who particularly distin-
guished themselves.
Colonel Monson’s wound obliging him to give up
command, the Madras government earnestly en-
treated Colonel Coote to reassume it ; and that
distinguished officer, much to the delight of the
army, arrived in camp on the 20th of September,
when he immediately had all the gorges of the cap-
tured redoubts properly secured; and on the 23rd,
fortified a mound to the north of the town, opposite
the Madras redoubt: it was occupied by 200 Euro-
peans and the company of pioneers. On the 27th,
he reconnoitred towards Ariancopang, which, on his
approach with his usual escort, the enemy abandoned
in a panic, and it was instantly taken possession of
by a small party of the corps and some natives,
under the command of Ensign Cosby. On the
following day, 400 of the Battalion of Lorrain, with
two field-pieces, advanced from the glacis to recover
it ; but their various attempts were repulsed, with a
loss of many men killed, and twenty, with their
adjutant, wounded. Ensign Cosby held the com-
mand of this important post during the remaining
operations of the siege, and, by his vigilance and
activity, prevented any provisions being introduced
into the city.
To the north of Pondicherry, and in view of the
Madras redoubt, within the boundary hedge, was a
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 199
considerable village, built by the French East India
Company, for storing and bleaching their cloths,
and called the Blanchiere. As, in the event of the
redoubt being taken, this village would afford cover
to an enemy, on the 30th the French began to
demolish it. The same day, however, Coote made
a reconnoisance towards that quarter; and having
advanced along the north beach, he penetrated
through an unguarded opening, and gained the rear
of the intrenchments. He immediately formed his
detachment into two parties; one attacked the Ma-
dras redoubt in front, whilst the other proceeded
along the inside of the works, and took all the
different posts in reverse. After a short resistance,
the enemy abandoned the Madras redoubt, and took
post in the Blanchiere in its rear. The redoubt
was instantly occupied by the British Sepoys; but
during the night, whilst the company of pioneers
were fortifying its gorge, it was suddenly attacked
by 400 of the Battalion of India, and 600 French
Sepoys; the British were driven out of their post,
and the officer of pioneers was killed. A Soobadar
named Covin Sing, however, quickly rallied his
men, and gallantly led them to the attack. They
gained a footing inside the work, and kept up so
hot and well-directed a fire, that the enemy, sup-
posing themselves engaged with a superior force,
began hastily to retire ; and a party of Europeans,
detached from each British regiment, coming up at
the same time, secured the post, the acquisition of
200 . SERVICES OF THE
which completed the investment of Pondicherry,
from the sea, on the north, all round on the land
side, to the river of Ariancopang on the south-west,
between which and the sea-shore, to the south, there
remained an opening, secured by a redoubt called
St. Thomas’, on a small sand island in the river,
about 500 yards due south of the city fortifications.
Up to the 8th of November, the British were em-
ployed in erecting batteries, during which time there
were daily skirmishes, between parties of foragers
in the neighbourhood; on that day four Richochet
batteries opened their fire, one to the north, at about
1500 yards distance, enfiladed the east face of the
works; another of two 24-pounders, and three mor-
tars, was situated towards the west, and bore upon
the N.W. angle, and two others to the south, one
on the edge of the large island, formed by the river,
fired on the south-west angle of the fort, and on St.
Thomas' Redoubt; the other was erected on another
island, and fired in the same direction. On the 12th
of November, St. Thomas' Redoubt was abandoned
by the enemy, and immediately occupied by a de-
tachment, the European part of which was furnished
by the Madras European Regiment. On the fol-
lowing day, its gorge was secured, and formed
into a battery, against the south face of the forti-
fications.
The investment of Pondicherry was continued
until the night of the 30th of December, with the
greatest vigour, when a furious hurricane arose, that
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 201
not only drove Admiral Stevens' fleet out of the
roads, but inundated the country far and near; all the
English batteries and field-works were destroyed;
all the powder, except what was under shelter of
masonry, ruined ; the whole of the tents and huts
of the troops blown down ; and the entire army so
much scattered, that in the morning not more than
100 men were found collected in any one place;
many of the native troops perished from the in-
clemency of the weather, and although no Euro-
peans died, many were laid up from injuries or
sickness; the inundation was, however, so extensive,
that the enemy were unable to take the slightest
advantage of the besieging army; they could not
even procure any supplies by sea, as Admiral
Stevens' fleet appeared the following day in the
offing. - . - .
St. Thomas' Redoubt had, after the storm sub-
sided, been occupied by the enemy. On the 7th of
January it was attacked and carried by a detach-
ment, headed by a part of the Madras European
Regiment; the same night it was retaken by all the
grenadiers of the garrison, and the small guard left
in it, after a gallant resistance, overpowered and
taken prisoners; these General Lally immediately
returned, not having provisions to subsist them. On
the 10th of January, a large battery named the
Hanover, opened against the west face of the fort.
On the night of the 13th, 700 Europeans draughted
from every corps in the force, assembled at the
202 SERVICES OF THE
bleaching village, and before day-break next morn-
ing, had not only constructed a battery, within 450
yards of the town, but two long parallels; during the
14th, the Hanover battery silenced the fire of the
west face. The following day, a battery was
marked out near the north beach, and within 300
yards of the walls, but in the afternoon a flag of
truce made its appearance, and the city of Pondi-
cherry surrendered at discretion. On the 16th, the
grenadiers of the British European corps occupied
the different gates, and on the afternoon of the same
day, the French garrison paraded in front of the
citadel for Colonel Coote's inspection; 1100 Euro-
peans only appeared under arms, and these were worn
down from famine, fatigue, and disease: the most
impaired and enfeebled were the grenadiers of the
regiments of Lorrain and Lally, the finest body of
French troops that had ever landed in India. During
the entire period of their service in India, and during
the distresses of the siege, not a man had deserted;
their conduct on all occasions had been distinguished
by the most devoted gallantry. After the review,
the French troops grounded their arms, and became
prisoners of war, and the following day, the 17th of
January, 1761, the British flag was hoisted on the
citadel, and its display saluted with 1000 guns.
The European military prisoners, of all ranks, were
2072, and 381 civilians; in the arsenal, and on the
works, were 500 excellent cannon, and 100 mortars,
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FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 203
besides an ample supply of ammunition of all sorts,
and a great number of fire arms.
During this first capture, and second siege of
Pondicherry by the British, their loss was thirty-two
officers, and 500 rank and file killed and wounded;
that of the enemy considerably greater. After its
surrender, there was some misunderstanding on the
part of H. M.'s officers, whether or not Pondicherry
should be given up to the East India Company;
but on reference to the King's patent of January,
1758, the city and its dependencies were handed
over to Mr. Pigot, the Governor of Fort St.
George.
The forts of Gingee and Thiagur still held out,
the former was attacked by Captain Stephen Smith,
of the corps, with a detachment of Europeans from
the regiment, and a large body of Sepoys. After a
slight resistance it was taken in the middle of
February, and on the same day the strong fort of
Thiagur surrendered, after a bombardment of sixty-
five days, to a force under Major Preston, of the
corps, consisting of a strong detachment of Euro-
peans from the corps, a large party of artillerymen,
and a considerable body of Sepoys and native horse;
the enemy lost nearly 100 Europeans killed and
wounded.
During the following month, the settlements of
Mahé and Tellicherry were taken from the French,
in which service a detachment of the corps and the
company of the Bombay European Regiment under
204 SERVICES OF THE
Captain Gore of that corps participated: By the
5th of April, not a single settlement remained in
India belonging to that nation. Thus, after a war
of nearly fifteen years’ duration, in every action or
affair of which the corps, or a detachment of it, had
been engaged, during the whole of which period, it
had alone kept the important fortress of Trichino-
poly, and not only defeated every assault made
upon it, but had, on seven different occasions, de-
feated the French in pitched battles on the plain,
within sight of the walls, and thrice taken prisoners
or utterly destroyed the entire investing French
force,—was the same injury inflicted upon them as
they had intended to the British after the reduction
of Madras in 1746, the destruction of whose com-
merce and power in India was the object of De la
Bourdonnais' expedition, and the whole policy and
ambition of those two most able men, Dupleix and
Lally.
Shortly after its capture, the fortifications and
public buildings of Pondicherry were razed to the
ground; and in a short time not a building of the
kind or a work was standing in this once well-
fortified city. M. Lally after his exchange, returned
to France, to fall a victim to popular violence in
1766. *
On the 9th December of the previous year,
Major-General Lawrence, who had for some time
been unable from age and infirmity to perform any
active duty, returned to Europe. No one ever left
STATUE OF MAJOR tººlººl, LAWIRENCE
IN THE sº noon OF THE RAST INDIA HOUSE LONDON.
Luºsº ºn.
ºne-




FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 205
the shores of India more highly respected and loved
by all classes, natives as well as Europeans.
Adored for his distinguished and noble spirit, the
name of Lawrence, “the great and good,” must
always rank high among the many of India’s most
illustrious soldiers. In the language of Sir John
Malcolm, Lawrence “neither was nor pretended to
be a statesman ; but he was an excellent officer.
He possessed no dazzling qualities, and his acts
never displayed that brilliancy which men admire as
the accompaniment of genius; but he was never-
theless a rare and remarkable man. We trace in
all his operations that sound, practical knowledge of
his profession, which, directed by a clear judgment
and firm mind, secured to him an uninterrupted
career of success, under circumstances of great diffi-
culty and danger. As one of the chief causes of
this success, we may notice the absence of that
common but petty jealousy which renders men afraid
lest they should detract from their own fame by
advancing that of others, and the influence of which
is, consequently, most fatal to the rise of merit.
Lawrence early discovered and fully employed the
talents of those under his orders; and we find him
on all occasions much more forward to proclaim
their deeds than to blazon his own. To this
quality, which is the truest test of a high and liberal
spirit, England is principally indebted for all the
benefit she has received from the services of Clive.
It was the fostering care and the inspiring confi-
206 . SERVICES OF THE
dence of his commander, that led to the early deve-
lopment of those talents, which, by the opportuni-
ties afforded him, were matured at an age when
most men are only in the rudiments of their military
education. Clive continued through life fully sen-
sible of the magnitude of his obligations to Law-
rence, towards whom he ever cherished the most
affectionate gratitude.” On his retirement with a
very moderate fortune, Clive, who visited England
at the same time, settled 500l. per annum on him,
a liberality which was greatly enhanced by the
warmth and delicacy of the sentiments expressed
upon the occasion. “It gives me great pleasure,”
writes Clive, “that I have an opportunity given me
of shewing my gratitude to the man to whom my
reputation, and, of course, my fortune, is owing.”
On his return home, General Lawrence’s statue was
placed in the India House, along with those of Sir
George Pocock and Lord Clive, who had arrived in
England about the same time.
None of the regiment that had proceeded under
Clive in 1756 for the recapture of Calcutta had
returned to the Presidency; and in October, 1759,
an additional detachment of 200 of the regiment
accompanied Calliaud to Calcutta, when he pro-
ceeded to take command of the forces in Bengal,
which had been much weakened by the absence of
the troops under Forde at Masulipatam.
When the Shah Zada suddenly invaded Meer
Jaffier's dominions in July, 1759, the British had a
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 207
very small disposable force to support their ally.
The enemy were joined by Law and his detachment
of Frenchmen, (the same which had escaped from
Chandernagore in 1757,) and laid siege to Patna,
at that time garrisoned by a very small English
detachment. Clive lost no time in advancing to its
relief at the head of a very small force, of which a
detachment of the corps formed part. On his ap-
proach, the enemy retired, and the Shah Zada with-
drew from the province. For his services on the
occasion, Clive was raised to the rank of Omrah of
the Mogul empire, and had bestowed upon him the
Jaghire of 30,000l. per annum, so well known as
Clive's Jaghire, and now forming Clive's Fund.
In August, very shortly after the Shah Zada had
retired, a Dutch ship, filled with troops, arrived in
the river near Fulta; and in October was followed
by six more, having on board 700 European soldiers
and 800 Malays, to reinforce the Dutch garrison at
Chinsurah. Although it was well known that Meer
Jaffier had been intriguing for assistance from the
Dutch Government at Chinsurah, to rid himself of
the English, Clive induced him to issue his orders
desiring them instantly to leave the river. They
were not complied with ; and at last, after much
remonstrance and correspondence with their Go-
vernor at Chinsurah, the Dutch ships commenced
hostilities by seizing some small English vessels and
boats on the river, detaining their crews, and land-
ing part of their own troops, and tearing down the
English colours at Fulta and Riapore.
208 . SERVICES OF THE
Although the two nations were at peace, Clive
determined to treat them as enemies. The three
English ships in the river were ordered to attack the
Dutch fleet, whilst the small body of troops, only
240 European infantry, 80 artillerymen, 1200 Se-
poys, a troop of cavalry, some militia, and a com-
pany of volunteers, were disposed, some at Char-
noc's and Tanna's batteries, to bombard the fleet,
should it come up the river; the rest to be ready to
attack the enemy if they landed, and prevent them
forming a junction with the Dutch garrison at
Chinsurah. -
Colonel Forde had arrived from Masulipatam,
and assumed command of the troops. On the 19th
November, he marched out, and took possession of
Barnagore, from whence, crossing the river to Se-
rampore, he marched on towards Chandernagore,
and took up a position between Chinsurah and the
Dutch troops, should they land.
The enemy's ships, disregarding all remonstrance,
proceeded up the river, and three days afterwards
anchored at Saukeval Reach, within range of the
guns from the batteries. On the 23d, they landed
700 European soldiers and 800 Malays, and dropped
down the river to Melancholy Point, near which the
three English ships lay. The troops from the bat-
teries were instantly sent off to reinforce Colonel
Forde, and orders were sent by Clive to Commo-
dore Wilson, to demand instant restitution of the
English ships, subjects, and property, and on their
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 209.
refusal, to fight, sink, burn, and destroy the Dutch
fleet; the following day the demand was made and
refused. Notwithstanding the inequality, seven to
three, the British tars immediately attacked the
enemy, and after two hours’ engagement, the Dutch
commodore struck, and the rest followed his ex-
ample, except his second in command, who cut and
run, but was stopped at Culpee by two English ships
on their way up. - - -
Whilst the ships were engaged, Forde was
marching through Chandernagore, intending to en-
camp nearer Chinsurah. On his way through the
ruins, houses, and enclosures of that place, he was -º
suddenly attacked by the garrison of Chinsurah,
which had marched out with four guns to meet
him ; the enemy were soon dispersed with con-
siderable slaughter, lost their guns, and were pur-
sued to the barrier of their fort, which Forde pre-
pared to invest, but hearing the following day, the
25th November, of the landing of the enemy's
troops from the ships, he immediately marched with
all his force, and met them about four miles off, on
the plains of Bedarra. The engagement, which im-
mediately took place, was “short, sharp, and de-
cisive;” the Dutch in less than half an hour were
completely routed, with a loss of 120 Europeans
and 200 Malays killed, about 150 wounded, besides
350 Europeans, exclusive of Colonel Roussel and
fourteen officers, and 200 Malays, prisoners. The
Dutch force, commanded by Colonel Roussel, a
P
210 SERVICES OF THE
French officer of merit, consisted of 700 European
infantry and 800 Malays, besides some natives. The
English had only 240 Europeans, a small detach-
ment belonging to the corps forming part, eighty
artillerymen, and 800 Sepoys; a few of Meer
Jaffier's cavalry joined Forde at the close of the
fight, and were useful in pursuing the fugitives after
the victory. Of the entire Dutch force, only seven
men reached Chinsurah, to the investment of which,
Colonel Forde returned the same day. A few days
afterwards, a treaty was entered into with the Dutch,
who disavowed the proceedings of their commodore,
acknowledged themselves the aggressors, and agreed
to pay the expences and damage when their ships
and prisoners were delivered up to them.
Colonel Forde's admirable skill and gallantry in
attacking and defeating so superior a force, saved
the English power in Bengal. Had he experienced a
reverse, however slight, there was a powerful party
in Meer Jaffier's court, which would have joined the
enemy in subverting the British government. Forde
was very cautious about attacking the Dutch troops,
on account of the two nations being at peace, and
wrote a note, stating that “if he had the order in
council, he could attack the Dutch with advantage.”
Clive wrote a replyinpencilas follows: “Dear Forde,
fight them immediately. I will send you the order of
council to-morrow.” A few days after the victory of
Bedarra, Colonel Calliaud arrived at Calcutta from
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 211
Madras, with 200 of the Madras European regi-
ment.
The arrival of the Dutch fleet had encouraged
the Shah Zada again to invade Bahar. Colonel
Calliaud at the head of 300 Europeans, 200 of
which belonged to the corps, fifty artillerymen, with
six pieces of field artillery, and 1000 Sepoys, left Cal-
cutta in December, and reached Moorshedabad the
day after Christmas. On the 18th January, 1760,
Calliaud at the head of his force, reinforced by
15,000 horse and foot, and twenty-five pieces of
artillery, under Meer Jaffier's son, Meeram, marched
towards Patna, which was threatened by the Shah
Zada at the head of an army of 50,000 men. Cal-
liaud was detained some days on the march settling
terms with the Nabob of Poornia, which enabled
the Shah Zada to reach Patna : the Nabob’s
governor there had received strict injunctions from
Calliaud, to avoid an engagement until his arrival.
An action, however, took place, contrary to the ad-
vice of the English officer there, who had a small
detachment under his command of seventy Euro-
peans, and a battalion of Sepoys; the Nabob's
troops were routed, and the English Sepoys cut to
pieces with all their European officers. Of the two
guns the English had, one was rendered unservice-
able; but they succeeded in carrying one with
them, and fighting their way into Patna, which they
gallantly defended until the 19th February, when
Calliaud’s advance to within twenty-eight miles of
P 2
212 X- SERVICES OF THE
Patna became known ; the enemy then raised the
siege, and prepared to oppose him. On the 22d both
armies met ; Meeram's army was quickly, thrown
into confusion, and only saved by Calliaud march-
ing a battalion of Sepoys to its support, which
forming on the enemy's flank poured in two deadly
volleys, and immediately charged home. The enemy
was thrown into great confusion, and being charged
by Meeram’s horse, fled. Calliaud was prevented
following up the pursuit by the indolence of Mee-
ram, who remained several days at Patna. The
Shah Zada had in the meantime pushed on towards
Moorshedabad, and Calliaud with Meeram followed
on the 29th of February. A force of 200 Euro-
peans had been despatched from Calcutta, and had
joined Meer Jaffier for the protection of Moorsheda-
bad. On the 4th of April, Calliaud's force joined
him, and on the 7th the Shah Zada's camp was
attacked, but he set it on fire and fled.
Patna in the hurry had been left with a very
trifling garrison; the Nabob of Poornia had de-
cided against Meer Jaffier, and joined the Shah
Zada; Law, with his French detachment, also
joined; Patna was again besieged, and as gallantly
defended by the few English in that factory. Cal-
liaud had, however, foreseen the danger, and des-
patched a detachment under Captain Knox (the
same who had distinguished himself at Candore),
consisting of 200 picked European infantry, a part
of which belonged to the corps, and a battalion of
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 213
Sepoys. In the meantime Patna had been twice
assaulted, and the enemy both times repulsed.
Another assault was hourly expected, when Knox's
detachment appeared in sight; he had performed
the march from Moorshedabad to Patna in thirteen
days. The night of his arrival, Knox reconnoitered
the enemy’s camp. About two P. M. the next day
he surprised them, when asleep, drove them from
their works, and raised the siege. The Shah
Zada retired to the neighbourhood of Teekaury,
where he waited the arrival of the troops of his
ally the Nabob of Poornia. To prevent their
junction, the force under Calliaud, and Meer Jaf-
fier's under Meeram, concentrated at Ragé Mahl.
On the 23d of May, the troops of the Nabob of
Poornia were on one side of the river, and the
English and their ally on the other, both advancing
towards Patna, where orders had been sent to
Knox to cross the river at Patna, and harass the
enemy's march. Knox expressed his determination
to attack the enemy on their arrival, and marched
out at the head of his 200 European infantry, a
battalion of Sepoys, five field-pieces, and 300 ca-
valry belonging to a petty rajah, who gallantly
volunteered to accompany him. Knox attempted a
night attack, but the guides mistaking the way he
did not reach the enemy until broad daylight.
Their army consisted of 12,000 men, and thirty
pieces of artillery. Knox took up a capital posi-
tion, and after six hours' conflict, within sight of the
214 SERVICES OF THE
walls of Patna, defeated the enemy with much
slaughter, and pursued them till nightfall. The
junction of the Poornia troops with the Shah
Zada's was thus most effectually prevented. About
the same time, Calliaud came up with his army, and
followed the Shah Zada so close, that he was obliged
on the 29th of June to abandon all his artillery, and
the greater part of his heavy baggage. On the
night of the 2d of July, Meeram’s tent was struck
with lightning, and that prince killed, which led to
the abdication of Meer Jaffier, and Meer Cossim
Ali being made nabob.
On the 2d October, Mr. Vansittart, Clive's suc-
cessor in Bengal, accompanied by Calliaud with a
large force, of which the detachment of the corps
formed part, marched to Moorshedabad to invest
Meer Cossim Ali.
In January, 1761, Major Carnac succeeded Cal-
liaud in the command of the troops, and shortly
afterwards at the head of a force of which the de-
tachment of the corps formed part, attacked the
Emperor in his entrenched camp at Gyah Maun-
pore, and completely defeated him. M. Law and
his detachment of French being taken prisoners,
another victory gained over the enemy at Beerboom,
where Major Yorke commanded, entirely dispersed
the Emperor's army, and ended in his coming to
terms with the English.
During the year 1762 there was no service in
Bengal, or in the Carnatic; the detachment which
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 215
had accompanied Calliaud to Bengal continued to
serve there.
On the breaking out of hostilities between the
English and Meer Cossim Ali, the detachment of
the corps formed part of the force of 750 Euro-
peans, 1200 Sepoys, and some native cavalry under
command of Major Adams, which marched against
him on the 2d of July, 1763; it participated in the
victories gained over the Nabob's troops near Moor-
shedabad on the 19th of the same month; and on
the 24th, at the storming of the lines at Mootejil,
which gave the English possession of Moorsheda-
bad. On the 2d of August, it shared in the victory
at Gheriah, the severest action the English ever
had with an Indian army. Cossim’s troops were
divided into brigades, and were regularly disciplined
after the English fashion, and commanded by the
German Sumroo : he had also a splendid train of
field artillery beautifully served : the action lasted
four hours, and few fields have been more obsti-
nately contested. The English line was at one time
broken, and two guns captured; the Europeans
were attacked at the same time, both in front and
rear. The firmness of the English infantry, how-
ever, in the end prevailed, and the enemy were de-
feated with much slaughter, and lost all their cannon
and baggage. The English did not exceed 3000,
the enemy had 8000 foot, 30,000 cavalry, and
thirty guns. They fled to a strong entrenched po-
sition on the Oodwa, near to and covering Mon-
216 SERVICES OF THE
gheer. The English approached the entrenchment
on the 11th of August, and a ditch about sixty
feet broad, deep, and full of water, extended the
whole way from the bank of the Oodwa to the foot
of some hills near which that stream swept. The
ground in front was very swampy, except for a
small space on the bank of the river. The British,
constantly harassed by the enemy's cavalry, were
kept in check until the 5th of September, when the
entrenchment and ditch at the foot of the hill was,
after a determined resistance, most gallantly carried.
The enemy fled, hotly pursued to Mongheer, which
had been strongly garrisoned. Meer Cossim, how-
ever, continued his route to Patna, carrying with
him the English prisoners he had captured at the
commencement of the war. In the meantime, Mon-
gheer had been regularly invested, and early in
October, surrendered.
The loss of Mongheer, which was Cossim’s usual
place of residence, and where he had his arsenal,
so enraged him, that he had all his European pri-
soners massacred. His German commandant, So-
mers, or Sumroo, with a company of Sepoys, car-
ried the barbarous order into execution. He invited
the gentlemen to supper, and when they had all
assembled, and were entering the room where the
supper was laid out, Mr. Ellis was seized by the
hair of his head behind, whilst some one cut his
throat. Mr. Lushington being close to him knocked
the murderer down, seized his sword, and killed
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 217
one man and wounded two before he was despatched.
The rest of the gentlemen taking the alarm de-
fended themselves for some time with the plates
and bottles on the supper-table, and even repulsed
the Sepoys until Somers ordered them to mount on
the roof of the house, and fire down through it on
the English below. This they reluctantly did, and
forty-nine English gentlemen, and a young child
of Mr. Ellis', were slaughtered. The private sol-
diers were despatched by sixty at a time, a few of
the latter belonged to the Madras infantry; a Dr.
Fulerton was the only person whose life was spared.
After the fall of Mongheer, as the English ad-
vanced against Patna, Meer Cossim left it. The
garrison, however, defended it with great spirit, and
took one of the besieger's batteries and blew up a
magazine; in eight days, however, a breach was
made, and the place after a gallant resistance was
carried by storm on the 6th of November. Of the
British, four officers and forty men were killed and
wounded ; the enemy lost 1500. After the loss of
Patna, Meer Cossim withdrew from the provinces,
and ended a campaign of only four months, during
which Major Adams cleared the country of the
enemy, after fighting four battles, forcing several
strong entrenchments and passes, taking two strong
forts, and capturing 500 pieces of cannon, and all
against one of the best native armies ever seen in
India, numbering nearly 60,000 men, with a force
of 3000, of which 750 were Europeans of H. M.'s
218 SERVICES OF THE
84th, the Bengal regiment of infantry, and the de-
tachment of the Madras Europeans.
The Carnatic and Southern India had enjoyed
a season of tranquillity until August, 1763, when a
force, of which the Madras Europeans formed the
principal part, marched to Madura against Maho-
med Issoof, who had brought into subjection the
Southern Paligar States round Madura and Tin-
nevelly, which he had rented from the Nabob ; but
being backward in paying the revenue, was accused
by the Nabob of defalcation and rebellion. Until
October, 1764, that gallant soldier made a despe-
rate struggle against his enemies, and his capture
was not effected (and that by the treachery of a
Frenchman in his service) until much blood and
treasure had been expended. In this harassing ser-
vice the regiment suffered severely, but succeeded
in the complete subjugation to the Nabob of all the
country round Madura.
On the 3d of May, 1764, the detachment of the
corps serving in Bengal were present with the force
commanded by Major Carnac, in the action under
the walls of Patna, where he completely defeated
the armies of the Emperor and Sujah Dowla with
great slaughter. The same detachment was also
present with the force under the command of Major
Munroe, on the 22d of October, near Buxar, when
after a severe action, that lasted from 9 A. M. till
noon, the armies of the Emperor Sujah Dowla and
Cossim Ali were routed with a loss of 6000 men,
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 219
killed and wounded, and 130 pieces of cannon cap-
tured; the loss to the English was very considera-
ble. A few days after the battle of Buxar, the
Emperor came over to the English army, which
advanced to Benares. Major Munroe having left
the army, the command devolved on Sir Robert
Fletcher, who, on the 14th of January, 1765,
marched from Benares, and in less than a month
drove Sujah Dowla from his dominions, captured all
his cannon (several hundred pieces), dispersed his
forces, and took all his forts, in all which service
the Bengal detachment of Madras Europeans par-
ticipated.
Sujah Dowla having been joined by the Mah-
rattas, again took the field. General Carnac, who
had succeeded Sir Robert Fletcher, immediately
marched and came up with the enemy at Calpy.
On the 20th of May, 1765, they were defeated with
the greatest slaughter, and entirely dispersed; Sujah
Dowla throwing himself on the mercy of the Eng-
lish, to whom he came and gave himself up ; and
thus at the same time were the Emperor and Sujah
Dowla prisoners in an English camp.
In January, 1765, on Nizam Ali invading the
Carnatic, the greater part of the Madras European
infantry composed the force under Colonel Camp-
bell, which marched against him, and on whose
advance that prince quickly retreated to his own
country.
220 . SERVICES OF THE
In May, 1765, Lord Clive landed at Calcutta as
Governor-General.
In 1766, the corps of European infantry, on the
establishment of Fort St. George, which had hereto-
fore consisted of three battalions, was formed into
three regiments, each of nine companies. Each regi-
ment consisted of 1 colonel, 1 lieutenant-colonel,
1 major, 6captains, 1 captain-lieutenant, 91ieutenants,
9 ensigns, 1 adjutant, 1 quarter-master, 1 sergeant-
major, 1 quarter-master-Sergeant, 1 drum-major, 41
sergeants, 41 corporals, 23 drummers and fifers, and
660 privates. Each battalion company consisted of
1 captain, 1 lieutenant, 1 ensign, 4 sergeants, 4 cor-
porals, 2 drummers, and 70 privates. Each grena-
dier company consisted of 1 captain, 2 lieutenants, 6
Sergeants, 6 corporals, 4 drummers and fifers, and 100
men. Three battalion companies in each regiment
were called field-officers’ companies, and each had an
additional fifer. The strength of the entire Euro-
pean corps of three regiments was at this time—
3 colonels, 3 lieutenant-colonels, 3 majors, 18 cap-
tains, 3 captain-lieutenants, 27 lieutenants, 27 en-
signs, 3 adjutants, 3 quarter-masters, 3 Sergeant-
majors, 3 quarter-master-sergeants, 3 drum-majors,
123 serjeants, 123 corporals, 69 drummers and
fifers, and 1980 privates, making a total of all ranks,
2394. The Table of pay and allowance for each
rank was as follows:– . . . . . . . .
Pay of each per
Batta per Diem
Extra Allowance,
when quartered
Diem in English in Indian in Madras, for
Money. Money. Oil and Peon.
f s. d. Pag. | F. Cash | Pag. F. Cash
One Colonel . . . 1 5 0 6 » | > | 2 1 , || For Oil and Peon.
One Lieutenant-Colonel 1 () () 5 » | > | 2 1 | y, do. do.
One Major . O 15 0 4. » | > | 2 I | x, do. do.
Captain . . . . . 0 10 0 1 25 | 16 || 2 1 | y, do. do.
Captain-Lieutenant . tº
Lieutenant . . . . } 0. 5 0 1 || 2 | 64 |, | 15 , || For Oil.
Ensign . . . . . 0 4 0 , 33 || 48 || , | 15 , do.
Adjutant . . . 0. 5 0 1 || 2 || 64 || , | 15 , do.
Non-Commissioned Rank and File in Indian Money for One Month.
P Batta for a Messing for a
ay. Month. Month.
Pag. F. - C. Pag. | F. C. | Pag. | F. C.
Sergeant-Major . . . 4 22 22 52 22 || 22 25 22 22 This in addition
Quarter-Master-Sergeant 4 92 25 22 22 22 25 22 32 e s l e º & d is e ] e º e s to Sergeants
Drum-Major e ſº ſº 1 25 22 2 3 32 22 22 22 25 Pay. e
Sergeant . . . . 5 » | > | 1 10 || 60 || 6 10 || 60 All Non-Commis-
Corporal . . . || 3 || 14 , || 1 1 60 || 4 || 15 60 sioned Rank and
Drum Fif 3 || 10 , | 1 60 || 4 || 15 || 60 File were victual-
rummer, or Fifer 3 || 14 , || 1 1 | 60 || 4 || || 5 || 60 led by contract in
Private . . . . . || 2 | 21 , , ,, 26 20 3 5 | 10 the field.
§

222 SERVICES OF THE
About the same time a similar organization of
the European corps in Bengal took place, and the
remnant of the detachment of the Madras infantry
serving there was incorporated with the Bengal
European infantry regiments.
In the end of January, 1767, Lord Clive left
Bengal, and arrived in England on the 14th July
following, his constitution much impaired and shat-
tered. On his arrival he was warmly welcomed,
not only by his family and numerous friends, but by
men most distinguished for rank and talent in Eng-
land, and by the Court of Directors who owed him so
much. While conducting the affairs of his coun-
try with such distinguished honour and success in
India he had not been forgotten in Europe, where
his name occupied a high rank among those of the
illustrious men who had raised the fame of England
to so high an eminence at that glorious period.
Clive's statue, with those of Lawrence and Ad-
miral Sir George Pocock, had been placed in the
India House, the Admiral’s in the centre over the
chairman's seat, Clive's on the right, and Lawrence's
on the left. Sir John Malcolm, in speaking of
Lord Clive, observes, “In the East all his endea-
vours had been crowned with brilliant success. His
operations from the moment he appeared on that
theatre till he quitted it, formed a great era in the
history of England, of India, and of the world.
The rapidity and ease with which the richest pro-
vinces in India were subjugated, threw a new light
on the nature of the intercourse between Europe
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 223
and Asia. The veil which Bussy had in part lifted
up, he removed. Men who till now had appeared
in the humble garb of merchants and suitors, hence-
forward assumed the reins of government, and took
their place in the direction of nations and of states
where they had lately been strangers. The power
of the East was once more, as in the days of Alex-
ander, brought into collision with that of the West,
and once more quailed before it. The grand
secret of oriental splendour and weakness was con-
firmed, and Clive had sufficient greatness of mind to
forego the tempting occasion of being the conqueror
of the Mogul empire, and to content himself with *
a more moderate and less brilliant, but, to his
country, infinitely more useful triumph. He had
the rare, and, in a successful soldier and conqueror,
almost unparalleled magnanimity, to place his am-
bition under the guidance of his judgment and his
duty.”
By the treaty of Paris, of the 10th of February,
1763, Pondicherry was given back to the French,
and, about the same time, the northern circars were
ceded to the British by Nizam Ali. War having
been declared by the Nizam, with the Mahrattas,
against Hyder Ali, the ruler of Mysore, the British,
being allies of the former, became embroiled in it.
During the month of May, 1767, the Mahrattas
invaded Mysore by its northern frontier, whilst
Nizam Ali, with a detachment of the Madras army,
under command of Colonel (formerly Captain and
224 SERVICES OF THE
afterwards General) Joseph Smith, of the regiment,
penetrated from the N.E., and all joined under the
walls of Seringapatam. • .
Hyder, however, first of all, bought off the Mah-
rattas, and, a few days afterwards, formed an alli-
ance with the Nizam. Colonel Smith was kept in
ignorance of these transactions until he had arrived
at Seringapatam, where he found himself deserted,
and suddenly in the vicinity of two overwhelming,
hostile armies, at a distance from his reinforcements
and supplies. Smith slowly retired into the Car-
natic, where he was joined by a detachment of
troops which had been employed to the south-
ward, in the Barmahal; his force, however, only
amounted to 800 Europeans, of the Madras regi-
ment, thirty of the corps mounted as dragoons,
1000 of the Nabob's cavalry, 5000 Sepoys, and
sixteen field-pieces; but these were wretchedly sup-
plied with provisions, camp equipage, and carriage.
Looking down upon them, from the crest of the
Ghauts, were the armies of the Nizam and Hyder,
amounting to 42,000 cavalry, 28,000 infantry, and
109 guns, ready to rush down upon the Carnatic,
the projected invasion of which, no assurances or
protestations of Colonel Smith would induce the
Governor and Council of Madras to credit. No
preparation was accordingly made, not a magazine
formed, nor a single step taken to assist their small
army in arresting the progress of so calamitous and
fearful an invasion.
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT, 225
On the 25th of August, the British were encamp-
ed at the foot of the Ghauts, near Caveripatam,
expecting the enemy to force their way down the
pass it occupied (it being, as was then supposed,
the only passage down the mountains within 100
miles), when they were suddenly surrounded by all
the enemy’s cavalry, who began driving off the
carriage cattle grazing near the British camp. The
cavalry immediately mounted, and advanced to the
attack, but could effect nothing against such over-
whelming odds. They were driven back with a loss
of a third of their number, and a greater part of the
cattle, the loss of which prevented the force moving
until the 28th, during which time the enemy took
the strong post of Caveripatam, defended with
great gallantry by Captain McKain, and two com-
panies of Sepoys, who, after repulsing two storms
by the elite of Hyder's army, secured their
retreat. - - *
For three days Smith continued his march to-
wards Trinomallee, where a detachment of 400 of
the corps, and 4000 Sepoys, from Trichinopoly,
under Colonel (formerly Captain) Wood, of the
regiment, was to join him. The column of march
was everywhere impeded and harassed by clouds,
of the enemy’s cavalry. On the fourth day's
march (the 3d of September), the road led through
the small pass of Changama, which terminated on
the banks of a fordable river : a village and hill
had been occupied by the enemy, whose columns
Q
226 - SERVICES OF THE
of infantry were rapidly advancing to secure the
position; but Captain Cosby, seeing its importance,
with his battalion of Sepoys (the 6th), immediately
attacked it, and drove the enemy back with con-
siderable loss. The advanced-guard, under Major
Boujour, coming up, the position was reinforced
by another battalion, under Captain Cowly, who
held it until Colonel Smith, who had been rapidly
pushing on, arrived, and formed up in line of battle :
a severe action immediately ensued, the enemy
making repeated charges, en masse, which were
gallantly repulsed, and the enemy driven back, with
a loss of two gnns: the British continued their ad-
vance, and, after hard fighting, drove their assailants
in the greatest confusion before them. The enemy,
in this action, called the battle of Changama, lost,
in killed alone, upwards of 2000 men, one of whom
was an officer of distinction: the British lost 170.
During the action, however, the enemy's horse had
plundered part of the baggage, and taken all the
rice in camp. This obliged Smith to move on ;
and, with the exception of one short interval on
the field of battle, and two hours at midnight, the
march was continued until the afternoon of the
following day, when the victorious, but famished
and wearied army, reached Trinomallee, where the
Nabob had given the strongest assurances that
ample supplies of every kind would be collected,
and ready for the use of the troops.
Colonel Smith, notwithstanding, found no rice or
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 227
other supplies, and only about as much grain in the
husk as would satisfy the immediate wants of the
troops. On the 8th, Colonel Wood's force, in which
were 400 men of the corps, joined, and on the fol-
lowing day they were all obliged to march to the
southward, to procure food, leaving the sick and
wounded, and military stores at Trinomallee, which,
six days afterwards, was attacked by the enemy,
just as the General returned to its relief, having
collected a small supply of rice: 10,000 of Hyder's
cavalry, drawn up to cover the removal of his
battering train, were driven in by a part of the
corps, with considerable loss; but the guns escaped,
and were hurried off with the rest of his army,
which encamped about six miles off.
During the following ten days, the British were
constantly on the move, collecting supplies; several
small convoys also had succeeded in eluding the
enemy’s flying parties of cavalry, and had entered
Trinomallee; and some hidden stores of grain had
been discovered, all of which, although insufficient
for an adequate allowance, served to relieve the
most emergent wants of the army. During this
time, the enemy had strongly intrenched their posi-
tion. On the 25th of September, Smith moved out
his entire force, amounting to 1,400 Europeans, the
greater part of whom belonged to the corps, thirty
European Dragoons, 9000 Sepoys, thirty-four field-
pieces, and 1,500 very indifferent cavalry, belonging
to the Nabob. The entire front of the enemy's
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228 --- SERVICES OF THE
camp was entrenched; and, in a chain of redoubts
along it, numerous guns were mounted. The flanks
were protected in the same manner, and further
secured by an impassable morass, extending along
the whole front of the position. Another imper-
ceptible, but impassable morass, extended, at right
angles, from about the right centre of their line to
a hill about two miles to the front. The British
encamped out of gun-shot, parallel to the left
wing of the enemy, with their left flank resting on
the morass, the hill terminating which was in their
rear. About noon, on the following day, the
enemy moved out in force, with sixteen guns, and
cannonaded the British left. Smith instantly
moved to his left to attack them; but coming
upon the morass, of the impracticability of which
he was unconscious, he at once counter-marched,
and moved off rapidly from his right, intending
to remove the obstacle, by rounding the hill before
described. Hyder expected that the British would
have attempted to cross the morass, and whilst
confused, in so doing, would have been easily re-
pulsed. Even if they gained the former ground, they
would have been without artillery, and exposed to a
flanking fire from the line of redoubts, and thus more
easily overpowered. Seeing them so suddenly mov-
ing off to the rear, he concluded that the British
were in retreat towards Arcot, and accordingly the
Nizam's and Hyder's forces were instantly in mo-
tion towards the hill. The nature of the ground
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 229
entirely concealed the movements of the rival armies
from each other. The British pushed on rapidly to
turn the hill, and fall upon Hyder's corps before
it retired within its intrenchments, the enemy,
to intercept and harass, what they supposed, the
retreat of their opponents; the advanced-guards of
both rounding the base of the hill at the same time,
suddenly came in contact. The enemy immediately
made an attempt to occupy the hill, but were re-
pulsed by the leading native regiment, commanded
by Captain Cooke, and that position seized which
secured the right of the line. Some rocks on
the plain, at a little distance to the left, formed
a point of considerable strength, and were occu-
pied by the enemy. Three battalions of Sepoys,
commanded by Captains Cosby, Cooke, and Baillie,
supported by a strong detachment from the corps,
after an obstinate resistance, dislodged them, and
the rest of the army coming up, formed in line,—its
right resting on the hill, and its left on the rocks
the enemy had just been driven from.
Hyder's and the Nizam's armies drew up on some
heights, at a short distance parallel to the British,
their artillery supported by large masses of infantry;
their cavalry divided on each flank, forming a cres-
cent, which enveloped both flanks of the British;
only thirty of the enemy's guns were in position, but
seventy were coming up : the British had only thirty-
one light brass field-pieces distributed along their
line, but they were steadily and beautifully served;
230 SERVICES OF THE
and advancing with the line from one strong
position to the other, as it was abandoned, had
nearly silenced those of the enemy, when they were
turned against the masses of cavalry, who threatened
both flanks, and whose presence prevented a more
decided forward movement. A few minutes of as-
tonishment was succeeded by the greatest conster-
nation, and the splendid practice and rapid firing of
the Madras artillery quickly covered the field with
disorganized masses of flying cavalry : their infantry
and guns continued to maintain their ground. The
British line, however, continued to advance at a
steady pace: Hyder's guns were drawn off, covered
by his infantry, with much spirit and steadiness;
but nine of Nizam Ali’s were captured by a charge
of part of the regiment.
It was during this action, called the battle of
Trinomallee, after the retreat had been ordered, that
one of the favourite wives of Nizam Ali, who always
accompanied him to the field, refused to have the
elephant she was on turned back, until the standard
of the empire had passed to the rear, declaring at
the same time, that her elephant had been taught to
follow, not precede the standard. The chivalrous
spirit of the lady caused the loss of several elephants
and many followers; for, during the delay and con-
fusion her demur occasioned, and before the stan-
dard elephant had passed to the rear, the British
shot was falling thick among the royal cortege, and
the rapid advance of the European corps had very
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 231
nearly captured all; the absence of a larger body of
effective cavalry alone prevented all being made
prisoners.
Nizam Ali fled from the field, accompanied by a
select body of cavalry, leaving the remains of his
army to the care of his minister and commander-in-
chief. Hyder remained at his post, and had his own
artillery in full retreat before the Nizam's were ready
to move, when his infantry fell back, and occupied
the redoubts of the entrenched camp. The British
remained on the field of battle, and occupied the
ground they had driven the enemy from.
At midnight, the whole force stood to their arms,
and proceeded in silence to beat up the enemy's
camp ; the guides were, however, in the pay of
Hyder, and the column was delayed and led astray,
so that as daylight appeared, they were some dis-
tance from the enemy's camp, which, however, had
been abandoned; but the road, as far as the eye
could reach, was covered with their troops and
baggage. Hyder, in person, commanded a rear
guard of select troops, and covered the retreat with
the greatest ability and courage; surrounded by a
chosen guard of a troop of French cavalry, 3000
picked horse, and 300 infantry, he was particularly
conspicuous, as well from his activity and soldier-like
bearing, as the great splendour of his retinue. The
British troops, however, pressed forward, and the
advance guard, headed by a strong party of picked
men from the regiment, drove him back, and in the
232 SERVICES of THE
course of the day captured fifty-five of the Nizam's
heavy brass guns. The pursuit lasted until night-
fall, when Colonel Smith halted his exhausted and
overworked troops; all were perfectly tired out.
After nearly thirty-six hours fighting, with a scarcity
of food, almost amounting to actual famine in his
camp, the British General, in his despatch to
Government, declared he would willingly give all
the captured guns and stores for a small supply of
food, the want of which obliged him to march back
his starving army to Trinomallee.
During the operations of the two days, the
British lost about 200 killed and wounded:—The
enemy allowed; upwards of 4000, and sixty-four
brass guns with their tumbrils and military stores
were captured. - - -
When Tippoo Sultaun, then employed plundering
the country houses near Madras, heard of the defeat
of his father's army, he retired with precipitation to
join him; and all the other flying parties of cavalry
under his command, which were scattered about
laying waste the Company's territory, followed his
example. . .
The Carnatic being thus clear of the enemy, the
British forces were withdrawn into cantonments, and
the regiment went into quarters at Nellore, where it
remained until the renewal of hostilities in Decem-
ber. On the 7th of that month a force under
Smith, of which about 1000 of the regiment formed
part, relieved “Amboor,” which had been bravely
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 233
defended for nearly a month against the whole force
of the enemy, by Captain Calvert, another officer, a
sergeant, and fifteen Europeans, and the 10th regi-
ment of Sepoys, 500 strong; for which gallant de-
fence that regiment had the honorary distinction
of having the word Amboor emblazoned on its
colours. -
On the 8th, Smith pushed on after the enemy,
whom he found drawn up in a strong position at
Vaniambaddy. The engagement lasted a very short
time, and with slight loss to either side. The
enemy's guns were quickly withdrawn, and his cavalry
and infantry covered their retreat. To overtake them
was impossible, their cattle and equipments being so
superior, whereas those of the British were most in-
efficient, and the army, notwithstanding all Colonel
Smith's protestations, was as infamously supplied
with provisions and draught cattle, as in the last
campaign. During the action, Hyder's troop of
French cavalry deserted him and came over to the
British. Smith was obliged to halt to receive sup-
plies from Amboor, but despatched a small advanced
party, under Colonel Tod, composed of about 200
of the regiment, and 1000 Sepoys, with some of the
cavalry to hang upon the enemy's rear. On reaching
Tripasore, Tod found it abandoned, but a con-
siderable quantity of grain, and some cattle were
secured;—a capture of the utmost consequence, as
it enabled Smith's force to follow the enemy towards
Caveripatam, near which he was joined by Colonel
234 SERVICES OF THE.
Wood's division, in which there were nearly 500 of
the regiment from Trichinopoly.
The position chosen by the enemy at Caveripa.
tam, was too strongly entrenched to be attacked ;
the British were therefore encamped at a short dis-
tance, the enemy's cavalry interrupting their commu-
nications, and preventing any convoys moving except
under very strong guards. Against one convoy in
particular, under Captain Fitzgerald, expected by
the Singarpetta pass, Hyder moved in person, with
a chosen detachment of 4000 cavalry, 2000 infantry,
and six guns. Smith, suspecting his intentions, re-
inforced Fitzgerald with two companies of grenadiers
from the European regiment, a battalion of Sepoys
and two guns, which joined the convoy unperceived
by the enemy. Hyder, unaware of the reinforcement,
Charging, at the head of his cavalry, on the grena-
diers, he was very nearly falling into their hands, for
his horse was shot under him, and a musket-ball
went through his turban. His cavalry were very
severely handled, and experienced a heavy loss,
several of his superior officers being killed. This
defeat, by troops much inferior in numbers, and
incommoded with a large convoy, reflected the
greatest credit and honour on Captain Fitzgerald
and the brave men under him. The convoy was
safely conducted to camp, and Hyder retired within
his intrenchments deeply mortified at his failure.
The combat at Singarpetta was attended with most
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 235
fortunate results; for, just as the British had been
two days without supplies, and were moving two
marches to the south to procure them, Hyder left
a strong division, chiefly cavalry, under his general
Muckdoor Saib, to harass the British communi-
cations, and watch their army, and himself moved up
the Ghauts into Mysore with the rest of his force.
About the same time a peace was concluded with
the Nizam, but not before Colonel Smith, with
his entire force, had made several marches to the
north towards that prince's dominions, in order
to co-operate with a Bengal force, under Colonel
Peach. -
In April, 1768, Smith returned to blockade the
fort of Kistnagherry, which surrendered on the
2nd of May. Colonel Wood's division at the same
time proceeded into the Baramahal; and before
the end of May, had taken all the fortified places
in the districts of Salem, Erroad, Coimbatoor,
and Dindegal—upwards of sixteen forts—in the
capture of every one of which, part of the corps
participated.
General Smith's army was at this time concentrated
at Kistnagherry, for the invasion of Mysore. On the
8th of June, its advanced-guard, composed of a
strong detachment from the corps, and three bat-
talions of Sepoys, with some artillery, and a small
party of cavalry, all under the command of Colonel
Dugald Campbell, ascended the Pass of Boodi-
cottah. On the 15th he took the fort of Wencati-
236 SERVICES OF THE
gherry; and, after opening the Pass of Pednaik
durgum into the valley of Vellore, he marched to-
wards the strong forts of Mulwalgul and Colar,
both of which were taken before the 28th, by which
time the main force of the British had ascended
the Boodicottah Pass. General Smith was accom-
panied by Mahomed Ali, and two field-deputies,
sent by the Government of Madras.
On the advance of the British, Hyder's general,
Muckdoor Saib, retired under the walls of Banga-
lore. On the 1st of July, a well-equipped force,
composed of a strong detachment from the regi-
ment, marched, under the command of Captain
Cosby, to make a night-attack on the Mysore
camp. Owing to some accidental delay on the
march, Cosby did not reach the point of attack
until after daylight; but Muckdoor Saib was
obliged to retire with considerable loss. On the
11th, Oossoor was taken, and shortly afterwards,
Anicul, and Dencanicota. The want of provisions,
as well as the non-arrival of a battering train,
detained the army at Oossoor until the 4th of
August, when the Mahratta Chief, Morai Rao,
according to treaty, joined General Smith, with a
fine body of 3000 cavalry, the want of which had
much crippled the British General's movements.
The Mahrattas encamped about half a mile to
the right of the British, although earnestly recom-
mended by Smith to pitch closer. On the 22nd,
Hyder made a night-attack on the Mahratta camp :
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 237
6000 picked cavalry, followed by about 5000 in-
fantry, penetrated within their encampment before
they were discovered; but Morai Rao ordered
every man to stand at his horse's head, and cut
down whoever approached on horseback. An
elephant having been accidentally wounded, broke
loose, and increased the confusion. Hyder's ca-
valry were driven back upon their infantry,
whom they trampled down and dispersed, retiring
with them in the greatest confusion, leaving
behind three hundred men, killed and wounded,
besides eighty excellent horses. Morai Rao
only lost eighteen men, and thirty horses, killed
and wounded : among the latter, was his nephew,
severely; and the gallant Chief, Yoonas Khan had
his right arm nearly cut through in two places.
General Smith's Aide-de-Camp, Captain Ghee, a
promising young officer of the corps, who rode into
Morai Rao's camp to learn the cause of the alarm,
was cut down by mistake. Mahomed Ali, having
been taken very ill, was removed to Colar, and a
large detachment from the army was despatched to
escort him, and the two field-deputies who accom-
panied him. .
General Smith immediately moved to the south-
ward, to form a junction with Colonel Wood.
This he effected on the 6th of September, when
Hyder was very nearly brought to action, but
escaped, from some faulty dispositions made by
Colonel Wood. The united army followed Hyder
238 SERVICES OF THE
for some time, but eventually fell back upon Colar
for supplies.
About the end of September, Hyder made pro-
posals of peace, which were not agreed to ; and
hostilities again commenced, by the capture, by
Hyder, of Mulwagul, which fort had been garrisoned
by General Smith with an excellent detachment of
Sepoys. The field-deputies had, however, in his
absence, relieved it with a single company of the
Nabob's infantry, which surrendered to the enemy
on the first summons.
Colonel Wood marched with his force to recover
it; but found Hyder's army had retired. The lower
fort was immediately stormed; but the attack on
the upper fort failed. On the following day, the
4th of October, a small party of the enemy appear-
ed, advancing towards the rock, as if covering a
convoy. Wood was induced to move out with two
companies, and two guns, to reconnoitre ; and thus
suffered himself to be withdrawn two miles from his
camp, when he found himself nearly surrounded by
a heavy column of infantry, and 3000 horse. He
lost no time in sending back for reinforcements,
and meanwhile attempted to make a stand : he was,
however, driven back, with the loss of his guns;
and the rest of his detachment was only saved by
the spirited advance of a battalion of Sepoys, under
Captain Matthews, which, falling on the flank of
the enemy as they were about to cut off Wood and
his small party, completely dispersed them. They
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 239
had hardly been disengaged, when Hyder's army
appeared at a short distance. The battalion retired
in regular order, making repeated stands, until it
had fallen back on the line. The ground round
the foot of the rock, which was occupied by the
British, was covered, at irregular distances, with
large blocks of granite : a small hill to the right of
its base, a mass of impenetrable rock, was held
by two battalions, and covered the right flank of
the European corps, drawn up in reserve. The
front of the position was occupied by the rest of the
infantry and guns, according to the nature of the
ground. The action became general along the
whole line, and a confused and irregular succession
of conflicts were continued for some time. The
superiority of the enemy in numbers and artillery,
and the impossibility to form the British into any
order, on account of the irregularity of the ground,
and a heavy column of the enemy having, besides,
gained the flank and rear of the position held by the
European regiment, all tended to a retrograde, but
regular movement, until the enemy were checked by
one of those happy expedients, which, in the hour
of danger, shew the ascendancy of mind. Captain
Brooke, of the corps, having received a severe con-
tusion in the storm of the previous day, was left
in the lower fort, with four companies of Sepoys
and two guns, to protect the baggage, sick, and
wounded. Seeing the impending peril, he collected
the whole of his party, and every sick and wounded
240 SERVICES OF THE
man able to crawl, and, manning the two guns with
the sick and wounded gunners, he proceeded by a
circuitous route, and occupied the summit of a flat
rock which flanked the enemy. His two guns sud-
denly opened a fire of grape, with destructive effect,
on the thick masses of the enemy, every one at the
same time cheering and calling out the name of Smith.
This announcement was murmured, with surprise,
through the ranks of the enemy, and echoed back
with exultation by the British, both believing that
the General's force had come up. Energy and
spirit was infused into the drooping and exhausted
ranks of the British, and the enemy were driven
back beyond the foot of the hill. Wood instantly
availed himself of the stratagem which had obtained
him a little breathing-time; the hill on the right of
the Europeans having been occupied by that corps
as the centre of the position, his other dispositions
for receiving a renewed attack, were ably and
rapidly executed. Hyder was not long in disco-
vering that no General Smith had arrived, and
advanced with great vigour to the attack: a suc-
cession of furious charges on every part of the
British position, were steadily repulsed, and the
day closing on his ineffectual and defeated efforts,
left the British in the possession of the hard-fought
field of battle. Hyder's loss exceeded 1000 killed ;
that of the British, eight officers, and 229 rank and
file, mostly Europeans. The ammunition being
nearly expended, Wood sent off express during the
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 241
night to General Smith. Hyder did not renew the
attack next day, although he continued to threaten
the left of the position. General Smith's arrival
in the afternoon was no sooner discovered, than
Hyder's army moved off with their usual celerity,
and in a short time were out of sight.
On the 5th October, the two British divisions
marched towards Vellore, where the sick and wounded
were deposited. The superior equipment of the
enemy enabled him to avoid all attempts at bringing
on an action, and his light troops ravaged the whole
country. . . .
On the 4th November, a large body of his troops
headed by himself, appeared before Colar, causing
the greatest alarm to the Nabob and the field
deputies; but the excellent preparations for defence
made by Colonel Campbell prevented Hyder making
an attack. It had, however, the effect intended by
Hyder, of withdrawing Colonel Smith from the pro-
ductive country he occupied to one perfectly laid
waste. On the 14th November, however, the Na-
bob and field deputies returned to Madras, accom-
panied by General Smith, who laid before Govern-
ment a future plan of the war. . . . -
Smith's division remained at Vencattigherry, for
the purpose of supplying escorts for the protection
of the Nabob and field deputies on their journey to
Madras. The presence of these functionaries in
the field had the most prejudicial effect on the
operations against the enemy. Constantly interfering
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242 SERVICES OF THE
in military arrangements, of which they invariably
shewed the most profound ignorance, they were
continually thwarting General Smith's plans, and on
several occasions caused defeat and loss, whilst they
remained at Colar, affording not the slightest assist-
ance, but often hindering the collection of supplies
and carriage. They insisted upon an escort of 200
Europeans and five battalions of Sepoys, with a
large proportion of artillery, a force nearly equal to
one of Smith's divisions, and which, if it had been
at his disposal, would no doubt have enabled him to
clear the country of the enemy, and carry the war
into Mysore.
On the 16th, Colonel Wood, reinforced by the
second battalion of the corps, and a battalion of
Sepoys, under Captain Cosby, marched to the relief
of Oossoon, then besieged by Hyder. Wood's force
consisted of two battalions of that regiment, and five
battalions of Sepoys, with their field-pieces. On
the 17th, he reached Bangalore, a small walled town,
with a little fort or citadel in the centre, in which were
the quarters of a battalion of the Nabob's Sepoys,
commanded by Captain Alexander, where he depo-
sited all his baggage, camp equipage, &c., except two
brass 18-pounders, which, being too large to enter
the gate of the town, were left outside under charge
of a small guard. The division proceeded the same
afternoon, intending a night attack on Hyder's army
near Oossoon ; but owing to the irregularity and
delay in the line of march, did not reach until day-
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 243
light in the morning, when he found that all the
provisions, &c. for the relief of the garrison had not
been brought up. Whilst they were halted to make
the necessary dispositions to bring up and introduce
the small supply of stores, Hyder's army broke up,
and his cavalry manoeuvred on the flanks and rear,
to mask the infantry, which had turned Wood's
flank, and were far on the way towards Bangalore,
before he suspected the movement; and it was only
when heavy firing was heard in that direction, that
he felt convinced the baggage and materiel of his
division, left behind in so exposed and defence-
less a situation, was the object of attack. The
division was instantly countermarched, and set off
with the utmost haste to their protection. Hyder
had, however, long preceded him, and in several
columns, supported by artillery, and pioneers carry-
ing ladders, advanced to escalade the Pettah walls,
within which all the cattle and baggage of the army
had been driven on the first alarm.
The walls of the Pettah were very slight, and only
sufficiently high to resist cavalry. Captain Alexander
directed his principal effort towards protecting the
two brass guns, and kept up a heavy fire from the
greatest part of his battalion on the advancing
columns. The remainder, under his second in com-
mand, manned the walls of the small citadel, the
gate of which that officer had shut immediately the
enemy entered the Pettah, which they did in two
columns. It was fortunate this precaution had been
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244 SERVICES OF THE
taken, as the terrified camp-followers crowded to it.
The Sepoys in the citadel plied their musketry with
great execution, and prevented their commanding
officer's retreat being cut off. The mass of human
beings, all pressing for safety towards the gate,
driving their effects before them on bullocks, camels
and carts, and the terror all were inspired with,
created such a scene of horror and confusion as has
seldom been witnessed. Not only were men, women
and children trampled down by one another and the
beasts of burden, but the weaker of the animals
were trodden down by those heavier and stronger.
The defenders of the Pettah with the utmost diffi-
culty gained the foot of the citadel wall, and were
drawn up with ropes by their comrades inside.
Hyder's attack on the citadel failed; but, quickly
withdrawing the two guns at the gate, and loading
all his tumbrils and gun-carriages with the baggage
of Wood's force, he sent them off towards Bangalore,
and was mearly out of sight, before Colonel Wood
returned to find the loss of upwards of 2000 human
beings trampled to death, an equal number of
draught and carriage bullocks, two 18-pounders,
and nearly all his stores, baggage, and camp
equipage. ar - -
After throwing ammunition and stores into Oos-
soon, on the 21st November, the division moved on
towards Arlier en route to Colar. On the 22nd,
at noon, Hyder's army suddenly appeared, his
cavalry driving in the British outposts, and masking
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 245
the movements of his infantry and guns, a heavy
battery of which opened with considerable effect at
a distance, out of range of the British field-pieces:
instead of attacking these guns, Wood's division
was halted in a very exposed and weak position,
and a most ineffectual cannonade ensued until
sunset, when it ceased on both sides. The British
had Captain Cosby wounded, and six subalterns,
twenty of the regiment, and 200 Sepoys killed
and wounded. At ten the same night the march
was renewed, and the enemy kept up continued
attacks on all parts of the line during the night;
daylight found the column still engaged, and the
élite of Hyder's army pressing on in masses to in-
tercept it. The desperate bravery of the European
corps, in a protracted and stubborn conflict with
the bayonet, at last cleared the way, and the march
was continued for two miles further. The column.
was much harassed by swarms of cavalry, and a hill
over which it had to pass was found occupied by a
large force of the enemy; this brought on another
combat more vigorous than the last, in which Hyder
was again beaten back just as the ammunition of the
British began to fail. About an hour afterwards,
Major Fitzgerald advanced with the largest force
he could collect, having received intelligence of the
affair at Bangalore, and brought up with him a
most serviceable supply of ammunition and pro-
visions. The troops, after thirty-six hours' inces-
sant marching and fighting, were nearly knocked up ;
246 •. SERVICES OF THE
and although they had shown the most determined
courage, and had uniformly repulsed all the attacks
of the enemy, yet they were beginning to despond
and get wearied out by the continued and fresh
attacks they were exposed to for so long a time.
Major Fitzgerald strongly urged an instant ad-
vance to the relief of Bangalore against which
Hyder had moved. Colonel Wood did not think
his troops equal to the exertion, and that gallant
garrison was left to its fate. On the receipt of the
intelligence at Madras, Wood was superseded, and
early in December Colonel Lang of the corps suc-
ceeded him. -
Hyder had been often heard to declare, that of
the two British generals “he never desired to
come in contact with General Smith; but as for
Colonel Wood he would attack him whenever he
could find him.” When he had positive intelli-
gence that Smith was at Madras, he considered
Bangalore sufficiently protected by a light corps
under his son Tippoo, and with a large and well-
appointed army under his own personal command,
he descended the Ghauts at Palicode, and on the
6th of December entered the Bermahal; at the
same time his general Fuzul-oola-Khan, passed
down through Coimbetoor and the passes at Cave-
ripatam and Gungelhutty. The military disposi-
tions made by Colonel Wood for the defence of the
former post, commanded by Captain Faisan, were
very faulty. Of five detached companies not one
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT, 247
|
was within ten miles of another, and three, twenty-
five, forty, and fifty-five miles from support. The
first post attacked was commanded by a brave ser-
geant of the corps named Hoskan, at the head of a
company of Sepoys; he repulsed the first attack,
and in reporting it to his officer added, “I expect
them again to-morrow morning in two parties, with
guns. I will take the guns from them, with the
help of God!” 700 cavalry, 5000 infantry, and
seven guns advanced as he expected. The sergeant
bravely held out until his post was reduced to ruins,
when it was carried by assault and nearly all its
gallant defenders put to the sword. Whether Ser-
geant Hoskan was slaughtered with the rest, or lin-
gered for a time in the dungeons of Seringapatam,
there is no authentic information. The other posts
in this pass fell as rapidly. That at the other
Ghaut, after two assaults, in the last of which the
commandant, Lieutenant Andrews, was killed, sur-
rendered, and the garrison at Coimbetoor, mostly
composed of Mahomed Ali's troops, after having
massacred the English officer and Sepoys, gave
it up to the enemy. Fuzzul-oola-Khan accom-
plished his descent the same day that Hyder
moved down the pass of Palicode; and in a few
days, what from treachery, or want of supplies,
every post or garrison, except that of Caveripoor
under Captain Faisan, and Eroad under Captain
Orton, fell into the enemy's hands.
When Colonel Lang heard of Hyder's move
248 SERVICES OF THE
ment down the Ghauts, he detached after him a
light efficient corps of about 5000 men under Ma-
jor Fitzgerald, consisting of 500 disciplined cavalry,
a troop of which were Europeans selected from the
corps, the 3d Regiment of the corps, the grenadier
companies of the 1st and 2d, in all 500 European
infantry, five select battalions of Sepoys, and eight
6 and six 3-pounders, with the best equipments the
service could afford. Colonel Lang remained un-
der the walls of Vencattigherry with a force, exclu-
sive of garrisons and detachments, consisting of 400
of the corps, part of the 1st and 2d Regiments,
900 Sepoys, two 6 and one 3-pounders, and two
howitzers. . . . 1 * -
The garrisons and posts in the Barmahal and
Salem fell as easily to Hyder as those in Coimbe-
toor did to his general, and Fitzgerald had the
mortification of hearing of the surrender of each
just as he arrived within distance to relieve it. As
he approached the Caveri, he received intelligence
that Hyder had crossed that river, and was ad-
vancing upon Trichinopoly and Tanjore, leaving
Fuzzul-oola-Khan to invest Carroor and Eroad.
Fitzgerald moved rapidly and intercepted him ; but
Hyder turning off in the opposite direction suddenly
fell upon Carroor, which almost immediately sur-
rendered. He then moved towards Eroad, the gar-
rison of which consisted of 200 Europeans of the
corps, and 1200 Sepoys. * “
When Captain Orton fell back upon Eroad, con-
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 249
trary to what he had been led to expect from the
Nabob's agents, he found it entirely destitute of
provisions. Not knowing that Hyder's army was so
close, or that Carroor had surrendered, he sent a
detachment of fifty Europeans and 200 Sepoys,
with two 3-pounders, under Captain Nixon, to
escort a supply of stores from that place, distant
about forty miles. Nixon had proceeded about
half-way, when suddenly six field-pieces opened
upon him at point-blank distance; he immediately
retired behind a small embankment to cover his
men, when two deep columns of infantry, part of
Hyder's army, which had just taken Carroor, rushed
on to surround him. The English detachment
maintained its position with the greatest firmness,
until the enemy's columns had reached within twenty
yards of it, when the little band of fifty heroes
delivered their fire, and sprang forward with the
bayonet. The heads of the columns were driven
back in confusion, and after sustaining great loss
broke and fled. This effort of gallantry did not
save the English from destruction. Before they
had formed up, Hyder's cavalry, which had just
finished cutting to pieces all the Sepoys, charged
them on all quarters. All were instantly knocked
over, not an officer or man escaped without a wound,
except Lieutenant Goreham of the corps, who was
saved by a Mysore officer of rank. The wounded
were immediately placed in litters or other convey-
ances and taken back to Eroad, where they were
250 SERVICES OF THE
paraded before the garrison, and a flag of truce sent
in for a surgeon to dress their wounds. A summons
was also sent to Captain Orton, and he surrendered
next day, being quite destitute of provisions to
stand a siege. The terms of the capitulation were,
that Captain Orton and garrison were to be allowed
to proceed to Trichinopoly; but Hyder violated his
promise, and they were sent to the dungeons of
Seringapatam.
After the surrender of Carroor, Hyder marched
against Caveripatam, commanded by Captain Fai-
san of the corps, an officer of undaunted courage
and spirit. He had been, for about a month past,
besieged by Fuzzul-oola-Khan. After a protracted
defence against Hyder, he also, when reduced to
the last extremity for want of provisions, capitulated
on condition that he and all his garrison should be
allowed to proceed to Trichinopoly. These terms
were shamefully broken, and Captain Faisan and
his brave garrison, part of which was a company of
the corps, were sent to the same dungeons as their
comrades of Eroad.
The year closed with these events. A gallant
and devoted corps of Europeans, both artillery and
infantry, a faithful army of well-disciplined Sepoys,
frittered away and sacrificed by an inefficient Govern-
ment and corrupt civil subordinates; and the energy
and ability of Colonel Smith, an excellent, high-
spirited officer, paralysed and thwarted by those to
whom only he had a right to look for support and
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 251
co-operation. It was a notorious fact, that when the
army were not a day without being put to the great-
est straits for their food, and very frequently fa-
mished, there was no just cause why, under proper
and less infamous management, they should not
have been most abundantly supplied.
To crown all, the Government of Madras sued
for peace, and twelve days’ cessation of hostilities
was granted ; but no terms having been agreed
upon, hostilities were resumed on the 6th of March,
when the whole of the Carnatic was once more in
flames; and it was the height of Hyder's ambition
to burn the Black Town and suburbs of Madras.
Colonel Lang's division, much reduced, covered the
Presidency.
In a series of masterly movements between Gin-
gee and Madras, where Colonel Smith, from his
vicinity to the Presidency, was enabled to move his
artillery as quickly as the enemy, Hyder was so
repeatedly out-manoeuvred, and only saved by the
superiority of his cavalry, that he was most desirous
to make peace ; and whilst the rival armies were
about 140 miles distance from Madras, he deter-
mined to bring matters to a conclusion, in a manner
as unexpected as bold. Having sent off all his
infantry, the most of his cavalry, and all his artillery
and baggage, to the westward, through the pass of
Ahtoor, he reserved to accompany himself 6000
horse and 200 picked infantry. In three days, he
marched 130 miles; and on the morning of the
252 SERVICES OF THE
29th, appeared before. Madras, within five miles of
the fort. Since the renewal of hostilities, he had
written to the Governor, desiring peace: he now
sent word he had come to conclude terms, desiring
that a person might be sent to negotiate with him,
and mentioned Mr. Du Pré, the senior member of
Council, as most agreeable to him; and that gen-
tleman proceeded to meet him at St. Thomas's
Mount.
In the meantime, Colonel Lang's division at-
tempted in vain to overtake and engage the Mysore
army whilst entangled in the pass of Ahtoor; whilst
Colonel Smith followed Hyder towards Madras,
and on the 31st March, had approached within ten
miles of the Mount, when he received an order to
halt, and eventually to retrograde, Hyder having
frankly declared that until peace was finally settled,
he would not rest within sight of that army. On
the 2d April, the treaty was definitively settled and
signed. •
During this eventful war, the troops had done
more than could have been expected from any other
than British soldiers. On every occasion had they
behaved with the greatest gallantry; and had not
the English General been on all occasions thwarted
by the corrupt measures and incapacity of the
Government he was serving under, it would have
been spared the disgrace of having a treaty dictated
to it almost within gunshot of the ramparts of Fort
St. George. -
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 253
Hyder at all times spoke in the highest praise of
the talents and character of Colonel Smith,-a tri-
bute due from one great soldier to another. The
conduct of this officer throughout the war must
always gain him the reputation of being one of the
best officers of his day, particularly when it is taken
into consideration the means he had at his disposal,
the difficulties he had to encounter with his own
Government, and that, during the whole campaign,
he did not commit one military error in all his nume-
rous and rapid dispositions. Of his antagonist,
Hyder, it may be safely said he shewed himself the
best Indian general of his day; and to the honour
of the Madras European Infantry be it said,—that
the British officer he expressed the highest opinion
of, and whom he made no secret of asserting was
the only officer he ever refrained from encountering
was Colonel Smith, an officer who had risen in the
corps, and had learned his profession under Law-
rence and Clive, the best masters of the science of
Indian warfare.
Before Hyder left the Mount, he expressed great
anxiety to have an interview with his preceptor, as
he styled Colonel Smith. Circumstances prevented
this wish being gratified. Hyder then begged to
have a portrait of him, which was some time after-
wards sent; and after the capture of Seringapatam,
it was found in the palace there, and afterwards
sold by public auction with other prize property.
It was sent to England, and went into the possession
254 - SERVICES OF THE
of the late General David Smith, of Comet Row,
Somersetshire.
During the year 1770, there was no service of
any kind, and the corps went into the different
garrisons, where it remained until September, 1771,
when, on the breaking out of hostilities with Tanjore,
a force under Colonel Smith, of which the 1st Eu-
ropean Regiment and all the grenadiers of the corps
forming part, was assembled near Trichinopoly. In
September, it entered the enemy's country, and
reached the capital, Tanjore, on the 29th of the
same month. After some affairs and skirmishes
with the garrison, the place was invested, ground
broken, and, by the 27th October, a practicable
breach made, when the Rajah came to terms, and
the force marched back to Trichinopoly.
On the 12th March, 1772, a force under Colonel
Smith assembled near Trichinopoly,–the 1st Euro-
pean Regiment and all the grenadiers of the corps
forming part of it, for the purpose of reducing the
Ramanad-porum and Sheva-gunga Pollams, which
were entered in May of the same year. At the
storm of Ramanad, the grenadiers of the corps,
commanded by Captain Robert Godfrey, particularly
distinguished themselves; and Lieutenant Burr,
(afterwards Lieutenant-General Daniel Burr,) one
of the grenadier subalterns, was one of the first who
effected a footing on the breach. .
After the reduction of Ramanad, the force marched
into the little Marawah country, and encamped be.
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 255
fore the barrier, which led to Callacoil, the Rajah's
stronghold. Lieutenant-Colonel Abraham Boujour,
the commanding officer of the 1st European Regi-
ment, was detached with a strong force to make a
detour, and fall upon the enemy's rear. This he
effected, completely surprised the enemy, and en-
tered the unguarded gates of Callacoil. The enemy
were immediately dispersed with severe loss, and the
country subdued.
On the 6th of July, 1773, Colonel Smith again
commanded a force for the reduction of Tanjore:
the first European regiment, and the grenadiers
of the corps forming part of it: Colonel Thomas
Fletcher, and Lieutenant-Colonel Hartley, of the
corps, were with it on the occasion. On the 3d of
August, the force left Trichinopoly, and by the 5th,
after some sharp skirmishing, arrived within a short
distance of Tanjore. The same night, the Euro-
pean grenadiers attacked the enemy’s cavalry camp,
and completely surprised and routed them, with
much slaughter. On the 20th, approaches were
made to within 500 yards of the wall of the city.
On the 24th the enemy, made a determined sortie,
but were driven back with great loss: the grenadiers
particularly distinguished themselves. On the 16th
of September, the breach was practicable, and seven
men of the regiment volunteered, and completed,
under the superintendence of Lieutenant (afterwards
Colonel) Alexander McGregor Murray, a passage
over the wet ditch, with fascines; six were killed and
256 SERVICES OF THE
wounded out of the number. About one, P. M., the
same day, the troops advanced to the assault; and
although 20,000 men were in the Fort, ready to
defend it to the utmost, yet they were taken by
surprise, and the place fell easily. The Rajah and
his family, the Prime Minister, and Generalissimo
Monagee, with a great many people of consequence,
were taken prisoners. After everything had been
settled, the force marched back to Trichinopoly.
During the siege and other operations, about sixty
of the corps were killed and wounded ; among the
latter, Colonel Fletcher, in the mouth, with an
alſTOW.
By orders received from the Court of Directors,
a new organization of the European corps took
place in 1774, it being formed into two regiments
each, of two battalions. No change was made in
the pay or allowances of any rank. The strength
of each regiment was eighteen companies (nine to
each battalion), two of which were grenadiers, each
consisting of one captain, four lieutenants, five
serjeants, five corporals, two drummers, and eighty-
seven privates; each battalion company had one
captain, one lieutenant, two ensigns, four serjeants,
four corporals, and fifty privates; one colonel, two
lieutenant-colonels, and two majors were appointed
to each regiment, making the total effective
strength of the Madras European corps of four
battalions, as follows:–two colonels, four lieutenant-
colonels, four majors, thirty-six captains, forty-eight
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 257
lieutenants, sixty-four ensigns, 148 serjeants, 148
corporals, seventy-six drummers, and 1,948 privates.
Total, of all ranks, 2,468. In addition, there was
the following staff: One major of brigade, two
adjutants, two quarter-masters, two sergeant-majors,
two quarter-master sergeants, two drum-majors, and
two fife-majors. A quarter-master sergeant was
likewise allowed to each of the garrisons of
Nellore, Trichinopoly, and Fort St. George. A
camp-colour man was also allowed to each com-
pany, or to every hundred men when detached,
with four fanams each, extra pay, when employed
in the field. -
At this period, and for some time before, a
European sergeant from the corps, was attached
to each company of Sepoys throughout the army.
This patronage had almost entirely been vested in
the hands of the colonel of the European regiment,
who always commanded the brigade or division
to which his regiment was attached, and who, as
vacancies occurred, filled them up on the spot.
The following order regarding the non-com-
missioned attached to Sepoy Companies, was
issued. - -
- “Head Quarters, Choultry Plain, March 27th, 1775.
“That it being found impossible to keep the
detail of the army regularly, as long as command-
ants of European corps fill up, as they choose,
non-commissioned vacancies in Sepoy corps, it is
ordered, that in future none are given, but by a
S
258 . SERVICES OF THE
general order; and the adjutant-general will be
directed to take particular notice when any vacancies
happen in the Sepoys, that they may, as soon as
( possible, be filled up, either from the supernumera-
ries, or such European battalions as may be most
conveniently situated for that purpose.”
Early in this year, on the breaking out of the
first Mahratta war, two grenadier companies of the
corps, and a battalion of Sepoys, left Madras for
service in Guzerat, and joined the Bombay force,
under Colonel Keating, at Cambay, early in April;
the two companies were commanded by Captains
Myers and Serle, of the regiment.
On the 19th of April, the British formed a junc-
tion with their ally, Ragoba, about twelve miles
from Cambay; and on the 23rd moved along the
banks of the Saburmattee. On the 28th they
reached the village of Hossamlee, from whence the
whole of the enemy were seen advancing in order of
battle: the brunt of the action was entirely sus-
tained by the British. After a cannonade across
the river, for four hours, the enemy’s artillery was
silenced, and the left and centre of their line
driven back : the right, however, stood firm ; and a
strong body of their cavalry having crossed the
river, charged Keating's force, but were repulsed
with a loss of about 400, killed and wounded,
after which their entire army retired. The loss
sustained by the Bombay European regiment, and
the grenadiers of the corps, was trifling.

FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 259
On the 2nd of May, the enemy were found in a
strong position, near Daboun; they attacked the
left of the British with great spirit, but were
repulsed, and eventually dispersed, with a loss of
nearly 1,600 men, killed and wounded.
On the 8th, on their advance towards Poonah,
the British were again opposed, near Neriad, where
the enemy sustained two defeats; once, in a charge
of cavalry, and again, in the same kind of attack,
supported by artillery. -
On the 18th of May, as the British and their ally
were marching over the plains of Arras, their rear
was fired upon from artillery posted in some enclo-
sures; and shortly afterwards the enemy were ob-
served advancing to the attack, in two strong divi-
sions; the enemy’s artillery were soon silenced, and
their attacking columns obliged to retire : the
detachment of grenadiers of the Bombay and
Madras European regiments, with a strong party
of Sepoys, were directed to storm the guns: on
their approach, the enemy retired at full speed with
their artillery, but threw in a large body of cavalry
and elephants, to cover their retreat. Another
large body of cavalry and elephants had penetrated
between the rear of the grenadiers and the Bombay
European regiment, and passed themselves off as
part of Ragoba's army; and their assertions were
confirmed by Heera Punt, an officer in Ragoba's
service. In this, however, the British were de-
ceived, and the Mahratta proved traitor: he was
S 2
260 SERVICES OF THE
overheard exhorting the enemy to take advantage
of the opportunity, and cut off the detachment, on
which they immediately commenced a most deter-
mined attack, completely surrounding it with both
cavalry and war elephants. The brave fellows,
however, gallantly repulsed them in front and rear,
until a tumbril blew up, and Captains Myers and
Serle were cut down. The detachment was driven
back in much confusion, and one of their field-pieces,
in the crush of horses and elephants, was captured,
but immediately retaken by Lieutenant Torriano
(afterwards a distinguished general officer in the
Bombay army), at the head of the European grena-
diers, by which time the British line had advanced
to their assistance, and the enemy were driven off
the field, with much slaughter. The battle of Arras
lasted four hours, and the victory was dearly purchas.
ed. Out of fifteen British officers, with the advanced
division, seven were killed, and four wounded ; the
grenadiers lost eighty-six men; the Sepoys 160.
Captains Myers and Serle, of the corps, were killed,
and Lieutenant Toring wounded; he was afterwards
taken in Baillie's defeat, where he was again wound-
ed, and at last fell in a subsequent engagement.
The enemy lost upwards of 1,200 men, and man
elephants and horses. -
On the 29th the wounded were deposited in
Baroach, after which the enemy were followed up,
and on the 11th of June were all but surprised at
Bowa-Peer, on the Nerbuddah. They struck their
*
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 261
tents in the utmost confusion, threw their guns
into the river, and escaped with a trifling loss of
baggage.
After the battle of Arras, the British moved to
Dhuboy, where they went into cantonments, and,
after the monsoon, encamped near Broidera.
In March, 1775, accounts were received in India
of the death of Lord Clive, at his house in Berkeley
Square, London, on the 22d of November, of the
previous year. . ~~
Before Lord Clive returned for the first time to
England, his name was heard every where, and was
often spoken of by His Majesty in the most flattering
terms. On one occasion, in 1758, when leave was
solicited by Lord Ligonier, for the young Lord
Dunmore, to join the army of the King of Prussia,
as a volunteer, it was refused. “May he not join
the Duke of Brunswick?” was the next request;-
“Pshaw,” said the king, “what can he learn there 2
If he wants to learn the art of war, let him go to
Clive!” - . . . . . . .
About the same time, a still higher compliment
was paid him by the great Lord Chatham, in a
speech of that celebrated statesman. “We had,”
said that great man, “lost our glory, honour, and
reputation every where but in India. There, the
country had a heaven-born General, who had never
learnt the art of war, nor was his name enrolled
among the great officers, who had for many years
received their country’s pay. Yet was he not
262 SERVICES OF THE
afraid to attack a numerous army with a handful of
men.” ‘.
In addition to his statue erected in the India
House, a medal was struck commemorating the
battle of Plassy, and in honour of Lord Clive.
The following is a description of it : — “On
one side is Lord Clive holding the British flag
in one hand, and with the other bestowing the
Subahship on Meer Jaffier : a globe, cornucopia, and
an antique rudder, are grouped together; the cornu-
copia symbolising the riches bestowed on the English
for their losses at Calcutta; the rudder the increase
of commerce and commercial privileges, and the
globe the territorial acquisitions, the consequences
of the victory.” The inscription is “a soubah given
to Bengal.” - . -
On the reverse of the medal is victory seated on
an elephant, bearing a trophy in one hand, and a
palm-branch in the other, with the inscription,
“Victory of Plassy,” “Clive commander.”
Clive arrived in Calcutta, as Governor-General,
in 1765, and returned to England for the last time
in 1767, where, shortly after his arrival, among
other marks of distinction, he was installed a Knight
of the Bath; and afterwards made Lord-Lieutenant
of Montgomeryshire. . . .
Notwithstanding the many distinguished marks of
approbation he had received from his Sovereign, his
country, and the East India Company, Lord Clive's
latter days were embittered, and it is feared,
-
- - -
- ºº * º
THE VICTORY AT PLA'ss-

FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 263
shortened by one of the most iniquitous persecutions
a public man was ever subjected to. The first report
of the select committee of enquiry into his conduct,
whilst Governor-General in Bengal, was brought up
to the House on the 10th of May, 1772; the principal
persons in the prosecution were Mr. Sullivan and
Colonel Burgoyne, when the transactions in India
for the last sixteen years were spoken of by those
gentlemen as a disgrace to the nation. In his de-
fence, Clive replied with great dignity and force.
He commenced by pointing out “mistakes in matters
of fact, and in the speeches founded on them :” then
reviewing his own life and services, he claimed the re-
wards and honours bestowed on him as his due ; and
having explained all the circumstances connected
with the revolution, and defended his conduct in
every respect concerning it, he concluded by saying,
“If the record of my services at the India House,
if the defence I have twice made in this House, and
if the approbation I have already met with, is not
an answer to the attack that has been made upon
me, I certainly can make none.”
On the 17th of May, Lord Clive made another
long defence of his conduct, in reply to the attacks
still continued against him. The following is a short
extract of his memorable speech on the occasion :-
“After rendering my country the service which, I
think I may, without any degree of vanity, claim
the merit of, and after having nearly exhausted a
life, full of employment, for the public welfare, and
264 SERVICES OF THE
the particular benefit of the East India Company,
I little thought that such transactions would have
agitated the minds of my countrymen in proceed-
ings like the present, tending to deprive me not only
of my property and the fortune which I have fairly
acquired, but that which I hold more dear to me—
my honour and reputation.” After entering most
minutely into the nature of each charge, and every
particular, he added, “I have served my country
and the Company faithfully; and had it been my
fortune to be employed by the Crown, I should not
have been in the situation I am in at present ; I
should have been differently rewarded; no retro-
spect would have been had to sixteen years past,
and I should not have been forced to plead for what
is dearer than life—my reputation. My situation,
Sir, has not been an easy one for these twelve
months past ; and though my conscience never
could accuse me, yet I felt for my friends, who
were involved in the same censure as myself. Not
a stone has been left unturned, where the least pro-
bability could arise of discovering something of a
criminal nature against me. The two committees
seem to have bent the whole of their enquiries to
the conduct of their humble servant, the Baron of
Plassy; and I have been examined by the select
committee more like a sheep-stealer than a member
of this House.” After taking a rapid view of all
his proceedings in India, the state of that country,
the conduct of the Home Government, and his
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 265
attack on the Dutch armament, he enumerated the
honours he had received, and read the letters of
approbation from the Company, and called upon
Lord Chatham to come to the bar and give his
opinion of his services and conduct, after which he
sat down, making the following request to the
House, “that when they came to decide on his
honour, they would not forget their own.” -
On the 21st May, Clive again spoke in his strong
masterly style, concluding with these words, “Take
my fortune, but save my honour,” and immediately
afterwards left the House. -
At this stage of the proceedings, a change took
place in public opinion. “ Doubts began to arise,
whether a grand injustice was not about to be
inflicted by England on one of the greatest and
noblest of her sons.” The different charges against
him were negatived by large majorities, and the
proceedings terminated by a motion which passed
unanimously, “That Robert Lord Clive did at the
same time render great and meritorious services to
his country.” Although during this harassing per-
secution, he displayed the greatest firmness and
magnanimity, Lord Clive's mind never recovered its
proper equilibrium. The fatigues of two anxious
and exhausting sessions had besides not improved
his health, so shattered before. He continued suf-
fering from liver and other diseases, and expired on
the 22nd of November in the forty-ninth year of his
age, and was buried in his native parish of Moreton-
266 SERVICES OF THE
Say. In the words of Sir John Malcolm, “India
has produced many illustrious men, both in his time
and since; but none of them has yet obscured or
equalled the fame of Clive, as one of those extra-
ordinary men who give a character to the period
and country in which they live. His name cannot
be erased from the history of India, nor from that
of Britain. Born in the rank of a private gentle-
man, and launched out early in life into the wide
sea of Indian adventure, he soon far outstript all his
competitors in the race of fortune and fame. He
was trained in the best of schools, a state of danger,
of suffering, and activity. Those who would lessen
his fame by representing him as victorious over
Indian armies only, forget his successes over the
French and Dutch, at that time the bravest nations
in Europe. But it was not at the head of armies
alone that his talents were conspicuous: he was a
remarkable man in all the circumstances of life.”
In private life he was much beloved, and seldom lost
a friend. His allowance to General Lawrence, and
princely gift of 70,000l. for the support of invalids
and widows of officers and soldiers in the East India
Company’s army, “must rank among the noblest of
living benefactions.”
At the time of his death, Lord Clive, Baron
Plassy, was Lord-Lieutenant of Montgomeryshire,
Major-General in the East Indies, and representa-
tive in Parliament for the town of Shrewsbury.
By a general order, dated Choultry Plain, 20th of
-
º
º

FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 267
October, 1775, the facings of the corps were de-
termined as follows:—
“In consequence of the frequent scarcity of
cloth for facings, and the inconvenience subaltern
officers are in particular often put to, when ex-
changed from one corps to the other, it is now or-
dered that in future there shall be only three infan-
try regimentals upon the coast, and they are to be
without lapels, each brigade to have its distinct uni-
form, and the officers are to be distinguished only by
embroidery on their epaulets. The 1st Regiment
of Europeans to be turned up, or faced with buff;
the 2nd with black.”
The corps in 1776 remained in garrison and
Cantonments.
The 1st battalion, 1st Regiment, at Vellore.
2d battalion, 1st Regiment, seven companies at
Trichinopoly, two at Tanjore.
1st battalion, 2d Regiment, Fort St. George.
2nd battalion, 2nd Regiment, Poonamallee.
On the 7th of January, 1777, the following re-
movals appeared in the Government orders:—
The 2d battalion, 2d Regiment, from Poonamal-
lee to Nellore.
1st battalion 1st Regiment, from Nellore to Tri-
chinopoly and Tanjore.
2d battalion, 1st Regiment, from Trichinopoly
and Tanjore to Poonamallee.
In July of the same year the following order, re-
garding the uniform and facings of the corps, was
268 SERVICES OF THE
issued, dated Fort St. George, 7th of July, 1777:-
“The uniform now to be seen at the adjutant-
general’s quarters is to serve as the pattern to the
officers for the next year's clothing, with this dif-
ference only, that all the officers of the European
regiments are to have narrow lapels sewed down.
The 1st Regiment is to be faced with blue, and nar-
row gold button-holes. The 2d Regiment with white
and gold button-holes the same. The grenadier
officers to be distinguished as at present.
In June, 1778, intelligence was received of war
with France, and on the 29th of the same month
the following general orders were issued:—
“The Honourable the President and Council are
pleased to direct that the following troops do march
with as much expedition as possible to Conjeveram.
“The grenadiers of the two regiments of Euro-
peans:—
“The 2d battalion, 2d Regiment, from Nellore.
“2d battalion, 1st Regiment, from Poonamallee.
“The whole of the Artillery from the Mount.
“Four companies of the 1st to Tanjore from
Trichinopoly.” . . .
The above composed part of the army under Sir
Hector Munroe, which, on the 8th of August of the
same year, encamped on the red hills near Pon-
dicherry, and the following day summoned it to sur-
render. It was the 21st before the boundary hedge
was taken possession of, and the 6th of September
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 269
before ground was broken. On the 10th of Au-
gust, a severe naval action between the French and
English squadrons was fought in the offing; the
English were victorious, and anchored in the roads
of Pondicherry on the 21st. The garrison of Pon-
dicherry was commanded by M. Bellacombe. Not-
withstanding that the fortifications had been entirely
destroyed, when formerly taken by Colonel Coote,
they had been restored with much diligence, and
were defended by a garrison which availed itself of
every advantage. On the 18th of September the
British opened batteries of twenty-eight guns, and
twenty-seven mortars; but the activity and courage
of the garrison, together with the rains which set in
heavily, retarded the operations of the besiegers so
much, that it was the 15th of October before a
passage was formed across the ditch. Then only
did the brave governor surrender, and the British by
their liberality and kindness showed the high sense
they entertained of the honour and gallantry of the
enemy. The garrison became prisoners of war,
but the colours of the battalion of India were re-
stored to it by the victors in compliment of the dis-
tinguished conduct of that corps. Throughout all
the operations of the siege the greatest gallantry
had been displayed on both sides.*
* The Madras Europeans lost nearly 160 men during its continuance.
D. Thomson the adjutant of the 2d was killed, and Lieutenant (afterwards
Lieutenant-general) John Orr succeeded him.
270 SERVICES OF THE
In General Orders of the 8th of October the
following, regarding an officer of the corps, was
issued:— -
“The Honourable the President and Select
Committee have been pleased to appoint Lieuten-
ant James O’Hara, who stands next for promotion,
to be a captain, in consideration of his gallant be-
haviour in the attack on the north-west ravelin at
Pondicherry, which has been mentioned to them in
a particular manner by General Munroe, and for
which they have thought proper to confer on him
the mark of their approbation.”
The French having no other settlements in India
except Mahé, on the Malabar coast, it was decided
to take it, although by doing so, a war with Hyder
Ali was risked. On the 21st of December, 1778,
the European battalion in Fort St. George, and on
the 29th the European battalion at Tanjore were
ordered on this service, under Colonel Braithwaite.
The force consisted of two battalions of the corps,
three native regiments, and Captains Cliford's, Reg-
malt’s and Nodler's companies of artillery; Lieut.-
Colonel Browne commanded the European battalion
from Tanjore, and Major William Cook the one
from Fort St. George. Early in March, the expe-
dition had arrived before it, and Mahé surrendered
on the 19th of March. On the 29th of November,
the fort was blown up and destroyed; and the force,
although intended, if required, to join Colonel God-
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 271
dard in Guzerat, moved into Tellicherry, at that
time attacked by the Nairs.
On the 1st January, 1779, the following order
was published by Sir Eyre Coote, Commander-in-
Chief in India:—“Lieutenant-General Sir Eyre
Coote, on his return to the command of India, felt
himself particularly happy in the recollection that he
should have the honour once more of leading those
troops whose military firmness and intrepidity he
has been an eye-witness of in so many instances
during former wars. But on his arrival here he
begs leave to address the army on this establish-
ment with the overflowings of a heart replete with
gratitude to them as an Englishman, as King's and
Company’s officers, for the essential services they
have so lately rendered the English nation, its allies,
and most particularly their masters, the Honorable
East India Company. The service they have been
employed on during the siege of Pondicherry, re-
quired leaders of approved military abilities, and
soldiers in the highest sense of the word, and as
such, the army on the Coromandel coast have sig-
nalised themselves to all the world.”
In April of the same year, all the sappers and
miners of the corps were sent to demolish the works
at Pondicherry, at which time the 2nd of the 1st
regiment of Europeans were there stationed.
As Colonel Braithwaite's force were prevented
joining Colonel Goddard in Guzerat, Colonel
Browne, of the corps, at the head of a detachment
272 SERVICES OF THE
composed of 100 Madras Artillery, the 1st battalion
2nd regiment of the corps 500 strong, and a bat-
talion of Sepoys, embarked at Madras, and on the
14th April, 1780, joined Colonel Goddard near
Pawungurh. On the 19th, the corps formed part of
the force which attacked the Mahratta camp, when
the enemy retired and could not be brought to ac-
tion; Colonel Goddard remained inactive during
the rains; in October the Europeans of his force
were embarked at Surat and sent down towards
Bassein, near which, on the 13th November, he
joined them with the Sepoys with whom he had
marched down the coast; by the 28th November
trenches had been opened, and the first battery
completed at a distance of 900 yards from the
north face of the fort. In the meantime Colonel
Hantley's small force, of which the Bombay Euro-
peans formed part, were constantly engaged with
the enemy for upwards of six weeks in preventing
the siege of Bassein being raised, which Colonel
Goddard’s force persevered in, and obliged that
strong fortress to surrender on the 11th December;
on the 13th, Goddard, with the cavalry and
grenadiers of his division, joined Hantley, who on
the previous day had signally defeated the Mahrattas
in a determined attack they made on his position.
On Colonel Goddard's advance on Poona, the
battalion of the corps, with the Bombay European
Regiment, led the column of attack which forced
the Bhore Ghaut on the 8th of February, 1781,
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 273
and assisted in maintaining the position of Kan-
dalla against the whole Mahratta army of 70,000
II]6. Il.
During the retreat on Panwell, from the 20th to
the 23rd of April, particularly near Chouke, the
Bombay, with the Madras European Regiment, had
the honour of being on the rear-guard, on which
occasion the corps suffered severely. At the con-
clusion of the war, the greater number of the sur-
viving privates of the Madras European Infantry
were transferred to the Bombay Regiment, but the
officers, three non-commissioned, and a few privates,
returned to Madras. -
In January, 1780, it was well known to every
person in India, except the government of Madras,
that Hyder Ali was preparing, for the invasion of the
Company's territory, one of the most numerous and
effective armies ever seen in India. No steps were
taken to meet the emergency, and the troops re-
mained at the stations of Poonamallee, Nellore, Tri-
chinopoly, Pondicherry, Tanjore, Guntoor and Ma-
sulipatam, as if the country was likely to remain
for years in a state of the most profound peace.
So late as the 21st June, when the British com-
mandant at Amboor reported the actual descent of
the Mysore army into the Carnatic, the intelligence
was treated by the council of Fort St. George with
slight regard, and although pressed by Lord M*Leod
of the 73rd Highlanders to pay some attention to
the report, government would take no decided steps.
T
274 SERVICES OF THE
It was only when columns of smoke were visible
in every direction from St. Thomas's Mount, when
the flying and terrified natives were crowding in to
escape the vengeance of Hyder's cavalry, which had
swept the country, and were carrying devastation
and ruin wherever they went, and when the enemy's
near approach to Madras created fears for their own
safety, that the governor and council opened their
eyes and began to shew some symptoms of energy,
and directed the movement of their troops to meet
and arrest the progress of the Mysoreans. Poona-
mallee being considered the most centrical point, and
where the 73rd Highlanders were stationed, was
fixed upon as the place where all the troops should
assemble. Upon the first of August, 400 of the
corps, 800 Sepoys, and twenty pieces of artillery,
were marched there from Madras and the Mount :
after a few days, this force, encreased by H. M.'s
73rd, moved to the Mount, and were intended to
remain there until the arrival of Colonel Braith-
waite with 200 of the corps, 100 artillery with ten
field-pieces, four battalions of infantry, and a regi-
ment of native cavalry from Pondicherry, and Col.
Baillie, with 200 of the corps, two companies of
artillery with ten field-pieces, and five battalions of
Sepoys from Guntoor in the Northern Circars.
On the 26th August, Sir Hector Munroe, accom-
panied by Lord McLeod, Colonels Braithwaite,
Fletcher, and Harper, marched from the Mount to-
wards Conjeveram. His army, very poorly supplied
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 275
and equipped, consisted of about 1,500 European
infantry, 300 artillery, with forty pieces of artillery,
4,200 Sepoys, thirty of the corps mounted as dra-
goons, and about the same number of native com-
missioned and non-commissioned of the native regi-
ment of Nabob's cavalry, which had arrived with
Colonel Braithwaite from Pondicherry, the privates
having refused to march until paid by the Nabob
fourteen months arrears of pay.
Hyder's army amounted to 100,000 fighting men,
of whom about 60,000 were cavalry, and 50,000
infantry, and 100 pieces of field artillery : nearly
all the infantry were formed into regular battalions,
and commanded by Frenchmen. Of the cavalry,
two troops were French hussars, commanded by Pi-
moran ; of the infantry, a regiment of Frenchmen,
500 strong, was commanded by Lally.
When Sir Hector Munroe’s force left the Mount,
Hyder raised the siege of Arcot, which had been
defended against him by a garrison of which 100 of
the corps formed a part. On the 29th August, the
British arrived at Conjeveram, the town of which
Hyder had set fire to and almost entirely destroyed.
During the few days’ march, the Highlanders of
H. M.'s 73rd regiment, suffered severely from the
heat, marching, as the army did, long after sunrise :
on the first day nearly 200 of their best men dropped
down, and many died from the effects of exposure.
On the 5th September, Colonel Baillie's detach-
ment reached Perambaucum, about fourteen miles
T 2
276 SERVICES OF THE
from Conjeveram, where he was attacked by a select
corps under Tippoo, consisting of 30,000 cavalry,
8000 infantry, and twelve pieces of artillery. During
the whole of the day the enemy's attacks were con-
tinued with the greatest spirit, but Baillie, with his
usual intrepidity, repulsed them with severe slaughter.
In the evening, Baillie sent to Conjeveram, request-
ing Munroe to march to his assistance, and Tippoo
to his father reporting that he could make no im-
pression upon the British detachment.
Munroe's and Hyder's armies were encamped
near each other a short distance from Conjeveram,
when Baillie's messenger arrived : instead of imme-
diately advancing towards Perambaucum with the
whole of his force, Munroe detached, on the 8th of
September, under command of Colonel Fletcher,
all his grenadiers and light troops, consisting of the
grenadiers and light companies of H. M.'s 73d, two
companies of grenadiers of the corps under Captains
Phillips and Ferrier, ten companies Sepoy grena-
diers, five under Captain Rumley, and five under
Captain Gowdie ; a company of riflemen under
Lieutenant Mouat, and nine camel loads of ammu-
nition. Fletcher eluded the enemy's horse and
joined Baillie the following day; on the afternoon
of which the united detachments marched towards
Conjeveram : the enemy attempted to stop them, but
were beaten back with some loss, and night setting
in, Baillie unfortunately came to the determination
of halting until daylight. On the morning of the
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 277
10th, the detachment pursued its route, and soon
afterwards, Tippoo appeared on its left flank near
the village of Pollilore, and commenced a cannon-
ade which obliged the detachment to halt, whilst the
Sepoy grenadiers, under Rumley and Gowdie, were
ordered to storm the guns: this they gallantly did,
and were in the act of seizing them, having obliged
the enemy to retire, when they were charged and
driven back by a large body of cavalry, which even-
tually turned out to be the advance of Hyder's
army, masking the movement of his infantry and
guns, all pushing forward to the attack. In a very
few minutes, upwards of fifty pieces of artillery
opened a heavy and destructive fire at short range,
within grape-shot distance, and a desperate action
ensued. The enemy, at least 100,000 men, attacked
the British at the same time, in front, flank, and
rear, but were invariably repulsed; the detachment
still gained ground, formed in square, with the sick,
wounded, and ammunition, in the centre. The Mysore
cavalry had been driven back on their infantry;
their right began to give way, and a rapid move-
ment by the British centre seemed to have decided
the day in Baillie's favour, when two tumbrils blew
up, laid open one entire face of the British square,
rendered powerless part of the artillery, and threw
the whole into confusion. The ammunition at the
same time began to fail, and the enemy pressed
round on all quarters; their cavalry, taking advan-
tage of the confusion in the Sepoy ranks, charged,
278 SERVICES OF THE
and soon completely destroyed them. The Euro-
peans, reduced to 400, had in the meantime drawn
together in square and occupied a slight rising
ground; the enemy's cavalry and infantry repeat-
edly charged this small body of men, but were in-
variably repulsed with heavy loss. After their
musket ammunition was expended, the contest was
kept up with the bayonet, with which thirteen dif-
ferent charges were repelled. The enemy's artillery
having been brought up quite close in different po-
sitions, and all their cavalry and infantry preparing
for another attack, Baillie, finding that Sir Hector
Munroe did not advance to his relief, accepted
terms, and ordered his men to ground arms, which
they had no sooner done, than the enemy rushed on
and put seven-eighths of their prisoners to the sword,
and but for the humane interposition of the French
officers, Lally and Pimoran, not a man would have
been saved. Of eighty-six officers, thirty-six were
killed or died of their wounds, and thirty-four were
wounded : of the European privates, 160 were
killed, and nearly all severely wounded ; only six-
teen officers and privates escaped unhurt; nearly
the whole of the Sepoys were taken or killed ; a
very few escaped.
The enemy took a savage delight in cutting and
hewing at the unfortunate wounded Europeans,
many were crushed to death by the horses and ele-
phants which were constantly being paraded in
triumph over the field of battle. A few who lived
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 279
for a short time, died miserably after protracted
hours of agony during the following night and day;
others, who survived, joined their comrades in cap-
tivity, and experienced for years the horrors of those
gloomy dungeons, rendered more dreadful by the
almost constant apprehension of assassination, which,
with starvation and ill-usage, terminated the career
of nine-tenths of those who became prisoners to the
tyrant.
Hyder Ali, seated in his tent, six miles from the
scene of action, had the prisoners and the heads of
the slain brought before him ; among the first of the
former was Colonel Baillie, who, with several other
wounded officers, was brought on tumbrils or gun-
carriages: Hyder exulted over his unfortunate
captives, which Baillie returned with much spirit
and contempt. The heads of the slain were brought
and placed before him, which disgusting office had
sometimes to be performed by some of the prisoners.
The heads of Captain Phillips, of the grenadiers of
the corps, and Dr. Wilson, the surgeon, were placed
before him by one of their most intimate friends;
a dooly was sent to bring in Colonel Fletcher, of the
corps, but he could not be found until next morn-
ing, when his head was brought in. Towards the
evening of the same day, a tent was pitched
for their accommodation, but the prisoners were
allowed neither food, straw, nor bedding ; all had
been stripped of their clothing, and the wounds of
none had been dressed. A French surgeon in
280 -SERVICES OF THE
Hyder's service, and the French officers behaved, as
far as they were allowed, with the greatest humanity;
few, if any of the wounded would have survived had
it not been for their kindness and attention. A few
days after this event, the wounded prisoners were
dispatched to Seringapatam, and the others towards
Arnee. The sufferings of the unfortunate soldiers,
placed in bullock-carts, exposed to the heat of the
sun almost naked, taunted and abused by their savage
brutal captors, and dragged in triumph round every
town or village they passed through, were too horri-
ble to be described. Very few lived through their
captivity, nearly all having died of starvation and
want of medical treatment, and a great many were
either poisoned or barbarously murdered. A few
of the officers lived ; among others, Captain Gowdie
and Lieutenant Bowser, both of whom lived to com-
mand the Madras army as general officers, and con-
tributed towards the downfal of the tyrant, and the
taking of his capital. Of the Madras Europeans
which composed part of the detachment, there were
two grenadier and two battalion companies. Of the
twenty-two officers of the corps, present on the
occasion, Colonel Fletcher, Captain Phillips, Dr.
Wilson, Lieut. Wade, and Ensigns Clarke and
Galway were killed; Colonel Baillie, Captain Mon-
teith, Lieuts. Massey, Bowser, Halliburton, Hope,
Nash, Baillie, and Turing were wounded. Captain
Ferrier and Lieutenant Knox died of their wounds,
and Lieutenants McNeill, Gorie, Latham, Captain
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 281
Wrag, and Lieutenant Baillie were made prisoners.
Of the eight officers, with the flank companies of
H. M.'s 73rd, three were killed, and four wounded,
among the latter, Captain, afterwards Sir David
Baird. Of the five officers of the Madras artillery,
two were killed, one died of his wounds, and one
was wounded. Of the eighty-six officers in the de-
tachment, twenty-nine were killed, thirty-eight (of
whom six afterwards died) were wounded, and only
sixteen escaped unhurt.
On the morning after this fatal day, a wounded
Sepoy arrived in Sir Hector Munroe's camp, and
communicated the disastrous intelligence; he imme-
diately commenced a retreat towards Chinglyputt,
where, after some severe fighting, he arrived on the
12th, with the loss of nearly all his baggage.
Colonel Cosby at the same time joined from Tan-
jore by the 15th. The British encamped near the
Marmelong bridge, while Hyder took up a position
about forty miles off. When intelligence of this
disastrous campaign reached Calcutta, Mr. Hastings
lost no time in adopting those energetic measures
which that distinguished statesman could so readily
employ : he at once suspended the governor of Fort
St. George, and on the 13th October, despatched
Sir Eyre Coote, invested with the sole direction of
the war, in Warren Hastings' emphatic words, “to
vindicate the rights and honour of the British arms.”
This great commander left Calcutta by sea with a
large treasure for the expences of the war, a bat-
282 SERVICES OF THE
talion of 350 of the Bengal Europeans, 200 ar-
tillerymen, and 670 Lascars; ten battalions of
Sepoys were at the same time sent by land under
the command of Colonel Pierce of the Bengal
army.
On the 29th October, the governor and council
of Madras, taking into consideration the loss sus-
tained by the European troops of their army in the
retreat from Conjeveram and Chinglyputt, made
each non-commissioned officer and private a present
of a complete kit. On the same day the troops
were moved into cantonments, extending from
Vepery to St. Thomè, the advanced post being St.
Thomas's Mount; the corps occupied the garden-
houses of Sir Hector Munroe and Mr. Daniels.
On the 5th November, Sir Eyre Coote, with his re-
inforcements and treasure, arrived at Madras; no time
was then lost in completing the troops, destitute al-
most of every military supply. The severe monsoon
of the season enabled the General to effect this with-
out exhibiting to the enemy the lamentable defect
in every department of the service. By the 14th
December all was complete, and on that day the
army, in the highest state of equipment, marched out
of cantonments, and encamped at the Mount: their
order of march was as follows: the 2d cavalry as
advanced guard, the Tanjore grenadiers, followed by
an 18-pounder from the park; the 2d, 16th and 21st
battalions of Sepoys, H. M. 73rd, the Madras Euro-
peans, the Bengal Europeans, the 7th and 15th bat-
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 283
talions of Sepoys, followed by an 18-pounder, and
the Circar grenadiers to close the rear.
On the 15th January, 1781, all being prepared
at the Mount, the army on the 17th took the field.
General Stewart was left in command of Fort St.
George, Black Town, and the Mount, with 200
Europeans, fifty artillery, and 500 Sepoys. The ef-
fective force under the immediate command of Sir
Eyre Coote, consisted of the finest body of men, Eu-
ropeans and natives, ever seen in India, numbering
8000 infantry, 800 cavalry, and sixty-two pieces of
artillery, with gunners complete, and abundance of
military stores: all were animated with the highest
spirits and confidence in a leader who had so often
led them to victory, and on leaving the Mount this
feeling was expressed by loud and hearty cheers.
On the 19th, the army passed Chinglyputt, and
on the 21st, a party composed of 1000 men, which
had been despatched on the previous night, took
Carrangooly by storm, with a loss of 170 to the
British, but of double the number to the enemy,
the advantage of which capture is explained in the
following order by Sir E. Coote, on the subject
dated, Camp, near Carrangooly, 21st of January,
1781.
“The Commander-in-chief's thanks are in the
strongest manner returned to Captain Davies and
the rest of the gallant officers, who, this morning, so
eminently distinguished themselves in the very
spirited attack and capture of Carrangooly ; the
284 SERVICES OF THE
cool, determined, and active part the assailants
acted, has given the army an ample and opportune
supply of provisions, a post of the first consequence,
and will prove of essential advantage to our future
operations. The Commander-in-chief cannot help
repeating that his particular thanks are due to
Captain Davies, also to Captain Tanner; and the
voluntary services of Captain Moorehouse and
Pringle merit every commendation; the commanding
officers of the Sepoy battalions, and, in short, the
whole corps have had such a share in the success of
this day, that they are, one and all, marked as
parties to whom the public are much indebted. The
European artillery have proved themselves what the
enemy have long found them to be, the first of
troops; and the favourable report of the surgeon,
relative to the wounds of Captain Moorehouse,
Lieutenant Anderson, Ensign McAlister, and
Lieutenant O’Brian (fire-worker), that they are not
dangerous, adds greatly to the pleasure attendant on
our success.” --
The next day, the army advanced towards Wandi-
wash, which had been besieged by Hyder since the be-
ginning of December, 1780. The garrison of Wandi-
wash consisted of natives, commanded by Lieu-
tenant Flint, with Ensign More, the only other
European in the place : these gallantly repulsed
every assault of the enemy, made several sorties,
several times spiked the enemy's guns, and partly
destroyed their works. The advance of General
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 285.
Coote on the 22d January, raised the siege ; the
army encamped on the same ground on which
twenty-one years before it had raised the siege by a
memorable battle. The general order of the 23d
January, 1781, dated from Camp Wandiwash, is as
follows: “The army is now encamped on the field
where a glorious victory was achieved over the
French, on the 22d January, 1760, and the com-
mander-in-chief directs that an extra dram and
biscuit be drawn for the European, and dry batta
for the native troops.”
On the 1st of February, hearing of the arrival of
the French fleet under D'Orres, the army marched
to Pondicherry for the purpose of destroying the
Masula boats, and further impeding the communi-
cation between the enemy's ships and the shore.
On the 5th, the force encamped on the Red Hills,
and had nearly completed the destruction of the
boats and military stores, when Hyder's army ap-
peared in great force. On the 6th and following
day, a number of manoeuvres were executed by both
armies, but battle was declined by the enemy, and on
the following day, the French fleet left the coast.
Until May the 25th, the army remained en-
camped near Cuddalore, subsisting from day to day
by the precarious supplies conveyed by sea, or what
after a most diligent search was found concealed in
the villages and towns in the neighbourhood. Ad-
miral Hughes' fleet having in the meantime arrived,
landed two companies of the 2d European battalion,
286 SERVICES OF THE
and a battalion and a half of Sepoys, who had
returned on board from serving under Colonel
Goddard against the Mahrattas: the army being
still further reinforced by two battalions of Sepoys,
under Captain Lamotte, remained almost stationary
from the want of provisions until the 16th of June,
when the general determined to effect the capture
of Chellumbrum, a depôt of provisions for Hyder's
army, and any French one that might be able to
land. On the 19th, he had approached within a
short distance of this place, and in the evening ad-
vanced with four battalions, expecting to take it by
coup-de-main. A gun was run up to the gateway
and blew it open ; it was also advanced towards the
second, or inner gate, when all the European
gunners having been killed, and the enemy opening
a deadly fire on the column, all in a short time gave
way, having experienced a very severe loss. The
Pettah had, however, been plundered, and a large
quantity of grain found in it was brought away, and
the army retired towards Porto Novo, to prepare
materials for reducing Chellumbrum by a regular
siege. -
The repulse sustained by this detachment had
been so magnified to Hyder, that he determined at
once to risk the battle so long sought by the Eng-
lish. In this opinion he was supported by his officers
and chiefs, but the sagacity of Lally, who foresaw
the probable consequences, and who urged delay,
only determined Hyder to bring it about with as
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 287
little delay as possible, fondly expecting to drive the
English into the sea, or cut them up, as he had
before, the unfortunate detachment under Colonel
Baillie.
On the 1st of July, the army moved from Porto
Novo towards Cuddalore. The enemy occupied
a strong position across the Cuddalore road, their
right flank resting on some rising ground, crowned
with redoubts, their left on the sand-hills, a few
hundred yards from the coast; their entire line
was covered with entrenchments. Of the British
force, the first line consisted of H. M.'s 73rd,
the Madras and Bengal European regiments,
six battalions of Sepoys, one European troop of
cavalry, two regiments of native cavalry, and thirty
guns, led by Sir Hector Munroe : the other by
General Stewart, was composed of four battalions of
Sepoys, and twenty-five field-pieces;–one battalion,
two regiments of native cavalry, and 300 Mah-
ratta horse, composed the baggage guard. The
enemy's troops were distinctly observed ; hordes of
cavalry hovering round the front and flanks of
the line, were dispersed with some loss by the
superior fire of the British artillery, and a still closer
reconnoisance induced the English army to file off to-
wards the right, their baggage moving round to their
right flank. This movement, rapidly and skilfully ex-
ecuted, turned the left of the enemy, bringing the
British right on the sea, and the left on the sand-
hills. An immediate change of position to the left,
288 SERVICES OF THE
on the left of each line, throwing forward the whole
right, brought the rear and baggage to the sea, the
right flank resting on the shore, the left on some sand-
hills, strongly occupied. A small schooner belong-
ing to the squadron, was anchored outside the surf,
with her guns brought to bear along the whole extent
of the position. The sand-hills in front had been oc-
cupied by the artillery of the second line, when the
first advanced to the attack of the enemy, whose
front had been as rapidly charged to meet the new
disposition: a thick prickly-pear hedge covered its
right flank, the left was supported by a strong corps
of infantry in column, with guns. The advance
of the line though slow, was in good order, and
every advantage was taken of the nature of the
ground. After a continued and heavy cannonade
from about fifty guns, the enemy made a determined
charge of cavalry along the whole front and left
of the British line; at the same time a strong
corps of infantry, and a very large mass of cavalry
made a detour to fall on its rear. The attack in front
was repulsed with great slaughter, by the superior fire
and steadiness of the troops. A close and severe
contest ensued between the 2d line and the other
body which had moved round to the rear; they were
driven in confusion from every position they had
occupied, and at last fled back with precipitation ;
thus enabling the first line to continue its advance
without apprehension for their rear, and at the same
time supported by the steady and destructive practice
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 289
of the artillery, which occupied the heights. The first
line now advanced rapidly, and drove before them
in confusion thirty battalions of the enemy's infan-
try, who, after delivering one volley, fled. At this
time Hyder ordered a close and simultaneous attack
of all his cavalry, on both lines and the baggage;
the attack on the first line being directed by Hyder
personally : nothing could have been more despe-
rate and determined than their charge; as they
galloped up to the English, their standard-elephant
was wounded, and turned in terror off the field. Few
troops could stand the storm of musketry and grape
against which they advanced; and although a few
rode up to the bayonets of the infantry, and there
fell, the mass wavered, halted, and at last fairly
galloped off the field. The charge on the second
line and baggage was observed to be suspended, the
mass of cavalry merely hovering on its flank; re-
peated orders to his General Meer Sahib, and officers,
to charge instantly as they valued their heads, were
sent by Hyder, but that General had fallen mortally
wounded. The broadside of the schooner had been
brought to bear upon the cavalry, and telling with
the utmost destruction, from a quarter so little ex-
pected, had the effect of at once checking and
obliging them to retire under cover of the sand-hills,
where, being exposed to a cannonade from some of
the guns of the second line and baggage-guard, they
waited with impatience to cover the retreat of the
guns and the whole army. Want of efficient cavalry
|U
290 SERVICES OF THE
alone prevented the British from dispersing the
enemy, and even capturing most of their guns, if not
Hyder himself, who, seated on a stool, on the top of
a mound, in rear of his left, would neither leave the
ground until the English line had nearly reached
him, or believe that he saw the defeat of his troops.
To repeated solicitations for his own safety, he
returned replies couched in the most obscene and
insulting language, and at last was only by force
put on horseback and carried off the field, leaving
his suite to follow on foot, as they best could, their
servants and grooms having, long before Hyder
moved, fled with their master’s horses and ele-
phants: the majority, indeed, of Hyder's chiefs and
courtiers that night had a long and hurried flight on
foot from the field of battle.
The first line occupied the position abandoned by
the enemy; and having been about midnight joined
by the second, the army advanced a short distance
along the road the enemy had fled by, and halted at
the village of Mooty Polliam. Although no guns,
standards, or prisoners were taken, the battle of
Porto Novo will ever be considered a most impor-
tant event. It broke the spell formed by the defeat
of Colonel Baillie and the events of that disastrous
campaign : it destroyed the terror the name of Hyder
inspired, as well as the success which superstitious
persons believed to attend all his undertakings.
The force which gained this important victory con-
sisted of two regiments of native cavalry, a European
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 291
troop of cavalry, three battalions of European infan-
try, H. M.'s 73d, and the Madras and Bengal Eu-
ropean Regiments, ten battalions of Sepoys, and
fifty-five light field-pieces, with their artillerymen;
in all, including 598 artillerymen, 8476 men :—the
enemy at least 80,000, with forty-seven pieces of
heavy cannon. The loss to the British was com-
paratively trifling, being 587 killed and wounded, of
whom seventeen were officers, and fifty Europeans.
The lowest estimate of Hyder's loss on that day in
killed and wounded, was 10,000 men ; the dense
masses of cavalry and infantry, and the immense
extent of irregulars scattered in all directions, caus-
ing an almost certain effect in every shot.
In the orders of the day issued on the 3d July,
thanks were returned to all the troops for their great
gallantry. Sir Hector Munroe was thanked for his
conduct, as equally spirited and active; and Briga-
dier-General Stewart's determined occupation and
obstinate defence of the heights was declared to
have been highly meritorious. In his despatch to
Government, Sir Eyre Coote assured it “that every
individual of this little army seemed to feel the
critical situation of our national concerns; our fall-
ing interests required uncommon exertions for their
support; and to the honour of this army, every nerve
was exerted to the very extent of possibility.”
During this time, a detachment under Tippoo
was besieging Wandiwash : the General, although
hard pressed for daily provisions, moved to its relief.
U 2
292 - SERVICES of THE
On the 15th, he came in sight of Hyder's camp,
who struck his tents and marched off to the west-
ward. On the 18th July, Tippoo, after being
repulsed in attempting to carry the place by storm,
was obliged to raise the siege of Wandiwash, where
the army arriving on the 20th, Sir Eyre, after com-
plimenting its gallant defender, Captain Flint, re-
ported to the Government of Madras “that Wandi-
wash is safe, being the third time in my life I have
had the honour to relieve it.” *
Tippoo's corps, strongly reinforced, had moved
to the northward to intercept Colonel Pearce's
Bengal detachment. These, however, had kept on
the east shore of the Pulicat lake, whilst Tippoo's
army had kept on the west. Coote, therefore,
effected a junction with the ten battalions of Bengal
Sepoys and twenty pieces of cannon under command
of Colonel Pearce, on the 2d of August, at Pulicat.
The advanced post in possession of the British
was Poonamallee. Before the army could move to
the relief of Vellore or Arcot, it was necessary to
take Tripasore, a fortification lately much strength-
ened and improved, and garrisoned by 1500 men.
On the 19th of August, the army arrived before it;
and by the 22nd, a breach was effected. The gar-
rison demanding terms, and Hyder's army appearing
in sight, orders were instantly given to storm, when
they surrendered at discretion. Hyder drew off on
seeing the British in possession of the works; and
to a proposition of Sir Eyre Coote to exchange the
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 293
prisoners taken at Tripasore, he recommended the
English General to put them all to death, and
refused any exchange of prisoners.
The enemy were now encamped on the same
ground at Pollilore on which Colonel Baillie's de-
tachment was cut up. This he had examined with
great care, and determined to offer Sir Eyre Coote
battle on the same spot and on the same day of the
year. Hyder's astrologers had prognosticated a
favourable issue to any battle fought on this fortunate
ground, more particularly if on the 11th of Ramsan,
corresponding, on the occasion in question, with the
31st August, as it had on the preceding with the 10th
of September. On the 26th the British force arrived
at Parambacum, where the enemy's cavalry were first
observed. On the morning of the 27th, the army
advanced at about 8 o'clock, and discovered the enemy
drawn up in order of battle. The position they oc-
cupied was rendered much stronger by the irregularity
and difficulties of the adjacent country. The advanced
guard having been fired upon, the first line, under Sir
Hector Munroe, advanced and formed up in posi-
tion steadily, under a fire from eight or ten guns;–
the second line, under General Stewart, moved to
the left, and formed at right angles to the first line,
its left thrown back; the first line pushed on for
the enemy's guns, but they were covered by a
large body of horse, and the British had advanced
a very little way, when a heavy cannonade was
opened upon both their flanks. The second line
294 SERVICES OF THE
had, in the meantime, been heavily pressed ; and
Munroe's division, bringing its whole right round,
advanced to form line on the right of the second
line. This movement brought them on the same
spot of ground where Colonel Baillie had made his
last stand. The fragments of bones, legs, arms,
and skulls of their slaughtered comrades, strewed
unburied over the position they now occupied,
brought the bloody tragedy of last September to
their minds, and excited feelings of the most deadly
vengeance against the enemy. The broken nature
of the ground rendered it extremely difficult to
advance with any celerity against the enemy, who
were besides in a strong entrenched position. As
the British, however, approached, Hyder withdrew
his guns; and before nightfall, his army retired
some distance, leaving the British masters of the
field, after an uninterrupted action of eight hours.
During the night the enemy fell back still further.
The result of this almost drawn action went still
further to depress the enemy's spirits. The English
loss was, however, very heavy; that of the enemy
something less than 2000 men: 600 of the English
were killed or wounded, almost all desperately.
General Stewart lost his leg, and Colonel Brown of
the corps only survived his wound until next day.
Captain Hyslop, the General's aide-de-camp, was
likewise killed. Among others of the corps wounded
was Lieutenant (afterwards Major-General) Henry
Webber.
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 295
The next day, the following order was published
by Sir Eyre Coote:–“ The Commander-in-Chief
takes the earliest opportunity of returning his thanks
to the whole army he has the honour to command,
for their very steady and gallant conduct throughout
the action of yesterday, and which alone insured the
success of the operations of the day. He desires
that this order may be particularly explained to the
black troops, whose behaviour on all occasions gives
the greatest satisfaction. The spirited conduct of
our troops must strike the enemy with that awe and
respect for our arms, which cannot fail to be of
essential service to our national cause, and, it is
hoped, will eventually be the means of shortening
the confinement and suffering of our brother-soldiers
in the enemy's miserable prisons. The Commander-
in-Chief takes this opportunity also of mentioning
that he will set forth to his Majesty and the Com-
pany the very essential services this army has ren-
dered.
“Commanding officers of corps to make strict
enquiry concerning arms taken from the enemy
yesterday, and to send them to the commissary of
stores.”
On the 29th, the army fell back for provisions to
Tripasore, where daily supplies were, with the ut-
most difficulty brought from Madras and the neigh-
bouring villages. On the 21st September, the army
moved towards Tritany; and on the following day,
the small fort of Paloor was taken from the enemy,
296 SERVICES OF THE
and what was of the greatest consequence, sufficient
grain for two days’ consumption was found in it.
Accounts having, the same day, been received from
Colonel Lang of the regiment, who commanded
Vellore, of his distress for provisions, a forward
movement was determined upon for his relief.
Hyder was encamped in a strong position at the
pass of Sholingur: about noon on the 27th Septem-
ber, the British had arrived in front of his position;
the 2nd brigade, the flank companies of the 73rd,
all the cavalry, and twenty-two pieces of artillery,
moved forward to gain the enemy’s left flank. The
rest of the line advanced steadily to their front, and
were received with a heavy but ill-directed fire from
nearly seventy pieces of artillery, which, however,
did not impede their advance, rendered slow by the
broken and rocky nature of the ground. After
passing some rocks, where the line was obliged in
some places to file to the front, the entire cavalry
of the enemy made a furious charge in two large
bodies; one against the front of the line was
severely handled, and driven back with loss: the
other penetrated through the openings in the line,
but its flanks being protected by the file-marching
that had caused the opening, and the rear rank
facing about and delivering their fire, they also were
obliged to gallop off in disorder, after sustaining a
very heavy loss. r
When the cavalry charged, Hyder's guns had
been limbered up, and were making off with all
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 297
speed; the defeat of his cavalry added to the con-
fusion, whilst the British infantry, with their guns,
advancing rapidly, fired grape among the confused
masses in their front; the right brigade at the same
time gained the left flank of the enemy, and its fire
completed their defeat. The pursuit was continued
until dark, and it was not until midnight that the
English army were collected on the field of battle.
The superiority of the enemy's gun-cattle, their
overwhelming force of cavalry, and Hyder's invari-
able practice of always securing his guns, prevented
the English from following up the pursuit with
greater effect. The trophies of the day were three -
cavalry standards, and one gun, one of those which
belonged to Colonel Baillie's detachment. The
strength of the army in this action was 11,500
men, and their loss no more than 100 men killed
and wounded: Hyder's army numbered at least
60,000, and seventy guns; their loss exceeded 5000
IſleIl. *
This action was admitted at the time by the My-
soreans to have been a severe defeat : the greater
part of their bazaars were found standing, and to
the famishing soldiers, the provisions and grain
found in them were of greater consequence and
advantage than the victory; still, however, the
general was prevented by scarcity of supplies from
following up the enemy.
The English General himself headed a small de-
tachment which marched to drive a select corps of
298 - SERVICES OF THE
the enemy out of the Polams, a country belonging
to the Poligars of Calastry and Vencatticherry, and
lying in the neighbourhood of the field of battle,
and from which the provisions for the Mysore army
had been drawn. After a march of thirty-eight hours,
he completely surprised and destroyed the enemy,
capturing all their baggage and plunder. To ensure
further supplies for the relief of Vellore, a small
corps under Colonel Owen, consisting of five bat-
talions of Sepoys, with three guns, a small portion
of cavalry, and the flank companies of the Bengal
Europeans, were pushed on in advance about twenty
miles, to command the resources of the country,
and, if possible, to intercept some of the enemy's
convoys.
On the 23rd October, this detachment, encamped
considerably in advance of the strong pass of Vera-
cundaloor, was suddenly attacked at daylight by
nearly the whole of Hyder's army, commanded by
himself. The enemy endeavoured either to destroy
this corps before it could enter the pass, or cut off
its retreat, which would have been effected but for
the gallantry and steadiness of the troops, which
enabled Colonel Owen to retire, but with the loss
of all his camp equipage and baggage: during the
retreat, and whilst entering the pass, one of Colonel
Owen's guns was taken by a large body of the
enemy's horse, who had charged and routed a bat-
talion of Sepoys to which it was attached, and whose
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 299
commandant, Captain Walker, had at the same time
been killed at the head of his corps. The flank
companies of the Bengal European Regiment, under
Captain More, at this critical moment were wheeled
back to enable the flying Sepoys to pass to the
rear, and after pouring in a volley on the enemy,
who were dragging off the captured gun in triumph,
rushed forward, recovered the gun and drove the
Mysorean horse and foot back at the point of the
bayonet with great slaughter. In the meantime,
Walker’s battalion had rallied in the rear, and ad-
vanced boldly to the support of the Europeans; the
entry to the pass was kept until Colonel Owen had
re-formed his hard pressed and somewhat disordered
troops into some order. During this hard-fought
action, in which about 4000 English Sepoys, 400
cavalry, and 180 European infantry were engaged
with the whole of the Mysore infantry, and the
entire body of Hyder's select cavalry, supported by
all his light artillery, the English lost 317 men
killed and wounded, and the enemy, by their own
account, upwards of 3000. -
The services of the artillery, commanded by Cap-
tain Moorehouse, were particularly brilliant, and
distinguished on the occasion, and contributed much
to the success of the day; the determination, deci-
sion, and coolness, evinced by him in taking up
different positions, and the steadiness and rapidity
with which a most destructive fire on the enemy was
300 SERVICES OF THE
kept up was acknowledged never to have been sur-
passed on any former occasion. -
The distresses of the garrison of Vellore were, to-
wards the end of October, approaching to a crisis,
there was not one day's supply of grain in store, and
the garrison were entirely dependent on supplies
nightly introduced by stealth from distant villages,
a source of maintenance of which the approaching
moonlight nights would shortly deprive them : it be-
came, therefore, an object of necessity, either to throw
in a supply or to advance and cover the escape of the
garrison. A small store of grain having been, with
the utmost difficulty, collected by the General, he
advanced on the 3d of November, by rapid marches,
so close to Vellore as to introduce this seasonable
supply; Hyder, on his approach, having raised the
siege, and retired across the river, discouraged, as it
was supposed, by his late severe loss at Veracunda-
loor, in his attempt against Colonel Owen's detach-
ment.
Since the commencement of the war, Vellore had
been in a continued state of siege or blockade, for
which purpose a large portion of Hyder's army, with
his best battering train, had been constantly before
it ; the fort, which was of great antiquity, had been
built before the use of gunpowder and cannon was
known ; and being close to a range of hills, which
commanded it, the Mahrattas and Mohamedans, who
had at different times occupied it, had remedied the
defect by fortifying the points of the different hills;
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 301
and those outwards became in consequence the keys
of the fort below, the ramparts of which were solid
masonry, strong in the extreme, and the wet ditch
was of great breadth and depth. The operations of
the siege were conducted with great judgment by
French officers, and whilst one attack was carried on
against the hill forts, trenches were opened, and
batteries erected against the south-west face of the
lower; that against the hill fort was persisted in for
five weeks, the enemy's artillery being well served,
and numerous, his infantry and investing force over-
whelming; but the steady determined defence made
by Lieutenants Champness and Parr, with a garrison
entirely native, foiled and repulsed every assault.
On one occasion the ladders were planted and as-
cended by the enemy, who were driven off them with
much slaughter, and the garrison following the gal-
lant Lieutenant Parr, descended by them and be-
came the assailants on the retreating foe, who, after
a close and determined encounter with the bayonet,
were dislodged from their position near the breach.
The following night, a sortie by the battalion of
Europeans, from the lower fort, entered and de-
stroyed their trenches, and spiked their guns. At
this time, the garrison in the Fort of Vellore, con-
sisted of the head quarters 1st battalion 1st Euro-
pean regiment, commanded by Colonel Lang. After
the sortie before mentioned, when the siege was
converted into a blockade, and after the relief of
Vellore, on the 4th of November, Colonel Lang,
302 SERVICES OF THE
with a portion of his garrison, including the company
of grenadiers of the regiment, commanded by Cap-
tain (afterwards Lieutenant-General) Archibald
Brown, joined the army, leaving Vellore under the
charge of Captain Cuppage.
The supply thus thrown into Vellore, with the
reduced garrison, was about equal to its consumption
until the 15th of December. The army imme-
diately moved towards the Pollams, and after the
reduction of Chittoor, by the 23d of December, the
whole went into cantonments in the neighbourhood
of Tripasore, on the Coccalore plain.
Although Vellore had only been provisioned up
to the 15th of December, Captain Cuppage had
contrived to procure a few supplies from time to
time, and had announced his ability to hold out un-
til the 11th of January, 1782 : on the 6th of that
month, although suffering from a severe attack, which
had nearly proved fatal, the veteran General, with a
large convoy, marched from cantonments to its re-
lief on the 9th. Whilst crossing the Poony river,
Hyder's army appeared in force on the opposite
bank, to dispute the passage, but the dispositions
made to force it were so excellent, and the advance
of the troops so spirited, that the enemy retired
without hazarding an action. On the following day,
however, as the British army were about to cross an
extensive swamp, the Mysoreans appeared in two
strong columns, threatening its left and rear; the line
was rapidly formed to meet this attack, and although
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 303
exposed to a hot cannonade, Coote kept the enemy
in check, and crossing the swamp, conveyed the
convoy in safety within four miles of Vellore ; and
on the following morning deposited it in the fort.
Having relieved the garrison, the army returned
next day towards Madras, and were about to recross
the Swamp when the enemy again appeared to op-
pose them, one column attacking in front, another in
rear; the advanced guard, composed of the grena-
diers of the 73d, and of the Madras and Bengal
European corps, passing rapidly over, drove the
enemy before them, and the other corps following,
took up a position which covered the passage of the
rear, which retiring regularly across the swamp,
checked every attempt of the enemy to throw them
into confusion. After the whole army had acquired
firm ground, and the baggage had been secured,
the line advanced to the attack, and drove the
enemy before them with considerable loss; darkness
alone prevented their retreat becoming a complete
rout.
On the 15th, whilst continuing their march to-
wards cantonments, the enemy's camp appeared in
the distance ; the General advanced towards it, and
Hyder drew up in line of battle ; but after a day
spent in executing a variety of manoeuvres, the rival
armies separated, and the English withdrew to
Tripasore.
Whilst these two battalions were thus engaged,
under the command of Sir Eyre Coote, in the field
304 SERVICES OF THE
and in the defence of Vellore, the other battalions
had been employed in other important and arduous
services in different parts of India. .
From 1780, until the arrival of a force, under
Major Abington, of the Bombay Army, in May,
1781, a detachment of one battalion of the corps
defended Tellicherry against a large investing army
of Mysoreans, ultimately dispersed and destroyed
by that officer, who, on the 8th of January, 1782,
marched out with three battalions of Sepoys, headed
by two companies of the Bombay European regi-
ment and captured Hyder's General Sudder Khan,
fifty-two pieces of cannon, and 1500 prisoners.
In Tanjore, and in the southern part of India, the
second battalion of the 2d regiment, under Colonel
Braithwaite, had afforded protection to the capital of
that kingdom, against Hyder's armies in that quarter,
with the exception of which city the whole Tanjore
country was in the enemy's possession, and all the
strong forts garrisoned by well equipped Mysore
troops. Part of the battalion being required for the
more important defence of Trichinopoly, Colonel
Braithwaite had very few Europeans to commence
an attack on the enemy's posts, his available forces
for this purpose almost entirely consisting of natives.
In two successive attempts to carry by assault two
different forts, he was repulsed with severe loss by
the enemy's spearmen, and in the last, being himself
wounded, the command for a time devolved on
Lieutenant-Colonel Nixon, of the regiment, who,
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 305
with a reinforcement of a few Europeans of the
corps, attacked two other fortified places with suc-
cess; but having placed all his Europeans, officers,
sergeants, and privates at the head of his column as
a forlorn hope, the loss was very severe ; in the latter
attack 300 officers and men, (a great proportion of
whom were Europeans,) were killed or wounded by
the enemy's spearmen. On Colonel Braithwaite's
recovering, and a reinforcement having arrived, he
attacked the strong position of Mahadapatam, de-
fended by the elite of the enemy, with eight guns;
these were completely dislodged and routed with very
great loss, leaving two guns behind them. The
superiority of the Rajah of Tanjore having been re-
established by this force, it was ordered to march
towards Nagore, and ultimately to the reduction of
Negapatam.
Colonel Braithwaite, returning to the capital of
the province, despatched all his disposable troops,
considerably reinforced by Europeans, under com-
mand of Lieutenant-Colonel Nixon of the corps,
who arrived before Nagore on the 21st October,
1781; and, in view of the fleet, the battalion parti-
cularly distinguished itself, in a spirited and emi-
mently successful attack on the enemy's troops in
the act of evacuating that place ; after which the
corps proceeded to Negapatam, where the Com-
mander-in-chief, Sir Hector Munroe, came on
shore. Admiral Sir Edward Hughes, the same day,
landed 400 Royal Marines and 900 seamen, who,
- X
306 SERVICES OF THE
having joined the land forces, co-operated to the
utmost ; and, during the siege of Negapatam, were
unrivalled in their gallantry, as well as performing
most important services in landing, with the utmost
difficulty and danger, through the surf, guns and
mortars for the batteries on shore. The lines in
front of the works having been taken by storm on
the 3d November, ground was opened in front of
the north face of the fort, and the batteries opened
on the 5th. The squadron were anchored near the
fort, and up to the 12th a heavy cannonade was
kept up, when the Governor, after two determined
sallies had been with difficulty repulsed, surrendered.
On this occasion, the besieged more than doubled
the attacking force. -
Soon after the reduction of this important fortress,
the European battalion returned towards Tanjore,
where, under Colonel Braithwaite's command, they
firmly established the authority of the Rajah over all
his territories. During this year, portions of the
corps had been at the same time employed in all
parts of India where there was an enemy to oppose
them ; two battalions served with Sir Eyre Coote
in the Carnatic, and the defence of Vellore; one
battalion served with General Goddard near Bom-
bay; and another, besides reducing the Tanjore
country, and defending that capital and Trichinopoly,
assisted at the capture of Nagore and Negapatam.
Whilst the army were encamped at Tripasore,
Hyder conceived the project of cutting off Colonel
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 307
Braithwaite's small force, which, in February, 1782,
was encamped about forty miles from Tanjore, on
the banks of the Coleroon. The want of proper
intelligence, and reliance upon the fancied distance of
the enemy, as well as the intervention of several large
and deep rivers, favoured the movements of Tippoo,
who, with Lally's corps of 400 Frenchmen, 10,000
picked horse, and 10,000 infantry, surrounded, be-
fore he was aware of their approach, Braithwaite's
small detachment of only 100 Europeans of the
corps, 1500 Sepoys, and 300 cavalry.
Braithwaite's first attempt was to fall back upon
Tanjore; but the overwhelming force of the enemy
rendered this impossible. The next resolution was
to make a brave defence; and seldom, if ever, have
any body of men made so firm and desperate a re-
sistance. For two entire days, the 16th and 17th
February, did this little band of heroes meet and
repel incessant attacks: the infantry formed square,
with their guns interspersed at the angles, and in
the faces, and the cavalry were drawn up in the
centre. As the enemy's cavalry advanced constantly
to the charge, and were as constantly driven back
by showers of grape and musketry, the cavalry inva-
riably charged them as they retreated, and with
great execution. Tippoo continued with his guns
firing upon the square; and as often as he supposed
he had disordered it, or made an opening, his
cavalry were ordered to charge ; but after a few
defeats, they became dispirited; and it was only at
X 2
308 SERVICES OF THE
length by promises, threats, and even by the slaugh-
ter with his own hand of several who hung back,
that he could induce his horse to continue in their
vain but determined attacks. At last, after twenty-
six hours of constant conflict, when numbers had
fallen, and the rest were worn out with wounds or
fatigue, Lally, with his 400 Europeans, supported .
by all the enemy's infantry, and under a heavy fire
from all Tippoo's guns, advanced with fixed bayonets
to the charge. The enemy's cavalry were formed
upon each flank, ready to sweep down and take
advantage of the certain rout. Whilst the enemy's
infantry were advancing, the courage of the Sepoys
failed, and they were thrown into confusion. The
same brutal, cowardly rage that actuated the enemy
at Colonel Baillie's defeat was displayed on the pre-
sent occasion. The humane and firm conduct of the
French, however, particularly their commander,
Lally, who cut down several of the murderers with
his own sword, saved the remnant of this force, few
of whom escaped without wounds.
On the 10th of March, the reinforcements
so long expected by the enemy arrived, and
3000 French troops disembarked near Porto Novo.
On the 8th April, Cuddalore, which had been partly
dismantled, and was garrisoned by a few Sepoys,
was taken possession of by the enemy; and the
French and Mysore forces, having effected a junc-
tion in its neighbourhood, on the 11th May appeared
before the hill-fort of Permacoil. Sir Eyre Coote
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 309
instantly moved from his cantonments to its relief;
but, being detained on his march from violent rains
and thunder-storms, the place capitulated on the
16th, and the united forces of the enemy advanced
towards Wandiwash, where, after several days spent
in vain attempts to reduce that garrison, held by
Captain Flint, on the approach of Sir Eyre Coote's
army, they fell back towards Pondicherry. ... •
On arriving at Wandiwash, the English General
found already collected for him by its inestimable
commandant, ample supplies of all kinds. Being
the anniversary of the victory on 24th May, 1760,
the order of the day alluded to that event, and an
extra ration and dram were issued to the troops;
the General also in his despatch to government
on the occasion, mentioned the present being the
third time he had had the honor of relieving Wan-
diwash. • , - . . .
The British were so badly off for cavalry, that
in the march towards Wandiwash, which was a con-
stant skirmish, a party of the enemy’s light cavalry
were nearly carrying off the head-quarter flag after
it had been pitched. - • *
The enemy remaining in a strong position cover-
ing Pondicherry, were too advantageously posted to
be attacked by inferior numbers. Arnee being
the place from which most of the enemy's supplies
were drawn, the General made a rapid advance to-
wards it on the 30th, and by the 1st of June, had
arrived within four miles of that fort. On the
310 SERVICES OF THE
morning of the 2nd, at dawn, whilst continuing its
march, a heavy fire was opened upon the English
rear guard : the line was quickly formed; Hyder's
whole force suddenly appeared, having made a
forced march of forty-three miles; and whilst the
two armies were preparing for an action, Hyder de-
tached a strong division under Tippoo, which, be-
sides reinforcing the garrison, carried away all the
treasure from the fort. Afterwards a succession of
fatiguing manoeuvres were performed by both armies,
which terminated in the capture, by the grenadiers
of the 73rd, and Madras Europeans, in a spirited
charge led by the Honourable Captain Lindsay,
of H. M.'s service, and Captain Brown of the
corps, of one gun and eleven tumbrils; in covering
the retreat of which, across the bed of a river,
Lally's corps of Europeans were entirely dispersed.
The want of sufficient cavalry alone prevented a
disastrous rout to the enemy, a great many of
whose guns might have been taken. The loss on
this occasion was trifling; that of the enemy con-
siderable; but H. M.'s 78th Highlanders, having
lately landed from a long voyage from Europe, were
so unaccustomed and unseasoned to the climate,
that seventeen men died of fatigue, independent of
those who fell in the action ; and so much did this
splendid body of men suffer from the effects of
climate alone, that at the expiration of thirty-eight
days, its effective force was reduced to two-thirds of
its strength, at the commencement of the campaign.
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 3II
It was at this time that the late Lieut.-General Sir
Thomas Dallas, then a young officer in the Com-
mander-in-chief's body-guard, became famous for
his frequent and uniformly successful single com-
bats with the best swordsmen in the enemy's ranks.
In protecting the baggage and flanks of the army,
the skirmishers of both were commonly so close
that an individual horseman might advance to within
speaking distance. The style of conversation adopted
by the Mysoreans was generally of the most abusive
kind, and always ended in a challenge to single
combat. On one occasion, whilst reconnoitering,
young Dallas was challenged by one of the enemy who,
from his dress and appearance, was evidently a person
of distinction ; he accepted the challenge and slew his
antagonist. After this event, challenges were more
frequently given, and Dallas, whose name had be-
come known, was the person almost invariably ad-
dressed. After many encounters, the Mysoreans
began to weary of repetition. Only once was the
combat unsuccessful; on that occasion, after several
cuts and passes, each feeling a respect for the other,
saluted and retired. .
Dallas and his jet-black charger are yet spoken
of by the old Sepoys, and their sons and relations,
in relating the events of these stirring times, of the
latter, like the charger of the great Claverhouse, as
something supernatural.
The day following the action of the 2nd, the
following order was issued by Sir Eyre Coote:
312 SERVICES OF THE
- GENERAL ORDER.
“Returns of casualties yesterday, and of the ex-
penditure of ammunition to be sent to the Adjutant-
general as soon as possible.
“The Commander-in-chief returns his most sin-
cere thanks to the army for their animated and
steady conduct yesterday; his thanks are particu-
larly due to Major-General Stewart and Colonel
Lang, and the field officers of the army; such was
the eminently spirited behaviour of the whole, that
he has it not in his power to point out the superior
merit of any one corps.” -
The regiments engaged were H. M.'s 73rd and
78th, (both very weak,) two battalions of Madras
Europeans, and one of Bengal, and ten battalions
of Sepoys, with artillery. Colonel Lang belonged
to the corps, and commanded a division of the army.
On the 4th, the General moved after the enemy,
who continued their retreat, and he returned to Arnee.
On the 6th, he again moved after the enemy, and on
the 7th, took a few prisoners. On the 8th, the
imprudence of a young officer caused him to be in-
veigled into an ambuscade with a large party of the
cavalry of the grand guard. In this disastrous affair,
the English, attacked in all directions by crowds of
horsemen, lost 160 men, fifty-four horses, and two
guns; Hyder about sixty horses. The General
mounted on the first alarm, and at the head of rein-
forcements, proceeded to the scene of action, but
was too late to afford any assistance: he had the
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 313
melancholy satisfaction of interring the mangled
remains of a fine body of men, and to see that the
artillerymen had fallen at their guns, and the in-
fantry in their unbroken ranks.
The climate having exhausted the Europeans
much, and increased to an alarming degree the
number of the sick, the army marched to Wandi-
wash, where the never-failing energies of its com-
mandant had collected sufficient supplies to enable
it to halt for four days, after which it returned to the
neighbourhood of Madras.
On the 23d June, peace was declared between
the Mahrattas and the English, and the guns from
the ramparts of Fort St. George fired a royal salute
on the occasion. -
On the 1st July, Sir Eyre Coote, at the head of
his army, moved towards Wandiwash, and proposed
terms of peace. Hyder, on various pretexts, con-
trived to delay the English at that place, and not
only caused them to consume the provisions they
had brought with them, but those also of the gar-
rison. Having gained so much time, the Mysorean
suddenly withdrew his wakeels, and broke off all
communication with the General, who was obliged to
return towards Madras for provisions.
The army shortly after marched towards Cudda-
lore to attempt its recovery, and on the 6th Sep-
tember, encamped on the hills above Pondicherry,
but after receiving intelligence of the fall of Trin-
omalee, it returned to Madras.
314 SERVICES OF THE
On the 20th November, two companies of the
corps, with two captains, and four subalterns from
the 2nd battalion 1st regiment, under command of
Major Cotgrave, were embarked as a reinforcement
to Colonel McLeod at Paniani, on the Malabar
Coast, the investment of which place by Tippoo,
was only raised on the receipt of the intelligence of
Hyder's death, which occurred on the 7th Decem-
ber, and on the 11th, Tippoo and his army were in
full march to the eastward.
Sixty days after the death of Hyder, the English
army moved towards Tripasore from Madras. Sir
Eyre Coote from ill health had been obliged to pro-
ceed to sea, and the command devolved on General
Stewart. The time which ought to have been em-
ployed in action, (for accounts of Hyder's death had
reached Vellore the day after he died, and were by
the commandant of that fort transmitted as positive
intelligence to Madras), was wasted in idle discus-
sion. When the army left Madras, the time had
passed. Had a different style of action been adopted,
or had the veteran, Sir Eyre Coote, been present at
head-quarters, an immediate and spirited advance
upon Hyder's camp, before Tippoo arrived, would
most probably have dispersed the Mysore army, and
if it had not prevented, might have seriously en-
dangered Tippoo's succession.
In February, 1783, the army marched towards
Carroongooly and Wandiwash, which being un-
tenable, were destroyed. Whilst before Carroon-
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 315
gooly, battle was offered to the enemy encamped at
a short distance, but declined.
The following General Order on the occasion was
issued, dated 7th February.
“Alteration in the order of battle, that the
Madras European regiment, with two 12-pounders
from the 1st brigade, is to be considered the centre
of the second line as soon as the army encamps to-
morrow, but to move in the morning as usual with
the 1st brigade.” -
The following General Order was issued on the
15th February, from Wandiwash, after the enemy
refused to fight.
“It is supposed that the enemy, who would not
stand to fight, will endeavour in a cowardly manner
to annoy the army in the next march ; perhaps they
may throw some distant cannon-shot, and rockets as
usual. The General will give five pagodahs for
every rocket-boy taken by the flanking parties.”
During the month of March, the army was em-
ployed in collecting and throwing provisions into
Vellore; all the non-commissioned rank and file of
the corps in that garrison, were, in General Orders of
10th March, directed to be trained to the gun exer-
cise, and as soon as reported fit, their pay was made
up to that of artillery.
On the 12th, a detachment, under Major Mackay,
consisting of the grenadiers of H. M.'s 73rd, 78th,
101st, two grenadier companies of the corps, and
two 6-pounders, with fifty empty carts and 200
316 SERVICES OF THE
bullocks, was sent to plunder Arcot, but were par-
ticularly ordered to respect private property. Arcot,
and every post or fort in the Carnatic, but Arnee,
had just been abandoned by Tippoo, who had been
obliged to return for the defence of his own
country, then invaded by the Bombay army from the
Western COaSt. - - - -
The absence of the Mysore army determined the
Government to attempt the reduction of Cuddalore,
towards which place, on the 21st April, the army,
1660 Europeans, 8000 Sepoys, and 1000 Nabob's
cavalry, commenced its march ; but it was the 4th of
June, before General Stewart reached the banks of
the Panar, about five miles west of the boundary
hedge, within which the French were entrenched.
The north and west face of Cuddalore appearing to
have been much strengthened by the enemy, General
Stewart crossed the Panar the following day, and
on the 7th, passed over the Bandapollam hills, and
encamped about one mile and three-quarters from
the south face of Cuddalore. The British position
was a strong one; its right flank resting on the sea,
its left on the Bandapollam hills; the ground in
front covered with Palmyra trees and low brush-
wood. - - -
On the 7th, the Marquis Bussey withdrew his
troops, 3000 European Infantry, 3500 Caffres and
Sepoys, 3000 infantry, and 2000 cavalry of Tip-
poo's from the north side of the fort, and took up a
position on the south, facing the British. Until the
FIRST MA DRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 317
12th, both armies remained within their encamp-
ments; the British landing stores and making pre-
parations for the siege ; the French strengthening
their position with the strongest field-works. On
the 11th, the grenadier companies of H. M.'s 73d,
78th, 101st, detachment of Hanoverians, and the
1st Madras Europeans, were formed into a grena-
dier corps, and placed under the command of the
Honourable Lieutenant-Colonel Cathcart. The
regiment furnished Captain (afterwards Lieutenant-
General) Daniel Burr, four Lieutenants, one of
whom was Lieutenant (afterwards Lieut.-General)
Robert Mackay, and fifty-seven rank and file; His
Majesty's 73d, one Captain, three subalterns, and
fifty men; His Majesty's 78th, and the 101st, the
same, each one Captain, four subalterns, and seventy
men,-making a total of five Captains, eighteen
subalterns, and 297 men. Two 12-pounders were
attached to the corps of grenadiers.
The next day, the following General Order ap-
peared :—
“Camp, South of Cuddalore, 12th June, 1783.
“In order to prevent mistakes of the fire from
our front affectng the grenadiers, who will flank the
enemy from the right, Lieutenant-Colonel Cathcart
will place some camp colours upon the guns or
posts as he advances, and send accounts to Major-
General Bruce of his situation.”
The enemy's lines had been well reconnoitred on
the 12th, particularly by Lieutenant-Colonel Kelly,
3.18 - * SERVICES OF THE
of the Madras Europeans, who penetrated through
some thick jungle on the Bandapollam hills, and
gained a complete view of the interior of all the
entrenchments on the right. The attack on the
French lines at Cuddalore was ordered to take place
on the morning of the 13th. Major-General Bruce
and Colonel Edmonston were directed to lead the
right picket reinforced by H. M.'s 73d and a batta-
lion of Sepoys; and Colonels Stewart, Cathcart,
and Blane the left, with the corps of grenadiers,
H. M.'s 73d, and two battalions of Sepoys. The
centre picket, of one regiment of cavalry, and a
battalion of natives, with H. M.'s 101st, the regi-
ment of Hanoverians, and two battalions of Sepoys,
were under Colonels Elphinstone and Wangenheim.
The Madras European Regiment, the fourth bri-
gade of natives, without artillery, and a party of
pioneers, were under Colonel Kelly's orders. Colo-
nel Gordon commanded the reserve, and Colonel
Campbell the cavalry. Captain Montague com-
manded the artillery of the right wing ; Lieutenant-
Colonel Elliot, a large battery erected during the
night of the 12th, on a commanding hill in front of
the left of the British position. Another battery,
constructed at the same time, a little further to the
left, was under charge of Major Mackay.
Early on the morning of the 13th, Lieutenant-
Colonel Kelly, with his brigade, set out from camp,
and following exactly the route he had pursued in
his reconnoisance of the previous day, gained the
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 319
right flank of the enemy by daylight, and gave the
first alarm by a brisk attack upon a battery which
flanked Tippoo's Sepoys on the enemy's right wing.
The battery was quickly carried, the British flag
hoisted on it, and the guns turned upon the enemy.
The Mysore troops quickly fled, and left an opening
for the British grenadiers, H. M.'s 73d, and batta-
lions of Sepoys, which advanced under a severe can-
nonade, and occupied the position Tippoo's troops
had abandoned ; whilst the centre division, under
Colonels Elphinstone and Wangenheim, attacked a
large redoubt in their front; and the division on the
right, under General Bruce, also made a forward
movement. The attack of the centre division was
repulsed, even after the flank company of the 101st
and some of the Hanoverians had entered the works.
The enemy, particularly the French regiment of
D’Austrase, left their lines, and followed the British;
but the right division, under Colonels Stewart and
Cathcart, and Kelly's brigade, rapidly advanced and
occupied it, and opened so severe a fire on the
French, that they retired in great confusion and
disorder towards their left. The British continued
their advance along the line of intrenchments, driv-
ing the enemy before them, but sustaining a heavy
loss from the fire of different batteries, that continu-
ally bore upon them. When they arrived within
range of the guns on the ramparts of Cuddalore,
they were halted, and eventually ordered to take
possession of the large redoubt, which, being situated
320 - SERVICES OF THE
on rising ground, commanded the whole range of
works. This bloody conflict continued until 5 P.M.,
when the firing ceased, and both sides lay on their
arms, ready to fight next day. The enemy, how-
ever, during the night, retired within the walls of
Cuddalore, with the loss of seventeen guns and fifty
prisoners. The loss on both sides was very great :
1030 of the British were killed and wounded, of
whom thirteen killed and forty wounded belonged
to the regiment, not including the grenadier com-
pany, which particularly distinguished itself, and
lost in killed and wounded nearly half its number.
The enemy's loss was uncertain; they acknowledged
to 850, exclusive of fourteen officers killed, twenty-
five wounded, and six prisoners.
The following Order was issued immediately after
the firing ceased :—
“Grenadier Advanced Post, 13th June, 1783.
“The army lays upon their arms in the outposts,
and on the ground gained this day with so much
credit from the enemy. The Europeans to send
for their provisions to camp, when Mr. Kennaway
has it in readiness.”
The General intended to storm the rest of the
lines before daylight next morning; but the enemy
withdrew into the fort, and a parallel to the south
face of Cuddalore was immediately commenced and
carried on with great vigour. -
On the 15th, the General Orders directed the
grenadiers of H. M.'s 73d and 78th regiments, and
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 321
the 1st battalion 1st regiment of Europeans, to be
completed to thirty-five rank and file each company,
and the grenadiers of the 2d battalion of the 1st
European Regiment, to join Lieutenant-Colonel
Cathcart's corps.
On the 14th, the French Admiral, Suffrein, with
fifteen ships of war, mounting 1018 guns, appeared
in the offing. Sir Edward Hughes, with seventeen
ships, mounting 1202 guns, dropped down to pre-
vent the French landing reinforcements. . Both
squadrons were nearing each other on the 15th, when
a squall came on that separated them. The British
fleet had 2850 men incapable of duty from scurvy.
The French succeeded in anchoring off Cuddalore.
On the 17th, Bussy embarked a reinforcement of
1700 men on board the ships. On the 20th, the
enemy was brought to action, but at a very long
distance. After three hours' fighting, the French
fleet anchored in the roads, disembarked the 1700
men belonging to the garrison, and on the 24th
landed 2400 more from the fleet.
About 3 o'clock on the morning of the 25th,
whilst Colonels Gordon and Cathcart commanded
in the trenches, the enemy attacked them in three
columns, but were repulsed at all points. Among
other troops in the trenches, were the grenadiers
of the corps under Captain Brown, and the 24th
Regiment Bengal Sepoys, commanded by Captain
Williamson, who was wounded. His men fought
nobly, and successfully stood a bayonet contest with
Y
322 SERVICES OF THE
the French Regiment of Aquitaine. The enemy
lost 450 men killed and wounded, and 150 made
prisoners ; among the latter, the Chevalier de
Damas, who headed the attack, and a young French
sergeant, Bernadotte, who afterwards became a
Marshal of the Empire under Napoleon, and Crown
Prince of Sweden. The British had only four
officers and seventy privates killed and wounded.
Major Cotgrave, of the regiment, was one of the
killed.
After the repulse of the sortie, the following
General Order was issued –
“Camp, South of Cuddalore, 25th June, 1783.
The Commander-in-chief feels much for the
severity of the present duty, arising from the press-
ing necessity of the service, by the enemy's fleet
and full land force being so near, and the absence
of our own fleet. He ventures to say it will not long
continue so.
“The Commander-in-chief having taken time
minutely to investigate the conduct and execution
of the orders and plan in attacking the enemy's
outposts, lines, and redoubts, on the 13th instant,
with the comparative strength in number and posi-
tion of the enemy, composed almost entirely of the
best regular troops of France, takes this occasion to
give it as his opinion to this brave army in general,
that it is not to be equalled by any he knows or has
heard of in modern history, whether we look to the
extent and entire success, or to the national impor-
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 323
tance of that day's complete victory. He takes this
occasion to return his thanks to Major-General
Bruce, Lieutenant-Colonel Cathcart, Major Moore,
and the corps of grenadiers, and to Colonel Stewart,
who supported them with the pickets of the left, and
under whose command the French redoubt was suc-
cessfully entered and carried; to Colonel Gordon,
who commanded the reserve ; to Colonel Pearce,
and the other field-officers, in their different stations;
to Lieut.-Colonel Ross, Chief Engineer, to whose
abilities he is so much indebted; and to Lieutenant-
Colonel Kelly, who, with the brigade, led by the 2d
grenadier company, and the rest of the Honourable
Company's European Infantry, under the command
of Captains Collins, Bonnivaux, and Sale, so ably
and opportunely possessed himself of the enemy's
post upon the hills; to Lieutenant-Colonel Elliott
and Major Mackay, under whom our artillery was
so well directed that day; to Captain Lamont and
to the precious remains of H. M.'s 73d, and in
general to the officers and corps of H. M.'s and of
the Company’s troops. He desires that Lieutenant-
Colonel Wangenheim will inform the officers and
men of the detachment composed of H. M.'s 15th
and 16th Hanoverians, how much he is satisfied
with their behaviour that day, and that he will not
fail on the first occasion to represent it to His
Majesty. He desires also that the officers of
H. M.'s 101st, and the grenadiers of that corps,
may know his concern that they were not supported
Y 2
324 . 2. SERVICES OF THE
as they ought to have been by their battalion men
on that day. In general, the Commander-in-chief
takes the present occasion to acquaint the army
that he has already informed Government of their
particular merit in the attack of the 13th, and that
he will endeavour to represent it as it deserves to
our most gracious sovereign and our country.
“It has so happened, that on the very day, when
the Commander-in-chief thought it his duty to return
his thanks to this army for the important victory of
the 13th, an occasion offers to express his satisfaction
for a new and recent display of their steadiness and
undaunted courage,_the successful repulse of the
enemy's best regular and veteran troops, this morn-
ing, in sight too of their admiral and whole fleet,
taking the Colonel who commanded prisoner, with
the loss of their principal officers. The General
can only repeat his most sincere acknowledgments
and admiration on the occasion, with his particular
thanks to Colonel Gordon, and Lieutenant-Colonel
Cathcart, to Captain Williamson, and the 24th Ben-
gal regiment.” º -
On the 1st of July, a British frigate arrived in the
Cuddalore roads with intelligence of the ratification
of peace with France; in consequence, hostilities im-
mediately ceased, and the siege of Cuddalore ended;
during which the British had endured the greatest
fatigues and privations: the provisions were not only
scarce, but bad, and with the exception of the gun and
draught bullocks, killed in action, there was little other
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 325
butcher's meat to be procured, except occasionally
coarse tough buffalo-beef. The usual price of a
bottle of bad arrack was from seven to ten rupees;
other or better liquor was not to be had ; the
common necessaries of life were equally scarce and
expensive. -
Previous to, and during the operations of the
army under General Stuart, before Cuddalore, a
battalion of the regiment served with the southern
army under Colonel Lang, and entering the Mysore
country, took a conspicuous part in the reduction of
Caroor, on the 2d of April, 1783, where 130 of the
British, including sixty of the corps, were killed and
wounded. Also on the 16th of the same month,
when the fort of Avaracourchy was stormed and
carried; and at the surrender of Dindigul on the
4th of May. - - *
Colonel Lang having been superseded by an
alteration of rank in the royal army, was succeeded
by Colonel Fullarton, whose first operation was the
capture of Davaporam, on the 2d of June, the
same day that orders were received from General
Stewart, directing the southern army to march with
the utmost dispatch on Cuddalore. He arrived
within three marches of General Stewart before in-
telligence of peace with the French was received,
when, having been reinforced by H. M.'s 78th
regiment, a large detachment from the first and
second battalion of the 1st Madras European Regi-
ment, and two battalions of Sepoys under Colonels
326 - SERVICES OF THE
Stewart and Kelly, he proceeded towards Madura
and Tinnevelly, which, after thoroughly reducing to
obedience, he again advanced towards Mysore.
The pay of the Company's troops in Colonel
Fullarton's army was twelve months in arrears; a
daily ration of rice issued to the Sepoy was his only
food, . . . . .
Hostilities with Tippoo had been for some timesus-
pended; but on their re-commencement at Mangalore,
Colonel Fullarton advanced towards Paulghaut, and
after a most laborious and fatiguing march through
a dense forest, reached it in November. By the
13th, batteries had been erected; the same evening
the European grenadiers of the force drove the
enemy out of their covered way, and having entered
with the fugitives within the principal gates, they
surrendered at discretion. s
On the 25th of November, Fullarton's army
moved on Coimbetoor ; but two days afterwards
received orders from the Madras Government to
suspend hostilities, and eventually to return towards
Trichinopoly, and evacuate all the garrisons he had
taken, with the exception of Dindigul, and retire
with his army into cantonments. These orders were
countermanded on the 26th of January, 1748, and
Paulghaut and the other forts held until the 11th of
March, when the treaty of peace was duly signed,
and all the troops in the field went into garrison and
cantonments. - - -
The first battalion of the 1st had its head quarters
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 327
at Vellore, detachments at Masulipatam, and a
grenadier company in the southern provinces; the
second battalion of the 1st at Trichinopoly and Tan-
jore ; the first battalion of the 2d at Ellore; and the
second battalion of the 2d in Fort St. George.
On the 6th of October, a large detachment from
the Saint Helena regiment arrived at Madras, and
were received on the strength of the second battalion
of the 2d regiment; these men were considered ex-
cellent soldiers, being properly climatized by their
service on the island.
On the 1st March, 1784, Lieutenant-Colonel Sir
Henry Cosby was appointed to the 1st battalion 1st
regiment, and commanded a small force, consisting
of its grenadier company, a regiment of native
cavalry, a train of artillery, and three native regi-
ments, in the campaign against the Poligars of
Tinnevelly.
At this time the native corps had drill sergeants
appointed to them from the European corps: the
appointment of Sergeant Pearson from the 2nd
battalion of the 2nd, to be drill sergeant of the
28th Madras battalion, appeared in the General
Order of March.
During March, 1785, the three companies of
the 1st battalion of the 1st, on detachment at Ma-
sulipatam, were transferred to the 1st battalion of
the 2nd, and the officers directed to return to the
head-quarters of their regiment, when a sufficient
number from the 1st battalion of the 2nd relieved
328 SERVICES OF THE
them. Among other officers who joined the 1st
battalion of the 2nd at the time, was ensign, after-
wards Major-General Sir John Malcolm.
On the 11th May, the Commander-in-chief ordered
a new uniform for the army, to be made up from a
pattern at the Adjutant-General's office, by the 1st
of September ; the facings of corps to be as fol-
lows:—
Cavalry, blue; European infantry, blue; native
infantry battalions, green, yellow, or buff; corps,
faced with blue or green, to be embroidered with
gold, the vest with silver. The colonels command-
ing the different regiments of Europeans, to fix
upon regimental hats for their respective corps; the
European corps to have one epaulette on the right
shoulder.
On the 23rd August, of the same year, a General
Order was published at Fort St. George, directing
the four battalions of the corps to be formed into
four distinct regiments of one battalion, each of their
present strength.
2nd battalion of 1st Regt., to become the 1st European Regt.
1st do. 2nd do. do. 2nd do.
lst do. 1st do. do. 3rd do.
2nd do. 2nd do. do. 4th do.
The infantry of the Madras army were at the
same time formed into six brigades, to the follow-
ing of which the European regiments belonged,
the colonels of each regiment commanding the
brigade.
TIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 329
F1RST BRIGADE.
1st European Regiment.
1st Battalion Sepoys.
3rd do. do.
6th do. do.
13th do. do.
Brigadier General Hoome.
Lieutenant Dyce, Brigade-Major.
SECOND BRIGADE.
2nd European Regiment.
11th Battalion Sepoys. Colonel Braithwaite.
14th do. do. Capt.-Lieut. Little, Brigade-Major.
17th do. do.
THIRD BRIGADE.
3rd European Regiment.
4th Battalion Sepoys. Colonel Nixon.
12th do. do. Lieut. Biate, Major of Brigade.
21st do. do.
. FOURTH BRIGADE.
4th European Regiment. Y
7th Battalion Sepoys. Li Colonel Kell
19th do. do. ieut.-Colonel Kelly.
20th do. do. J
Lieut.-Colonel Fraser commanded 1st Regiment;
Colonel Chesshyed the 2nd European Regt.
Lieut.-Colonel Thomas Bridges commanded 3rd
Regiment, and Lieut.-Colonel Gibbings the 4th.
In General Orders of the 4th February, 1786,
the clothing of the different troops was ordered to
be faced as follows:—
1st brigade, blue facings; 2nd, green; 3rd, yel-
low ; 4th, yellow ; 5th, buff; 6th, yellow. The
facings of the four regiments corresponded with
that of their brigades; the 1st, blue, the 2nd,
green, and the 3rd and 4th, yellow.
In General Orders of the 16th April, 1786, the
330 - SERVICES OF THE
strength of the European troops was ordered as
follows:—
“That the strength of one grenadier or one bat-
talion company of European infantry shall consist
of one captain, two subalterns, three sergeants, four
corporals, two drummers, three fifers, sixty-eight
privates, and two puckallies, or watermen, to be
allowed to each company.
“That two companies of grenadiers, and six bat-
talion companies of the same strength, shall consti-
tute one battalion of European infantry, with the
following proportion of field and staff officers; one
colonel, one lieutenant-colonel, one major, one chap-
lain, one adjutant, one quarter-master, one surgeon,
and one mate.”
The following Order, dated Head Quarters,
Choultry Plain, 20th May, 1786, was issued on
forming corps and brigades according to the new
establishment:— - -
- “EUROPEAN INFANTRY.
“The four regiments of European Infantry to be
formed into four battalions: the 1st regiment to be
considered the 1st battalion; the 2nd regiment, the
2nd battalion; the 3rd regiment, the 3rd battalion;
and the 4th, as the 4th battalion : each battalion to
consist of two grenadier and six battalion compa-
nies, to be levelled according to the new establish-
ment.
“The superintending corporals in each battalion,
who may be fit to act as Sepoy sergeants, to be
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 331
promoted. Officers commanding the battalions of
European infantry respectively, will afterwards send
to the Adjutant-General the names of the sergeants
that will remain supernumerary to the new establish-
ment, that they may be appointed to the native corps.
Such as they may think qualified for the posts of
Sergeant-majors and quarter-master sergeants, to be
reported accordingly.” - -
The field-officers present with the corps at this
time were as follows:—
Lieutenant-Colonel G. Smith, and Major Donald
M“Leod, with the 1st battalion : Lieutenant-Col.
H. S. Wood, and Major T. Patterson, with the “
2nd : Lieutenant-Col. Edward Collins, and Major
Thomas Prendergast, with the 3rd ; and Lieut.-
Colonel J. Edington, and Major G. Clarke, with
the 4th. .
On the 20th May, the European battalions of
infantry were ordered to make part of the four
senior brigades: the 1st battalion being part of the
1st brigade; the 2nd of the 4th, the 3rd of the 2nd,
and the 4th of the 3rd. The stations of the bat-
talions at this time were as follows:—the 1st at
Trichinopoly, 2nd at Ellore, 3rd Nellore, the 4th
Madras.
On the issue of clothing on the 3rd December,
the 1st regiment was faced with blue, with gold
looping; the 2nd with green and yellow ; and the
3rd and 4th with yellow, and white looping. The
commissioned officers of the European corps had
332 SERVICES OF THE
the number of the regiment marked on their epau-
lettes, and also on the buttons of the European
commissioned and non-commissioned officers.
In General Orders of the 11th March, 1787, the
following field-officers were appointed to the Euro-
pean corps:—Lieutenant-Colonel William Russel,
and Major George Oldman, to the 1st battalion;
Lieutenant-Colonel Robert Chesshire, and Major
John Patterson, to the 2nd battalion; Lieutenant-
Colonel Edward Collins, and Major Thomas Pren-
dergast, to the 3rd battalion; Lieutenant-Colonel
James Edington, and Major George Clarke, to
the 4th battalion.
In the same orders it was determined, that in the
corps of Europeans, whether King's or Company’s,
stationed with a brigade or the greater part of one,
the senior officer present would take command of
the whole. , - -
In 1787, the 4th battalion of the corps marched
to Arcot, and on the 26th of January, 1788, it
marched to Wallajabad, and was there cantoned
with a force under the command of Colonel Kelly.
In the Commander-in-chief's order of the 29th
of February, 1788, is the following regarding an
alteration in the uniform of the European corps:—
“Officers' Regimentals.-A short jacket, yellow
lapells, silver embroidery, nine button-holes placed
three and three at equal distances, on cuffs and
collars three each, one epaulette on right shoulder.
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 333
“Hats.-Round white turned-up, close on the
left side, black feather.
“Stock black lather, with a false white linen
collar to overtop about a quarter of an inch.
Waistcoat white linen cut short, as worn at
present. Pantaloons white linen, to be made long
enough to overlap the hind part of the shoe and
to cover the place of the buckle, and to be fitted
to the ankle by seven buttons from the swell of the
lower part of the calf to the quarter of the foot, to
which the pantaloon is to be kept close by a strap
coming from the inner side under the shoe, and fix-
ing to the lower button. Sword-belts for officers of
battalion companies black leather, worn across the
body with an oval plate, on which is to be engraved
the Company's crest and motto, and the number of
the battalion.
“Officers attached to the flank companies are dis-
tinguished by their king's arms and accoutrements.
Scarlet shoulder-straps instead of epaulettes. The
hats of flank companies to be ornamented as com-
mandants of battalions may direct, but both compa-
nies must be uniform.
“Officers to have jackets without embroidery for
common duties, the pattern the same as now ordered
for the full regimentals. . .
“Shoe and knee-buckles not to be considered
part of an officer's dress on duty ; but when off
duty, breeches, silk stockings and buckles, may be
worn if preferred.
334 SERVICES OF THE
“It is recommended having waistcoats and pan-
taloons made of nankeen when field service is or-
dered. Half-boots uniformly made for officers in
the field. -
“The arms of the officers in flank companies were
either as pontoon or a fuzil, the former for grena-
diers, the latter for light companies. …
“Non-commissioned and privates:—
“The agent is furnished with pattern of their
jacket and white hats.
“Stocks the same as officers, with brass clasp.
“Breeches, white linen with gaiters, to be placed
under the knee band, the same as stockings; the
gaiters to be kept close to the quarter of the foot,
by a strap coming from the inner side under the
shoe, and fixing to the lower button ; shoe-buckles
to be discontinued.” - -
On 6th June, 1788, the 4th battalion marched
from Wallajabad to Arnee.
On the 2nd August, a General Order was pub-
lished, declaring that His Majesty had been gra-
ciously pleased to grant king's commissions in India
to Company’s officers. -
In 1789, the 4th battalion returned from Arnee
to Wallajabad.
In 1790, the 1st battalion was at Trichinopoly,
with detachment at Tanjore; the 2nd at Ellore; the
3rd at Vellore, under Colonel Bruce ; and the 4th
under Colonel Kelly at Wallajabad.
Tippoo having attacked the Travancore lines, on
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 335
the 29th December, 1789, the Madras army was
again called into the field, and preparations for a
campaign commenced. Major-General Meadows
arrived at Madras as Commander-in-chief on the
20th February, and by the 14th March, had as-
sembled a small force at Conjeveram, of which the
4th battalion formed a part; and at the same time,
a large force, of which the 1st battalion formed part,
was assembled near Trichinopoly.
On the 8th March, the following General Order
was issued :—
“The Commander-in-chief, Major-General Mea-
dows, commences his acquaintance with that army.
of whom he has heard so much, and from whom so
much is expected, without his entertaining the small-
est suspicion of being disappointed, by informing
them that the critical period is probably approach-
ing, when every exertion must be made, every
obstacle surmounted, and the word “difficulty” un-
known; when the most active gallantry, the most
determined bravery, and the most confirmed disci-
pline will be required to execute the arduous, but at
the same time, the glorious task that is allotted
them, not only to serve their country, but perhaps
to save it. All history is full of examples of how
little undisciplined numbers are to be feared by the
cool, collected, and well regulated few ; and, confi-
dent of their behaviour, he has nothing to wish them
but success, in proportion to the justice of their.
Call Se. .
336 sERVICES OF THE
“He recommends it to them in the strongest
manner, to be as humane as they are brave, to
conquer and spare. The Commander-in-chief anti-
cipates great pleasure, if ever it can be done with
propriety, in leading them himself, and has every
comfort, if it cannot, in the reflection that he will
at least put them into as good hands, and with those
in whose conduct and example he has every confi-
dence, every expectation and hope of success.”
On the 24th of May, General Meadows assumed
command of the southern army near Trichinopoly,
consisting of nearly 15,000 men, and on the 26th
made his first march towards Mysore. The plan of
the campaign was as follows:– The southern or
grand army, (as in Colonel Fullarton's campaign, of
1783-4,) after reducing the Coimbatoor country,
was to ascend the Gujelhully pass. The Bombay
army was to act on the western side, and Colonel
Kelly, with a small but effective force, was to watch
the passes down into the Baramahal.
The commissariat department was so defective in
the grand army that it was the 15th of June before
the frontier station of Carroor, fifty miles from
Trichinopoly, was reached; it was abandoned by the
enemy, and on account of the monsoon setting in
heavily, the army could not move until the 3d of
July, and left nearly 1200 sick behind. On the 5th,
Aravacourchy and Davaporam were taken, and the
latter occupied by a garrison and some more sick
left in it. ---
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 337
Colonel Floyd, with the cavalry and a light force
of infantry, moved against the Mysore General,
Syed Saib, obliged him to cross the Bahvany and
ultimately to ascend the Ghauts ; at the same time,
a force under Colonel Stewart, of which a large de-
tachment of the corps, including the grenadier com-
pany, under Captain, afterwards Sir Thomas Bowser,
formed a part, marched against Dindigul, before
which it arrived on the 16th of August.
The fort, situated on the top of a high precipitous
rock, was only accessible at one point ; the fortifi-
cations had also been much improved since its former
capture; the garrison was numerous and well pro-
vided. The British battering train consisted of two
18-pounders, two twelves, and two mortars, and their
equipments were far from good; two batteries, one
of field-pieces for enfilade and ricochet, opened on
the 20th. The enemy's fire was silenced before
night, and next day the breach was not practicable,
but no shot remaining, Colonel Stewart determined
to risk the assault. The grenadiers of the 1st bat-
talion of the corps, under Captain Bowser and
Lieutenant, afterwards Colonel Sir David Ogilby,
led the storm ; the ascent to the breach was found
perfectly impracticable; besides, a row of pikes re-
ceived every man who attempted it. The assault was
continued for some time with the most determined
gallantry, but with no avail; the enemy, however,
became alarmed, and surrendered at discretion
shortly afterwards. The grenadiers, as was their
Z
338 SERVICES OF THE
usual custom, stormed with unloaded arms, trusting
to the bayonet alone; they lost several men, and
although unsuccessful, their conduct was highly
praised.
Lieutenant Ogilby was appointed Fort-Adjutant
for his gallant services on the occasion; soon after-
wards he was sent with a small detachment of one
ensign, and twenty-three rank and file of the corps,
twenty-seven regular sepoys, and 200 sebbendies
(irregular infantry), with one gun, to reduce the
strong fort of Ootampollam, at the head of the
Dindigul valley, garrisoned by 1200 Mysoreans. The
place was well provisioned, and might have held out
for a long time; but it fell the day after his arrival,
and within a week afterwards, leaving it garrisoned
by the Sebbendies, Ogilby deposited the Sultan’s
Killedar, Cawder Khan, a prisoner in Dindigul.
Thus was the extensive and fertile valley of Dindigul
acquired for the Company; and for which Lieute-
nant Ogilby received special thanks from Govern-
ment. One company of the regiment and some sick
were left to garrison Dindigul. During this cam-
paign, and whilst the grand army was at Coimba-
toor, Lieutenant Ogilby, with one company of the
corps, conducted to it with safety, 10,000 spare,
and 4000 loaded bullocks, marching seventy miles in
three days, and twenty miles of it through a forest,
where only two bullocks could move abreast, and the
rest of the distance exposed to the enemy’s con-
tinued predatory attacks. -
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 339
After the reduction of Dindigul, Colonel Stewart
was ordered against Paulghautcherry, which, from the
siege it stood in 1783, was considered a place of
great strength. Reinforcements were ordered to join
him, particularly artillery; and with them that dis-
tinguished and gallant soldier, Lieutenant-Colonel
Moorehouse, of the Madras artillery. On the 21st
of September, under his superintendence, two bat-
teries at 400 yards were opened; in less than two
hours the fire of the fort was silenced, and before
night a practicable breach effected ; but a broad and
deep ditch had to be crossed during the night: a
place of arms in the covered way was, however,
seized, and before daylight the enemy called out
that they would surrender, on terms which were
soon agreed upon ; and soon after sunrise the place
was taken possession of, and found to mount sixty
pieces of cannon. On this service the 1st battalion
of the corps, and its grenadiers particularly dis-
tinguished themselves.
Colonel Stewart arrived before Paulghaut, with only
two days’ provisions, and not a farthing in his cash-
chest : so strict was the discipline he enforced, that
the natives of the country placed the most implicit
confidence in his word, and he was enabled (by
giving acknowledgments, payable at the end of the
war,) after depositing six months' provisions in the
fort of Paulghaut, to carry back to the main army a
month’s grain.
During these operations under Colonel Stewart,
Z 2
340 * SERVICES OF THE
Colonel Floyd's division had reduced Sattamungul,
and Colonel Oldham's had taken Eroad; thus es-
tablishing a line of depôts from Trichinopoly, of
Carroor, Eroad, and Sattamungul.
The British army was thus separated in three
divisions: one under Floyd, about sixty miles in
advance, near the foot of the Gujelhutty Pass; the
main army was at Coimbatoor; and Colonel Stew-
art’s division near Paulghaut. -
Early in September, the Sultan's army descended
the pass, on the 12th crossed the river at Poongar,
and on the 13th advanced on Sattamungul, with the
intention of cutting off Floyd's division. A severe
action ensued; but the enemy's attacks were re-
pulsed, and night put an end to the combat. Seve-
ral of the English guns had been disabled, and two
were left behind. Floyd retired during the night, and
was followed next morning by Tippoo. At Oocara
and Cheypoor there was some severe fighting, and
the Mysoreans were again checked. On the 15th,
Floyd formed a junction with the grand army at
Welladi: during the fighting of the 13th and 14th
he had lost 436 men killed and wounded, thirty-
four horses, and six guns; of the former 128 were
Europeans. On the 20th of September, the army
returned to Coimbatoor, where Colonel Stewart
joined from Paulghaut. On the 29th, General
Meadows marched in search of the enemy towards
Eroad, Davaporam, and eventually into the Barama-
hal, where he arrived on the 10th of November.
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT, 341
In the meantime, the centre division, under Colo-
nel Kelly of the corps, had been joined at Arnee, on
the 1st of August, by the reinforcements of Bengal
Sepoys, and was composed of three European regi-
ments, H. M.'s 74th, the 3d and 4th battalions of
the corps, and a formidable train of artillery, amount-
ing with natives to nearly 10,000 men. Colonel
Kelly died on the 23d of September, and Colonel
Maxwell of H. M.'s 74th, assumed command the
following day. -
On the 9th of November, Colonel Maxwell es-
tablished his head-quarters at Caveripatam, and
some straggling parties of horse announced the ap-
proach of the Mysore army. On the 12th, the
Sultan appeared in sight, and on that and the two
following days Maxwell attempted to bring him to
action. On the 15th, he nearly surprised him at
Santamarumhully ; but he escaped by the Policode
Pass. -
The centre and southern armies joined on the
17th, and both advanced towards the pass of Tapoor.
On the following day it happened that the Mysore
army was advancing in the same direction, and the
two armies met at its entrance ; the superior equip-
ment of the enemy enabled them to outmarch the
British, and the greater part cleared the pass.
Several battalions were, however, cut off, and obliged
to disperse to save themselves; a little baggage and
one gun was taken. The British continued follow-
ing the enemy as far as Carroor and Trichinopoly,
342 SERVICES OF THE
near which they remained until the receipt of Lord
Cornwallis's orders for the army to return to Madras,
which ended the first Mysore campaign.
The army commenced its march towards the Pre-
sidency on the 30th of December, and encamped at
Vallaut, eighteen miles from Madras, on the 27th
of January, 1791, and on the 29th, Lord Cornwallis
joined and assumed command. -
On the 5th of February, 1791, the army moved,
and on the 11th, was concentrated near Vellore; by
the 17th, a brigade had ascended the Mooglee Pass,
and by the 21st, the British army, with all its heavy
train of artillery and baggage, had entered Mysore
without opposition, and were encamped within ninety
miles of Bangalore.
At this time, the 4th battalion of the corps, aug-
mented by a detail of four sergeants, ten corporals,
and 200 privates from the 2d and 3d battalions,
formed part of the 7th brigade of the grand army
under Major Gowdie : the 1st held Trichinopoly
and thesouthern provinces; the 2d, under Lieutenant-
Colonel Collins, had just arrived at Fort St. George,
from Ellore; and the 3d was in Vellore; both of the
latter had been reinforced from two companies that
had arrived from St. Helena, and the recruits of the
SeaSOIl. - -
The army continued its march, slightly annoyed
by the enemy's cavalry, until the 4th of March, when
the Mysore army was observed about five miles off;
and their cavalry made an unsuccessful attack on the
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 343
baggage. In a reconnoisance, the British cavalry
were a good deal fatigued from very hard work.
On the following morning Tippoo made a demon-
stration of attack; the British rear-guard were brought
into position, covering their main body and the
immense train of baggage which had proceeded
some miles towards Bangalore before Tippoo was
aware that he had been foiled; the rear-guard, in
which was the 4th battalion, leisurely retired, ex-
posed to a distant cannonade, and all encamped late
in the day before Bangalore. On the 6th of March,
the army changed ground to a stronger position, at
the same time the cavalry was engaged in a recon-
noisance; in the afternoon all the cavalry, and
Major Gowdie's brigade of infantry, moved to the
south-west for the same purpose. A large body of
the enemy's horse appearing, Colonel Floyd attacked
and routed them ; but pursuing too far, enticed by
getting within sight of their rear-guard of infantry
and a large quantity of baggage, he was wounded in
the mouth by a musket shot, and some mistake re-
garding orders occurring at the same time, and as
large reinforcements joined the enemy, the cavalry
were obliged to retire in some confusion and were
entirely saved by the spirited advance, contrary to
order, of Major Gowdie at the head of his brigade,
composed of the 4th battalion of the corps, some
artillery, and some battalions of Sepoys: these
checked the enemy completely, and enabled the over-
matched and worn-out cavalry to re-form, after which,
344 SERVICES OF THE
all returned towards camp in good order. Major
Gowdie and his brigade received high and deserved
praise from Lord Cornwallis for their conduct on the
occasion.
On the 7th of March, the 4th battalion partici-
pated in the assault on the Pettah gate of Banga-
lore, and was also engaged in the severe action
fought the same day in the streets of the Pettah,
when the Mysore army which attempted its recovery
was repulsed and entirely driven out of the town
with great slaughter, having lost nearly 2000 killed
and wounded. The British lost 131 killed and
wounded, of whom about twenty belonged to the
corps. Among the killed was Lieutenant-Colonel
Moorehouse, of the Madras artillery, one of the
best officers in the Madras army, much and univer-
sally respected and regretted.
On the 8th, batteries were erected against the
fort of Bangalore, and operations continued until
the 21st, during which time the besiegers were con-
stantly threatened by the entire Mysore army. The
infantry were kept constantly accoutred, and the
cavalry saddled every night from sunset to sunrise.
On one occasion, during a fog, Tippoo's heavy guns
were brought to bear on the rear of the park of
artillery; but the steadiness and activity of the
artillery saved the ammunition for the siege. On
the morning of the 21st, the Mysore army was
drawn up on the heights towards the south-west, to
protect a bagery nearly constructed, which would
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 345
have enabled them to enfilade the trenches. Lord
Cornwallis struck his camp, marched out, and made
a demonstration of attacking the enemy's right,
which obliged him to withdraw the guns; in the
evening, however, they were again advanced, and
his lordship determined upon the assault that
night. Notwithstanding the secrecy observed on
the occasion, the Sultan knew of the intended at-
tack. He moved his army at nightfall within one
mile and a-half of the Mysore gate, reinforced the
garrison, and detached a corps to fall upon the flank
of the storming party whilst marching to the breach.
At 11 o'clock of a bright moonlight night, the
British advanced silently to the assault; the ladders
were all but planted before the enemy took the
alarm. The breach was obstinately contested; but
the firmness and energy of the British soon pre-
vailed, and the ramparts were gained. The Killedar
was killed, fighting gallantly at his post; and the
European flank companies of all the European corps
composing the storming column, proceeding alter-
nately to the right and left, scoured the ramparts,
and on meeting over the Mysore gate, descended
into the body of the place, and shortly afterwards
all opposition ceased. The slaughter of the enemy
was great ; the Mysore gate was quite choked up
with dead. Nearly 1500 bodies were buried next
day; but the number of wounded was never exactly
known. The majority fell by the bayonet.
During the operations of the siege, nearly 500 of
346 SERVICES OF THE
the British fell, besides a great many, particularly
Europeans, from the severity of the service, were
obliged to be taken into hospital. The 4th batta-
lion lost about thirty men; but, being veteran sol-
diers, did not suffer so severely from disease as the
other European regiments not so well climatised.
Whilst the storming party were ascending the
breach, a large body of the enemy advanced to take
them in flank and rear; but they were met and
repulsed with great slaughter by a brigade detailed
for that purpose. A strong detachment of the
enemy, occupying the covered way, had, at the
same time, been driven out of it ; and as the flank
companies met over the Mysore gate, a heavy
column was observed advancing rapidly to reinforce
the garrison. They were quickly driven back by
the fire of the guns on the ramparts.
Immediately after its reduction, the breaches were
repaired, and Bangalore put in a state of defence,
with a considerable garrison. On the 22nd March,
the army changed its ground to the west of the fort,
and on the 28th, moved towards Deanhully ; the
baggage and gun-bullocks were reduced to skeletons,
and scarcely able to drag themselves along. The
cavalry horses were in little better condition ; all
forage in the neighbourhood had been for some
time consumed, and it was absolutely necessary to
occupy a country that had not been stripped of all its
forage. X -
At the same time the British moved, the Mysore
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 347
army marched towards Great Ballipoor; at daybreak
the British advanced guard saw the Sultan's army
about three miles off, crossing their front. The
British army pushed on to overtake them, but Tip-
poo's object was to avoid a battle, and his army
continued its retreat, covered by the Mysore cavalry,
under Tippoo's personal command. The gun-bul-
locks were so much exhausted that they could no
longer drag the guns; but the Europeans and Sepoys
seized the drag ropes and brought them along with
them, frequently at a run. The enemy's cavalry
were dispersed by the fire of the artillery wherever
they made a stand, and their infantry were at last
so hard pressed as to be obliged to break into
several columns, and effect their retreat by different
routes. One brass 9-pounder and some ammunition
waggons were taken, when the British encamped in
a country abounding in forage, after having marched
twenty miles. The same night the Sultan's army
assembled at Great Ballipoor, but a few hours after-
wards continued their route towards Seragunga.
The army continued moving towards the north by
easy marches, through a country abounding in
forage, and the condition of the cattle daily im-
proved.
On the 13th April, a junction was formed with
15,000 cavalry sent by Nizam Ali to serve with the
army: a few days showed that they were no acquisi-
tion: they were irregularly and badly armed; their
equipments a collection of old useless armour and
348 SERVICES OF THE
arms of every description : every man of the motley
group acted independently ; no one was under the
slightest command or discipline. About 2000 of
them were attached to the reserve under Colonel
Floyd, and it was expected they might relieve the
cavalry of some of the duties of light troops: far
from it; they were defeated by Tippoo's horse
wherever they found them, and at last became un-
equal to the protection of their own foragers, and
never stirred beyond the British piquets. In this
state the army advanced against Seringapatam.
Whilst passing Bangalore, all the heavy baggage
was deposited in that fort.
The army, continuing its route, the rear-guard
never up before sunset, the cattle in the greatest
state of exhaustion, and the camp followers nearly
starving, it reached Arikera, nine miles east of
Seringapatam, on the 13th May, near which the
Sultan's army was discovered, in a very strong
position,-his front covered by an extensive swamp.
Lord Cornwallis determined by a night march to
gain the enemy's left flank, and passing to the rear,
cut off his retreat from Seringapatam. The Euro-
pean regiments, and twelve native battalions
marched at midnight, but a severe thunder-storm
knocked up the gun-cattle, and almost every corps
lost its way. :
Lord Cornwallis was at last left with only one
company and one gun. With great difficulty all
the corps were collected before dawn, when battle
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 349
was immediately offered and accepted. Colonel
Maxwell’s brigade was the first to begin the attack,
when the action became general, and continued
nearly the whole day, until the Mysoreans were
driven from one position to another beyond the
Carrighaut hill on to the island. The weak condition
of the cavalry horses, barely strong enough to strike
into a canter, prevented their services being more
effective, and the guns being dragged by the in-
fantry, impeded their advance. These causes saved
the Sultan's army, which, however, lost nearly 3000
men, and four guns. The British had 500 of all
ranks killed and wounded.
The British lay that night on the field of battle,
and next day encamped just out of range of the
guns from the island, into the entrenchments and
works on which there was an excellent view.
From the loss by starving of all the carriage
cattle, and the scarcity of provisions in camp, it was
determined to destroy the battering train and retire
on Bangalore. On the 22nd May, the guns were
destroyed, and the British on the 26th had hardly
proceeded six miles, before the two Mahratta armies
appeared in sight, bringing abundant supplies of
every kind: such was the excellence of Tippoo’s
light troops, that every messenger to the British
camp had been intercepted, and, until they appeared,
Lord Cornwallis was not aware of their being within
150 miles of him, or there would have been no de-
350 SERVICES OF THE
struction of the battering train, or retirement from:
before Seringapatam.
On the 28th of May, the allied armies fell back a
short distance to Nulgottah, where they encamped.
From being in a state of starvation, the British were
now most abundantly supplied. On the 6th of June,
the army commenced moving upon Nuggemungu-
lum, and from thence to Bangalore, where it arrived
about the 8th of July, the Mahratta and Nizam
armies separating for a time for the sake of forage,
the former proceeding to Sera, the latter to Gun-
jecottah. Thus ended the campaign, during which
the 4th battalion of the corps had a share in every
affair that took place, and in all were conspicuous
for their gallantry.
After a few days’ rest at Bangalore, measures were
taken to secure the passes into the Carnatic, and
open the communication so as to facilitate the tran-
sit of a new battering train, and supplies from Mad-
ras, for the prosecution of the next campaign: of these
passes, the Policode was the most important; and
Lord Cornwallis moved against Oossoor, and the
hill-forts which command it.
On the 14th of July, the 7th brigade, commanded
by Major Gowdie, of the corps, and which was partly
composed of the 4th Europeans and 28th battalion
of Sepoys, with eight battering guns, marched to-
wards Oossoor, followed the next day by the rest of
the army. Gowdie reached Oossoor the same day
Lord Cornwallis left Bangalore : he found the
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 351
enemy preparing to abandon it ; but his rapid ap-
proach obliged them to make a precipitate retreat.
After blowing up one of the bastions, and spiking
their guns, a large quantity of gunpowder and other
stores, and ample supplies of grain were found in
the fort. Oossoor was a place of considerable
strength, and its works had been much improved.
Captain Welsh, with four companies of Bengal
Sepoys, and some artillery, were appointed to gar-
rison it ; the breach in the bastion was at the same
time repaired. It was afterwards discovered that three
Europeans had been lately confined in this fort, but
after the capture of Bangalore were beheaded, by
Tippoo's order; the place of their burial was pointed
out, and on digging it up, their remains were dis-
covered, leaving no doubt of the murders.
From Oossoor, Gowdie's brigade was ordered
against the strong hill-fort of Rayacotta, before
which it arrived on the 19th of July. The Killedar,
when summoned, refused to surrender; the Major,
next morning, carried the lower fort by assault, and
following up the fugitives with great celerity, got
possession of the two walls, which form a middle fort
between the lower and the one on the summit of the
high precipitous rock. Rayacotta was much too
strong to be reduced if properly defended, and
Gowdie was ordered to return to the army if it did
not surrender; he had, however, made a lodgment on
the hill, and requested further assistance; two more
breaching guns were sent to him, with a regiment of
352 SERVICES OF THE
Sepoys, on the 22d, and the main army made at the
same time a demonstration of advancing to his sup-
port, when the Killedar surrendered. -
The fort was found to be well supplied with every
military store in abundance, among which were about
400 stand of French and English muskets. Dur-
ing the operations before Rayacotta, Lieutenant
Crie, of the Engineers, was killed; the loss in the
corps was trifling. After this service, Gowdie's bri-
gade took the hill-forts of Anchitty, Durgum, Neela-
gheri, Rutnagheri, Oodeadurgum, and Chinraydur-
gum : some surrendered, and the rest were taken
after a short resistance, and with trifling loss.
On the 29th of July, the army moved towards
Oossoor, to cover the convoy from Amboor, which
joined it on the 10th of August.
The hill-forts to the north-east of Bangalore, in-
terrupting the communication with the Nizam's army,
it was determined to reduce them ; the 4th battalion
of the corps, Gowdie's brigade, and Captain Reid’s
detachment of native infantry, consisting of two bat-
talions, all under Major Gowdie, were appointed for
this service. On the 14th of September, they en-
camped within nine miles of Raymaughur ; on the
16th, the place was invested ; on the 17th, the bat-
teries opened with great effect, and the fort surren-
dered at discretion. On the 18th, Ambajee, Durgum,
and Chellum Cottah opened their gates to Captain.
Reid. On the 19th, the Major marched against the
strong fort of Nundidroog; his force had been aug-
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 353
mented by the 10th Madras and 13th Bengal Native
Infantry, and consisted of the 4th battalion of the
regiment, six battalions of Sepoys, six battering
guns, and four mortars.
Major Gowdie reached Nundidroog on the 22d
of August, on the same day stormed the pettah,
and reconnoitered the face of the rock, but found
it quite inaccessible ; on the 27th, the place was
invested.
The hill-fort of Nundidroog is situated on a pre-
cipitous granite rock, nearly 2000 feet high. At
the only place where it is accessible, it is defended
by two strong walls, and an outwork that covered
the gateway. The foundation for a third wall had
been dug; but no part of the wall had been built.
An attempt was first made to batter from a hill
adjoining the rock, but was found to be too far off.
The next attempt was to carry approaches up the
face of the steep rock to within breaching distance
of the outwork. After the most arduous exertions,
batteries were erected, and a gun-road formed. The
breaching guns were only got up after the severest
toil, assisted by elephants. The fort was defended
by Sulf Ali Beg, one of the Sultan's best officers.
After a fortnight's incessant labour, two breaches
were made, one in the re-entering angle of the out-
work, the other in the outer wall; but the inner
wall was quite uninjured.
On the 17th October, Major Gowdie, who had
all along conducted the operations, reported the
A A
354 SERVICES OF THE
breaches practicable. Lord Cornwallis detached
the flank companies of H. M.'s 36th and 71st regi-
ments to assist in the assault; and at the solicitation
of General Meadows, sent that officer to assume the
command. On the 18th, with a view of intimi-
dating the garrison, the grand army encamped within
four miles of the rock. On the night of the 13th,
the storming party were all lodged in the foundation
of the third wall. The grenadiers of the 36th and
71st were to carry the breach in the curtain ; the
light companies of the same regiments were to
storm the outwork; and the flank companies of the
4th battalion of the corps, under Captain Doveton,
were to escalade the inner wall. The assault was
given early on the bright moonlight morning of the
19th. The troops had no sooner left the trenches,
than they were discovered ; the walls were instantly
illuminated with blue lights, and a heavy fire of
cannon, musketry, and rockets, opened upon them,
besides large stones and fragments of rock, which
were hurled down from above. Both breaches were
soon carried, and the enemy followed so closely,
that the flank companies of the 4th battalion, after
some difficulty, forced the gate of the inner fort,
which had been imperfectly barricaded, and were
the first to enter the body of the place, which was
quickly taken possession of The garrison, nearly
600, were killed, wounded, or taken prisoners.
Some escaped by ropes over a low part of the wall.
The loss the British sustained was trifling,-only
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 355
forty Europeans and eighty Sepoys and pioneers
killed and wounded. Of these, thirty belonged to
the corps. Nundidroog mounted seventeen excel-
lent guns, besides a great many gingalls. It was
well provided for a siege, and its works and defences
much improved and strengthened. In the course
of three weeks’ regular siege, it fell to a small
British force; although, when besieged by Hyder,
it was not surrendered by the Mahrattas until after
a blockade of three years. After the fall of Nun-
didroog, Cummuldroog, another hill-fort, near to
and dependent on it, opened its gates on the first
SUIII]]|T1OIlS.
A General Order was issued next day, of which
the following is an extract:—
“Camp, 19th October, 1791.
“Lord Cornwallis having been witness of the
extraordinary obstacles, both of nature and art,
which were opposed to the detachment of the army
that attacked Nundidroog, he cannot too highly
applaud the firmness and exertions which were mani-
fested by all ranks in carrying on the operations of
the siege, or the valour and discipline which was
displayed by the flank companies of His Majesty's
36th and 71st regiments, those of the Madras 4th
European battalion, the 13th Bengal battalion of
Native Infantry, and of the 3d, 4th, 10th, 13th, and
27th battalions of Madras Native Infantry, that
were employed in the assault of last night; and
A A 2
356 SERVICES OF THE
which, by overcoming all difficulties, effected the
reduction of that important fort.
“His Lordship is highly sensible of the zealous
and meritorious conduct of Major Gowdie in the
command of that detachment, both at the attacks of
Raymanghur, and in carrying on the arduous opera-
tions of the siege of Nundidroog, for which the
Major will be pleased to accept his best acknow-
ledgments. The whole of the officers and soldiers
who composed that detachment appear likewise to
be justly entitled to the strongest expressions of his
approbation ; and he particularly desires that his
warmest thanks may be presented to Major Mon-
tagu for his successful efforts in bringing the artillery
into the batteries, and for the ability with which it
was afterwards served. -
“Although the services of pioneers are less bril-
liant than those of the troops, they are of peculiar
value in all such operations; and his Lordship thinks
himself called upon, in justice to Lieutenant Dowse
and all the non-commissioned officers and men of the
pioneer corps, to declare that their conduct on this
occasion has deserved his highest commendation.”
At the siege of Savendroog, the brigade with
which the 4th battalion served was engaged in pro-
tecting the besieging force from being disturbed
from Seringapatam. Savendroog was carried by
assault on the 21st December. On the 23d, Ootra-
droog was invested and carried by storm. On both
these occasions, the European pioneers of the army,
FIRST MA DRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 357
doing the duty of sappers, who were men belonging
to the Madras European Regiment, and temporarily
employed for the purpose, particularly distinguished
themselves.
On the 25th January, 1792, the British, Nizam's,
and Mahratta armies united near Savendroog. On
the 31st, the British were reviewed by the native
princes of the allied armies; and on the 1st of
February, all moved towards Seringapatam in three
parallel columns; the battering train and ammuni-
tion carts forming the centre column; the line of
infantry and field-pieces, the right, next the enemy;
and the smaller store-carts and private baggage,
protected by part of the cavalry, the left. The
advanced-guard was a regiment of cavalry, the body
guards and detail of infantry for the piquets; the
rear-guard was composed of a regiment of cavalry,
and piquets of the old camp. The march was con-
tinued till the 5th, when the army took up a position
within six miles of Seringapatam.
The encampment was divided by the river
Lockany: the right of the line passed to the north
of the French Rocks and rested on, and its front was
partly covered by a large tank; the left rested on the
hills to the north-east of Seringapatam, over which
the army had passed that day.
The position of the Sultan's army was discernible
from the British camp : his right was secured by the
Carrighaut hill, which was strongly fortified, and his
line extended to the west, within the boundary hedge,
358 SERVICES OF THE
which, with the windings of the Lockany river, and
a canal, besides a considerable extent of wet rice-
fields, covered his front. Six large redoubts, con-
structed within the boundary hedge, added much to
its strength : one, the Eadgah or Mosque redoubt,
and that of Lally in its rear, with the boundary hedge,
secured the left of the position ; two in the front,
about the centre of the position, added to its strength;
one, called Mahomed's, some little distance to the
right of Lally's, and another, the Sultan's, still
further to the left, but a little nearer the river, were
very commanding positions, and well secured. The
defences on the island were very strong, particularly on
the east end, and formed a second line ; the redoubts
in the first line all mounted heavy cannon, and the
Mysore army and its field artillery were posted to the
best advantage, to support and defend them. There
were about 100 pieces of artillery in the first line,
and nearly 300 in the second. Tippoo commanded
the centre and right, his head-quarters being at the
Sultan's redoubt; Syed Hammeed and Syed Guffer,
supported by the French battalion and Lally's bri-
gade, under M. Vigie, commanded on the left;
Sheik Anser on the Great Carrighaut hill, and Syed
Saib the garrison of Seringapatam. The Mysore
army amounted to at least 5000 cavalry, and 50,000
infantry.
On the night of the 6th of February, the British
army stormed the Mysore lines in three columns; the
brigade to which the 4th battalion belonged, formed
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FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 359
the reserve. The right division, under General
Meadows, attacked and carried the left of the enemy's
line, after overcoming a determined resistance, at the
Eadgar redoubt; the centre, under Lord Cornwallis,
stormed the centre of the enemy's position, and
eventually penetrated into the island; and the left,
under Colonel Maxwell, ascended the Carrighaut hill
as the alarm was given on Lord Cornwallis's ap-
proach; the redoubt on the top of the hill was gal-
lantly carried, and Maxwell’s division entered the
boundary hedge at the right of the enemy's line,
and eventually joined the centre column on the
island.
At day-light, on the 7th, the action was continued,
the enemy trying, in numerous attacks during the
day, to dislodge the British from the island, and the
works within the boundary hedge; but they were in-
variably repulsed, and night ended the battle.
The following day, the enemy withdrew from all
their positions within the boundary hedge, when they
were occupied by the British, and with the exception
of half the island, all were driven inside the fort, and
closely invested on both sides; in the evening, part
of the corps occupied the Sultan's and Eadgah re-
doubts, and the rest of Gowdie's brigade took post
for the night at the foot of the Carrighaut hill, ready
to pass into the island on the first alarm. .
On the evening of the 7th of February, Lord
Cornwallis issued the following Order:-
360 SERVICES OF THE
Camp before Seringapatam, 7th February, 1792.
“The conduct and valour of the officers and
soldiers of this army, have often merited Lord
Cornwallis's encomiums; but the zeal and gallantry
which were so successfully displayed last night, in
the attacks on the enemy's whole army, in a
position that had cost him so much time and labour
to fortify, can never be sufficiently praised ; and his
satisfaction on an occasion, which promises to be
attended with the most substantial advantages, has
been greatly heightened by learning from the com-
manding officers of divisions, that this meritorious
behaviour was universal throughout all ranks, to a
degree that has rarely been equalled.
“Lord Cornwallis, therefore, requests the army in
general will accept of his most cordial thanks, for
the noble and gallant manner in which they have
executed the plan of the attack. It covers them-
selves with honour, and will ever command his
warmest sentiments of admiration.”
Thirty-six brass, and forty-four iron guns were
captured from the enemy, who lost at least 4000
men killed and wounded ; but the heaviest loss sus-
tained by the Sultan was in desertion ; several
thousands threw down their arms, and went away
during the night. 4.
The town of Shahriganjam on the island, was oc-
cupied by a detail of three European and seven
native corps, under Colonel Stewart, and were re-
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 361
lieved every two days; also an advanced post in the
pettah, near the fort walls, was held by one Euro-
pean regiment, and two battalions of Sepoys: the
British thus being in strong possession of the east
half of the island.
On the 8th, part of the infantry of the Mysore
army was encamped on the glacis, the cavalry on
the south side of the river; preparations for the
siege were commenced, and the same day a park for
entrenching tools and implements of the engineer's
department was formed on the island; the trees in
the splendid gardens of the Lal Baugh were all cut
down to supply materiel for the siege, and the sick
and wounded were removed into the Sultan's new
palace, the upper part of which was occupied by the
officers; the lower, and the Choultries round Hyder's
tomb, by the different European corps.
On the 16th, the Bombay army, consisting of
four European regiments (one the 1st Bombay
European regiment), and seven battalions of Se-
poys under General Abercrombie, arrived and joined
Lord Cornwallis. w -
A considerable number of gabins, fascines, and
pickets having been prepared by the pioneers and
working parties daily detailed from the different
European and native regiments, they were carried
over on the night of the 18th, and the engineer's
park formed on the outside of the boundary hedge
behind Brown's redoubt.
On the 19th, to distract the enemy's attention,
362 SERVICES OF THE
an attack from the island with a brigade of H. M.'s
71st and 13th Bengal Native Infantry under Major
Dalrymple, was made on Tippoo's army encamped
on the south of the river; the party left the island
about 8 P.M., and gained the enemy's camp about
midnight, which Captain Robertson, of the 71st,
entered undiscovered, and bayoneted a great many
of the enemy's cavalry and their horses, creating a
great alarm, which the entrenching parties on the
north side took every advantage of, and before
morning had advanced the parallel within 800 yards
of the walls.
On the morning of the 9th, the Bombay army
crossed the river to the south, drove the Sultan and
his troops within the fort, and in the evening stormed
and took a strong redoubt, and encamped on the
heights out of gun-shot of the walls. By the 22d,
the breaches had been advanced within six hundred
yards of the walls; during the whole of the same
day the Bombay army was severely engaged with the
enemy, and completely routed them, repulsing
several determined attacks: by the 23d, the second
parallel was completed, and ground marked out for
the batteries within 500 yards of the fort. On the
same night, a detachment under Captain Montre-
sore, constructed a redoubt on a small island within
1500 yards of the north-west angle of the fort; at
the same time preparations were made by the
Bombay army, which next morning was to effect a
lodgment in a ravine near the walls, where a
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 363
battery was to be erected from which shot and shells
might be thrown into any part of the city.
The Mahratta army of Purseram Bhow, with
Captain Little's brigade of Sepoys, were daily ex-
pected to join the army, and Major Cuppage's
brigade of the 1st Madras Europeans, and three
battalions of Sepoys, with field artillery, after taking
Damicotta and Sattimungulum, had ascended the
Gudzelhatty Pass, and was bringing up large con-
voys of supplies from Trichinopoly and Pali-
gatcherry ; the grand army was besides most
abundantly supplied by the Brinjarries, and the
Bombay army from the Malabar coast: the artil-
lery, under Colonel Duff, were in the highest state
of efficiency, and in a few hours a fire of sixty
pieces of heavy artillery, with red-hot shot and
shells, could have been opened on the city.
Such was the situation of the army, when, on the
morning of the 24th, orders were issued to cease
firing. Towards noon the firing ceased from the
fort, immediately after which the following General
Order was issued.
“Camp before Seringapatam, 24th February, 1792.
“Lord Cornwallis has great pleasure in an-
nouncing to the army, that preliminaries of peace
have been settled between the confederate powers
and Tippoo Sultan, containing stipulations highly
honourable and advantageous to the Company and
the British nation ; and, in consideration of the un-
common valour and firmness that has been mani-
364 SERVICES OF THE
fested by the officers and soldiers of the King's and
Company’s troops during the whole course of the
war, it is his Lordship's intention to take upon him-
self to order a handsome gratuity to be distributed
to them, in the same proportion as prize-money,
from the sum that Tippoo has bound himself by one
of the articles to pay to the Company. It has
been agreed, that from this day hostilities shall
cease on both sides; but the army is not only to
retain its present posts till further orders, but his
Lordship likewise enjoins in the strongest manner,
that no troops nor persons belonging to Tippoo,
shall be allowed to pass the pickets and approach
the encampment, without passports or permission
regularly notified ; and in general that the same
vigilance and strictness that has been customary
during the war, shall be observed by all officers and
soldiers in the execution of every military duty,
until the troops shall arrive at the posts that shall be
allotted to them in the Company's territories. His
Lordship thinks it almost unnecessary to observe
that moderation in success is no less expected
from brave men than gallantry in action, and he
trusts that the officers and soldiers in his army,
will not only be incapable of committing vio-
lence in any intercourse that may happen between
them and Tippoo's troops, but that they will even
abstain from making use of any kind of insulting
expression towards an enemy now subdued and
humbled.”
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMIENT. 365
On the 25th, Tippoo's two sons arrived in the
British camp as hostages for the fulfilment of the
treaty. Up to the 16th March, the Sultan delayed
acting up to the treaty, when the young princes
were sent on one march towards Bangalore, under
charge of Colonel Floyd's cavalry brigade. On the
19th, the definite treaty was delivered, when hos-
tilities ceased, and the Mysore campaign ended.
Shortly afterwards, the troops withdrew from the
Sultan's territory; and on the 12th May, from Head-
Quarters, Camp at Venkitgherry, a General Order
by Lord Cornwallis directed the following dis-
tribution of the corps.
The 2nd and 3rd battalions of the corps to Fort
St. George ; the 1st to Vellore, and the 4th to
Arnee. -
During the war, the 2nd and 3rd battalions had
secured the west of the Carnatic, and protected the
convoys as they proceeded towards the grand army.
The 1st had protected the southern provinces, even-
tually entered the enemy's country, and with Colonel
Cuppage's brigade, advanced upon Seringapatam.
The 4th had served with the grand army through-
out the whole campaign; besides, a large detachment
from the 2nd and 3rd battalions of the corps, was
employed during the war performing the duty of
sappers and miners. -
The following are abstracts of the returns of the
corps for six months of 1792, from May to October
inclusive :—
tº 45
4. •º tº l ;-
. . ; tº gº : o, wº $–4 Pri
tº § "º * .# 5 o, ſº º †: Ǻ &
#|##| #| | | #| #| | | #| | | | | | | #
# |33 | # # | 3 || 3 | # | # ; É | 3 | #
- 5 |#9 || > || 5 || 3 || 3 || 5 || 3 || 3 || 5 || 3 || 3
Average strength of 1st Battalion . * 1 || 1 || 8 || 9 || 7 || 1 || 4 || 24 | 16 || 605
Deaths . <> & & e º º . . . 1 . . . . . . . . . . ] . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24, 26
Prisoners of war on parole at Ellore until June . . . . . . . . . . . | 1 || 2 | . . . . . 2 . . 49
Average strength of 2d Battalion . e 1 || 1 || 1 || 8 || 1 0 || 6 || 2 || 1 || 24 | 16 || 576
Deaths © º º Q e ë e e © º e Q º e © º 1 © e © Q º º tº e & © 23 24
Received from duty as sappers, and from other quarters . . . . . . . . | 3 || 5 || 2 | . . . 1 || 7 || 2 || 246
Average strength of 3d Battalion . . | 1 || 1 || 1 || 7 || 9 || 8 || 1 || 9 || 31 18 || 706
Deaths . ſº o º e & . | 1 | . . . . . . . . . . . . . . | 1 | . . . 15, 17
Average strength of 4th Battalion . 1 || 1 || 1 || 8 || 10 || 8 || 2 || 9 || 24 || 17 | 638
Deaths º º o º o e e tº º to e tº ſº tº C e - tº º tº º tº & 4. e G 51 55
Recruits and two prisoners from the Enemy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 || 1 | . . . 152
Average total strength of the Regiment 4 || 4 || 4 || 34 || 44 || 33 || 6 || 33 || 115| 71 |2972|3320
Deaths. o º 1 I tº tº 1 1 © Cº to Q 5 tº º 113 122
É

FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 367
A Chaplain was attached to the 4th battalion.
Colonel Thomas Bruce, Lieutenant-Colonel G.
Conningham, and Major W. Malcolm, were the
field-officers of the 1st battalion. Colonel Braith-
waite, Lieut.-Colonel E. Collins, and Major Alex.
Wynch of the 2nd : Colonel James Bridges, Lieu-
tenant-Colonel R. Tolson, and Major Cuppage, of
the 3rd ; and Colonel Charles Fraser, Lieutenant-
Colonel Thomas Prendergast, and Major F. Gow-
die, of the 4th. -
Among other officers of the corps who were on
the general staff of the army were the following:—
Colonel Braithwaite commanded the centre division ;
Colonel Fraser, and Lieutenant-Colonel Prendergast,
Vizagapatam ; Major Malcolm was Adjutant-Gene-
ral of the army, and eventually Military Auditor-
General; Captain Barry Close, Deputy Adjutant-
General, and afterwards Adjutant-General; Captain
Gabriel Doveton, with Tippoo's sons; Lieutenant
William McLeod, intelligence department with the
grand army; Captain Alexander Agnew, Deputy
Adjutant-General of the army.
In July 1793, on the breaking out of the war
with France, a force, commanded by Colonel Braith-
waite, of which two battalions of the corps formed
part, marched against Pondicherry, which surren-
dered on the 23rd of August.
Pondicherry was garrisoned by 900 European
troops and 1500 militia.
The latter end of the year, the 4th battalion
368 SERVICES OF THE
marched to Ellore, and in May 1794, its flank com-
panies embarked at Masulipatam for the Presidency,
and were intended for service at the Isle of France,
had not that expedition been abandoned. The same
month, three companies of the same battalion em-
barked for Vizagapatam, to crush an outbreak in
that quarter.
In October, the Reverend Mr. Owen joined the
3rd battalion at Pondicherry as its chaplain.
In the latter end of December, the 3rd battalion
marched from Pondicherry to Poonamallee.
In February 1795, a company of the 2nd battalion
of the regiment was sent to garrison Bencoolen.
In July, an expedition, of which the 1st and 3rd
battalions of the regiment formed part, sailed from
Madras with Admiral Rainer's squadron, for the
reduction of the Dutch possessions. The land
forces were commanded by General James Stew-
art. Trincomallee, in Ceylon, was besieged for
three weeks, and capitulated as preparations were
being made to carry it by storm. -
In February 1796, Colombo and Point De Galle
were also taken, and the complete subjugation of
Ceylon effected ; after which a part of the expedi-
tion, including detachments from the 1st and 3rd
battalions, sailed against Malacca, Amboyna, Banda,
and Ternate, which were all reduced after a slight
resistance.
On the 20th November, 1795, the following
Government Order was published:— .
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 369
“The Right Honorable the President in Council
is pleased to publish the following resolution of the
Honourable the Court of Directors in their letter to
His Lordship under date 10th June, 1795:
“Resolved, that the thanks of the court be given
to Colonel Braithwaite, late Commander-in-chief
of the forces, and to the officers and soldiers under
his command, for their good conduct, and the im-
portant services rendered to the Company by them
in the reduction of Pondicherry, and that the same
be communicated to them in public orders.”
In January 1796, two small corps of Europeans,
one of artificers, and the other of pioneers, were
formed for service in the Island of Ceylon, and
were composed of drafts from the 2nd and 3rd bat-
talions of the regiment: each corps consisted of
one subaltern, two sergeants, two corporals and
twenty-six privates.
During 1796, the battalions were stationed as
follows:—1st and 3rd on service at Ceylon, and to
the Eastern Islands; 3rd at Pondicherry, with a
detachment in Ceylon; and the 4th at Masuli-
patam.
In July, the following General Orders by Govern-
ment were issued, regarding the European in-
fantry :—
Fort St. George, 12th July, 1796.
“The Right Honourable the President in Coun-
cil, is pleased to publish for the information of the
army, the following extracts of orders of the
B B *
370 - SERVICES OF THE
Honourable Court of Directors, under date the 8th
of January, 1796 – .
“Orders of the Honourable Court of Directors,
8th January, 1796. - -
“We have taken into our most serious considera-
tion, the state of the Company’s military establish-
ments at our several settlements, together with the
memorials which have been addressed us from the
respective corps of officers, and having maturely
considered the same, we have resolved that the
peace establishment for your presidency shall be as
follows:— - -
“EUROPEAN INFANTRY.-Two regiments.
“Having thus detailed the new peace establish-
ment for your presidency, we have great satisfaction
in acquainting you, that in order to prevent the
existence of jealousies between the King's and
Company’s troops :
“The Right Honourable Henry Dundas, one of
His Majesty’s principal secretaries of state, has en-
gaged to recommend to His Majesty to give every
officer of the Company a king's commission of the
same date with that which he receives from the
Company, with a retrospect founded on the date of
the general brevet which has taken place in His
Majesty's army. *
“Paymasters.
“That to each regiment or battalion, one of
the officers be appointed paymaster, with proper
allowances for the same: such appointment to be
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 371.
made by the colonel, or by the majority of the
votes of the field-officers and captains according to
the practice in the King's service. If the selection
be made by the colonel, he is to be responsible for
the conduct of the paymaster, otherwise the respon-
sibility to rest with the captains and officers.”
- “Pay and Allowances.
“As the promotions in the Company's army fully
compensate for the diminution of certain allowances,
which have occasioned jealousies and discontent-
ments between the establishments at different presi-
dencies, we have resolved that the double full batta
to officers be abolished, that the half batta as now
allowed in Bengal, and at the same rate, be made
generally to King's and Company's officers under
the other presidencies, except to colonels, who are
always to be allowed full batta; and that full batta
be the highest allowance of that kind to be granted
in any situation whatever, except in the case of
officers doing duty in the Vizier's dominions, who
shall have such additional allowance as the Bengal
government may deem adequate to defray the extra
charges incurred by the officers in that particular
station.”
“Furlough.
“That the following proportion of Company's
officers at each presidency be allowed to be absent ;
viz. one-third of the lieutenant-colonels, a major,
and a fourth of the captains and surgeons to the
B B 2 -
372 SERVICES OF THE
troops, and one-sixth of the subalterns and assistant-
surgeons to the army.”
Head Quarters, Choultry Plain, 13th July, 1796.
“GENERAL ORDERS BY CoMMANDER-IN-CHIEF.
“The 1st and 3rd battalions of Europeans
ordered to compose the 1st Regiment of European
Infantry, being in a dispersed state on foreign ser-
vice, will be gradually reduced to the new formation
as circumstances shall permit. The 1st battalion
will compose the grenadier and four battalion com-
panies of the 1st regiment, and the 3rd battalion
the light and four battalion companies of the same.
“The six companies of the European Regiment
in Ceylon to be reduced to three battalion compa-
nies, and the two battalion and flank companies on
service to the eastward, to be considered for the
present as a grenadier and a battalion company.
“The detachment of the 3rd European battalion
at Tripasore to be formed into two battalion com-
panies, and the details from it on foreign service to
be formed into a light and two battalion companies.
“The 2nd and 4th European battalions to con-
form immediately to the new establishment, the 2nd
battalion composing the grenadier and 4th battalion
companies; and the 4th the light and four battalion
companies of the 2nd regiment.
“Supernumerary non-commissioned drums and
fifes are not to suffer in their rank or pay.
“The flank companies under the new formation to
be selected from the grenadier companies of the
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN’ REGIMENT. 373
battalions respectively, as nearly as the present
situation of those corps will admit; and so soon as
the corps or regiments can be brought into a col-
lected state, such exchanges may take place be-
tween men of the flank companies as may be neces-
sary for giving the grenadier companies the men of
the greatest bulk and stature, and the light compa-
nies those who from activity of make may appear
best suited for the duties of the latter.
“The flank companies to consist of a captain
and three lieutenants; the battalion companies of
a field-officer or captain, two lieutenants, and an
ensign. The colonel’s companies to have the lieu-
tenant-captain in place of one of the lieutenants.
The junior lieutenant-colonel and major are not to
have companies.
“The commanding officer may post the companies
in battalion, and officers to companies, as he thinks
proper, until the two divisions of each of the 1st and
2d regiments can join their companies, and they are
to be considered as independent, and returned ac-
cordingly. The division from the 1st European
battalion to be called the 1st division of the 1st
regiment, and that formed from the 3d European
battalion, the 2d. The division of the 2d regiment
at Pondicherry, to be called the 1st division of the
2d regiment, and that at Masulipatam, the 2d ; each
division to retain the non-commissioned staff al-
lowed to a complete regiment as non-effectives until
a junction takes place.”
374 - ‘SERVICES OF THE
“FIELD OFFICERs appointed to European In-
fantry as follows:—
1st Regiment European Infantry.
Colonel Eccles Nixon.
Lieut.-Col. Henry Malcolm.
Lieut.-Col. Robert Croker.
Major Thomas Parr.
Major Johnson Kennedy
2d Regiment European Infantry.
Colonel John Braithwaite.
Lieut.-Col. George Wahab.
Lieut.-Col. George Waight.
Major P. A. Agnew.
Major Aldwell Taylor.
* Establishment of the different corps of the Com-
pany's army on the coast of Coromandel, as
fixed by the Honorable Court of Directors.
“EUROPEAN INFANTRY.
“The battalions on the present establishment to
be formed into two regiments of ten companies each,
to consist of - -
- ALTERATIONs. 1 Colonel.
One adjutant and one quarter- 2 Lieutenant-Colonels
master as on the old establish- tº
ment, to be continued to each
battalion until the battalions •
of each regiment are ordered 2 Maj ors.
to join. 7 Captains.
1 Captain Lieutenant.
21 Lieutenants.
8 Ensigns.
(Junior Lieut.-Colonel and junior
Major to be without companies.)
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 375
40 Serjeants.
50 Corporals.
22 Drums and Fifes.
950 Privates.
20 Puckallies.
STAFF.
1 Adjutant.
1 Quart.-Master.
1 Paymaster.
1 Surgeon.
2 Mates.
1 Serjeant-Major.
1 Qrt.-Mast. Serjt. )
1 Drill-Serjeant. | #
1 Drill-Corporal.
1 Drum-Major.
1 Fife-Major.
On the 20th July, 1797, the 1st division of the
2d regiment, and the 33d battalion of native in-
fantry stationed at Pondicherry, were ordered to be
held in readiness for foreign service on the projected
expedition to Manilla. The detachment of the regi-
ment sailed and reached Penang, when the enter-
prise was abandoned by the Government.
From the 1st of August, 1796, European women,
the wives of soldiers who accompanied their husbands
from England, were granted an allowance of one
fanam and a half per diem, at the same time they
were ordered to be regularly mustered; this was the
first time soldiers' wives received pay.
|
.
376 SERVICES OF THE
On the 28th February, 1798, the pay of the
soldiers was established according to His Majesty’s
warrant of 5th July, 1797.
The daily pay in the European infantry was as
follows;–
Pagodahs. Fanams. Cash.
Serjeant . * e tº O 8 16}
Corporal ge tº ſº O 6 18;
Drummer and Fifer . gº O 6 1}
Private tº * © O 5 20
Serjeant in a Native Infantry
Regiment * º . 0 8 16}
Serjeant in a Native Cavalry
Regiment & gº º O 11 30
In 1798, five companies of the 1st European
regiment in Ceylon composed the 1st division of
that corps, and had their head-quarters at Point de
Galle; the other five companies of the same regi-
ment served in the Eastern Islands, and were styled
the 2d division of the corps, their head-quarters at
Malacca. The 1st division of the 2d regiment
garrisoned Masulipatam, and the 2d division of the
same regiment Fort St. George.
The dispersed state of the 1st European regi-
ment on foreign service in Ceylon, Malacca, Am-
boyna, Banda, and Ternate, and the absence of a
great part of the 2d, prevented the corps being em-
ployed in the last Mysore war, and at the siege of
Seringapatam; the flank companies of the division
at Masulipatam embarked at that place to join Lord
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 377
Harris' army, but were too late to participate in any
active service. A large detachment of the corps,
however, did duty with the corps of pioneers, and
acted as sappers and miners throughout all the
operation of the siege of Seringapatam, where they
behaved with their usual gallantry.
On the 5th November, 1799, the following ex-
tracts from a letter from the Honourable the Court
of Directors on the subject of a new organization
of the corps of European infantry was published.
“ESTABLISHMENT OF EUROPEAN INFANTRY CORPs.
“We have been apprised of His Majesty's in-
tention to new-model his regiments of infantry
serving in the East Indies, by forming them into
twelve companies of 100 rank and file each, and in.
order to preserve a proper uniformity between His
Majesty's and the Company's European infantry, we
have resolved that our present establishment shall be
formed also into regiments of the same strength.
“Each regiment is therefore to consist of
1 Colonel,
2 Lieutenant-Colonels, Each to have a
2 Majors, C
& Jompany.
7 Captains,
1 Captain-Lieutenant,
25 Lieutenants,
10 Ensigns,
48 Sergeants,
60 Corporals,
378 - SERVICES OF THE
26 Drums and Fifes,
1140 Privates, -
24 Puckallies,
With Staff, &c. as at present.
“The establishment which, on a due consideration
of all the circumstances connected with this arrange-
ment, we have resolved on for your Presidency, is
one regiment of European infantry of the foregoing
strength. .
“In obedience to the foregoing orders, the Com-
mander-in-chief is requested to issue the necessary
order for drafting the non-commissioned officers and
privates of the 2d Regiment of European Infantry
to complete the 1st Regiment to the new establish-
ment, and to supply such vacancies in the corps of
artillery as the number and the nature of the men
may allow. The non-commissioned officers who
may become supernumerary by this arrangement,
are to do duty with the 1st Regiment, and to be
brought on the strength of corps as vacancies occur
in their respective ranks. -
“The corps in future to be denominated the
‘Madras European Regiment.”
“In order to carry into effect the arrangement
ordered by the Honourable Court of Directors, for
the future promotion of officers of infantry to the
rank of Major, on the principle of regimental suc-
cession, the Right Honourable the Governor in
Council has been pleased to resolve that the fifteen
senior officers of each rank shall be successively
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 379
posted to the fifteen regiments now on the establish-
ment, that the next in seniority shall be posted in a
similar manner, and that this operation shall be
repeated until all the corps may be complete with
officers.
“According to the foregoing resolutions, the
Governor in Council is pleased to publish the fol-
lowing list of officers permanently posted to corps:–
“EUROPEAN INFANTRY.
The Madras European Regiment—Colonel J. Braithwaite, M.G.
Lieutenant-Colonels.
G. Totheringham.
James Oram.
Majors.
A. Beatson.
P. C. Desse.
Captains.
1 T. G. Gray.
2 William Sheppard.
3 W. Davidson.
4 And. Maccaley.
5 Adam Ormsby.
6 D. M. Holford.
7 C. D. Bruce.
Captain-Lieutenant.
John Brown,
Lieutenants.
1 John Butler.
2 Thomas Steel.
3 Matthew Stuart.
4 Broughton Dodd.
5 Thomas Waughan.
6 John Fortune.
7 Geo. Pippard.
8 Thomas Ogilvie.
9 G. J. Forbes.
10 G. Lang, Junior.
11 H. R. Barker.
12 P. B. Man.
13 Francis James.
14 Gilbert Briggs.
15 James Moore.
16 L. W. Hall.
17 J. Turner.
18 T. H. Smith.
19 T. C. Gordon.
20 Gilbert Waugh.
21 C. Stewart.
22 M. Bt. Kinsey.
Adjutant.
Francis James.
Quarter-Master.
J. Fortune.
At this time, the uniform of the regiment was as
follows:—
A uniform jacket, with light blue facings and
380 SERVICES OF THE
gold embroidery, the pattern to be seen in the
Adjutant-General's office; black leather stocks,
with false linen collar one-third of an inch deep;
white linen waistcoats, single-breasted and cut round,
with metal regimental buttons, the same as those on
the jacket; white nankeen pantaloons, with half-
boots, and black round hats, ornamented in such
manner as the officers commanding the regiment
thought proper. Swords according to the present
pattern, to be worn with a buff shoulder-belt. The
breastplate to be of whatever pattern the command-
ing officer might deem proper.
The officers of the European Regiment, when off
duty, were permitted to wear uniform coats, with
the same facings, epaulettes, and embroidery, as
directed for the uniform jacket.
The close of the century brings the Madras
European Regiment to the 154th year of its exist-
ence as a military body, or the fifty-second since it
was formed into a battalion by Major Lawrence,
shortly after the capture of Madras by De La
Bourdonais; since which time it had been forty-
three years in actual service in all parts of India,
the greater part against the French ; and during
that time, it had in its ranks some of the most dis-
tinguished soldiers in Indian history. Lawrence,
Clive, Glass, Innes, Dalton, Kirk, Yorke, Cope,
Preston, Palier, Campbell, Harrison, Holt, McKen-
zie, Knox, Calliaud, Forde, Kilpatrick, Fitzgerald,
Orton, Nixon, Bonjour, Kelly, the two Smiths,
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 381
Stewart, Browne; and many others of earlier times,
with Cosby, Lang, Gowdie, Bowser, Mackay, Braith-
waite, Burr, Brown, Close, Munroe, and Malcolm,
of a later period, form a roll of illustrious names,
which few, if any, corps have ever produced.
During its service since 1746, the regiment, or
detachments from it, had taken an active share in
every military operation in Southern India, besides
service in Bengal, Guzerat, Ceylon, and in the
Molluccas. It had participated and borne a pro-
minent and distinguished part in forty-six general
actions, served at seventy-four sieges of places of
the greatest importance; defended Tanjore, Fort
St. David, Arcot, Vellore, Trichinopoly, Madras,
and Patna, with the most determined resolution;
captured all the Dutch islands in the eastern seas,
and been engaged in innumerable small affairs,
defences and attacks of small forts and posts.
It was a subject of much regret to the regiment,
that it did not participate in the last Mysore cam-
paign, and in the fall of Seringapatam ; but the
honour of the Company’s European troops was well
upheld on that occasion by the Bombay European
Regiment, whose colour was the first displayed by
the gallant Serjeant Graham, of the light company
of that regiment, on the ramparts of Seringapatam,
the forlorn hope being principally composed of men
of that corps.
The honourable mention made by Government.
of the names of Close, Malcolm, and Agnew, offi-
382 --- SERVICES OF THE
cers of the Madras European Regiment, shews that
they also well upheld the character of the corps they
belonged to. These officers were serving in diffe-
rent situations on the staff of the grand army at
Seringapatam. -
In consequence of the G. O. of the 5th of
November, 1799, orders by the Commander-in-chief,
on the 8th of January, 1800, were issued directing
the formation of the European corps into one regi-
ment of twelve companies, to be denominated the
“Madras European Regiment,” and that the 2d
regiment of European Infantry be drafted into the
artillery and Madras European Regiment, giving
200 to the former corps. - r
The 2d division 2d regiment, then in garrison at
Fort St. George, was ordered to parade on the 13th
of January for that purpose; these drafts joined the
1st division of the corps at Masulipatam, were
formed into six companies and designated the “1st
division of the Madras European Regiment;” at the
same time orders were sent to Amboyna, Malacca,
and Banda, to transfer as many of the privates of
the 2d regiment to these islands as were required;
the artillery and the rest to be drafted into the de-
tachment of the 1st regiment, serving there, formed
into six companies, and designated the “2d division
of the Madras European Regiment.” -
In the G. O. of the 11th January, 1800, the
following list of officers, permanently posted to the
corps, was published:—
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 383
Colonel.
Major-General J. Braithwaite.
Lieutenant-Colonels.
Thomas Leighton.
Aldwell Taylor.
Majors.
George Smith.
John Munroe.
Captains.
John Dighton.
Henry Webber.
John M. Couvenent.
William Cunningham.
Patrick Bruce.
William King.
Frederick Pierce.
Captain-Lieutenant.
Thomas Tichbourne.
Lieutenants.
Sir John Cox, Bart.
Francis Thomson.
John Munroe.
Joseph Story.
Augustus Andrews. .
Henry Yarde.
W. G. Waugh.
Charles McDonald.
John McDonald.
Lovel William Hall.
Suth. McDowall.
Gilbert Waugh.
Thomas Shute.
Edward Fraser.
Richard Phillips.
David Forbes.
Chaplain.
The Rev. R. H. Kerr.
Adjutant.
George Custance.
Quarter-Master.
Augustus Andrews.
On the 13th of April, Colonel Burr, afterwards
Lieutenant-General, and formerly a Captain in the
corps, was appointed to command the troops in the
Molucca islands; and on the 21st of November,
arrived at Amboyna. On the 15th of Decem-
ber, he projected the capture of Ternate. -
On the 10th of February, 1801, the British arma-
ment, of which the greater part was composed of the
2d division of the Madras European Regiment, ar-
rived in sight of the island of Ternate; a flag of
truce was sent on shore; but the terms refused:
the troops landed, but were unsuccessful in their at-
tacks upon the strong fortifications of Telooke. On
the 19th, the expedition re-embarked. On the 2d
384 SERVICES OF THE
of April, another and stronger expedition sailed from
Amboyna, and arrived before Fort Orange on the
30th. On the 8th of May, the troops, nearly the
whole of the corps, landed, and after some harassing
and severe service, the island and its dependencies
surrendered. *
On the 21st of June, 1801, Major Dighton, on
promotion, was appointed to the first division of the
corps at Masulipatam, and Major Henry Webber
(afterwards Major-General) at the same time joined
the head-quarters of the 2d division of the corps at
Amboyna, and was appointed to command at Banda,
by Colonel Oliver, on his promotion in January 1802.
Colonel Burr, in the command of the Moluccas, was
transferred to the command at Ternate, where he con-
tinued in command of Fort Orange, until it was re-
stored to the Dutch, when he and the troops under
him, received the thanks of the Dutch Governor,
who relieved him in the name of the Sultan and in-
habitants of Ternate. He brought back the remains
of the regiment from the Moluccas, and landed with
it at Masulipatam early in 1803, where the two di-
visions were joined.
In 1802, the flank companies of the corps were
sent against the Hill Rajahs, at a place called Reddy
Palarum, in the Ganjam districts; they continued
on service during the greater part of the year, and
in a jungle warfare in the hills, lost a great number
of men from fever.
On the departure for Europe of Major-General
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 385
Braithwaite, on the 4th of January, and Colonel
Archibald Brown, on the 18th of February, 1803,
the Madras Government issued a highly compli-
mentary order, expressing the loss to the army by
their departure, and conveying the strongest appro-
bation of their long and distinguished services, as
well as bearing testimony to their public merits and
private virtues. Both of these distinguished officers
rose in the European corps, and during the greater
part of their service had been with it. General
Braithwaite died in London, in August of the same
year.
On the breaking out of the Mahratta war, in 1803,
the regiment marched to Ganjam; and early in
September, with two Madras Native Infantry regi-
ments, joined the force under Colonel Harcourt,
destined for the capture of Cuttack, and eventually
to force the pass of Bermuth, and co-operate with
General Wellesley.
On the 8th, the troops advanced from Ganjam;
on the 14th, Manickpatam was abandoned by the
Mahrattas, and taken possession of by the British.
After two days spent in crossing part of the Chilka
lake, Nursingapatam was entered on the 17th, and
on the following day Jagarnaut was occupied, and a
guard of Hindoos for the protection of the pagodah
left in it. On the 20th, the force advanced towards
Ahmudpoor, through a country rendered almost
impassable from the rains; and by the 4th of Octo-
ber, reached Muckundpoor. There had been re-
C C
386 SERVICES OF THE
peated skirmishing, and near the latter place, a sharp
affair between the advance guard and the enemy,
who were dispersed with some loss; a few days
afterwards the division reached the bank of the
Kutjoory. On the 10th October, the town of
Cuttack, the capital of the province, was given up,
and immediately afterwards Colonel Harcourt pre-
pared for the siege of the strong fort of Barrabuttee,
about a mile from Cuttack.
The fort, strongly built of stone and surrounded
by a deep wet ditch, varying from 35 to 135
feet in breadth, had only one entrance with a very
narrow bridge leading over the ditch to it. Batteries
were completed on the night of the 13th, 500 yards
from the south face of the fort, and commenced
firing early the following morning ; by eleven A. M.,
all the defences had been knocked off, and the guns
of the fort silenced, when the storming party, con-
sisting of a detachment from H. M.'s 22d regiment,
and the Madras European regiment, 400 Sepoys from
the Bengal 20th Native Infantry, and the Madras 9th
and 19th, with some artillerymen, and a 6-pounder
to blow open the gate, advanced to the attack; the
bridge was quickly passed under a heavy fire from
the fort, but it was nearly forty minutes before the
wicket was blown sufficiently open to admit one
man. The Europeans passed in singly and with such
rapidity that nowithstanding the resistance at the
inner gates they entered with the garrison, who after
a very severe loss abandoned the fort, and its capture
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 387
was followed by the entire submission of the province
of Cuttack.
The conduct of the storming party was dis-
tinguished by the greatest gallantry and firmness,
and the cool intrepidity of Captain Francis Thom-
son of the corps, Major of Brigade, was particularly
remarked. Complimentary orders, of which the
following is an extract, were issued by His Excellency
the Most Noble the Governor-General in Council,
on receiving Colonel Harcourt's despatch.
“Fort William, 22nd October, 1803.
“The Governor-General in Council notifies to
the army, his high approbation of the meritorious
services of the officers and troops employed under
the able conduct of Lieut.-Colonel George Harcourt
in the expedition prepared under the special orders
of His Excellency in Council, for the occupation
of the valuable province of Cuttack.
“His Excellency in Council has observed, with great
satisfaction, the judgment, skill, and firmness mani-
fested by Lieutenant-Colonel Harcourt, in directing
the movement of the division of the troops which
entered the province of Cuttack, from Ganjam.
The difficulties, opposed to the progress of the
troops, by the peculiar nature of the country, by
the period of the season, and by the resistance of
the enemy, were surmounted by Lieutenant-Colonel
Harcourt, and by the brave officers under his com-
mand, with the same spirit of gallantry and perse-
verance, which has secured the success of every
C C 2
388 * SERVICES OF THE
operation of the British army in every part of India,
during this glorious campaign. -
“The Governor-General in Council highly ap-
proves the judicious arrangements prepared by
Lieutenant-Colonel Harcourt, for the siege and
assault of the Fort of Barrabuttee, at Cuttack, and
the spirited execution by which that important ser-
vice was executed, with success and honor, on the
14th instant.
“His Excellency in Council directs Lieutenant-
Colonel Harcourt to signify his distinguished ap-
probation of the merits of Lieutenant-Colonel
Clayton, 20th Regiment Bengal Native Infantry,
who commanded the attack; and the steadiness
and bravery of all the officers and troops in the
assault of the Fort. His Excellency in Council
expresses the satisfaction with which he has noticed
the zealous and efficient services of Major of Bri-
gade Thomson, of the Madras European Regiment.”
Immediately after the capture of Barrabuttee, a
detachment composed of native cavalry, a company
of the Madras European regiment, a battalion of
Madras native infantry, and two six-pounders, with
a party of European artillery, under Major Forbes,
were sent to force the Pass of Bermuth, the only
passage through the mountains which separate
Cuttack from the Berar territories.
Bermuth was forced on the 2nd of November,
the enemy escaping with difficulty into Berar across
the hills.
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 389
The Rajah of Bood, and Ranah of Sonapore,
at the same time sent to Major Forbes, offering
submission to the British government. Colonel
Harcourt had, in the interim, been approaching
with the rest of his force, and was preparing to
enter the Berar States through the Pass, and co-
operate with General Wellesley, when intelligence
was received of peace having been concluded with
the Nagpore Rajah, consequent on the victories of
Assye and Argaum. Peace having also been con-
cluded with Scindia, the force in Cuttack was
broken up, and the Madras European regiment
returned to Masulipatam, in 1804; in May of which
year, Lieutenant-Colonel Lang was appointed to
the corps. -
On the 17th June, an order on dress was issued,
when the regiment were ordered to wear white
pantaloons, black gaiters, hair powdered, and tail
tied with a black leather thong. In November, the
thanks of His Majesty, the Houses of Parliament,
and the Court of Directors, were published to the
army, for their brilliant services during the cam-
paign against Scindia, and the Rajah of Berar.
The corps remained at Masulipatam until 1809,
during which time many recruits from Europe
arrived, and the regiment was in a high state of
efficiency.
On the 26th of April, 1806, on the retirement
of Lieutenant-Colonel Lang, the command of the
regiment devolved on Lieutenant-Colonel Innes.
390 SERVICES OF THE
During 1808, the corps was inspected, and
highly complimented for its efficiency in every
respect by His Excellency, Lieutenant-General
McDowall, Commander-in-chief, who, on his de-
parture to Europe shortly afterwards, issued the
following Order:-
“G. O. C. C., 28th January, 1809.
“The moment is now arrived, when Lieut.-Gene-
ral McDowall is to take leave of the coast army, an
army, whose ardent courage, consummate discipline,
and persevering firmness has been displayed in the
achievement of those brilliant exploits, which have
secured its own glory, and added to the British
empire extensive and fertile regions of incalculable
value and importance. May your patriotism, va-
lour, and worth, be acknowledged and rewarded by
your King, and by the East India Company, in
proportion as they are known and appreciated by
your Commander-in-chief
“Had Lieutenant-General McDowall succeeded
to the high and enviable office, with all the advan-
tages enjoyed by his predecessors, he would, upon
first assuming the command, have promulgated his
sentiments on so flattering an event; but the cir-
cumstances of his appointment were so humiliating
and unpropitious, that he declined addressing the
army, in the anxious hope that the Court of
Directors might, on further deliberation, be induced
to restore him to his rights, and, by altering the new
and extraordinary form of government, have ena-
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 391
bled him to exercise the functions of his station, as
the representative of the army, with honor to the
service, and with credit to himself: no prospect of
such an occurrence appearing at all probable, in
justice to the army, and to his own character, he
has determined to retire.
“On quitting a country in which he has passed
the greatest part of his life, and where he possesses
many dear and respected friends, Lieutenant-General
McDowall cannot view his separation from a body
of men he is sincerely attached to, without suffering
the most painful sensations. From the nature of the
service, he can have little chance of meeting with
them again ; but he is bound to declare, that the
whole tenor of their conduct has met with his entire
approbation, and he will boldly affirm, without dan-
ger of contradiction, that His Majesty has not, in any
part of his dominions, a more loyal, patriotic, and
valiant class of soldiers and subjects, than the offi-
cers composing the army under the Presidency of
Fort St. George.
“That success may continue to attend their steps
—that their dearly-bought laurels may never decay
— and that their bravery and discipline may gather
additional wreaths in the field of honor, is the
sincere prayer of a man who will never forget them.”
In 1809, at Masulipatam, the corps took a con-
spicuous part in the unfortunate occurrences which
at that time so seriously agitated the Madras army.
In June, Lieutenant-Colonel, afterwards Sir John
392 - SERVICES OF THE
Malcolm, was directed to proceed immediately to
Masulipatam, and relieve Lieutenant-Colonel Innes
in the command of the corps. -
In October, a large detachment of the regiment,
under Captains Phillips, Forbes, and Nixon, with a
detachment of artillery under Captain Court of that
corps, embarked on board H. M.'s ships, Dover,
Cornwallis, and Samarang, and sailed on an expe-
dition against the Dutch eastern islands. On the
15th February, 1810, they arrived at Amboyna, and
about 2 P. M. the same day landed. Captain Phil-
lips commanded the advance party, and attacked
and carried the strong battery at Wanuitoo, situated
on the top of a commanding height, notwithstand-
ing the determined opposition of the enemy, who
had two officers killed, and one mortally wounded;
at the same time that a division headed by Captain
David Forbes, and his company of the regiment
turned the position at Battu Guntong, and forced
the enemy to abandon it, by occupying the heights
supposed to be inaccessible which commanded it.
Battu Guntong was occupied for the night, and
before morning the spikes were removed from three
of the guns. In the morning the Woyo battery and
another which defended the anchorage, were found
abandoned : a fire was immediately opened on Fort
Victoria, which soon surrendered, when 1500 Dutch
troops marched out and grounded their arms. The
strong posts of Battameera and Gillalla were also
taken, and completed the capture of Amboyna.
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 393
On the receipt of Captain Court’s despatch at
Calcutta, the following Order publishing it was
issued :-
Fort William, 2nd May, 1810.
GENERAL ORDER BY GOVERNMENT. - -
“The Right Honorable the Governor-General in
Council has much satisfaction in publishing for
general information, the following detailed report
of the brilliant achievement effected by a detach-
ment of the coast artillery, the Madras European
regiment, and parties of the seamen and royal
marines of His Majesty's ships Cornwallis and
Dover, under the command of Captain Court of
the former corps, in the attack and final conquest
of the enemy's forts and batteries at the settlement
at Amboyna. - - * -
“To Captain Edward Tucker, commanding His
“Britannic Majesty’s ships and the forces em-
“ployed on the expedition to the eastward.
“SIR,--I have the honour to report to you by
this the earliest opportunity afforded me, the opera-
tions of the troops and seamen employed under my
command, in the attack upon the enemy’s outposts
on the 16th instant. - -
“The force destined for this service, composed
of the number of men named in the margin,” having
* Detachment 2nd battalion artillery . º º - 46
Madras European Regiment . © +º e 130
Seamen and Royal Marines from H. M.'s ship Dover . 85
Seamen and Royal Marines from H. M.'s ship Cornwallis 105
Seamen from H. M.'s ship Samarang © & . 35
Total of all descriptions (officers included) º 401
394 -- SERVICES OF THE
landed about 2 o’clock P. M. agreeably to your
orders, and being formed according to the instruc-
tions I had previously given, the advanced party,
under Captain Phillips, consisting of thirty rank
and file of the detachment, 2nd battalion artillery
under Lieutenant Stewart, the detachment of royal
marines from His Majesty's ship Dover, under
Lieutenant Higginson, and a detachment of one
company of the Madras European Regiment, with
a party of seamen from His Majesty's ship Dover,
under Lieutenant Jeffries, in all about 180 men,
was directed to attack the battery at Wanuitoo,
situated on the top of a small hill of a most com-
manding height and position, and defended by the
ordnance expressed in the margin.”
“This, the most advanced post of the enemy,
and commanding the shore at Portuguese Bay, was
attacked with that gallantry, promptitude, and judg-
ment, which were to be expected from the exertions
and talents of that distinguished officer, Captain
Phillips of the Madras European Regiment, and
was immediately carried, notwithstanding the de-
termined opposition of the enemy, who had two
officers killed, and one desperately wounded, after
the entrance of our party into the battery.
“Under the able directions of Lieutenant Duncan
* “Ordnance, iron, 12-pounders.
, 9 p. ,, 8-pounders
7 * ,, 6-pounders
Howitzers, brass, 5, and half inch
:
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 395
Stewart, (who, though wounded, continued at his
post,) three of the guns were immediately brought
to bear upon the enemy in his retreat, and subse-
quently, upon the enemy's post at Battu Guntong,
which had opened a fire upon our troops at Wanui-
too on their taking possession thereof.
“With the remaining force " I proceeded along
the height to turn the enemy's position at Battu
Guntong, situated about 1500 yards distant from,
and nearly on the same level, with that at Wanuitoo,
and which commanded the town of Amboyna and
Fort Victoria. This party endured with the greatest
spirit and patience a most fatiguing and troublesome
march, ascending and descending hills, over which
there was no road, and many of them so extremely
steep, as to require the assistance of the bushes for
the men to get up and down by: their toils were,
however, rewarded, by our reaching, a little after
sunset, an eminence which effectually commanded
the enemy, and by the satisfaction we experienced
on finding that we had pursued the only mode of
attack against this post (so strongly defended by
the nature of the ground on every other side) which
offered a probability of success.
“The enemy, who was collected in some num-
* “One company Madras European Regiment, under Capt. Forbes. The
seamen and marines from H. M.'s ship Cornwallis. The seamen from
H. M.'s ship Samarang, and fifteen artillerymen. This body was under the
immediate orders of Captain Forbes, who fulfilled the duties of this charge
to my greatest satisfaction.”
396 - SERVICES OF THE
bers, retired immediately we were perceived on the
heights above them, and we entered the battery
without opposition, where we found the ordnance
named in the margin.* -
“The consequences of our success in obtaining
possession of Wanuitoo and Battu Guntong were
observed by the desertion, on the part of the
enemy, of two batteries which had annoyed the
ships, and which became exposed to our command-
ing fire. -
“One of these batteries, called the Woyoo
battery, is situated on the shore. The other is
erected upon piles, some distance in the sea. They
were both well calculated for defence against a
naval attack, and were covered by a very thick
parapet. The ordnance found in them are ex-
pressed in the margin.f -
During the night of the 16th instant, two twelve-
pounders and one nine-pounder were relieved of
their spikes, in the Battu Guntong battery, and on
the following day brought to fire upon the fort.
The enemy returned our fire (which continued until
* Ordnance, iron, 12-pounders . ſe . g 4
9 y ,, 9-pounders . g {_* e I
* - Woyoo battery. -
Ordnance, iron, 12-pounders 4
3 y ,, 8-pounders . l
?? ,, 6-pounders 2
Brass carronades 32-pounders . I
f Battery in the sea.
Ordnance, iron, 12-pounders 9
Brass carronades, 32-pounders. tº . ſº 1
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 397
your summons for the surrender of the town), with
shells, but without effect. -
“Our loss in obtaining our advantage was trifling
in comparison with the importance of the conquests,
and considering the obstacles the troops had to
surmount.*
“In expressing my sentiments of the conduct of
the officers and men employed on this occasion, I
cannot speak too highly of their exertions, to which,
and the formidable fire the enemy had experienced
from the ships, must be attributed the early sur-
render of this colony.
“I have already, I hope, done justice to the
military conduct of Captain Phillips, to whom I am
likewise under the greatest obligations for his
advice;—you are aware, sir, how much the service
is indebted to that officer for the very important
assistance derived from his knowledge of the Malay
language. To Captain Forbes, of the Madras
European regiment, I owe every acknowledgment
for the benefit of his judgment and his advice.
“Lieutenant Duncan Stewart, attached to the
artillery, to whose lot it fell to head the party against
Wanuitoo, acted most nobly up to his station; he
was the first that entered the battery, and gave the
Dutch officers an opportunity to surrender, which
* “Killed.—Royal Marines, 1 corporal; Madras European Regiment,
2 privates; Royal Navy, 1 seaman. Wounded.— Detachment 2d Battalion
Artillery, 1 lieutenant and l corporal; Royal Marines, 1 corporal; Madras
European Regiment, 4 privates; Royal Navy, 4 sailors.”
398 SERVICES OF THE
generous offer was on their part declined; he con-
tinued to perform his duty throughout the service,
notwithstanding a severe cut he received in the
hand.
“Lieutenant Jeffries, of the Royal Navy, received
a concussion in the breast from a spent grape-shot,
but, I am happy to say, we were at no period de-
prived of his valuable assistance.
“It is but an act of justice due to the royal marines,
troops and seamen, to make known to you the
steadiness with which they advanced against Wanui-
too, under a heavy fire from the enemy, of grape and
musquetry: not a shot was fired until they reached
the breast-work of the battery; such a testimony of
their valour and conduct, while highly honourable to
the royal marines and troops, must reflect more than
ordinary credit upon the seamen.
“The capitulation of the town has prevented the
further necessity of the troops and seamen dis-
playing that valour and steadiness which had been
so conspicuous in every part of their conduct
throughout this service, and which their undi-
minished ardour gave every reason to conclude
would have been attended with similar success,
although opposed to the more formidable defences
of Battameera and Gillalla. -
“I have herewith the honour to enclose a return of
ordnance mounted on the castle of Victoria, and on
the several batteries to the right and left thereof.
FIRST MADRAS THUROPEAN REGIMENT. 399
The return of stores is too voluminous to enable
me at present to transmit to you.
(Signed) “M. H. Court,
“Captain commanding the troops employed
in the expedition to the Eastward.”
“Fort Victoria, 27th February, 1810.”
In August, 1810, a detachment of the corps under
Captain Forbes, sailed for the capture of Ternate
on board the Dover frigate; on its landing, a small
fort, mounting fifteen guns, was stormed and carried,
and the following day the island surrendered.
On the 29th October, a detachment of the regi-
ment under Captain Nixon, assisted in the success-
ful attack on Banda Neira ; the detachment disem-
barked in the face of the enemy in a heavy gale of
wind. The following is the extract of a letter to
Captain Cole of H. M.'s ship Caroline, with the
General Order by Government, 4th January, 1811,
publishing it —
“The Honorable the Governor in Council derives
much satisfaction in publishing to the army the senti-
ments of distinguished approbation it has pleased the
Right Honorable the Governor-General in Council
to record on the occasion of the late successful
attack made on the Dutch possessions at the Island
of Banda Neira, by the force employed on that
service under the orders of Captain C. Cole of the
Royal Navy.”
Extract of a letter to Captain Cole, command-
400 -- SERVICES OF THE
ing His Majesty's ship Caroline, under date the 23d
November, 1810 : —
“I am directed by the Right Honorable the
Governor-General in Council to acknowledge the
receipt of your letter of the 29th ultimo, relative to
the late successful operations of the force employed
under your command in the reduction of the Island
of Banda.
“The details of this brilliant achievement, and of
your arrangements for the administration and security
of the island, as reported by you and Captain Nixon
to the government of Fort St. George, have been
communicated to his Lordship in Council, who
observes with just admiration the judgment, ability,
and foresight manifested by you in the plan of
attack; and the zeal, intrepidity, and precision with
which it was carried into effect by the gallant of.
ficers and men of the naval and military service
under your direction : his Lordship in Council con-
siders the rapid conquest of a place so strongly
fortified by nature and by art, in the face of a
superior force, without the loss of a man, as forming
a singular event in the annals of British enterprize,
reflecting a peculiar degree of credit on your pro-
fessional skill, and affording an extraordinary instance
of discipline, courage, and activity, on the part of
the officers and men under your command.
“The Governor-General in Council considers
the eulogium which you have bestowed generally on
the detachment of the Honorable Company's troops
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 401
employed on this occasion, and especially on the
conduct of their commanding officer, Captain Nixon,
and of Lieutenant Yates and Ensign Allen, to be
highly honourable to them; and has directed the
expression of his distinguished approbation to be
conveyed to them generally and individually through
the channel of the Resident at Amboyna.
(Signed) “J. H. PEILE,
“Secretary to Government.”
In 1810, the regiment arrived at Wallajabad,
and many of the men were drafted into the artillery,
and the head-quarters afterwards marched to Poona-
mallee. -
Upon the departure for Europe of Major-General
Gowdie, who had risen in and served with the corps
during a considerable period of the last century, and
particularly distinguished himself with it during the
Mysore wars, the following order was published:—
“GENERAL ORDER BY GOVERNMENT.
“ 14th March, 1811.
“Upon the approaching departure of Major-Gene-
ral Gowdie on his return to Europe, the Governor in
Council performs a satisfactory obligation of his
public duty in expressing the sense entertained by
this Government of the merits and services of the
Major-General during a long and arduous career, in
the course of which, his zealous exertions and
devotion to the public interests and to his profes-
sional duties, have repeatedly been acknowledged.
D D
402 SERVICES OF THE
“The Governor in Council experiences the
greatest satisfaction in declaring in Public Orders
his entire approbation of the zealous and honourable
line of conduct which had so eminently distinguished
Major-General Gowdie since his appointment to the
staff of the army.”
Intelligence was received in the end of the year
of the death of Brigadier-General Calliaud : he had
retired from the service in 1775, and settled in
Oxfordshire, where he lived to an advanced age,
highly respected by the nobility and gentry of the
county.
In 1811, the regiment was under orders for Java,
but was countermanded; a detachment, however,
served as sappers on that expedition.
In 1812, the regiment was stationed at Vellore,
and in 1813, marched to Wallajabad, and whilst
stationed there was inspected by the Commander-in-
chief, Lieutenant-General Abercrombie, in 1814,
who expressed himself in General Orders of 10th
March as follows:—
“His Excellency the Commander-in-chief having
concluded a minute review and inspection of the
troops composing the cantonment of Wallajabad,
has great satisfaction in stating to the army in this
public manner, his entire approbation of the order,
efficiency, and discipline which so strongly mark the
zeal and ability with which the command of that
station is exercised by Lieutenant-Colonel Fletcher.
“The excellence and neatness of the appoint-
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 403
ments of the Madras European regiment, as well
as their performance in the field, and their interior
economy in barracks, leaves the Commander-in-chief
only to regret their want of numbers; but he trusts,
that at an early period, they will be as complete in
men, as they are in that system and attention he has
now with pleasure remarked.
“The order and regularity of system which
characterise the hospital, and particularly the style
and the arrangements in the dispensary, attracted
the Commander-in-chief's peculiar approbation.”
In August, 1813, intelligence was received of the
death, in England, of Sir Barry Close, Bart. He had
entered the army in 1772, and the following year
joined one of the battalions of the regiment, and
served with the corps throughout the early Mysore
wars. After filling many high and important situa-
tions he became Adjutant-General of the Madras
army, when he performed most distinguished services
in the last war against Tippoo Sultaun, and was
subsequently appointed by the Marquis Wellesley,
on account of his eminent talents and integrity, as
well as his knowledge of the language, manners, and
customs of the natives, Resident at Mysore. In 1800,
the Honorable Court of Directors, in testimony of
its high sense of his services, presented him with a
sword worth three hundred guineas. On his return
to England in 1810, the Madras Government ex-
pressed itself highly of his eminent and distinguished
services. -
D D 2
404 - SERVICES OF THE
In 1818, the Court of Directors sent out a
splendid monument to his memory, which was
erected in St. Mary’s, Fort St. George, during the
early part of 1819, and at present forms one of the
greatest ornaments to that very old church.
The flank companies proceeded in 1815 as far as
Trichinopoly en route to Ceylon, when, on the
rebellion in Candy being suppressed, they returned
and joined the army assembled on the banks of the
Toombudra river, in consequence of the Pindarrie
war. When the army was broken up and about to
return into quarters, Sir Thomas Hyslop, in a
General Order of the 28th April, 1815, expressed
himself “highly gratified at the excellent appearance
of so large a force of the Madras army; its high
eredit and reputation had prepared him to expect
much, but its efficiency and discipline surpassed his
utmost expectations;” he also remarked, in the
highest terms of commendation, the orderly and
steady conduct of the troops towards the inhabitants
of the country.
The flank companies rejoined the Head-Quarters
of the regiment at Trichinopoly, and the same year
the whole corps marched and joined the force under
command of Colonel Marriot before Kurnool. On
the 15th December, that fort surrendered, and the
Nabob was deposed, and is now a state prisoner
in the citadel of Bellary.
In a General Order of the 1st January, 1816, the
Commander-in-chief noticed with satisfaction the
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FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 405
favourable report Colonel Marriot made of the zeal,
energy, and efficiency of the troops under his com-
mand.
After the surrender of Kurnool, the regiment
marched to Hyderabad viá Bellary, where the de-
tachment of the corps that had been serving to the
eastward rejoined it.
In publishing an extract of a letter from the
Resident of Fort Victoria, the following honorable
mention is made of the detachment.
“GENERAL ORDER BY COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF.
“30th November, 1816.
“The Commander-in-chief has great satisfac-
tion in publishing to the army the following extract
of a letter from the Resident of Fort Victoria, ad-
dressed to the Government of Fort St. George.
“Such testimonials of the zealous and valuable
services of the officers of this establishment, and of
the orderly and good conduct of their detachments,
reflect the highest honour on themselves, and are
creditable to their respective corps.”
Extract of a letter from the Resident at Fort
Victoria, dated 19th August, 1816.
“1. I have the honour to acquaint you that under
the expectation of the speedy restoration of these
islands to the Dutch, I have judged it proper to take
immediate measures for sending to Fort St. George,
as large a proportion of the troops belonging to that
establishment, which are now employed at the Mo-
luccas, as can be conveniently removed.
406 - SERVICES OF THE
“6. On the occasion of the final departure for
the Presidency to which they belong, of the officers
and troops proceeding on the Laurel, I consider it
to be a duty incumbent on me, to communicate to
the Government of Fort St. George, the sentiments
of cordial esteem and approbation which the in-
variable tenor of their conduct, and their eminent
professional services and merits, have indelibly im-
pressed on my mind. In the exigencies of every
public crisis, and on every occasion of difficulty and
danger which has occurred during my administration
at the Moluccas, they have always been distinguished
by their eminent alacrity, zeal, and promptitude, and
by their uniform skill, activity, and courage; they
have confirmed those claims to public approbation
and gratitude, which they had previously established
by their services in the capture of the island.
“7. Some of the officers having been employed in
confidential civil situations, and their conduct in the
performance of the duties entrusted to them having
been uniformly such as to deserve my approbation,
I am anxious to recommend their services in this
branch of the public administration, to the par-
ticular notice of the Government of Fort St.
George ; and as the situations in which, during a
period of five years, Lieutenants Kyd and Nelson
have been employed under my authority, have
enabled me fully to appreciate their talents and
integrity; I embrace this opportunity of testifying
my sense of their merits, and of recording my con-
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 407
viction of the qualifications of zeal, ability, and
knowledge which they possess for the execution of
any similar orders which may hereafter be assigned
to them.
“8. The conduct of Lieutenants Gale and Dale,
has also been distinguished by the same qualities of
uniform propriety and rectitude, and is equally
entitled to the tribute of my cordial approbation.
Lieutenant Gale has been employed in executing
topographical military charts, and plans of the
fortifications at Banda and Amboyna, which he has
executed in a manner highly creditable to his skill
and judgment.
(A true extract.) (Signed) “E. WARD,
“Secretary to Government.”
The officers who commanded the detachment of
the regiment to the eastward in 1809, were Cap-
tains Phillips, David Forbes, and Nixon; Lieu-
tenants Charles Forbes, Carberry, Kid, Hooper,
Brown, Cursham, Roy, Gale, Dale, Williams and
Clarke. The conduct of Capt. David Forbes, at the
different attacks on the Molucca Islands, was always
distinguished by the most determined courage and
decision. Among other daring and gallant exploits,
he on one occasion landed at night with about 150
of his own men, and about 100 marines and seamen ;
the garrison, 700 Dutch European troops, were sur-
prised and laid down their arms. As day dawned
and they perceived the small force of the British,
408. s SERVICES OF THE
the Dutch made a shew of rushing to recover their
arms, but Forbes was prepared for this, and soon
satisfied them, that small as his party was, they were
well loaded, and if a Dutchman attempted to move
from where they had, after grounding their arms
been collected, he would fire into the unarmed mass
and put every one to the sword. The Dutch were
intimidated, and marched out of the fort pri-
soners of war, nearly 700 men guarded by 250
British. After the subjugation of the islands, Cap-
tain Forbes was appointed Governor of Banda,
during which time an insurrection broke out in the
Island of Poran, where an expedition of Bengal
troops, sent by Mr. Martin the Governor of Am-
boyna to suppress it, were defeated by the insur-
gents. Captain Forbes was intreated by Mr. Martin
to head another, and he sailed to Poran with a large
detachment of the corps, landed and routed the
rebels with great slaughter, and took their chief
prisoner. After the island had been reduced to
subjection, Forbes returned to his government at
Banda, where he died on the 18th of April, 1815.
On receiving intelligence of his death, the Governor-
General published an order highly laudatory to his
memory. º: º
During its stay in the Molucca Islands, the de-
tachment was repeatedly engaged in small affairs
with pirates or insurgents. Many men died from
sickness, and several were killed in action. Among
the officers, Captain Nixon died at Amboyna, Lieu-
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 409
tenant Carberry at Ternate in December 1815,
and Captain Forbes at Banda.
Lieutenants Charles, Forbes, Gale, and Kid,
were on the Governor's personal staff.
On the breaking out of the Mahratta war, in
1817, the Madras European Regiment formed part
of the army of the Deccan, consisting of three di-
visions. The first, or advanced, under the personal
command of His Excellency Lieutenant-General
Sir Thomas Hyslop, Bart., was composed of a
brigade of artillery, a brigade of cavalry, and three
brigades of infantry. The second or Hydrabad di-
vision under Brigadier John Doveton, and the third
division under Sir John Malcolm, K.C.B. K.L.S.
The flank companies of H. M.'s Royal Scots, a
wing and head-quarters of the Madras European
Regiment, and the 1st battalion 7th regiment Native
Infantry, composed the first infantry brigade of the
first or advanced division, and was commanded by
Lieutenant-Colonel Thomson. Major Augustus
Andrews commanded the head-quarters of the
regiments. - -
Five companies of the Madras European Regiment,
a detail of artillery, and the 1st battalions of the
8th, 21st, and 22nd Native Infantry, formed the
Hydrabad brigade of the second division, and was
commanded by Col. Sir Augustus Floyan, K.C.B.
The army of the Deccan was intended to advance
into Malwa. In the latter end of August, a de-
tachment of a troop of horse artillery or rocket
410 SERVICES OF THE
troop, a squadron of H. M.'s 22nd dragoons, head
quarters and a wing of the Madras European Regi-
ment, the 1st battalion 3rd regiment, or Palam-
cottah light infantry, and half the 1st battalion of
pioneers, all under command of Lieutenant-Colonel
McGregor Murray, left Secunderabad with the head-
quarter departments, and arrived at Nandair on the
Godavery on the 16th October.
The Commander-in-chief was prevented by severe
illness from leaving Secunderabad until the 1st of
October, but overtook Colonel Murray's detachment
at Nandair on the 16th, when he pushed on with
the rocket troop, squadron of dragoons, and three
companies of the Palamcottah light infantry, leaving
the remainder of the head-quarter detachment to
follow him as rapidly as possible.
Before the end of October, Sir John Malcolm,
who had taken command of the troops assembled
at Hurdah, occupied all the principal ghauts on the
Nerbudda river. On the 10th November, Sir
Thomas Hyslop arrived at the camp at Hurdah,
and on the 13th, the rest of the head-quarter de-
tachment under command of Major Andrews of the
Madras European Regiment, marched into camp.
On the 2nd December, the head-quarters of the
Deccan army was at Nemawun on the right bank of
the Nerbudda, opposite Hindia, on the 3rd at Sun-
dulpoor, and on the 4th at Soankeir. Advancing
by Oonchode towards Oojein, it arrived at Peepleea
on the 8th, and on the 11th, encamped at Duttana
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 411
Muttana, within eight miles of the 3rd division at
Ursoda, which had fallen back from Augur.
On the 12th, the head-quarters, and first and third
divisions of the army marched first to Oojein, crossed
the Seeprah at a ford near the north-east angle of the
city, and encamped on the left bank, taking up a
position fronting the ford just passed. The army
was surrounded by flying parties of Mahratta cavalry,
and every precaution was taken, by stationing out-
line pickets to prevent them insulting the camp,
On the 14th, the army re-crossed the Seeprah,
and encamped at Gunnye. On the line of march,
several camels were taken by the enemy's horse.
The army halted until the 20th, when it moved to
Hernia, and encamped with the Seeprah in its front;
the road to Oojein led out from the left, that to the
villages of Mahidpoor from the right of the en-
campment, and a road passed through the camp to
the front, and crossed the river by the only ford
within some considerable distance. On the same
day a party of the Mysore horse were attacked by
Holkar's cavalry, and driven in with some loss.
On the 21st, the army moved a little before day-
break, and had advanced about eight miles towards
Mahidpoor before an enemy was seen. On ascend-
ing an eminence, a view was obtained of the town
of Mahidpoor on the right bank of the Seeprah,
and the enemy's army drawn up on the other side
of that river, the intervening plain on both banks
covered by the Mahratta light cavalry, who came
412 . SERVICES OF THE
forward in the most confident manner close up to
the British column.
As the British advanced, the position of Holkar's
army was more distinctly seen, at the same time that
a reconnoissance, under Sir John Malcolm, with the
cavalry, some horse artillery, and a detachment of
light infantry, drove the enemy's light cavalry across
the river, and determined the position of the fords
over the Seeprah, one of which, the most practic
cable, called the Kuldee Ghaut, was in front of the
enemy's position; the other, at a distance below, was
impassable for guns; it was therefore determined
to cross by the Kuldee Ghaut, and as the banks of
the river were high, the troops could form up for
the attack after crossing the river, sheltered from
the enemy's guns.
The Mahratta army was drawn up in two lines,
about 8000 yards from, and fronting the ford, its
front nearly parallel to the river; the ruined village
of Dooblee the centre of their position, situated on
a slight eminence, the ascent to which from the
bank of the river was gradual and smooth like a
glacis; a strong ravine running into the river, and
a ruined enclosure secured their right flank, and the
left rested on the bank of the river, which at that
place took a turn to the rear of their position. The
artillery and infantry composed the first line, their
cavalry in masses the second. The village of Doo-
blee being the key of the position, was strongly oc-
cupied by infantry and guns, and flanked by the
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 413
principal and heaviest batteries; upwards of sixty
pieces of heavy artillery were in position along their
line, all bearing on the Kuldee fort.
When the British had advanced within 600 yards
of the ford, the baggage and sick were first secured
on commanding ground near the village of Dooleit,
protected by a small guard of Mysoreans, and as
many of the sick as could carry arms; after which
dispositions were made for an immediate attack on
the enemy's line. The light brigade were intended
to cross at the ford and take up a position, covering
themselves from the fire of the artillery as much as
possible, in a ravine which led out of the river a
little to the right of the ford; the cavalry and horse
artillery were to follow them and take post to the
left, whilst the Europeans were to cross and form
on the right of the light brigade. The light brigade
crossed over and took post in gallant style, exposed
to a heavy cannonade which was particularly well
directed: the Mahratta gunners having been for
some days practising at the ford, had got the proper
range. The cavalry and horse artillery followed the
former, forming up to the left, slightly covered by
some rising ground; the latter formed battery in
front of the ford : the European brigade passed
rapidly over after them, ascended a ravine to the
right of that occupied by the light brigade, and
commenced forming line, at the same time that the
light brigade formed on its left with the greatest
steadiness, under a heavy fire of grape. Whilst
414 SERVICES OF THE
this was passing, the light field-pieces of the horse
artillery had been in a few minutes silenced, and
the fire of the enemy's guns was concentrated on
the two advanced brigades. Sir John Malcolm im-
mediately commenced the attack, by advancing at
the head of the regiment on the enemy's left, and
the ruined village. This desperate service was
performed with the greatest determination and
celerity by the Europeans at a charge, the regiment
led by Major Andrews, the Royal Scots by Lieut.-
Colonel M*Gregor Murray, without firing a shot, and
they were well supported by their native comrades.
Many fell from the destructive fire of grape, but
the village and batteries were carried at the point
of the bayonet. The enemy's infantry fled, but
their artillerymen stood to their guns, and all who
were not bayoneted attempted to recommence a
fire after the infantry had passed them.
When the village and left were carried, the
British and Mysore cavalry made a brilliant charge
on the enemy's right wing, and completely routed
it; some guns and infantry composing the centre
had not yet been attacked, but on the advance of
the reserve, under Sir Thomas Hyslop, the infantry,
finding their flanks turned, retired, but the enemy's
artillerymen stood gallantly to their guns, and served
them to the last.
The enemy on the left of Dooblie, fled along the
bank of the river, the right and centre pressed
towards the right, and went off pursued by the
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 415
cavalry along the road to Alloat ; the reserve fol-
lowed their route until on ascending the high ground
above their position, the Mahratta camp was seen
standing in a hollow near the bank of the river
beyond Dooblie. Orders were immediately sent to
Sir John Malcolm to move upon it: his division,
after capturing all the guns, had passed about 1000
yards in rear of the line in pursuit of the enemy, and
were then halted to reform. The cavalry also
leaving the pursuit of the enemy to the Mysore
horse, turned to their right, and entered the camp
before Sir John Malcolm's division, but found it
deserted. A fire was opened upon them from some
guns in a battery further down the river; they
advanced against it, but its front being covered by
ravines, they were obliged to await the arrival of the
infantry, who very soon turned the position, and
obliged the enemy to retire across the river, where
they were pursued by the British cavalry, and two
light infantry battalions, until nightfall.
After securing the enemy’s camp, the line re-
turned to the field of battle, and encamped on the
enemy's position, only fronting in the opposite di-
rection, where the sick, wounded, and baggage joined
them from the opposite bank of the river. The
enemy lost about 3000 men, with all their artillery,
sixty-three pieces of ordnance, tumbrils, baggage,
and their camp. The British lost 778 men, killed
and wounded, including thirty-eight European and
twenty-seven native officers; most of the wounds
416 . SERVICES OF THE
were desperate, being chiefly from round shot or
grape. - s.
Of the regiment, fifty-nine, including two officers,
were killed and wounded. Lieutenant Charles Cole-
man was killed at the head of his company, Lieu-
tenant and Adjutant Hancorn was severely wounded,
and only survived a very short time after the ampu-
tation of his leg; a round shot struck among the
band of the regiment as they were marching towards
the enemy, and knocked over five of the musicians.
The cavalry and light infantry, under Sir John
Malcolm, returned at night, and the Mysore horse
brought in eight elephants, and some hundred
camels. -
The Mahratta cavalry suffered little in the en-
gagement, with the exception of one attack they
made during the action on the sick and baggage
at Dooleit; when they were repulsed, they did
nothing; immediately the batteries were stormed,
they fled, and deserted their infantry.
The battle of Mahidpoor was the last general
action on a large scale fought in Southern India.
On the day after the battle, orders were issued by
the Commander-in-chief, complimenting the army
and the different principal officers on the victory.
The following extract more particularly applies to
the 1st brigade, composed of the flank companies of
the royals, the Madras European regiment, 1st and
2d battalions of the 14th, and the 1st of the 16th
Native Infantry.
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 417
“general orden by the commander-in-chief.
“22nd December, 1817.
“His Excellency Lieutenant-General Sir Thomas
Hyslop, Bart., Commander-in-chief of the army of the
Deccan, congratulates the divisions under his personal
command, upon the glorious and important results
of the action of yesterday, with the army of Mulkar
Rao Holkar. - - - * --
“The intrepidity and courage of the troops
cannot be better described to them than in the simple
fact that in less than two hours after the arrival of
the head of the column at the ford of the Seepra,
where the enemy had taken post, the passage of the
river was effected, the enemy completely driven from
their numerous artillery and every gun left in our
possession. The order and regularity with which
the 1st brigade of infantry, under the command of
Lieutenant-Colonel Scot, passed the river and
formed for the attack of the enemy's guns, was a
strong example of coolness and discipline, and the
promptitude with which this brigade moved forward
to the left of the enemy's batteries has impressed
the Commander-in-chief with the highest sentiments
of admiration; and His Excellency must here notice
the undaunted gallantry with which the charge was
made upon the guns under the conduct and direction
of Brigadier-General Sir John Malcolm, K.C.B.,
&c., in which decisive blow, the intrepid courage and
animated zeal of the flank companies of H. M.'s
Royal Scots, under Captain Hume, the Madras
E E
418 SERVICES OF THE
European Regiment, under Major Andrews, the 2d
battalion 14th regiment native infantry, under
Major Ives, the rifle corps, under Major Snow, the
1st battalion 3d or Palamcottah light infantry, under
Major Knowles, and the 1st of the 16th, under
Captain Cufley, were so nobly and eminently dis-
played.” . . . . . . -
The Commander-in-chief’s acknowledgments and
thanks were also particularly given to Major An-
drews, along with the other commandants. Lieu-
tenant Spankie of the regiment, baggage-master of
the army, was also mentioned by the Commander-
in-chief, as one to whom His Excellency’s best
thanks and approbation were due, not only for the
manner in which the department under his charge
had been conducted, but particularly for his judi-
cious arrangements and indefatigable exertions on
the day of the action, to which the army was princi-
pally indebted for the safety of the baggage.
The army remained a week at Mahidpoor, where
a hospital and depot was established. On the 28th
the army marched to form a junction with the
Guzerat division under Sir William Grant Keir,
which was accomplished on the 30th, on the banks
of the Chumbul at Taul. On the 1st January,
1818, overtures of peace were made by Holkar,
and on the 6th a treaty was concluded. On the
16th, the head-quarters and first division of the
Deccan army commenced its march southward, and
on the 20th, reached Mahidpoor, where it halted for
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 419
three days, and on the 24th, moved to Oojein. On
the 30th it was determined to march into Candeish,
and all the baggage left in Hindia, at the com-
mencement of the campaign, was directed to be
forwarded by the 10th of February to Kurgoon,
escorted by the company of the Madras European
Regiment, a company of the 2nd battalion 14th
regiment, 300 Mysore horse, all recovered men of
regiments, and the depot corps.
On the night of the 25th January, a detachment
of 800 men, under Colonel Heath, composed of the
company and details of the Madras European regi-
ment at Hindia, with detachments from the 7th native
infantry, and the depot regiment, and the Silidar
horse, attacked a body of Pindarries under their
celebrated chief, Cheetoo, at Kurroad: the enemy
were routed with a loss of several killed and
wounded, two elephants, 110 camels, and 130
horses captured.
On the 2nd February, the army of the Deccan
arrived at Indoor; on the 6th it commenced its
march towards the Nerbudda, which was reached
on the 10th, and crossed by the 13th. On the
18th, at Kurgoon, Colonel Heath's detachment
from Hindia joined the army, which continued its
march on the 20th, and on the 25th, passed down
the Seindwah Ghaut to Punuaghur, and the follow-
ing day to Kurroad. -
On the morning of the 27th, as the army arrived
within gunshot of Talnair, the baggage and a sick
E E 2
420 - - SERVICES OF THE
officer was fired upon : the ground for the day's
encampment was on the left bank of the river, op-
posite the fort, close to which was the only road lead-
ing down to the ford; the sick and baggage had
been sent on in advance, so little was it expected
that any of the forts would have resisted Holkar's
orders to surrender : preparations were immediately
made to storm the place, and a summons sent to
the Killedar, warning him against resisting.
Talnair is situated on the banks of the Taptee;
one side of the fort is washed by the river, the other
three surrounded by a hollow way of considerable
breadth; the walls were about sixty-one feet high.
The pettah or town, about 350 yards from the fort,
was immediately occupied, and a fire kept up from
it on the defences of the place. In the evening the
flank companies of the royals and Madras European
Regiment, with two guns to blow open the gates,
advanced to the assault: the gate was found so
much shattered that the storming party were able
to enter by single file: all passed on through the
other three gates without meeting any resistance,
until they arrived at the fifth, the wicket of which
was open : Colonel Murray, Major Gordon, and
three grenadiers entered, but were suddenly at-
tacked and all killed, except Colonel Murray, who
fell towards the wicket covered with wounds: the
enemy attempted to close it, but were prevented by
a grenadier, whilst Captain McCraith dragged Col.
Murray through it. A fire poured in through the
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 421
wicket, was followed by the storming party rushing
in, and in a few minutes the garrison were put to
the sword, and the Killedar for his treachery hanged
on a tree on the ramparts. Nearly 300 of the
enemy were killed at Talnair, and twenty-five
British, including seven officers. * , -
On the 3rd March, the army crossed the Taptee,
and on the 6th reached Pahrola. On the 8th it
was at Boar Roond, and continuing to pursue Bajee
Rao, ascended the Cassunbarree Ghaut to Porlah,
on the Godavery, where the next day it was joined
by the 2nd division, under Brigadier Doveton,
which encamped on the opposite side of the river.
On the re-organization of the army of the
Deccan, and breaking up the head-quarters and
1st division of the army, the detachment of horse
artillery flankers, of H. M.'s Royal Scots, the de-
tachment of the Madras European Regiment, the
Palamcottah and Trichinopoly light infantry, the
Mysore horse, and 1st battalion of pioneers, joined
General Doveton's division: at the same time the
Nagpore subsidiary force was formed. On the
18th, in consequence of Bajee Rao's flight to the
westward, General Doveton marched towards Jaul-
nah, where he arrived on the 25th. - º
Sir Thomas Hyslop left the Godavery on the
20th, and reached Aurungabad on the 25th, attended
by a small escort. On the 31st of March he issued
his last order as Commander-in-chief of the army
of the Deccan.
422 - SERVICES OF THE
On the 31st March, General Doveton marched
from Jaulnah, the light force under his own personal
command, consisting of the horse artillery, 2nd, 5th,
and 7th native cavalry, with their galloper guns,
three companies of H. M.'s Royal Scots, the flank
companies of the Madras European Regiment, and
the 3rd, 12th, and 16th light infantry native regi-
ments. He continued following Bajee Rao, vià
Maiker, Seiloo, Karinjah, and Doodgaum, arriving
at the latter place on the 14th, and at Panderkoarah
on the 17th, his advance on which had driven Bajee
Rao upon Seonee, near which his army was surprised
and dispersed by Colonel Adams of the Bengal
army: on receiving intelligence of which, General
Doveton marched to Boree with the intention of
intercepting him, but the enemy's scattered forces
had passed, and he continued the pursuit towards
Oomerkeir until the 23rd, when on account of the
exhausted state of men and horses, he was obliged
to give it up. On the 27th April, the division
moved on to Jaulnah, where it arrived on the 11th
May after Bajee Rao had been driven out of the
Deccan. -
Whilst these operations were going on, the force
under Colonel McDowall, consisting of one com-
pany foot artillery, two companies H. M.'s Royal
Scots, three companies of the Madras European
Regiment, the 1st battalion 2nd regiment native
infantry, four companies of the 2nd battalion 13th
regiment, five companies of pioneers, a small batter-
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN. REGIMENT. 423
ing train of the corps of sappers and miners, and some
irregular horse which had remained at Fooltumba,
on General Doveton’s first advance on Jaulnah,
marched towards Candeish for the reduction of the
hill forts in the Chandore range. On the 2nd April,
the hill fort of Unkye on the top of the Candeish
Ghauts near Byrapoor was invested; it was a place
of some strength, but surrendered when summoned :
14 pieces of ordnance, a large quantity of ammuni-
tion, and some treasure were found in the fort. On
the 10th, the force arrived before the two hill forts
of Rajdier and Inderye. Rajdier being the strong-
est, was first invested ; it is a high precipitous rock,
the only approach to the top of which is by a
narrow pathway cut through the rock, and de-
fended by strong gateways, above which and all
along the precipices, stones were piled to hurl down
on an attacking party : loop holes and embrasures
were also cut in the rock for the further defence of
the pass.
Colonel McDowall's summons was treated with
scorn, and a fire from matchlocks and ginjals
opened from some parties occupying outposts near
the gate: these were quickly driven in by a detach-
ment of the corps under Major Andrews, and some
natives under Captain Coombes. A battery of
four heavy guns, three mortars, and four howitzers,
opened on the morning of the 12th, and kept up a
heavy fire of shells: towards evening the enemy
demanded terms, but as they could not be granted,
424 m SERVICES OF THE
others were offered (preservation of private property
and liberty to go where they pleased), and they
were allowed two hours to consider: the flag of
truce had hardly entered the fort before it was dis-
covered to be on fire in various places, supposed to
have been occasioned by the shells: the garrison
made its escape with difficulty, on account of the
windings of the passage; but forty were brought
in by the cavalry next morning, and seven were
found alive in the fort. So excessive was the heat,
that a party sent to seize the place shortly after
the fire broke out, could not enter the gateway.
Nearly everything combustible in the fort was con-
sumed by the fire: twelve guns were captured, and
some treasure dug out of the ruins: only five Euro-
peans, two Sepoys, and an officer on the staff, were
wounded. The fort of Inderye was evacuated
during the same night. Colonel McDowall, after
the reduction of these two important forts, marched
to the valley of the Godavery, and on the 19th,
reached Nassuck. On the 22nd he appeared be-
fore Trimbuck; the batteries opened on the 24th,
and by the 25th the garrison surrendered: twenty-
five pieces of ordnance, with abundance of military
stores were found in the fort. Immediately after
the capture of Trimbuck, the forts of Haruss,
Wajeerah, Bowleyghur, Cownye, Eyewattah, Ach-
lah, Marundah, Rowlah, Caheenah, Caldher, Hat-
ghur, Ramsey, Kumeirah, Bapeirgun, Gurgurrah,
Tringlewarree and Towlah, surrendered without
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 425
firing a shot. On the 29th April, the force set out
for Chandoor, where it arrived about the 9th May,
and on the 15th occupied Deharree, one march
from Mallygaum.
The fort of Mallygaum has two lines of works,
the interior quadrangular, and built in a superior
manner of solid masonry; the exterior of mud and
stone, but flanked with towers; nearly three sides
are washed by the river Moose: within the fort
were abundance of bomb-proofs, and the garrison
were numerous and well provided.
On the 17th May, the British encamped on the
right bank of the Moose, having it between them
and the fort. On the night of the 18th, two
batteries were begun and finished before morning
within 400 yards of the works: during the night
the enemy made a very determined sortie and were
allowed to cross the river before they were fired
upon ; the covering parties were driven in, and the
Arabs were within a few paces of the working
parties, when Major Andrews, at the head of a few
men of the Madras European Regiment came to
their support; the enemy were driven back, but
with a loss of nearly twenty Europeans killed and
wounded : Lieutenant Davies of the engineers was
killed, and Major Andrews wounded. On the 19th,
the two batteries opened, and that night another sortie
was made on a post near the village of Sumnugseer.
On the 21st, a parallel was completed along the
bank of the river, with a battery at each extremity.
426 SERVICES OF THE
On the 22nd, the guns from the fort obliged the
camp to be moved further off. By the 27th, the
breach in the curtain of the fort appeared practi-
cable, and the ramparts and defences near it com-
pletely destroyed. On the morning of the 28th,
three columns were formed for the attack, one
headed by a detachment of Europeans was to storm
the breach, another, composed entirely of natives,
was to carry the Pettah, and the third, headed by a
detachment of Europeans, was to escalade the outer
wall near the river gate; each column was headed
by a detachment of sappers and pioneers under an
engineer officer.
The attack commenced at daylight; the first
column, preceded by Ensign Nattes and a detach-
ment of sappers and miners carrying bundles of
grass to fill up the ditch, advanced with the greatest
gallantry, but on surmounting the breach the de-
scent into the body of the place was found impos-
sible, on account of a deep ditch which had been
dug at the bottom of the wall; the breach had also
been cut off by a retrenchment flanked by two
guns: Ensign Nattes of the sappers had just
gained the top of the breach and pronounced the
word “impracticable,” when he fell dead, pierced
by seven balls: the troops were exposed to a galling
fire for some time, vainly attempting to enter the
place, but were at last ordered to abandon the
attack, when they retired with the greatest steadi-
ness across the bed of the river. Major Greenhill
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 427
who commanded the column, and three of the
officers were wounded. The attack of the other
two columns had been more successful, the Pettah
being carried sword in hand.
All the ammunition being expended, Colonel
McDowall determined to abandon the attack from
across the river, and withdrew his camp and batter-
ing train to the Pettah, from which quarter ap-
proaches were commenced, and an additional batter-
ing train and supply of ammunition sent for from
Ahmednuggur. On the 9th June they arrived, and
at daylight on the 11th a battery of five heavy
mortars and four howitzers opened its fire, and at
11 A. M. exploded two of the enemy's magazines,
blowing into the ditch a great part of one of the
curtains. On the 12th, the garrison offered to sur-
render on terms, which were settled, and Mallygaum
surrendered on the 13th, after a gallant defence with
open trenches for twenty-five days. The British
had 209, including officers, killed and wounded, of
which number the corps and detachment serving
with the pioneers had twenty-five, including Major
(now Major-General) Andrews, commanding the
regiment, wounded.
During the siege of Mallygaum, the detachment
of the corps was particularly distinguished for its
gallantry, and among those of the junior grades,
Sergeant William O'Brien, and Corporal Thomas
Tate, the latter wounded in the storm of the Pettah,
were very conspicuous. On the 19th, Colonel
428 SERVICES OF THE
McDowall, with the head-quarters of his force
marched to Wackary on the Panjam river, on the
banks of which it encamped during the monsoon.
In August, a wing of the regiment arrived at
Jaulnah to relieve a wing of the Royals, but on
the breaking out of the disturbances in the Nag-
pore country, it followed General Doveton's light
division which had marched on to Nagpore. On
the 11th September, the flank companies joined
Doveton's division, and on the 14th, four compa-
nies of the corps arrived at Ellichapore from
McDowall’s force on the Punjum Nullah. On
the 2nd October, a wing of the regiment arrived
at Nagpore.
In November, after the monsoon, operations were
renewed in Candeish, with a force under Colonel
Huskisson, consisting of H. M.'s 57th regiment,
six companies of the Madras European Regiment,
head-quarters of the 2nd of the 1st regiment native
infantry, Major Jardine's detachment, the flank
companies of the 2nd battalion of 13th regiment
native infantry, the pioneers and sappers and miners,
about 250 irregular horse, and a battering train.
On the 25th of November, Colonel Huskisson
marched from Mallygaum, and on the 29th en-
camped about 3000 yards from the fort of Ummul-
neir, the river Boarree intervening : Ummulneir sur-
rendered on the following day, and Bahandoorpoor
immediately afterwards, when Colonel Huskisson's
force was broken up, and the detachment of the
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 429
corps escorted the battering train to Jaulnah, where
it arrived on the 25th December. On the 28th,
the detachment of the regiment, with the artillery-
men and sappers who had served in Candeish, with
some field-pieces and treasure, marched under com-
mand of Lieutenant-Colonel Crossdell, to join the
head-quarters of the Hyderabad division between
Ellichapore and Warkeera. On the 21st January,
1819, the detachment of the corps joined Colonel
Pollock's force near Tilpyaumneir.
In the beginning of the year, the corps took a
part in the different combined movements into the
Mahadea Hills, and towards the end of February,
formed part of the besieging force marching against
Asseerghur, a hill-fort situated on the top of
a precipitous rock about 700 feet high, accessible
in two places only, and these fortified in the strongest
manner: under and to the west of the hill is the
lower fort called Maleeghur, commanded by the
upper, and surrounded by a strong wall but no ditch.
Beyond, on the same side, was the Pettah, sur-
rounded partly by a wall and by ravines and deep
hollows. * -
By the 17th March, General Doveton took up
his position before Asseerghur, his army consisting
of the Hyderabad subsidiary force, partly composed
of the foot artillery, H. M.'s Royals 30th, and the
Madras Europeans, the Wallajabad and Chicacole
light infantry native regiments, and the 1st batta-
lion of pioneers, Sir John Malcolm's division, and
430 SERVICES OF THE
the Bombay brigade, partly composed of Bombay
foot artillery, H. M.'s 57th 1st battalion Bombay
native grenadiers, and 1st of the 8th regiment
Bombay native infantry and a detachment of pio-
neers. Early on the morning of the 18th, the fol-
lowing storming party was paraded for an attack on
the Pettah:—five companies of the royals, the flankers
of H. M.'s 30th, 57th, and the Madras Europeans,
five companies of the Wallajabad light infantry,
with the sappers and miners, all under command of
Lieutenant-Colonel Fraser of the Royals, and sup-
ported by the remainder of H. M.'s 30th, two
companies, one of H. M.'s 57th, and one of the
Madras Europeans, with nine companies of Sepoys,
and detachments from the 2d and 7th light cavalry,
and four horse-artillery guns, under command of
Major Dalrymple, of H. M.'s 30th. At daylight
the Pettah was stormed and completely taken pos-
session of, the troops establishing themselves under
cover in the streets running parallel with the walls of
the lower fort. Before the close of the day, a
battery of five howitzers was completed in one of
the streets; on the evening of the 19th, the enemy
made a sally, but were repulsed by the troops in the
Pettah ; by daylight, on the 20th, a heavy gun bat-
tery was completed, and opened at about 500 yards
distance from the lower rock, and by the same
evening had nearly effected a practicable breach.
The same night the enemy made a determined sally
into the Pettah, and were repulsed with some loss,
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 431
but not before Colonel Fraser had been killed, and
several men killed and wounded. On the 21st, the
lower fort was evacuated, but not taken possession
of on account of the commanding fire from the
upper. The magazine in rear of the breaching
battery, containing nearly thirty barrels of powder,
unfortunately exploded at 7 A. M., as the covering
parties were relieving: a company of the 15th Bengal
Native Infantry were blown up, and all either killed
or wounded ; several Europeans were also wounded
by the explosion, which encouraged the enemy to
descend and re-occupy Mallyghur ; the mortars and
howitzers continued their fire into the upper and
lower forts, and two more batteries had been opened
by the 29th, and every arrangement made to storm
Mallyghur. The following day, however, the enemy
had early in the morning abandoned it, and it was
taken possession of at daylight. The batteries in
the Pettah were during the day dismantled, and at
night the mortars were brought into the fort. On
the night of the 31st, the breaching guns were got
into the new batteries, and all opened their fire with
good effect; the same day, the Bengal division,
under Brigadier-General Watson, C.B., arrived in
camp; the batteries continued their fire, and by the
4th April, had destroyed the defences on each side
of the intended breach ; by the 6th, the breaching
batteries were completed, on the 7th, opened their
fire, and before evening made a practicable breach :
by eleven A. M. next day, the garrison accepted terms,
432 SERVICES OF THE
and the firing ceased. Early on the morning of the
9th, the British flag was hoisted on the western
tower of the upper fort, under a royal salute from
all the batteries: at the same time, the garrison,
consisting of 1200 Muckrannees, Arabs, and Sindees,
descended into the Pettah, and grounded their arms.
The loss sustained by the enemy was trifling, for
they fought behind walls; only forty-three were
killed, and ninety-five wounded. The loss on the
side of the British was eleven European officers,
four native officers, ninety-five Europeans and 113
native non-commissioned rank and file, killed and
wounded, of these ten belonged to the Madras
European Regiment, besides one officer, Lieutenant
D’Esterre, wounded.
After the fall of Asseerghur, which closed the
Mahratta campaign of 1817, 18, 19, the force under
General Doveton was broken up and the troops
marched to their respective cantonments and stations.
Six companies of the Madras European Regiment,
with the 2d of the 13th Madras native infantry,
remained to garrison Asseerghur, the rest of the
corps, with one company of the 1st native infantry,
proceeded to Nagpore with the Nagpore train of
artillery, where they arrived on the 7th May.
During the whole campaign a detachment from
the regiment had served as sappers and miners, and
were present at almost every siege and operation
before the numerous forts captured during the war.
At the battle and operations before Nagpore on the
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 334
16th, 19th, and 24th December, 1817, a detail of
twenty-four men of the regiment served as Sappers,
and had two sergeants and twelve privates killed and
wounded.
In July, the following extract, from a despatch
from the Honourable the Court of Directors, re-
garding a distinguished officer who rose in, and for
a long time, served with the European regiment,
and who died in England on the 17th of April,
1813, was published in Government Orders:–
“Shortly after the decease of the late Major-
General Sir Barry Close, Bart., formerly of your
establishment, we resolved to mark our sense of the
distinguished services of that officer, by erecting a
monument to his memory, in the Cathedral of St.
Paul. But being subsequently of opinion, that it
would be more suitable to place this public testi-
monial of our regard in the country which has been
the scene of his services, we altered our intention,
and determined to erect the monument at Fort St.
George. It is accordingly forwarded to you; and
we direct you to cause it to be carefully erected in a
conspicuous part of St. George's Church.”
In Government Orders of 27th September, the
following extract regarding the honorary badge, for
the battle of Mahidpoor, was published :-
• “The Governor in Council is pleased to permit
the undermentioned corps to bear in their appoint-
ments, or similarly embroidered on their regimental
standards, the words ‘Mahidpoor, 21st December,
F F
434 SERVICES OF THE
1817, in commemoration of the splendid victory
achieved by these corps or detachments of them
over the army of Mulhar Rao Holkar, on that
day — *
“Horse artillery; 3d, 4th, and 8th regiments
native light cavalry; 2nd battalion artillery; Ma-
dras European Regiment; 1st battalion of the 3d
regiment native light infantry; 1st battalion 16th
regiment native light infantry; 2nd battalion 6th
regiment native infantry; and the 1st and 2nd bat-
talions of the 14th regiment native infantry.”
In conveying the thanks of the Houses of Par-
liament, the following was published:—
GENERAL ORDERS BY HIS EXCELLENCY THE MOST
NOBLE THE GOVERNOR-GENERAL IN COUNCIL.
“Fort William, 2nd October, 1819.
“The Most Noble the Governor-General in
Council has the satisfaction to publish to the
armies of the three Presidencies, the resolutions
of both Houses of Parliament, conveying their
thanks to the Marquis of Hastings, K.G. and
G.C.B., Governor-General and Commander-in-
chief, and to the officers and troops concerned,
for their conduct, discipline, and bravery during
the late Pindarrie and Mahratta campaigns.”
In 1820, the detachment of the corps at Asseer-
ghur, joined the head-quarters of the regiment, at
Nagpore. -
During the time it had been stationed there,
several men died ; among others, Captain Mait-
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 435
land, on the 22nd of October, 1820. Captain
Maitland led the grenadier company of the regi-
ment at Mahidpoor and Talnair; and during the
remaining part of the war, served on the general
staff of the army in the field.
On the return of Lieutenant-General Sir Thos.
Hyslop, Bart., to Europe, in June, 1821, the com-
mand of the army devolved on Lieutenant-General
Sir Thomas Bowser, an old grenadier officer of the
regiment, and with which he had greatly distin-
guished himself during Hyder and Tippoo's wars.
On the occasion, the following order was pub-
lished :—
GENERAL ORDERS BY THE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF.
“5th June, 1821.
“The command of the Madras army having de-
volved upon Lieutenant-General Bowser, it is a
duty he owes to his own feelings to express in
General Orders the pride and satisfaction it affords
him, even though the period may be short, to com-
mand an army of such distinguished character, and
to which he has had the honour to belong for forty-
nine years. The Lieutenant-General assures his
brother officers and soldiers, that he shall reflect
with pride in having partaken with them in many
of the glorious achievements which form its splendid
character; and he trusts the high reputation by
which they are distinguished for zeal, discipline, and
subordination, will enable him to enjoy the gratifi-
F F 2
436 SERVICES OF THE
cation of reflecting hereafter, that those excellences
were in no way diminished during the period of his
command.” -
On the 16th of June, General Sir Alexander
Campbell, Bart., K.C.B., assumed command of
the Madras army from Lieutenant-General Bow-
ser, towards whom, on the occasion, he expressed his
sentiments of high respect.
On the return of Sir John Malcolm to England,
the following Government Order was issued on the
26th of October, 1821 :— -
“Major-General Sir John Malcolm, G.C.B. and
K.L.S., having applied for permission to proceed
to Europe, the Honourable the Governor in Coun-
cil has learned with deep concern, that this distin-
guished officer is now compelled to quit India on
account of the declining state of his health.
“The many and important services of Sir John
Malcolm, in different situations, have been so often
brought to the notice of the Honourable the Court
of Directors, by the supreme Government, that no
praise of this Government can add to his high repu-
tation. Although, however, it belongs to higher
authority to appreciate his services in the late
Mahratta war and the settlement of Central India,
the Governor in Council cannot, on this occasion,
deny himself the pleasure of discharging the grate-
ful duty of expressing in General Orders the high
sense he entertains of the Major-General's talents,
and of his unwearied and honourable exertion of
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 437
them for the benefit of his country. Among the
individuals who have at different times distinguished
themselves in the employment of the Honourable
Company, Sir John Malcolm will always hold a very
high rank. His career has been unexampled; for
no other servant of the Honourable Company has
ever, during so long a period, been so constantly
employed in the conduct of such various and im-
portant military and political duties. His great
talents were too well known to admit of their being
confined to the more limited range of service under
his own presidency. The exercise of them in differ-
ent situations, has connected him with every presi-
dency, and rendered him less the servant of any one
of them, than of the Indian empire at large.
“Major-General Sir John Malcolm is permitted
to return to Europe on sick certificate.”
On the 14th Dec., the thanks of the Honourable
the Governor in Council were published in Govern-
ment Orders, expressing the high sense entertained
by His Excellency the Commander-in-chief, of the
zeal evinced by the undermentioned officers, lately
commanding extra corps, in training and organizing
them :— -
Captain Gibson, Madras European Regiment,
1st extra battalion ; and Captain Spankie, of the
regiment, who died on the 1st of January, 1821.
In the beginning of 1822, the Madras troops
composing the Nagpore Subsidiary Force, were
relieved by Bengal regiments, and the Madras
438 SERVICES OF THE
European Regiment marched to Masulipatam,
under command of Major Amos Kelly, viá Chan-
dah, and was the first European corps that ever
marched from Nagpore to the coast, by the direct
road, through that dense and unexplored jungle.
On the Madras troops leaving Nagpore, a com-
plimentary letter was written by the resident, Mr.
Jenkins, to Colonel H. S. Scott, C.B., command-
ing the Madras troops, and an extract of it, as fol-
lows, was published in Government Orders of the
15th February, 1822.
“Extract of a Letter from the Resident at Nagpore
to Colonel Scott, C.B., commanding the Nagpore
Subsidiary Force, dated 13th January, 1822.
“The period of their (the Madras troops') ser-
vice in this quarter, has been distinguished by
events and transactions of no common importance,
and it is unnecessary for me to repeat what the
public records will testify, both with regard to their
exploits and to the commendation they have uni-
formly received from the Supreme Government.
“As being more immediately within my province,
it is a pleasing duty to me to offer my testimony to
the constant good conduct and strict discipline of
the force, both European and native, whether
stationary or marching. within the territories under
my superintendence. I can assert with perfect con-
viction, that during the whole time of their service,
now a period of five years and upwards, not a com-
plaint of any consequence has been made of their
FIRST MAD RAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 439
irregularity or maltreatment of the natives of the
country, and this alone is sufficient to stamp the
high character of the troops in general, and in par-
ticular reflect a degree of credit on yourself, and the
officers of the force, to which no panegyric can add.”
During the years 1822 and 1823, the regiment
was stationed at Masulipatam, and in the beginning
of 1824, it was upwards of 1200 strong, and com-
posed of a very fine body of men; the flank com-
panies were not surpassed by any, and equalled by
very few regiments in the British army. The
barracks at Masulipatam were not large enough to
accommodate two-thirds of the regiment, the re-
mainder were quartered in the place of arms of the
native regiment, in the commandant’s and other large
houses inside the fort.
On the declaration of war against Ava, the regi-
ment was one of those warned for the expedition to
Rangoon. Out of the 1300 men composing it, 863
of the most effective and healthy non-commissioned
rank and file were picked for active field service; the
remainder, with two officers of the regiment, Lieu-
tenant Manning and Ensign Saxon, were left behind,
and eventually marched to Kamptee.
The regiment, under command of Lieutenant-
Colonel Hastings Kelly, with six captains, fifteen
lieutenants, four ensigns, one surgeon, and three
assistant-surgeons, embarked on board the transports
“Bannerman,” “David Clarke,” and “George IV.,”
and sailed from Masulipatam on the 13th April.
440 - SERVICES OF THE
The rendezvous, Port Cornwallis, in the Andamans,
was reached on the 5th May, where the regiment
joined the rest of the expedition. Two days after-
wards, the fleet sailed, entered the Rangoon river
on the 10th, and on the 11th May anchored off
Rangoon. A slight fire was opened from a small
battery on one of the wharfs on H. M.'s ship
“Lifty,” but it was soon silenced, when the troops
landed and took possession of Rangoon, which they
found abandoned.
Whilst the rest of the troops landed at Rangoon,
two companies of the regiment disembarked on the
opposite bank of the river, and took possession of
the town of Dallah without resistance ; they further
prevented the enemy assembling and attacking
H. M.'s ship “Larne,” which had grounded near
that town. On the following day, these two com-
panies crossed over and rejoined the regiment at
Rangoon, where it was well quartered in some
Poongee (priests') and other houses on the road
leading from Rangoon to the Great Pagodah, round
the base of which, H. M.'s 13th and 38th were
cantoned. H. M.'s 41st, the Madras European
regiment, and the 9th Madras Native Infantry, oc-
cupied the road leading from it to the Rangoon
stockade, which was held by the rest of the troops.
The pickets thrown out in front of each corps,
formed a chain of posts from Rangoon to the Great
Pagodah; their duty, particularly at night, was very
harassing; the long grass in many places hid the
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 441
sentries from each other, and enabled the enemy to
creep up unperceived within a few paces of a
sentry, throw their spears and disappear as suddenly.
Many soldiers were killed and wounded in this
manner, and the uncertainty of what force was
lurking about the outposts, often at first caused a
good deal of firing.
The first party of reconnoissance, under Lieu-
tenant-Colonel Hodgson, for the purpose of dis-
tributing proclamations among the inhabitants,
calling upon them to return to their homes, was
partly composed of the flank companies of the
regiment; it left the lines after sunrise on the 14th
May, and proceeded for three hours into the interior.
The natives fled into the jungle as the British ad-
vanced, with the exception of two or three men, who
were induced to approach; but all the efforts of the
commandant and other officers, failed to inspire them
with confidence, and not a man could be induced to
return to Rangoon. The cool courage displayed by
Colonel Hodgson on the occasion, was particularly
conspicuous: as the party reached a village, the
natives as usual fled; Colonel Hodgson, with a green
branch in his hand as a token of peace, accompanied
only by a Burmese interpreter, walked leisurely after
them, and entered the jungle where they had dis-
appeared. After about half-an-hour's absence he
returned with three or four Burmese, one of whom
carried the Colonel’s sword ; they showed some un-
easiness as they approached the party, but after
442 SERVICES OF THE
partaking of some cigars and biscuit which was
offered to them, they soon became more composed,
but positively declined returning to Rangoon with the
troops. From so long confinement on board ship,
the men were quite knocked up before they reached
their lines. For some days afterwards, parties of
the regiment were employed in catching bullocks,
and in a short time several thousand heads of cattle
were secured within the lines: orders were, however,
issued to liberate them, and in a few days they had
all disappeared, having been driven off by the enemy.
About the same time, under an idea that treasure
was concealed in the Great Pagodah, it was ran-
sacked and dug up in all directions by order of the
Commander-in-chief, but without success; the ex-
ample was not, however, lost on the army at large,
for whilst the Great Pagodah was being thus ran-
sacked, the lesser ones were dug up and rifled by the
soldiery, and in a short time nearly every one
had been plundered of all they contained, - a few
images made of stone or composition, and covered
over with thin sheets of gold or silver, of little value
except as curiosities.
A part of the regiment was shortly afterwards em-
ployed on another reconnoissance, under General
McBean; the party were once fired upon, but met
with no other resistance, and after a three hours'
march returned to Rangoon. Had General McBean
known the country a little better, by advancing
another mile further, he would have come upon the
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 443
stockades of Joazong, occupied in force by the
Burmese army, and which a few days afterwards, on
the 28th May, were taken by Sir Archibald Camp-
bell in person, at the head of H. M.'s 13th and
38th regiments; the Burmese making a determined
resistance, and having 400 men killed.
On the 29th May, the flank companies of the
corps formed part of a force under General McBean,
which advanced beyond the Joazong stockades, but
was unable to cross the river Moriee, and returned
without coming upon the enemy. Such was by this
time the scarcity of provisions, the rations putrid,
salt fish and badly-cured meat being the only de-
scription of food procurable, that the officers of the
regiment were obliged to break up their mess: by
dividing into small parties of three and four, and
trusting to their own resources, they fared a little
better.
The messes and rations of the troops, however,
were wretched, and could only have been used by
starving men ; the constant exposure to the in-
cessant rain, the harassing duty, and unhealthy
season of the year, combined with the scarcity of
food, nearly aproaching to actual famine, was fast
filling the hospitals, and daily carrying off the flower
of the European soldiery in every regiment at
Rangoon.
Early on the morning of the 3d of June, the
regiment, with detachments from several native
corps, was formed up in two columns in front of its
'444 - SERVICES OF THE
lines—one under Lieutenant-Colonel Smith, the
other under Lieutenant-Colonel Hodgson ; a third,
under Sir A. Campbell, consisting of part of H.M.'s
41st, had some time before proceeded up the river
in boats: these parties were for the attack of Kem-
mendine, a strongly-fortified stockade, about four
miles above Rangoon. Colonel Smith's column
proceeded by the lower, Colonel Hodgson's by the
upper, or jungle road. After about two hours' march,
both divisions met in front of a strong stockade, after-
wards called “half-way stockade.” As there were
neither guns nor ladders with the force, an instant at-
tack was determined upon, which the grenadiers of
the regiment led in their usual gallant style; and
by mounting on each other's shoulders, entered, and
quickly carried the stockade, although its walls were
nearly fourteen feet high. The light company were
employed in cutting off the retreat of the enemy
upon Kemmendine, and a great many Burmese fell
under their fire. Several men of the corps were
wounded or attacked at disadvantage, by Burmese,
to whom they had just given quarter. One soldier
of the light company was speared from behind, very
severely, by a man whose life he had just a moment
before spared.
After the capture of the “half-way stockade,” the
column continued its march to Kemmendine, which
was gallantly attacked. The stockade was at least
fifteen feet high, and with neither ladders nor guns,
it was impossible to escalade or breach it. The
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT, 445
enemy's fire was heavy and well directed; but,
although the men vainly attempted to tear down the
stockade, and the pioneers plied their hatchets most
vigorously, the attempt was vain and the troops
were ordered to fall back, which they did most
reluctantly, but in the steadiest manner, although
in a few minutes upwards of 100 men of the regi-
ment had been killed and wounded ; among the
latter were two officers of the corps, Captain Kyd
and Lieutenant Stinton. The wounded, for want
of carriage, were carried off with the greatest
difficulty.
Among other fine soldiers who fell on the occa-
sion, was Sergeant Morrison, of the light company,
a gallant soldier, highly respected by both officers
and men: he had been sent back to bring up a
field-piece which had been left at the “half-way
stockade” on account of the difficulty experienced
in dragging it along through the mud, the whole
country being at the time quite under water. On
his return, Sergeant Morrison was shot dead by a
Burman from the jungle through which the road
passed. -
On the 19th June, the following detail appeared
in Orders for another attack on Kemmendine:—
A detachment of 1000 Europeans, and 1000
natives, under command of Lieut.-Colonel Mallet,
H. M.'s 89th regiment, as senior officer; present,
500 of H.M.'s 89th, 250 of H.M.'s 41st, and 250
of the Madras European Regiment, composed the
446 sERVICES OF THE
European detail; 450 of the 1st, of the 7th, 350 of
the 2nd, of the 8th, and 200 of the 17th light
infantry, formed the native. The Europeans were
attached to the guns, and had their muskets carried
by the Sepoys, every Sepoy being required to re-
main close to the soldier whose arms he carried.
Two other columns were also detailed for the
same service;—the first, Major Evans' brigade,
consisting of detachments of H.M.'s 13th light
infantry, and 38th regiment, and 500 of the 22nd
native infantry; and Colonel Hodgson's, of five
companies of the Madras European Regiment, and
300 of the 9th regiment native infantry. The se-
cond column consisted of Colonel Smelt’s brigade
of four companies of H.M.'s 41st, and 200 of the
10th regiment native infantry, with a detachment
from Colonel Smith's brigade, of 400 rank and file
of the 3rd light infantry, and 250 of the 34th light
infantry. This force (about 3000 bayonets) left
Rangoon on the morning of the 10th ; its progress
was very slow on account of having to drag the guns
through the deep mud. About 10 A.M., a small stock-
ade, within a mile of Kemmendine, afterwards
named “Stay-and-tiff,” was reached, when Sir A.
Campbell rode up to a battalion company of the
regiment and called out for volunteers for a forlorn
hope : a number of the men instantly stepped for-
ward. Corporal Thomas Freer was one of the first,
and was promoted to sergeant on the spot. Colour
Sergeant O'Brien, was another who was particularly
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 447
forward ; he was afterwards made drill sergeant of
the regiment, and ultimately an ordinance store-
sergeant.
After a heavy fire from the guns, the storming
parties from H.M.'s 38th and 41st regiments, and
the Madras Europeans advanced with the ladders,
to escalade. The stockade was quickly carried,
after a determined resistance from the enemy, who
left nearly 300 dead on the field. The regiment
lost eleven killed and seventeen wounded ; among
the latter, Lieutenant Robertson, who shortly after-
wards died of his wounds. The enemy being dis-
persed, the column continued its march, and by
nightfall reached Kemmendine. Batteries were im-
mediately constructed for the 18-pounders within
fifty yards of the stockade, covered by the light com-
pany of the regiment. The rain fell in torrents,
and the country was entirely under water. The
troops had no shelter or covering of any kind; and
where there was a small piece of rising ground not
under water, the enemy kept firing upon it, and galled
the troops exceedingly throughout the whole night.
At daylight the rain ceased, and the guns opened,
but at so short a distance, that the shot passed clean
through the large elastic bamboos forming the
stockade, without making a breach. The signal
for the assault was instantly followed by the advance
of the storming parties with ladders. Kemmendine
was, however, much to the surprise and mortification
of every one, found empty, the enemy having eva-
448 SERVICES OF THE
cuated it soon after daylight, making their escape by
the north side, which had not been invested. Four
companies of the regiment were left to garrison :
Kemmendine, and the rest of the force returned to
Rangoon; a detachment of the grenadier company
of the corps, under Lieutenant Grubb, were sent
to occupy the “Stay-and-tiff” stockade.
After Kemmendine had been occupied, the fol-
lowing Order was published by Sir Archibald
Campbell, K.C.B.:— -
- “11th June, 1824.
“In consequence of the extreme fatigue sus-
tained by the troops in the field, yesterday and
to-day, and the excellent spirit and good humour
with which they met every hardship, the Commander
of the forces is pleased to order an extra allowance
of spirits to be issued for them, at the requisition of
their respective Commanders.”
On the return of the force to Rangoon, the fol-
lowing complimentary order was issued, on the 12th
of June :-
“The Commander of the Forces feels himself
called upon thus publicly to acknowledge the steady,
persevering, and exemplary conduct of all the troops
employed under his command, on the 10th and 11th.
instant. A proportion only could be engaged with
the enemy; and whilst he gives full credit to those
who were unavoidably disappointed in their expecta-
tions of being so, he must particularize the gallant
exertions of those who were more fortunate. To
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 449
Major Sale, H.M.'s 13th light infantry, Major
Evans, 38th regiment, Major Chambers, 41st, and
Captain Kitson, Madras European Regiment, he
returns his best thanks for the undaunted manner
in which they led their men into the enemy's works,
and which he requests they will convey to the offi-
cers, non-commissioned officers and soldiers who
so bravely followed them. He further begs that
Captain Timbrell, Bengal artillery, and Captain
Cheape, Bengal engineers, will accept, and convey
to those who served under them, the high sense he
entertains of the manner in which they conducted
the arduous and fatiguing part of the operations
which fell to their share.”
After the return of the force from Kemmendine,
the enemy began to close round Rangoon, and there
was almost daily skirmishing at the outposts. At
night they were particularly bold, frequently ap-
proaching, unperceived, close to the sentries : they,
on one occasion, surprised a sergeant's picket,
posted among some high thick grass, the sentry
having been cut down before the alarm was given.
The attacks on the outposts had become so har-
assing and annoying, that it became necessary to
drive the enemy out of some of their strong posts
near Rangoon; for which purpose, on the 8th July, a
large force, under General McBean, of which the
regiment formed part, marched against some stock-
ades, near Kemmendine, at the same time that Sir
Archibald Campbell, with a strong force on board
G G
450 sERVICEs of THE
the gun-boats, attacked the stockades at Pagodah
Point. There were two roads to the stockades;
but General McBean chose a footpath, by which he
gained the enemy's rear before he was discovered.
Signals having been exchanged with Sir A. Camp-
bell, H.M.'s 13th and 38th regiments, supported by
the Madras Europeans, advanced to the attack-
The first stockade was soon carried ; Lieut. Abbot,
of the Bengal engineers, being the first to mount the
ladders. The enemy were driven from one stockade
to the other, with great slaughter, until seven were
taken; and in the last, upwards of 300 Burmese
were killed: among the number, their Commander-
in-chief, the Shumbah-Woonghee. In this affair
only seventeen of the regiment were killed and
wounded. -
General McBean reported very highly of the
gallantry and steadiness of the troops, and on the
9th, a complimentary Order, of which the following
is an extract, was issued by the Commander-in-
chief:-
“The Commander of the forces has received the
most flattering testimony from Brigadier-General
McBean, of the gallant conduct of the troops who
were under him yesterday; indeed the result of
their day’s operations, proves that success is always
to be insured by steady and prompt execution.”
On the 3d August, a strong detachment, under
Lieutenant-Colonel Kelly of the regiment, of which
the corps formed part, embarked to attack some
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 451
strong posts near the Syriam Pagodah ; after land-
ing from the boats, an old fort, strongly stockaded,
was stormed and taken, after which the fortified
Pagodah of Syriam was also carried, the enemy
making a very determined defence.
The enemy having collected in great strength at
Dallah, a force, consisting of the Madras European
regiment, and detachments from different native
corps, all under command of Lieutenant-Colonel
Kelly of the regiment, was detailed for the purpose
of attacking them ; the enemy had taken up a
strong position on the bank of a creek, where they
had strongly stockaded themselves. On the morn-
ing of the 7th August, the force embarked at
Rangoon, and in a short time entered the Dallah
Creek, up which the boats had not proceeded two
miles before a heavy fire was suddenly opened upon
them from a high stockade close to the water’s edge;
the native boatmen became panic-struck and lay
down in the bottom of the boats; there was conse-
quently a good deal of confusion and time lost
before the boats could be run on shore, when the
Europeans jumped out, and although up to, and
many above, their waists in mud and water, by
which their ammunition was nearly all destroyed,
they with great difficulty and labour got the ladders
planted, when the stockade was instantly carried in
gallant style; but having been exposed so long to so
heavy a fire, with a loss to the stormers of upwards
of fifty men killed and wounded, among the latter,
G G 2
452 SERVICES OF THE
three officers, one of whom, Lieutenant Grubb,
belonged to the regiment. The enemy fought well,
but were very severely repulsed and driven out of all
their stockades with much loss. The conduct of Lieu-
tenant Kerr of the regiment, on the occasion, was
particularly conspicuous: his Lascars, when the
firing commenced, had, in their panic, let go the
anchor by which the boat, within a few yards of the
stockade, became exposed to a very severe fire; he
instantly cut the cable, and the soldiers ran the boat
right up as near as the mud would admit to the foot
of the stockade, in escalading which, he, and the
men of his boat, were particularly active and for-
ward. The force re-embarked in the afternoon, and
after a very hard day's work landed at Rangoon.
Lieutenant-Colonel Kelly, in his report of the
operations of his force, particularly instanced the
gallantry of all engaged. On the day after his return
to Rangoon, the following appeared in General
Orders. -
- * ** Head quarters, 10th August, 1824.
“Lieutenant-Colonel Kelly, of the 1st European
regiment, having made his report of the operations
in the Dallah Creek on the 8th instant, it affords the
Commander of the forces great satisfaction thereby
to find that the high character established in this
army was fully maintained on that occasion; he begs
to return his best thanks to Lieutenant-Colonel
Kelly, and requests that he will convey the same to all
those who served under him on the day mentioned.”
The regiment continued at Rangoon, suffering
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 453
much, in common with all the other European corps,
from the sickness that prevailed. Beyond the usual
outpost duties, occasional skirmishes, and furnishing
a small detail for the garrison of Kemmendine,
nothing of importance occurred until the 27th
November, when the regiment, with a strong detach-
ment of Sepoys from different regiments in the
force, all under Colonel Mallet, H. M.'s 89th regi-
ment, embarked at Rangoon, and sailed to Pegue,
accompanied by Captain Chadds, R.N., with some
men-of-war's boats. No resistance was made to the
landing of the troops, and the town of Pegue was
found deserted. On the 30th November, the troops
re-embarked and landed at Rangoon on the 2d De-
cember, which during their absence they were sur-
prised to find had been closely invested by the whole
Burmese army, under their celebrated general, Bun-
doola: Kemmendine was also closely besieged, and
all communication, except by the river, between it
and Rangoon cut off. -
The garrison of Kemmendine, commanded by
Major Yates, of the 26th Madras Native Infantry,
consisted of a small detail of European and native
artillery, eighty-seven rank and file of the Madras
European regiment, and the 26th Madras Native
Infantry. On the 30th November, a party of re.
connoissance, under Captain Rose, of H. M.'s 89th,
came upon the Burmese in force, a few miles up the
Tantabeen Creek, and left no doubt of the enemy's
intended attack on Kemmendine, to resist which,
Major Yates lost no time in making the necessary
454 SERVICES OF THE
preparations. The stockade of Kemmendine was
quadrangular, and surrounded on all sides except
one, which is almost washed by the river, by a dense
jungle approaching within a very short distance of
its walls.
To give greater confidence to the natives, the
small detail of Europeans were distributed in small
parties among the Sepoys, at the different posts all
round the stockade, the front, north and south faces
of which were commanded by Captains Robson,
Reahe, and Gordon, of the 26th regiment Native
Infantry; Lieutenant Aldritte of the artillery, with
two 6-pounders, and one 12-pounder carronade,
commanded on the river face, and Ensigns Hill and
Weir, of the Madras European Regiment, were
posted on the front and north faces.
The night of the 1st December, passed off quietly
until a little before daybreak, when an immense mass
of burning fire-rafts, followed by a large fleet of war-
boats, were observed drifting down the river; the
rafts were composed of large beams of wood, tied
together in such a manner that if they came against
a ship, they would swing round and encircle her;
every kind of combustible, including large quantities
of petroleum, or earth oil, were heaped upon these
rafts. As they approached the Honourable Com-
pany’s cruiser stationed off the Pagodah Point, for the
protection of the river and north faces of Kemmen-
dine, she was obliged to leave her station, and drop
down below the stockade ; however, the well-directed
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 455
fire from Lieutenant Aldritte's guns, soon obliged the
war-boats to retire out of shot, but the enemy on
shore collected all round the stockade, and in several
determined attempts at escalade during the day,
were repulsed with severe loss; they, however, en-
trenched themselves within a very short distance of
the stockade, and at eight o’clock at night, they
again attacked it on all three sides at once. Ap-
proaching in silence, they were not fired upon until
within thirty yards; the attack was persisted in for
some time, and many had gained the foot of the
stockade before they were repulsed with severe loss
by an incessant and well-directed fire which had been
kept up upon them the whole time. The garrison
slept on their arms at their posts, but this was the
last attack that night, although there was a good
deal of firing by the sentries until daylight, at those
who were evidently removing the dead and wounded.
On the morning of the 2nd, another fire-raft was
floated down the river, and several attacks were
made at the same time on the north and east faces,
which were gallantly repulsed. As the day dawned,
the enemy’s trenches were observed to be advanced
within fifty yards of the stockade, behind which they
were completely covered, and kept up a well-directed
and incessant fire from ginjals, and other fire-arms;
so galling did it at last become, and there being no
battery in the stockade from which one of the guns.
could open upon them, the top of a small pagodah was
knocked down, and a carronade mounted on it ; the
456 - sERVICES OF THE
situation was, however, so exposed, that before two
rounds had been fired, two of the gunners were
severely wounded, and the space being too confined
to work the gun properly, one of the native artillery-
men had both his arms blown off in ramming home.
Major Yates therefore ordered the firing to be dis-
continued, intending during the night to make the
post more secure for those working the gun, but at
the request of Sergeant Bond of the regiment, he
was allowed to make one more trial; the sergeant
had scarcely mounted the platform before he was
severely wounded, and a few instants afterwards laid
dead beside the gun he was serving. Sergeant Bond
had particularly distinguished himself during the
time the detachment he belonged to garrisoned
Kemmendine ; he was much respected by his
officers, and beloved by the men of his company.
In Major Yates's despatch to the Commander-in-
chief, he mentions the sergeant's death as follows:—
“I had the painful mortification of seeing Sergeant
Bond, of the Madras European Regiment, shot
dead; a braver or more willing soldier never graced
the British uniform.”
On the same occasion, honorable mention was
made of gunner Chamberlain, of the Madras artil-
lery, who was wounded at the time Bond was killed.
The enemy kept up a heavy fire during the day,
and at night made three desperate attempts to carry
the place by escalade, but were repulsed with severe
loss: they approached on all sides so close, that
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 457
their ladders were distinctly seen : after their third
repulse, they retired, but firing was kept up by the
sentries during the whole night on small parties who
approached the stockade to carry away the dead and
wounded. *,
During the assault on the land side, the fire-rafts
and war-boats dropped down the river, the same as
on the previous night, and the cruiser was again
obliged to quit her station, leaving the river side of
Kemmendine perfectly exposed.
Early on the morning of the 3rd, a reinforcement
of eighty men from the regiment joined by water,
and the wounded were sent back to Rangoon.
In landing, one of the men stepped into the river,
and from the weight of his accoutrements, was
drowned : Lieutenant Kellet, R.N., of H. M.'s ship
“Arachne,” had arrived with a gun-brig and four
gun-boats, and by his excellent dispositions, enabled
Major Yates to withdraw most of the defenders
from the river face, and reinforce the others: during
the day and night the firing was kept up as usual.
Firing at intervals was also kept up during the 4th,
and the enemy made an attack at night, but with
less spirit than usual, and it was soon repulsed.
Several Burmese had got up into trees and were
enabled to fire into the stockade : Corporal Lucas,
of the regiment, who had made himself conspicuous
on several occasions for his activity and gallantry,
being an excellent marksman, was placed behind the
top of a pagodah, from whence he kept down the
458 SERVICES OF THE
fire from the trees, and did considerable execution :
he was honourably mentioned in Major Yates’ dis-
patch, and recommended for the promotion vacant
by Sergeant Bond's death.
On the 5th, the Burmese had planted a small gun
within fifty paces of the stockade, and its fire was so
exceedingly annoying, that a sortie to capture it was
made from a small gateway, where only one person
could pass at a time: the party, under command of
Captain Page, 48th Native Infantry, doing duty
with the Madras European Regiment, consisted of
forty Europeans and forty natives; Ensign Weir of
the regiment, and Ensigns Smith and Reynolds of
the 26th regiment native infantry, volunteered their
services, and were also of the party: owing to the
difficulty in getting out of the gateway, only twenty
Europeans had formed up outside when the rush was
made; although the Burmese were driven from the
gun, they soon rallied, and their overwhelming num-
bers prevented the gun being carried off and obliged
the party to return within the stockade with a loss of
two men killed, and three severely wounded; among
the latter, Ensign Smith.
In the evening, the enemy in great force, made
two different attempts to escalade, but in both were
defeated with heavy loss.
On the morning of the 6th, a reinforcement of
fifty men arrived from the regiment, and the
wounded were sent to Rangoon. On coming up
the river in the dark, one of the boats, containing
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 459
thirty men, was swept up by the tide past Kemmen-
dine, and anchored by the native crew under a
heavy battery of the enemy; the boatmen hid them-
selves in the bottom of the boat, and the soldiers,
unaccustomed to its management and ignorant of
the tides and currents, would most likely have fallen
into the hands of the enemy, had they not been
saved by Lieutenant Kellet running his own vessel
between them and the battery, and bringing off the
boat.
The enemy continued a fire from their trenches
during the day, and at night renewed their attack
on the stockade, but were repulsed with very great
slaughter by the brave garrison, and supported by a
well-directed fire from H. M.'s ship “Sophie,” the
gun-boats and the mortars of the “Powerful” bomb-
vessel. No sooner were the enemy driven away,
and the firing had ceased, than the river was covered
with fire rafts, which very nearly destroyed H. M.'s
ship “Sophie,” the rigging of which vessel was set on
fire, but fortunately extinguished.
On the 7th, the enemy kept to their trenches,
from which they fired heavily, and with some execu-
tion, but did not make a night attack.
On the 8th, there was a good deal of firing, and
several attempts were made to storm the stockade,
but all were repulsed, and by the morning of the
9th, the enemy had retired, and ended the siege of
Kemmendine, during which no troops could have
behaved with greater steadiness and gallantry;
460 SERVICES OF THE
nothing could have surpassed the conduct of the
natives, and for their exertions during the siege, the
26th Native Infantry well merit the honor conferred
upon them of bearing “Kemmendine * on their
colours. Notwithstanding the garrison were quite
worn out, not a man during the whole siege had
taken off his clothes or left his post: every wounded
or sick man who could crawl, did his duty to
his utmost. Despite their gallantry and devo-
tion, the troops could not have kept the place
much longer, had it not been from the support and
assistance they received from the navy, particularly
from Captain Chadds, and H. M.'s ship “Arachne,”
Captain Ryves, and H. M.'s ship “Sophie,” and
Lieutenant Kellet, R.N., with the gun-boats and
bomb-vessels. The loss of the enemy could never
be ascertained, from their carrying off the killed
and wounded at night, but from the number of
graves all round their trenches, it must have been
very heavy. * -
Immediately after the regiment had arrived at
Rangoon, on the 2nd December, it was marched to
the advanced posts of the Pagodah and White-house
pickets opposite the village of Poosundoon, near
which the enemy were collected in large masses:
by the following day they had covered themselves
by intrenchments, extending nearly three miles from
the village to the Great Pagodah, and kept up a gall-
ing fire from ginjals at the British outposts. On
the night of the 3rd, they attacked the lines, but
. FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 461
were repulsed. On the 4th, the enemy continued
strengthening their intrenchments, and in the even-
ing, orders were received to storm their lines the
following morning, at which time soon after day-
break, two columns were formed for the attack;
the first at the Great Pagodah were 1100 bayonets, of
which a detachment of the regiment formed part,
under command of Major Sale; the other, near
the White-house picket, 600 bayonets, partly com-
posed of the rest of the regiment, and under com-
mand of Lieutenant-Colonel Walker. Both columns
advanced at the same time against the enemy:
Colonel Walker's halted and deployed into line
within 100 yards of the intrenchments, at which
time that officer fell dead: the column was much
galled by the heavy fire of the enemy, but had no
sooner formed line than it rushed forward at the
charge, and drove the Burmese from their intrench-
ments: from a battery some distance to the left a
heavy fire was opened on the rear of the line as it
advanced in pursuit, but the light company of the
corps being wheeled to its left, charged and took it:
the enemy rallied behind another breastwork, which
was immediately stormed and taken by Lieutenant
Butler of the regiment, who on the occasion was
severely wounded : Major Sale's column, which had
advanced to the attack at the same time, performed
its part well, and drove the enemy completely out
of their intrenchments a considerable distance on
the road towards Kokeen : the Burmese were com-
462 SERVICES OF THE
pletely routed, and all their artillery, stores, and
small arms of every description, captured. After the
troops had pushed on some distance driving the
enemy before them, the Cassy horse got in their
rear for the purpose of cutting up any stragglers;
some of the wounded had very narrow escapes;
Lieutenant Butler and a wounded havildar of the
34th Native Light Infantry, being unable to keep
up with their regiments, had proceeded about a
quarter of a mile to the rear, when a party of Cassy
cavalry came galloping down upon them ; both
pushed for the lines as fast as their maimed and
weak condition would allow; the Burmese had ap-
proached so near as to ride over the havildar, when
they received a well directed shower of grape shot
from the field-piece at the White-house picket,
which stopped their career; the fire was continued
by Lieutenant Onslow, the artillery officer on duty
at that post, until the enemy withdrew with some
loss; a party of artillerymen being at the same
time sent out, saved Lieutenant Butler ; the havil-
dar was also brought in, very severely wounded;
he ultimately recovered and was pensioned. An
old soldier of the regiment was about the same
time very nearly cut off; he was wounded, and had
fallen behind, when he found himself surrounded by
some Cassy horse : as they approached, he pre-
sented his musket, and in this way kept them at a
distance, but they continued wheeling round him
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 463
throwing their spears, until he was discovered, and
a party sent out to his rescue.
On the 6th, the enemy, notwithstanding their
defeat, had assembled in great numbers in front of
the British lines. On the 7th, they were again
attacked and defeated with great slaughter, and a
loss of nearly all their ordnance: upwards of 5000
of the enemy are supposed to have fallen during
the siege of Kemmendine, and in the lines before
Rangoon.
On the evening of the 7th the regiment, with
details from several native regiments, embarked on
board the ship “Fort William,” lying off the en-
trance of the Dallah Creek; at about two o'clock
on the following morning they left that vessel and
rowed up the creek, with the intention of surprising
a very large force of the enemy, who were strongly
stockaded at Dallah. The Burmese did not make a
very firm resistance, and the stockades were carried
in a very short time ; the troops rested until about
noon, when they moved forward and attacked a
number of strong and extensive stockades, some
distance further up the river. The enemy defended
them with much spirit, keeping up a warm and well-
directed fire; but after a hard day's work they were
all carried with much loss to the enemy, and con-
siderable to the British. The regiment had up-
wards of thirty men killed and wounded ; two offi-
cers of the force were wounded, Captain Roy of the
regiment slightly in three places, Lieutenant Glover
464 SERVICES OF THE
of the 8th Native Infantry severely in the arm, which
was afterwards amputated at the shoulder.
On the 14th, Rangoon was set fire to (supposed
to have been done by the enemy), and nearly half
of the town reduced to ashes; fire-rafts were also at
the same time drifted down the river. The ship-
ping escaped without damage, but much valuable
property was destroyed on shore; the greater part
of the mess property and stores of the regiment
were consumed on the occasion.
Notwithstanding the different severe defeats Bun-
doola had sustained, he had rallied his forces, and
occupied a very strong stockaded position at Ko-
keen, three miles from the Great Pagodah, with
25,000 men. On the 15th of December, Sir A.
Campbell moved out with the whole of his dis-
posable force to attack him. The troops were
formed up in two columns, composed partly of
the regiment, and each headed by a detachment
of pioneers carrying ladders. H. M.'s 13th
were detached to take the enemy in flank. The
Burmese opened a heavy and well-directed fire
on the advancing columns, from which H. M.'s
13th suffered very severely, having lost three offi-
cers and seventy men, killed and wounded, out of
200 present on the occasion. There was a scarcity
of ladders, and one broke; but notwithstanding,
the stockades were carried most gallantly, and the
enemy driven from them with very heavy loss, leav-
ing behind baggage, arms, and ammunition. Cor-
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 465
poral Thomas Tate, the same who had before dis-
tinguished himself at the siege of Malligaum in
Candeish, in 1818, was promoted for his gallantry
at the storming of the Kokeen stockades, where
Captain Roy of the regiment and he were very con-
spicuous in carrying up and planting one of the
scaling-ladders, after nearly all the pioneers and
their officers had been wounded.
At all the affairs before Rangoon, more particu-
larly on the 5th, 8th and 15th of December, the
regiment was conspicuously forward, and nothing
could have exceeded the devoted courage dis-
played by it on these occasions. In the Commander-
in-chief's despatch to the Governor-general, regard-
ing the storming of the Kokeen stockades, is the
following:— - - -
“When it is known that 1300 British Infantry
stormed and carried by assault the most formidable
intrenched and stockaded works I ever saw, de-
fended by 20,000 men, I trust it is unnecessary
for me to say more in praise of soldiers performing
such a prodigy: future ages will scarcely believe it.”
On the same day this brilliant affair took place,
Captain Chadds, R. N., captured or destroyed
thirty out of thirty-two of the enemy's war-boats.
After these severe reverses, the enemy disappeared
from the neighbourhood of Rangoon, and fell back
on Donabew. -
Up to the 15th of January, 1825, the sickness
and mortality that had prevailed among the Euro-
H H
466 SERVICES OF THE
pean troops, since their arrival in the country, con-
tinued to exist. As the inhabitants returned, and
the enemy were driven to a distance, fresh provi-
sions were procurable in small quantities, but not
sufficient to check the sickness that was every day
carrying off one or two men. Since its arrival,
during a period of eight months, the regiment had
lost 317 men, including those who had fallen in
action, or died of their wounds. In addition,
twenty-five men had been sent sick to Madras,
sixty-six had been sent for the benefit of their health
to Mergui, and sixty were about to go there, leav-
ing about 390 men, including those in hospital with
the head-quarters of the regiment.
On the 22nd of January, a complimentary order
from the Governor-general in Council, dated Fort
William, 26th of December, 1824, was published,
expressing high admiration of the judgment, skill,
and energy manifested by Sir A. Campbell, in
directing the late brilliant achievements of the
British troops before Rangoon; also, his parti-
cular approbation of the conduct of the different
officers, and his high admiration of the gallantry of
the troops, as well as the fortitude and cheerful
patience with which they bore long and painful
privations.
On the 25th of January, part of the regiment was
ordered to hold itself in readiness for an advance
on Amerapora by Donabew ; early on the morning
of the 16th of February, it embarked at Rangoon,
and composed part of a force commanded by Gene-
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 467
ral Cotton, consisting of 114 rank and file of
H. M.'s 41st Regiment; 144 of H. M.'s 89th Re-
giment; 281 of the Madras European Regiment,
under command of Captain Hooper of that regi-
ment, and 236 of the 18th Regiment Native In-
fantry, which were intended to proceed in boats
up the river; whilst another and stronger force, un-
der Sir A. Campbell, should advance by land. On
the 19th of January, General Cotton reached Pan-
lang, where two strong stockades were carried after
Some resistance.
Head-quarters were established in the largest,
and the same day General Cotton issued an order,
in which (to repeat his own words upon the occa-
sion) he “congratulates the force on the suc-
cess that has attended their exertions in the attack
on the Panlang stockades, and thanks the officers
and men, collectively and individually, for the
great alacrity and courage they have manifested.”
The force continued at Panlang, organizing a
commissariat, collecting provisions, and making
other arrangements, until the 25th, when it em-
barked, leaving twenty-five of the regiment, and the
18th Native Infantry, to garrison the place, un-
der Major Ross. The force was intended to attack
the immensely strong stockades round Donabew,
where Bundoola was in force with a very large
army. On the 27th the force reached Yangain-
Chingah, a small village on the banks of the Irra-
waddy, where it remained until the 5th of March
H H 2
468 . SERVICES OF THE
waiting for provisions from Panlang; on the arrival
of which the fleet, headed by the steamer, on board
of which was Captain Roy, and part of the light com-
pany of the regiment, sailed up the river. Some
boats sent to reconnoitre were fired upon from the
guns on the river face of Donabew. -
On the 7th the troops, with the exception of 100
of the 89th, landed to attack a strong stockade
surrounding a white pagodah, from which it got the
name of the “White Pagodah Stockade.” The
troops (650 bayonets) were formed in two columns.
H. M.'s 89th, under Major Basden, formed the
right, and was to advance along the bank of the
river; part of H.M.'s 47th, and the regiment com-
posed the other, and were to attack the stockade
more to the left. Both parties stormed with the
greatest gallantry, and the enemy made a deter-
mined resistance. The left column got first to the
stockade. Sergeant Gwyn of the light company of
the regiment was the first to enter, and was imme-
diately followed by Captain Roy, who was the se-
cond. The right column carried the stockade at the
part they stormed about the same time. Of the
enemy, 230 were killed in the stockade, and 374
(most of them severely wounded) were taken pri-
soners, making nearly a man to each bayonet.
Three guns, forty-three ginjalls, with a great many
fire-arms and swords, and a large quantity of ammu-
nition were captured.
The enemy's position, seen distinctly from the
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 469
pagodah, was a very strong one. Two stockades
extended nearly two miles along the river; the one
farthest away commanding the other, which was
attacked about noon the same day by 200 men from
the three European regiments, under command of
Captain Rose, H. M's 89th. Nothing could ex-
ceed the gallantry of the troops, although they could
not, from the great strength of the works, which
were perfectly impregnable, force their way in, and
the stockade was well defended by a host of the
enemy. After Captains Rose and Cannon had
fallen, and upwards of eighty men had been killed
and wounded, the party retired, and during the night
all the troops re-embarked and dropped down to
their former position, at Yangain-Chingah.
On the 8th, a Division Order, of which the
following is an extract, was issued by General
Cotton — -
“Brigadier-General Cotton returns his warmest
thanks to the officers and men who composed the
two columns which were so ably led by Lieutenant-
Colonel O’Donaghue and Major Basden, for the
gallantry with which they carried the strong position
of the evening, at the Pagodah yesterday. He re-
quests these officers will accept his best acknowledg-
ments for the manner in which they executed the
order of the attack. It is impossible to feel stronger
than the Brigadier-General does, the necessity that
existed for the re-embarkation of the troops, from
the strength of the enemy's works and force, and the
470 SERVICES OF THE
limited means this column possesses; but he confi-
dently trusts that a speedy opportunity will arise of
the exertions of the soldiers being crowned with the
success they so deservedly merit.” -
On the 26th, Sir A. Campbell's division ap-
proached; and on the following day a detachment
of 100 Europeans and 200 natives, under Major
Jackson, from his force, communicated with Gene-
ral Cotton's, on his return to head-quarters.—
Camp-Major Jackson was intercepted by a sortie
from the garrison, obliged to fall back, and eventu-
ally to embark on board the flotilla.
On the 28th, the steamer, with several new boats
in tow, ran up the river, running the gauntlet from
a heavy fire from the whole line of stockades, by
which one of the boats was nearly swamped. Bun-
doola was said to have had his best gunners on the
river face, to sink the steamer. He even pointed
the guns himself; and when she passed untouched,
such was his rage, that he cut down several of his
gunners with his own hand. On the following day,
a great many of the enemy's war-boats were taken.
Trenches had also been opened within 200 yards of
Donabew ; and on the night of the 28th, batteries
erected, and guns mounted in them on the night of
the 29th.
On the morning of the 1st, all the Europeans in
the flotilla, with the exception of fifty rank and file
of the regiment under command of Captain Cur-
sham, who were left in charge of it, landed, and
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMIENT. 471
joined Sir A. Campbell's force. After a heavy fire
from the mortar and breaching-battery, the troops
advanced to storm on the morning of the 2nd, and
to the astonishment of every one, found the place
evacuated. Some of the wounded, left behind,
reported that Bundoola had been killed by a rocket,
or bursting of a shell the previous evening, at which
his troops became so dispirited, that they abandoned
the place most precipitously. Nearly 300 cannon,
the same number of ginjalls, with abundance of am-
munition, fell into the hands of the captors. There
was also a large magazine full of sulphur, saltpetre,
lead and flints, a powder manufactory, and an ar-
senal, in which were abundance of small arms and
Stores.
The works of Donabew were upwards of six miles
in circumference, and very strongly stockaded; the
main stockade particularly so, was composed of solid
beams of teak, from fifteen to seventeen feet high;
behind which were the thick ramparts, the whole
surrounded by a large deep ditch, filled with spikes,
nails, and holes; and beyond it several rows of
palisading, and an abatis of great breadth. Bun-
doola had 15,000 picked men in Donabew, together
with 1000 Cassy horse, seventy war-elephants, 300
pieces of cannon, and about the same number of
ginjalls, besides ammunition and stores in abun-
dance. Had the Burmese stood, the British must have
sustained a very heavy loss; however, as it turned
out, there was little or no fighting before the place.
472 . SERVICES OF THE
The sortie of war-elephants and cavalry, made when
the British had taken up their ground, although
formidable in appearance, was very soon repulsed;
the elephants were soon frightened by the fire, and
ran back in disorder, which was increased by the
Governor-General’s body-guard riding in among
them, and pistoling the men on their backs.
On the 30th of March, Lieutenant-Colonel Con-
roy assumed command of the regiment from Captain
Hooper. On the 3d, Sir A. Campbell's division
moved on towards Prome; and on the 6th, General
Cotton's column sailed up the river for the same
place. The regiment was left behind to garrison
Donabew, Colonel Conroy commanding.
On the 12th of April, the following officers be-
longing to the 2d European Regiment, who had
belonged to the Madras European Regiment, and
been serving throughout the war with the corps,
were ordered to proceed forthwith to Madras:–
Captains Maxwell and Roy, Lieutenants Kerr,
Stinton, Duke, Simpson, and Ensign Hill.
On the 17th of April, Lieutenant-Colonel Kelly
arrived, and assumed command of the garrison.
The regiment continued in garrison at Donabew
until the 5th of September, when it embarked for
Rangoon. During the time they remained at
Donabew, the men's health had improved, and pro-
visions became more plentiful, salt rations in August
being only issued every fourth day. -
. Until the middle of May, the men were very
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 473
hard worked in furnishing fatigue-parties for secu-
ring and removing prize property, levelling ground,
and eventually assisting in the erection of their own
barracks; the corps in garrison were also so weak,
that the duty of supplying guards for the defence of
so extended a line of works as surrounded Donabew
was very severe.
Independent of those who had fallen in action,
sixty-four non-commissioned rank and file, had
been pensioned or invalided, and nearly 100 had
been sent away to different places, for the benefit
of their health. Scarcely 200 men therefore re-
mained with the head-quarters of the regiment.
From the 15th to the end of January, twenty-
eight men had died ; in February, fifteen; in
March, five ; in April, six; in May, none; in
June, four ; in July, one; in August and in Sep-
tember, two. On the 3rd of June, Lieutenant
Grubb, of the regiment, died at Donabew : he had
suffered from the wound he had received, and his
constitution had been broken by the privations he
had endured.
On the 31st of August, the following letter was
published in Regimental Orders:— -
“Head Quarters of the Army, Bangalore, 1st Aug. 1825.
“To the officer commanding the first European
Regiment.
“SIR,-The first European Regiment being on
474 SERVICES OF THE
foreign service, I have the honour to convey to you,
direct, Lieutenant-General Bowser's sentiments on
perusing Major-General Sir John Doveton's confi-
dential report of the Madras European Regiment,
for 1824, when stationed at Masulipatam.
“The Lieutenant-General Commanding-in-chief,
is happy to find, from the report of the Reviewing-
General, that the discipline, interior economy, and
general state of efficiency, is so perfect in the Ma-
dras European Regiment, which reflects the greatest
credit on Lieutenant-Colonel Kelly, and all the offi-
cers under his command, who have afforded their
Support.
“Lieutenant-General Bowser, in recording his
approbation of the Madras European Regiment,
feels assured that the high discipline, subordination
and gallantry which has hitherto marked the steps
of this regiment, will continue to be conspicuous in
the present service against the enemy.
“Signed, T. H. S. Conway,
“Adjutant-General of the Army.”
With reference to the General Order by Govern-
ment, of the 1st of June, 1824, on the 3rd of Sep-
tember, the following General Order by Government,
dated Fort St. George, 5th August, 1825, was pub-
lished:—
“The Honourable the Governor in Council is
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 475
pleased to direct that the 1st and 2nd European
infantry shall each consist of the following estab-
lishment, formed into five companies, viz.:- one
grenadier, one light and three battalion companies.
With reference to the establishments assigned to
them, the complements of each company to be six
sergeants, seven corporals, three drummers, and 100
privates.
“The following Staff is allowed to each regi-
ment:-one adjutant and one quarter-master, one
surgeon, one assistant-surgeon, one sergeant-major,
one quarter-master sergeant, one drill-sergeant, one
drill-corporal, one drum-major, one fife-major, five
pay-sergeants, and five colour-sergeants.
“The companies were in consequence designated
as follows: — Grenadiers, A, B, C, and Light, and
made up from the regiment as it stood.
“The officers were posted as follows:—
Grenadiers, Captain Cursham. Lieutenants Chaulton and Doveton
A, ,, . Fenwick. y 9 Butler and Manning.
B, , Calder. Lieutenant Boyce.
C, ,, Gordon. Lieutenants Green and Weir.
Light, 2, Hooper 9 y Howden and Chambers.
During the month of October, a colour-sergeant,
corporal, drummer, and seven men of the regiment,
died; and on the 6th of the same month, three
colour-sergeants, six sergeants, nine corporals, and
eighty-nine privates, of the regiment, who were at
Madras and Masulipatam, on sick certificate, were
476 SERVICES OF THE
ordered from army head-quarters to be transferred
to the 2nd European Regiment.
On the 28th of October, the regiment embarked
at Rangoon, and two days afterwards joined the
light brigade, under command of Colonel Pepper,
at Pegue, where it remained until the 22nd of
December, when it marched with Colonel Pepper's
force towards Tonghe. During the time the regi-
ment remained at Pegue, seven men died.
On the 16th, the 3d light infantry, under Colonel
Conroy, had been pushed forward to secure the vil-
lage of Mekeed, on the banks of the Sittang river,
which the force reached on the 29th of December,
had crossed by the 31st, and advanced on Shoe-
ghien. The advanced-guard, composed of a subal-
tern, one sergeant, two corporals, and fifteen privates
of the 1st European Regiment, and 100 rank and
file of the 12th native infantry, preceded the column
within ten paces of the detachment of artillery, under
Captain Dickinson, which was followed by the 1st
Europeans, the 3rd and 34th light infantry, the
park of artillery, ladders, baggage, and rear-
guard.
On the 1st of January, 1826, the advanced-guard
was fired upon, in passing through a deep jungle ;
but the progress of the column was not checked
until it had approached within a short distance of
Shoeghien, when a heavy fire was opened upon it
from a stockade which it suddenly came upon, on
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 477
turning an angle of the road. Several men were
killed and wounded; but the stockade was instantly
carried, and the enemy driven out.
On emerging from the jungle the following day,
the column came in sight of Shoeghein, which was
found to be situated on the opposite bank of a
considerable river. A ford was, however, soon
found, and the troops crossed and advanced to the at-
tack in three columns; but on entering the stockade
it was found deserted.
On the 3d of January, the following order was
issued by Brigadier Pepper :-
“The commanding officer avails himself of the
earliest opportunity to express his sense of the able
assistance he has received from all ranks; and he
requests officers commanding corps and detach-
ments will be good enough to offer to their men
his best thanks for their willing and steady conduct,
not only in going through great labour and fatigue
from the moment the force quitted Pegue to the
present time, but for the handsome manner in which
they moved forward for the attack of this place;
and he feels proud of being at the head of such a
body.” - -
Of the campaign in Pegue, until the conclusion
of the war, the following narrative, lately published
by an officer of the corps, will give a very detailed
and correct account.
The officer in question has lately been obliged
478 SERVICES OF THE
to retire from the service on account of ill-health,
his constitution having been ruined by privations
and disease, endured during the Burmese war;
his reminiscences of part of which are as
follows:–
“Though no brilliant and decisive battles graced
our campaigns in Ava, there was an abundance of
desultory fighting throughout the war, enough to
satisfy the veriest fire-eater, and on many occasions
did the severe loss sustained by small bodies of
British troops prove how well they sustained their
character when opposed to formidable masses of
barbarians, with no eye save that of their comrades
to admire, and no pen save that of their comman-
der, in his formal despatch, to chronicle and extol
their deeds. They were content to do their duty;
be mine the pleasing task to snatch from oblivion,
at all events, one of those petites affaires. The
capture of Sittang, though an event of much mo-
ment to all engaged in the affair, strange to say,
never excited any great interest in India, or even in
the army in Ava, by a detachment of which the
exploit was achieved; and this indifference must be
attributed, in the first instance, to the obscurity of
the place, and in the second, to the affair having
been consummated by Company’s troops alone,
otherwise this most dashing affair would never have
been slurred over as it has been.
“In December, 1825, it was my good fortune to
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 479
be attached to the column of troops operating in
Pegue, commanded by one of the bravest officers
that ever served the Company, the late Colonel
Pepper. We mustered about 2000 men, all in-
fantry, and a few European artillery, with two
6-pounders, two 54-pounders, and two camel howit-
zers. Of cavalry we had none, for the nature of the
country was unsuited to that arm ; indeed, during
the whole war, the only mounted troops ever brought
into action were the Governor-General's body-
guard and the horse-artillery, and the former was
speedily dismounted by an epidemic amongst their
horses.
Of the aforesaid 2000 men, about 250 only
were Europeans (the wreck of the 1st Madras
European Regiment and the artillery), the remain-
der was composed of the 3d and 34th Light In-
fantry, and a wing of the 12th Madras Native In-
fantry. It was altogether a compact and efficient
little force, with a promising field before them ; but
a woeful paucity of experienced officers, that main-
spring of all military operations in the East. This
defect, however, we were too well habituated to ;
and the failures, which certainly did sometimes oc-
cur in Ava, when our native troops were sent to
cope singly with an unaccustomed enemy, were
mainly attributable to that cruel and short-sighted
economy, which affords the Indian army such an
inadequate allowance of officers.
“The object of assembling this force (or column,
480 SERVICES OF THE
as we called it) in Pegue, was, as well as I could
understand, for the double purpose of covering our
position at Rangoon, and ultimately of pushing on
to Shoeghein and Tongho, and thus operating on a
parallel line with the grand army under Sir A.
Campbell, which was advancing on the capital by
the banks of the Irrawaddy. The distance from
Rangoon to Pegue by water is about eighty miles,
in a N.N.E. direction. The country on either side
of the river is flat and tolerably free from jungle ;
but only patches in the immediate vicinity of the
river and creeks were cultivated. Occasionally,
low swampy jungle extended for miles by the river
side, affording good shelter to alligators, which
abound in these parts, where they attain a mon-
strous size, and peculiarly favourable to the produc-
tion and growth of that most detestable of all the
insect tribe, musquitoes.
“About the latter end of December, 1825, our
column, to the joy of all concerned, bid adieu to the
ruined walls of ancient Pegue, and its splendid
pagodah (Shoe-madoo Prau), where we left a garri-
son of 300 men; and after traversing about seventy
miles of alternate swamp and jungle, in a N.N.E.
direction, we reached the large stockaded town of
Shoeghein, pleasantly situated on a bend of the
Sittang river, which here is about 200 yards broad,
very rapid, but generally shallow. For the first
thirty miles from Pegue, we marched over an ex-
tensive plain abounding in marsh, and dotted here
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 481
and there with clumps of umbrageous trees and
mud-villages. Antelopes swarmed, but other game
was scarce. At the village of Meekoo, where the
road crossed the river, this plain terminated, and on
the opposite side, the face of the country was of a
totally different character, being a dense mass of
forest (mostly teak); the road to Shoeghein running
nearly parallel with the river, and having on its
right, as far as eye could reach, lofty teak-clad
mountains. The distance from Meekoo to Shoe-
ghein was forty miles; but, though the nature of
the country, thickly clothed with jungle and inter-
sected by ravines, afforded every facility to an en-
terprising enemy for harassing our line of march,
the Burmese contented themselves with merely send-
ing a party of a hundred men to watch our move-
ments, who, skirmishing occasionally with our ad-
vance, had simply the good effect of keeping us
on the qui vive, for I do not remember that we
sustained any loss.
“As we drew near Shoeghein, we fell in with a
strongly stockaded position on an abrupt eminence
to our right, completely commanding the road;
and here we certainly did expect that our copper-
coloured foes would show fight, for well do I recall
the excitement that trifling circumstance produced
in our little force. The road was tolerably good,
but was entirely enveloped in jungle, or reed-grass,
ten feet high. The European regiment, to which
I was attached, headed the column, as Europeans
I I
482 - SERVICES OF THE
always do in Anglo-Indian warfare, and with the
advance-guard were the brigadier and staff, and the
6-pounders. Suddenly, the “halt’ is sounded—a
buzz runs through the ranks—the band is (much
against their will) ordered to the rear. A pause
ensues, whilst through the still ranks of the column
guesses are rife as to the cause of the detention.
Every man, however, prepares for action. A few
musket-shots are heard on the right, in the dense
mass of jungle ; bang ! bang ! go the 6-pounders
in our front. Another pause ensues: soon after,
the ‘advance’ is again sounded ; the column creeps
on, for columns on a line of march always creep,
encumbered as they are with guns in front and
baggage in the rear, and winding along at the foot
of an abrupt eminence, a stockade is soon discerni-
ble on the partially-cleared summit to the right,
where a straggling soldier or two indicated peace-
able possession, for it was soon evident that the
enemy had deserted it on the approach of our
advanced-guard, leaving two pieces of cannon in
our hands. We destroyed the place as effectually
as our limited time and means would allow, bi-
vouacked there during the night, and on the follow-
ing day pushed on to Shoeghein, a distance of
eleven miles, the road much as before, the enemy
narrowly watching our movements, and skirmishing
with us as we advanced, or ‘sniping’ at us. But
as my main object just now is to get to Sittang, if
indeed the numberless interesting, though trivial,
YIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 483
incidents connected with our progress to Shoeghein,
which rush in upon my mind, in all their freshness,
will admit of my doing so, I must push on ‘per
Sara, per ignes.’
“Shoeghein, a large and strongly stockaded
town, was vacated as we approached, not only by
the enemy, but by all its living inmates, except the
pigs, who mustered strong, and upon whom a hot
and desultory fire was kept up for some time, to the
imminent risk of all concerned ; but pork of any
kind was by no means despicable in those hard
times, though its feeding might have been none of
the cleanest; and well do I remember the hearty
supper I made that night upon this same pork.
The pigs were soon subdued, and we were left in
peaceable possession of Shoeghein, and a ‘beg-
garly account of empty houses, on the 3rd of
January, 1826. We had not, however, been long
in the enjoyment of our el Dorado (for so we had
long considered this town), when rumours were
afloat that a portion of the force (the 3rd Light
Infantry, 500 strong, with pioneers and scaling-
ladders) were to make a retrograde movement, for
the purpose of taking military possession of a for-
tified village named Sittang, on the left bank of the
river of the same name, about fifty miles south of
Shoeghein, and fifteen miles below the village of
Meekoo, where the force had crossed the stream on
its advance. Previous to quitting Pegue, rumours
had reached us of its strength, and we naturally
I I 2
484 . SERVICES OF THE
calculated upon an excursion in that direction; but,
for reasons best known to himself, our brigadier was
satisfied with turning the position; though to attack
it, we had only to diverge fifteen miles from our
true line of march. On possessing ourselves of
Shoeghein, however, matters were changed, and
something or other transpired to determine our chief
to occupy the place forthwith. That there should
have been any indecision in the case seemed
strange, when we considered how liable our com-
munication with Pegue was to interruption from an
active enemy possessed of the post. The move-
ment, however, was decided upon, and the detach-
ment was despatched under the command of Colo-
nel Conroy, one of the best and bravest soldiers that
ever graced the ranks of the Madras army. The
Pegue column was, indeed, fortunate in having two
such officers as Pepper and Conroy attached to it.
A handful of Europeans was offered him, as an
auxiliary; but so fully and nobly did the gallant
officer confide in his tried Sepoys, that he rejected
the offer at once. It must be observed, that the
prevalent opinion was, that Sittang was unprepared
to make any opposition, being, as we understood,
unoccupied by a hostile party, and well-disposed
towards us. . . - : - ºr .
“The detachment moved long before day-break
on the 6th of January : and well do I remember the
pleasing effect produced by their band (they had a
very good one), as they marched through the stock-
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 485
ade to the point of embarkation, passing immediately
under the windows of my bamboo tenement. I was
startled from my slumbers by the lively strains of
“Over the hills and far away,’ that favourite air of
marching regiments in a foreign land. The night
was still and dark, and all the occupants of Shoe-
ghein were buried in repose, excepting such as were
connected with the detachment getting under arms.
I heard nothing till fairly startled by the thrilling
melody close to me, accompanied by the heavy
well-timed tramp of a body of military. The union
of these sounds is highly exciting to a soldier's
spirit, and never was I more sensible of its effect
than on the night in question. Midnight music is
at all times peculiarly fascinating to me, but it was
doubly so in the present instance, when, amid the
stillness of a camp, in a far and savage land, our
national military strains broke in upon my slumbers,
announcing that a gallant band was on its march
against a barbarous foe.
“When the detachment had left us, so fully per-
suaded were we that they would succeed in their
object, to which none of us attached much import-
ance, that, after their departure, we thought very
little more about them. On the 9th, however, only
three or four days after, we heard, to our astonish-
ment, of the disastrous failure of the expedition. It
appeared the detachment reached the place on the
7th, and attacked it immediately. The cautious but
determined foe reserved their fire (a most unusual
486 SERVICES OF THE
case in Burman warfare), and kept a profound
silence, till our troops were within twenty or thirty
yards of their “wooden walls.” Our people were thus
lulled into security; and, seeing no signs of life,
much less of opposition, for not a shot had been fired,
they made up their minds to a peaceful occupa-
tion of a deserted place. Their copper-coloured
opponents, however, no sooner found our troops
fairly within their grasp, than they opened a very
heavy fire of musketry and ginjals (a small port-
able cannon, worked on swivels), which told
severely.
By the exertions of the very few European officers
present with the corps (not more than seven or
eight to 500 men), the summit was attained, and
the ladders planted ; but the troops were not des-
tined to see the inside of Sittang upon this occa-
sion; for though some of the officers actually
mounted the ladders, the Sepoys were thrown into
such disorder, by the suddenness of the attack, and
the heavy loss they early sustained, especially in the
death of their gallant commandant, Colonel Conroy,
who was shot dead whilst in the act of firing through
a loop-hole with one of his men's fusils, that nothing
could induce them to follow their leaders into this
lion's den. Confusion soon ensued ; and then a
“sauve qui peut’ sort of retreat to the boats, which
had been left under a guard of fifty men at a short
distance. They were not pursued by the enemy,
and fell back on Meekoo, fifteen miles up the
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 487
stream, communicating the intelligence forthwith to
Shoeghein.
“Upon this occasion, the regiment lost Colonel
Conroy, Lieutenant Adams, and ten men killed,
whilst Lieutenants Harvey and Power, and several
rank and file were wounded, losses which reduced
the number of officers present for duty, to three,
and gave the temporary command of the corps to a
lieutenant l Not a captain was present; neither do
I remember to have seen a captain with the corps
during the time it was attached to the force. And yet
this was a light infantry regiment on field-service
“No sooner had the official account of the disas-
ter reached us, than prompt measures were taken
to retrieve our lost honour. It was my lot, and a
proud and happy lot I then, in the buoyancy and
recklessness of youth, considered it, to be attached
to the Grenadier Company of the 1st Madras Euro-
pean Regiment, a company that any soldier might
have been proud of; and well we knew that, by
the morrow’s dawn, many of us would be en route
to reinforce the detachment at Meekoo. We were
not deceived; that day’s orders detailed who were to
partake in the honour of a second attack upon this
redoubtable stockade, for so even the boldest began
now to consider it, after the unlooked-for opposition
it had made to the efforts of the 3rd Light Infantry,
a corps of acknowledged character in the coast army.
“On the morning of the 9th, our gallant briga-
dier, who had long been burning with a desire to
488 SERVICES OF THE
distinguish himself, accompanied by his staff, and
taking a six-pounder, and a camel howitzer, under
Captain Dickenson, of the Madras artillery, em-
barked in canoes to proceed by water to Meekoo.
The flank companies of the 1st Madras European
Regiment, mustering only seventy-five rank and
file (these were a sort of ‘elegant extracts; for at
the commencement of the war they were more than
200 strong), 100 of the 12th, and 180 of the 34th
native infantry, in all 355 rank and file, marched,
early the same morning, for a similar destination,
being by land about forty miles distant. The road
was good, and ran through a dense forest, which
afforded a most grateful shelter from the sun's rays,
so much so as to render tents hardly necessary
during the day. At night, however, it is indispen-
sable to be under cover in such localities; for the
damp night-air of a tropical forest can seldom be
braved with impunity: at such an hour, deadly
fevers lurk beneath the inviting and umbrageous
foliage. In two marches, of twenty miles per day,
we cleared the forest, crossed the Sittang river, and
once more found ourselves at Meekoo, amongst our
old friends of the 3rd light infantry. The water
party had arrived just before us. .
“Well do I recollect the cordiality with which
we were greeted, and the hospitable meal that
awaited us. The sight of our veteran flankers was
reviving to the drooping spirits of our comrades of
the native infantry, who now readily acknowledged
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 489
the value of a handful of British soldiers at the
head of an attacking column, though, a few days
previous, they ridiculed the idea of the Palamcottah
light infantry, or Palamcots, as our men called
them, requiring any such example. A second
attack, they knew, was to be made forthwith, and
they gladly welcomed us to share the danger as well
as the glory of the undertaking. Whilst, however,
our friends were re-assured by our prompt appear-
ance, some amongst them evidently had their mis-
givings as to our success in the enterprise. Startling
accounts now poured in upon us of the formidable
obstacles that would oppose our progress; and
whether as regarded its position, or the band by
which it was so ably garrisoned—its height, its ex-
tent, in short, all its means of defence, both natural
and physical—it was decided to be the strongest
stockade that had yet been attacked by the British
arms in Ava.
“I must not omit here to state that, upon the
morning of our arrival at Meekoo, the brigadier
had received despatches from the head-quarters of
the army at Melloon, intimating that an armistice
had been agreed upon, and of course interdicting
any further operations during its continuance; this,
however, by no means suited the present plans or
the temperament of our gallant commander, who
very quietly put the letter into his pocket, with a firm
resolve to have a slap at Sittang ‘coute qui coute.”
It was a bold stroke certainly, though somewhat
490 SERVICES OF THE
irregular; and it was this probably that caused less
publicity to be given to the capture of the place
than it deserved.
“During the day, I paid a visit to one of the
officers who had been wounded at the failure, and
I shall not readily forget the spectacle the poor
fellow presented, and the agonies he endured. His
wound was of the most serious nature ; and whilst
he writhed and groaned in his bed, he repeatedly
entreated us to put an end to him. It was a most
painful scene, but one that must sometimes occur
amongst soldiers in the field. This officer, how-
ever, partially recovered from his wound, but being
disabled for further duty, retired on a pension.
While at Meekoo, we lengthened our scaling lad-
ders, so as to be prepared for any difficulties on this
score, and every arrangement was made for the
embarkation of 500 men at 2 A. M. on the follow-
ing morning, for at this hour the tide served, and,
moreover, darkness would conceal the movement
from the enemy’s scouts. In addition to the party
previously detailed as having come from Shoeghein,
we were now joined by the head-quarters and about
160 rank and file of the 3rd light infantry. Our
humble encampment of some few tents, to shelter
us from the night-air, was close to the river Sittang,
a sufficient number of canoes, manned by friendly
natives, being drawn upon its banks, ready to re-
ceive us on the morrow.
“It is now fifteen years since five brother officers
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 491
and myself (I speak of my own party) partook of
our social but frugal meal upon that memorable
evening. The gallant captain who commanded our
flank companies had a solitary pint of port wine,
which he expressly opened in honour of the occa-
sion, and the “Fall of Sittang ” was given and
drunk with due honours. That it would fall, in
spite of the obstacles that threatened to impede
our efforts, none of us for a moment doubted ; but
it would sometimes very naturally occur to us, that
some of our number might fall with it, for glory
must be paid for; and this reflection, malgré all our
attempts to stifle it, had the effect of sobering us,
while it did not damp our ardour, and threw a pen-
sive, but by no means melancholy, shade over that
social hour, which is very vividly retained in my
memory. And here I wish I could say that this
feeling partook in any degree of a religious cha-
racter, such being the most appropriate under like
circumstances. Nevertheless, I slept soundly that
night, for there is no better soporific than a good
morning's march in a tropical climate ; nor do I
remember, boasting apart, that the prospect of al-
tacking a stockade in the morning ever in the least
disturbed my night's repose. We took things just
as they happened to come, stockades included; and
the excitement of the mode of warfare that pre-
vailed, had for us thoughtless youngsters (I was
then only nineteen) something very fascinating and
refreshing, especially after the dull monotony of a
492 SERVICES OF THE
cantonment or garrison life in India, with its endless
routine of drills, courts martial, and committees.
Our rest that night, though sweet, was but short, for
the stirring sound of the bugle
Roused up the soldier ere the morning star; -r
and by one or two A. M. we found ourselves snugly
packed in the canoes, and gliding down the stream
towards Sittang, leaving behind us the glimmering
lights of Meekoo, whence, with straining eyes, many
an anxious and no less envious comrade watched
our departure.
“The morning, or rather night, was extremely
foggy, and very cold for the tropics, for in these
parts the temperature of the atmosphere is much
lower than in similar latitudes in India, being acted
upon by local causes. This night-work is very try-
ing to the animal man, particularly to the soldier,
who is not unfrequently roused from his pallet, and
pleasing dreams of his dear and distant home, by
the discordant yell of a savage foe, and the peal, or
perhaps the shot—it may be the death-shot—of the
musket ! For I have known many instances during
the Burmese war of a man being thus killed in sleep :
Ere his very thought could pray,
Unannealed he passed away !
Now, though we were not absolutely roused from
our slumbers by the din of musketry or the yells of
Burmans, our mind's eye could take in a tolerably
clear view of all these delights in perspective, for
our lives were passed in such a state of glorious
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 493
uncertainty, that we never knew what a day or night
might bring forth. At the early hour that saw us
afloat, we were all damp and drowsy, and not much
disposed for conversation. I remember, however,
that a few words of encouragement were addressed
by our gallant leader to the men of the company,
relative to the duties which were soon in all proba-
bility to devolve upon them ; and to this they all
heartily responded. Neither were coffee (for we
managed to kindle a fire in our canoes) and cigars
wanting to cheer us on our way. Time and tide,
however, were both rolling on, and bearing us rapidly
down the river. Day dawned, but owing to the thick
fog in which all nature was enveloped, the sun had
risen far above the horizon before it became visible.
Now, however, we were all on the qui vive, and
every eye was strained to pierce the cloud in which
we had so long been shrouded; at length, through
the potency of the sun's rays, the veil was partially
lifted, and about a mile right a-head of us, on the
left bank, the stockade of Sittang frowned defiance
upon the river and surrounding country.
“The picture that now presented itself was highly
striking and characteristic. Our gallant little flo-
tilla, carrying 500 men, was gliding down the
stream in compact order. The course of the stream
was due south, and its breadth perhaps 400 or 500
yards. On the right bank, the face of the country
was level and bare, but on the left it was much
undulated, and broken by rocky ridges, running
494 SERVICES OF THE
down to the water's edge, and for the most part
thickly clothed with forest; whilst the eastern dis-
tance was bounded by the lofty but craggy peaks of
the Martaban range. The elevation of the place
we were approaching was considerable, and it cer-
tainly had a formidable appearance, as the gilt
chattahs or umbrellas of the chiefs, the gilded
spires of the pagodas, and the arms of the Burman
soldiery, glittered in the sun's rays. From the
quarter we approached, it seemed to be an elevated
ridge, with a very abrupt and rocky ascent, resting
upon the river, on which it looked down from an
almost perpendicular height of 100 or 200 feet.
Its northern face, which now fronted us, formed a
line at right angles with the river; and, ugly as it
looked, it promised easier access than the other
faces, which were shrouded in jungle. Describing
it, in short, as a military position, I should say it
was a strongly stockaded height, with its right and
rear protected by a dense and impracticable jungle,
its left resting on the river Sittang, and having its
front protected by a deep creek, only fordable at
low water, at about musket-shot distance, while it
was farther strengthened by the steep and rugged
nature of the intervening ground. Beyond this
creek was a bare plain of some extent.
“On disembarking, a most revolting and dis-
tressing spectacle appeared. The naked and man-
gled bodies of our comrades, who fell in the first
assault, were suspended by the heels on gibbets
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 495
along the river's bank | They were horribly dis-
figured by exposure to the scorching sun, and crows
and vultures were greedily revelling upon them. It
was at once a frightful and a melancholy Scene ;
but, instead of intimidating our people, it had only
the effect of exciting a spirit of vengeance against
the barbarous perpetrators, which, however unjusti-
fiable, is but too natural in such cases.
“When landed, we formed up in column, and
leaving a detachment of fifty men for the protection
of the boats, advanced with our two guns to within
500 yards of the place on the plain before alluded
to. Here we piled arms, and looked about us.
On reconnoitring, it was discovered that the creek
which ran at the foot of the position, and within
musket-shot of it, would not be fordable till two
P.M., being within the influence of the tide; so
that, from eight in the morning until that hour, we
had abundance of leisure for making ourselves ac-
quainted with the bold features of the place, of the
front of which we had now an admirable view. We
amused ourselves as well as we could, eagerly
watching the effect of the artillery, as they fired
away their shell and shrapnell, ‘pour passer le
temps.’ To this mode of salutation the Burmans
replied occasionally by a sulky shot from a ginjal,
but without hitting their mark. The day was un-
usually hot, and I never remember to have had a
more thorough grilling, for shelter there was none,
neither tent, tree, nor shrub ; and our little band,
496 - SERVICES OF THE
in their scarlet clothing, as they lay stretched in
groups on the bare and parched plain, presented a
most tempting mark for the sun's rays.
“During these tedious but no less anxious hours,
the brigadier and staff were not idle: points of
attack were decided upon, and columns formed.
At length, about half-past two P. M., the creek
being reported fordable, we moved off to the assault
in the following order:-The left column, under
Captain Cursham, 1st Madras European Regiment,
consisting of his own company, the grenadiers,
forty-five rank and file, and 160 of the 3rd light
infantry. The centre, under Captain Stedman,
34th light infantry, our light company thirty rank
and file, and 160 of the 34th light infantry; and
the right column under Major Home, of the 12th
native infantry, consisting merely of eighty or
ninety of his own men. Each party was supplied
with two scaling-ladders, carried by pioneers. The
left column, in which my lot was cast, was accom-
panied by Colonel Pepper. This was destined to
surprise the enemy's right face by a long détour to
the left, through some dense jungle, which effec-
tually concealed the stockade from view, and which
was here only approachable by a narrow winding
path, much overgrown with brushwood. The co-
lumn, on issuing from the jungle, which reached to
within sixty or eighty yards of the position, was to
dash at and escalade it; whilst the centre column,
by a simultaneous movement, was to effect an
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 497
entrance in the centre face, about 200 yards or so
to our right. The small column on the right was
to attack the enemy's left; but being weak in num-
bers, its main duty, I conceive, was to distract the
enemy’s attention, thereby making a diversion in
our favour. The signal for a simultaneous advance
was to be made by sound of bugle from the left
column of attack. The enemy had only fired an
occasional shot at us in the early part of the day, in
reply to our artillery; but latterly they had pre-
served a profound silence, and not a symptom of
life was now indicated in their works, either by
sound or movement. .
“The nervous moment was now fast approach-
ing, when we were to measure our strength with the
foe. The columns moved off in a fine and deter-
mined spirit for their respective points, and were
soon breast-high in water, fording the creek that
separated them from Sittang.
“I shall now more particularly detail the progress
of my own column, to which was allotted the honour
of attacking the enemy's right flank. The creek
was about forty or fifty yards wide, and was forded
with some difficulty, for our shortest men were up
to their necks in water. The men kept their am-
munition dry by carrying their pouches on their
bayonets. As for myself, I well remember being
up to my shoulders in water, with my sword in one
hand and my watch held high up in the other. We
were permitted to cross over without any mo-
K. K.
398 SERVICES OF THE
lestation from the foe, who might have taken
advantage of our helpless state with consider-
able effect, for the ford must have been within
long musket-shot of their position; still, not a shot
was fired, and, from the unaccountable silence that
prevailed in the works, we began to feel fully per-
suaded that the enemy had vacated them. Having
emerged from the creek, the column, led by a
native guide, began to thread its way through the
jungle by a narrow and tortuous pathway, that was
to bring us suddenly upon the right face of the
stockade, from which, after crossing the creek, our
movements were entirely concealed. Colonel Pep-
per headed the column, while a party of the 3rd
light infantry covered the advance, throwing out
skirmishers on either flank. Our progress was
slow, for the jungle was dense; but we had not ad-
vanced many paces before the stillness that had so
long reigned was broken by the ring of a musket in
the direction of the enemy, accompanied by the
never-to-be-mistaken whistle of a ball. Another
and another report followed, at somewhat long in-
tervals, the shot crossing our path, and one lodging
in the pouch of a grenadier by my side, who, poor
fellow, was killed a few minutes after : his name
was Pollock, a lad of twenty. As we advanced,
the enemy's skirmishers opened a dropping fire
upon us, which, much to the annoyance of the
brigadier, was replied to by a continual blaze from
the light infantry in front, which of course had only
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 499
the effect of impeding the column. This interrup-
tion, however, soon ceased, and again we began to
creep on.
But now symptoms of business were discerni-
ble, as we passed two or three Sepoys stretched
across the pathway, bleeding profusely. Never-
theless, in spite of the show of opposition we had
just experienced, a prevalent opinion still existed
that the enemy had vacated the place, and that we
had been fired upon by a party left to cover their
retreat. It was, however, a nervous moment with
all hands, I am certain, and every precaution was
taken to ensure success. After the firing, again all
was still :
* There was silence still as death,
And the boldest held his breath,
For a time !”
At length, the column was halted, the guide having
intimated that we were on the point of issuing from
the jungle, between which and the stockade was a
partially cleared space, of about sixty or seventy
yards broad. Final arrangements—a favourite
phrase by-the-way of poor Pepper's—were now
made, previous to a dash at the place. A section of
European grenadiers was ordered to the front; then
came the two scaling-ladders, carried by the Madras
pioneers, while the main body were to follow. A
few hasty words of encouragement were now ad-
dressed by officers of companies to their men, and
every one screwed himself up to meet the coming
struggle like a man. The soldiers tightened their
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500 SERVICES OF THE
bayonets on their firelocks, with pieces of rag, and
divested themselves of all incumbrances, so as to be
as much as possible in light marching order, and in
condition for scrambling over the stockade, whilst
many of the officers threw aside their sling belts and
scabbards. At last, the ‘advance’ was sounded,
and immediately taken up by the bugles of the other
columns; the word ‘forward 1' was given, and on
we moved in double time, when, taking a sharp turn
to the right, we emerged from the jungle, and once
more Sittang frowned defiance upon us from its
wooden battlements, at a distance of sixty or seventy
yards ! Silence still prevailed, and at the moment
the head of the column showed itself, nothing indi-
cated the presence of a foe. The space in front of
the stockade was tolerably open, and thereby we had
a fair, though momentary opportunity, of looking our
difficulties in the face. The works were strongly con-
structed of teak timber, of considerable thickness,
driven into the ground perpendicularly, and from ten
to twelve feet in height. They were looped for mus-
ketry, and defended at intervals by square bastions.
The place stretched far away to the right and left,
an angle intervening between us and the other at-
tacking parties, of whom we consequently saw
nothing. As before said, when we first showed our-
selves, all was still as death; but in a moment the
scene was changed ! A deadly stream of flame
burst from the works, whilst the din of fire-arms,
thick clouds of smoke, and the whistling of the
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 501
musket-balls, as they cleaved the air, were most con-
vincing evidences of the garrison of Sittang being
at home, and in regular fighting order.
“The shock occasioned by the enemy's first dis-
charge was great ; but for an instant only the
progress of the column was retarded. The volley
told most fatally, for it was evident they had been
waiting for us with finger on the trigger, and musket
on the rest, whilst the muzzles converged to a point
whence we were to issue from the jungle. The ef-
fect of such a concentrated fire was as severe as it
was instantaneous, and before we could return a
shot, a considerable number of the leading men
were prostrate, many never to rise again, and
amongst them the young grenadier before alluded to.
This was the last affair of the war in which I was
engaged, but it was decidedly the hottest, and at
this distance of time I look back with astonishment,
not unmingled, I trust, with gratitude, to the severe
conflict, out of which I was permitted to come un-
scathed. The enemy never fired with better effect,
or showed a bolder front; we were literally muzzle
to muzzle with them, both sides firing alternately
through the same loopholes; the consequence was,
that the shot, instead of lodging, often went through
its victim How I escaped I know not, for the
shot flew thick around, and many a poor fellow was
cut down on either side of me. It was, indeed, a
shattering fire, and very creditable to the Burmese.
Caps were knocked off, breast-plates indented,
502 - SERVICES OF THE
musket-stocks splintered, and bayonets tinkled as
the balls played amongst us!
“Though the column staggered for a moment
from the effects of the first volley, it as quickly re-
covered itself, and gallantly faced the dangers that
threatened it. For an assaulting party in such a
case to return a fire, is of course worse than useless;
nevertheless, I must confess that many a man did
fire and load as fast as he could—an irregularity of
which the best disciplined troops will occasionally
be guilty. And here it may be observed, that
nothing has a greater tendency to injure the disci-
pline and organization of regular troops than a
protracted and desultory jungle warfare. Our
scaling-ladders, adapted for two a-breast, were
carried by a detachment of the pioneers, a corps of
high character in the native army for bravery and
endurance in service ; in this instance, however, they
were less staunch than usual, for they dropped the
ladders. I did what I could to encourage some that
were near me, but they had not been accustomed to
face such a fire as that we were now exposed to ; it
was in fact admirably adapted to “astonish the weak
minds of the natives.’ This circumstance, of course,
gave rise to additional delay, and loss of lives. One
of the ladders was, however, instantly picked up by
the European grenadiers, assisted by the officers, in
which I lent a hand, or rather a shoulder. Again
the column pushed on, and in spite of a heavy fire
from front and flank—for we were now exposed to a
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 503
raking fire from the bastions—the summit of the
steep ascent on which the stockade stood was gained,
and the ladder planted, though the frantic efforts
made by the enemy to cast it off again, by thrusting
out hundreds of spears through the loopholes and
interstices, were astonishing. I remember to have
seen our gallant brigadier hacking away at them
with his sword most vigorously. The moment the
ladder was planted, the true character of the British
soldier manifested itself; for our men crowded upon
it to such an extent, that it broke down beneath
their weight ! This occasioned a further delay
of some minutes, as the other ladder had not
been brought up. Our ranks were by this time
much thinned, and every effort was made to induce
the men to take possession of the loopholes
through which the foe were assailing us. This plan
succeeded admirably, for they gallantly supported
their officers, and their well-directed fire had at
length the effect of driving back the enemy to a
respectful distance, leaving us more at leisure to
bring up our other ladder. This was soon accom-
plished, and planted, and I had the honour to be the
first to mount it. .
“During these operations, which could not have
occupied a quarter of an hour, a rattling fire of
musketry on the right satisfied us that our friends on
that side were hard at it; still, we could as yet learn
nothing of them. Upon ascending the ladder, and
turning round to cheer on my men, I was sorry to
504 SERVICES OF THE
find that we stood almost ‘alone in our glory ;’ that,
in fact, we were not supported as we should have
been. This rendered our task more difficult, but
still we held our ground. On glancing my eyes,
however, far to the right, I recognized with a shout
of joy, our light bobs dropping into the stockade,
the enemy falling back and firing before them.
This was all right. I called out to the ‘lambs’
(the sobriquet of the corps) to follow, and in I
jumped, coming down on all fours, the men follow-
ing as they best could ; but, on occasions of this
kind, officers have a manifest advantage over their
men, unencumbered as they are with fire-arms and
ammunition.
“The stockade was now virtually won ; and as
our lads came dropping in, one by one, the enemy
fell back, keeping up merely a desultory and ill-
directed fire upon us from behind the buildings in
the interior, without doing much damage. Had
they stood firm, we never should have seen the in-
side of Sittang (for they mustered 1,500); but no
sooner were the pale faces of the English visible
above the works, than their resolution forsook them,
and their courage, true up to this point, failed. It
was my good fortune to be the first in of my co-
lumn; and without waiting for a sufficient number
of men, I moved on in the direction of the enemy,
who were now crowding one of the principal gate-
ways in the rear, to escape, closely followed by a
part of one of the other columns. Here men, wo-
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 505
men, and children were huddled together, while the
entrance was quite obstructed by the bodies of those
who had fallen. A flag of truce had been sent to
the enemy, if I am not mistaken, requesting them
to send out their families; but it was unattended to,
and the unavoidable consequence was, that very
many of these poor creatures fell victims. Indeed,
it was quite heart-rending to see so many women
and children killed, or bleeding to death: some
were dreadfully lacerated by the bursting of our
shells. After the firing had ceased, I fell in with a
very handsome young woman, who had been pierced
in the breast by a musket-ball; and having with:
difficulty persuaded an artilleryman, who was busily
engaged in plunder, to assist me, I carried her to
the surgeon, and before I left Sittang, had the gra-
tification of finding that there was every prospect of
her recovery, though she was sinking fast, from the
loss of blood, when I first saw her.
“‘Forward l’ was now the word; and all hands
pressed on towards the retreating foe, who made no
further attempt at resistance, but either choked up
the gateway, or vainly endeavoured to clamber over
the stockade by desperate bounds. Some, with
dishevelled hair and frantic gestures, bleeding pro-
fusely, were seen dragging away their women.—
Quarter was neither asked nor offered; a barbarous
mode of warfare, truly, and quite unjustifiable on
our side; but, in this instance, some extenuation
may be found in the exasperation produced amongst
506 SERVICES OF THE
us by the savage enormities inflicted upon the bodies
of our comrades on the previous attack.
“Borne onwards by the excitement of the moment,
I at one time found myself almost alone amidst a
crowd of the enemy, as they were madly pressing
through the main gateway. Here I cut away, right
and left, and certainly gave more than one poor
fellow a souvenir not easily got rid of. They
might have made minced meat of me, had they
chosen ; but they were completely paralysed.
“Our troops now poured in, putting every man
within their reach to death. The mass of the
enemy, however, escaped ; and we were far too
weak in numbers, and too exhausted, to attempt to
follow them, having made the assault with only 450
men against 1,500, of whom, we were well informed,
1000 were armed with firelocks. The vicinity of
the jungle, which to us was impervious, greatly
facilitated their escape. Being now fairly in pos-
session, we began to recognize each other again,
and to enquire about casualties. Our loss, we
soon ascertained, was unusually heavy for Indian
warfare. During the quarter of an hour or twenty
minutes we were engaged, eighty-six had fallen out
of 450, being one-fifth of the whole: fifty of these
fell in the left column, which consisted of 200 men.
And, again, in our grenadiers, only forty-five strong,
we had six men killed and twelve wounded ! This
was sharper work than we had been accustomed to ;
and, from a personal knowledge of the obstacles, we
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 507
could now make great allowances for the original
failure of the native infantry. Of twenty-one offi-
cers present, two were killed and five wounded,—
one dangerously. The two officers killed, were
Captains Cursham and Stedman, both commanding
columns. Major Home, also, who commanded the
right column, was severely wounded. The other
wounded officers were Colonel Pepper, slightly;
Lieutenant Fullarton, who was shot through the
body, but recovered; Lieutenant Power, severely;
and Lieutenant Charlton, slightly. The enemy's
loss was computed at 500 men killed and wounded.
Of these not more than 100 were found dead in
and about the stockade: large numbers of wounded
men must doubtless have perished in the neighbour-
ing jungle.
“In my narrative, I have only detailed the pro-
gress of the left column. I must not omit to men-
tion that both the other columns did their work
admirably throughout, especially the centre one,
commanded by poor Stedman, and led by the light
company of the 1st Madras European Regiment,
under Lieutenant Howden. They were obstinately
opposed; but being ably and closely supported by
the 34th light infantry, bore down all before them.
There was a very abrupt ascent to climb, and up
which to drag the ladders. On reaching the sum-
mit, Stedman fell, pierced by a dozen balls, having
received the contents of an over-loaded swivel in his
breast. To this column, I believe, must be ceded
508 * SERVICES OF THE
the honour of first entering Sittang, Lieutenant
Chambers, of the 1st Madras European Regiment,
gallantly leading the way. At this distance of time,
I have no clear recollection of the operations of the
column on the right; but I do remember their
having behaved admirably, and that Major Home
shewed them a noble example, and was severely
wounded at their head.
“The conduct of the flank companies of the
European regiment, upon this occasion, was gene-
rally admitted to be beyond all praise; and I do not
scruple to affirm, that the success of the assault
must be mainly attributed to their determined bra-
very, and the bright example they shewed the
Sepoys. Their gallantry was at the time highly
spoken of by all, and most gratifying were these
encomiums to their officers. But that heart, which,
above all others, would have prized these good opi-
nions, had now ceased to beat I Our gallant leader,
Cursham, fell outside the stockade, shot through
the heart by a musket-ball. The last time I saw
him alive, he was nearly enveloped in smoke, and
cheering on his men in the most heroic manner.—
His military qualifications were of no common order,
and long and severely was his loss felt in the corps.
I was sadly cut up when I heard he had fallen, for
we had long been in the same company, and he had
ever been a kind friend to me. After the place was
in our possession, a sergeant of the grenadiers came
and told me that the captain was badly wounded
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 509
outside the works, on which I immediately retraced
my steps, and accompanied him to the spot. We
soon reached it; and on looking about, discovered
our dear comrade, alas ! not wounded, but quite
dead l and many were the tears I shed over him.
He was lying on his back; but his features, though
calm, had already the leaden hue produced by a
wound in the heart. At first it was no easy matter to
detect the course of the ball, no blood being visible;
but, on closer inspection, we discovered a small rent
through the jacket and shirt, as if made with a pen-
knife, through which a few drops of blood only had
oozed. It was through this trivial aperture that the
gallant spirit had escaped. His death must have been
instantaneous ; and much as we deplored him, his
best friends could not have wished him a nobler exit
from this troublesome world, for he fell in the very
arms of victory.
“When the action was over, we were not al-
together free from anxiety, for our little force was
sadly crippled, and but ill adapted to the efficient
defence of such an extensive stockade, had the
enemy been disposed to attack us during the night
with a fresh force. We made, however, the best
arrangements we could, and all passed off quietly;
and never do I remember to have slept more sweetly
than on the night of the 11th of January, 1826.
A party of us took up our quarters in a sort of tem-
ple, the roof of which had been riddled by our artil-
lery, and amongst the broken tiles that strewed the
510 SERVICES OF THE
floor our rugs were laid, forming a hard, but by no
means despicable pallet. In the morning I was
aroused by a comrade proposing to me to walk round
the works, and count the dead bodies: a strange
mode of passing the time, it will be thought, but
somewhat in character with the sort of life we then
led. Our doctor had no sinecure of it, for, shameful
to say, he was the only one attached to the force;
and so overcome with fatigue was he, after attend-
ing to all the wounded, that he fainted away. Dr.
Richardson was an active and intelligent officer,
and a favourite with all. Many of our wounded
men died during the night, for, owing to the very
short distance at which we engaged the enemy, a
large proportion of the wounds proved fatal.
“On the 12th, we occupied ourselves in burning
the stockade, and burying the dead. We gave the
Europeans Christian burial, and the bodies of Cur-
sham and Stedman were consigned to the earth in
the clothes in which they fell, and literally “with
their martial cloaks around them.” The spot se-
lected for their interment was a small enclosed
space round a pagodah, and after the ceremony the
ground was carefully levelled, to ensure the bodies
not being disturbed. We heard afterwards that
the spot was discovered by our vindictive foe, and
that the honoured remains of our friends were
barbarously mutilated. I hope it was not true.
Neither did we omit to bury the mangled relics of
our unfortunate comrades that had been exposed on
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 511
gibbets, though the matter was one of some diffi-
culty, owing to their decomposed state. -
“The interior of Sittang much disappointed our
expectations. The village occupied but a small
portion of the stockade, whilst the greatest part bore
evidences of having been only lately enclosed from
the jungle, in the clumps of brushwood, tufts of
grass, and stumps of trees, which were everywhere
discernible. There was a decent house or two be-
longing to the priests, and some few religious edi-
fices; the remainder were native huts, constructed
of the ordinary materials of mud and bamboo. I
have often remarked that the prize-money yielded
by a campaign, or the plunder produced by the
sacking of a stockade, is pretty much in an inverse
ratio to the difficulties encountered ; and so it was
with the Burmese war in general, and Sittang in
particular: for, in the present instance, little of
value was found excepting a few ruby rings, which
our soldiery obtained by methods anything but gen-
tle, it is to be feared. A small bar of gold fell to
the lot of one man, who immediately disposed of it
to an officer for Rs. 40 and a bottle of brandy. The
speculation was not a bad one, for, if I remember
rightly, it proved to be worth Rs. 600, or 60l.
when first sold the purity of the metal was a matter
of doubt. -
“I cannot refrain here from adverting to the
great neglect shown by our Government to the
spiritual wants of the British troops, while on ser-
512 -SERVICES OF THE
vice in the field, where of course such wants are
most felt. During the Burmese war, which occu-
pied nearly two years and a half, there was no such
person as a chaplain attached to the troops; nor do
I remember there being any provision for the per-
formance of divine service, though at Rangoon
alone there were no fewer than nine English regi-
ments, besides artillery ! In my own corps the
Sabbath was observed by officers commanding com-
panies reading the “Articles of War” to their
men. By the performance of this duty, and hoist-
ing the British colours on the flag-staff, we thought
we sufficiently honoured our Maker
“At seven on the morning of the 13th we re-
embarked, and taking the same route by which we
came, reached Shoeghein once more on the morn-
ing of the 15th, after an absence of only a weekl
On the homeward march, our spirits were some-
what damped by the breaking out of the cholera,
which carried off a few of our best men. The re-
ception we met from our friends at head-quarters
was most gratifying; all hands, with the band at
their head, came out to greet us, and we marched
into our old quarters to the tune of “The British
Grenadiers.’ It was a proud moment for us all to
be thus received on our return from a dangerous
but successful enterprise.
“Thus fell Sittang; not, however, without a
severe struggle on both sides, British as well as
Burman. Smile not, ye Waterloo men and Penin-
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 513
sular heroes, at the pigmy exploits I have been nar-
rating, for such they doubtless are after your gigan-
tic achievements. I am but a prosy chronicler of
very humble events, but whilst fully alive to the
vast difference between a French and a Burmese
foe, I must claim an impartial perusal of my record,
and a fair meed of praise for the actors in my little
drama. It is true, fewer lives are lost through the
sword in Eastern warfare, speaking generally ; but
a far larger proportion of gallant spirits fall victims
to the hardships, privations, and diseases incidental
to Indian service. There may be less of glory, but
there is much more of danger—less of the laurel,
but infinitely more of the mournful cypress For
instance ; the 1st Madras European Regiment lost,
in the course of the Burmese war, 600 men out of
900, landed a little more than two years before.
Disease was by far our greatest destroyer; never-
theless, a Burmese bullet did sometimes hit hard,
and in the case before us, the proportion of killed
and wounded to the numbers engaged and space of
time occupied may bear comparison with the palmy
and bloody days of Talavera and Waterloo !”
The capture of Sittang, one of the sharpest and
most brilliant affairs that had taken place in Ava,
was the last in which any part of the regiment was
engaged, and concluded the Burmese war, during
which the corps on every occasion had been con-
spicuous for its great gallantry. Among the many
who particularly distinguished themselves, may be in-
L L
514 - SERVICES OF THE
stanced the names of Captains Cursham, Kyd,
Forbes, and Roy; Lieutenants Charlton, Stinton,
Doveton, Kerr, Butler, Howden and Chambers;
whilst among the non-commissioned were Sergeants
Morrison, Lennox, Bond, and Horan, who nobly
fell on different occasions ; also Pollock, Taite,
Freer, O'Brien, Gwynn, Tudhope, Clyne, Weir
and Gardener; besides many others, including pri-
vates, who on all occasions displayed the highest
and best qualities of the British soldier.
At the storming of Sittang, the flank companies
lost about two-thirds of their number killed and
wounded; among the officers were the brave Captain
Cursham killed, and Lieutenant Charlton wounded.
The officers of the regiment present on the occa-
sion were Captain Cursham, Lieutenants Charlton
and Doveton, with the grenadiers, Lieutenants How-
den and Chambers with the light company.
After Sittang had been carried and the enemy
driven out of it, Colonel Pepper paraded the flank
companies of the regiment, and thanked them per-
sonally for their perseverance and gallantry; he
also particularly noticed the conspicuous gallantry
of Lieutenant Chambers, the first man who entered
the stockade.
The next morning an order was issued, of which
the following is an extract :—
Sittang Stockade, 12th January, 1826.
By BRIGADIER PEPPER.—PARoLE “VICTORY.”
“It is with no common feelings the Brigadier is
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 515
impressed with in addressing this order to the troops
under his command : although most gratified as he
must be at the result of the operations of yesterday,
still the heavy and severe loss of the gallant fellows
who fell, creates a feeling of pain and regret. He
however assures every officer and man, how indebted
he is to them for the energetic, able and spirited
conduct, which almost under insurmountable diffi-
culties crowned their efforts with complete success.
“To Captain Dickenson commanding the artillery,
whose heavy fire and excellent practice contributed
so much in keeping down the enemy’s fire, which was
evident from so many of them found killed from the
shells:
“To Major Home, 12th regiment, who com-
manded the right column, who was severely wounded
in leading on the same, and to Captain Corbett
who succeeded him in the command and so ably led
it on :
“To Lieutenant Charlton, 1st European regi-
ment, who assumed the command of the left
column, and so handsomely led it to the storm, on
Captain Cursham being killed:
“To Lieutenant Haig, 34th regiment light in-
fantry, who took similar charge of the centre column,
on Captain Steadman being killed; the Brigadier
begs particularly to return his sincere acknowledg-
ments.
“It is with poignant regret the Brigadier cannot
place in this list the names of Captains Cursham,
L L 2
516 SERVICES OF THE
1st European regiment, and Steadman, 34th light
infantry, who so gallantly fell at the head of their
respective columns; but not only to these lamented
officers, but to every grade who has suffered, the
Brigadier will take care to make known to the
commander of the forces their gallantry and devo-
tion to the service.” * *
The force left Sittang the following day on its
return to Shoeghein, where it arrived on the 15th
January, and shortly afterwards a treaty of peace
was concluded with the Burmese, and hostilities
ceased. On the 25th March, H. M.'s 45th and
1st Madras Native Infantry joined the force, and
it marched to Meekoo and from thence to Pegue,
where it arrived on the 7th April. -
During the time the regiment was stationed at
Pegue, the following farewell address to the army
on his departure for Europe, from that old officer
of the corps, Lieutenant-general Bowser, who had,
on the lamented death of Sir A. Campbell, in
December, 1824, succeeded to the command of
the army, was received :—
3. January 16th, 1826.
GENERAL ORDER BY THE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF.
“It is with feelings of attachment and regret,
cheered by the pride of honourable recollections,
that Lieutenant-general Bowser for the last time
addresses the army of Fort St. George.
“The ties of more than half a century, during
which the Lieutenant-general has had the honor of
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 517
being associated in the interests of the officers and
soldiers of that army, must necessarily be strong,
and in offering them the tribute of his sincere ad-
miration and the gage of his perfect regard and
esteem, he can temper the painful feeling of per-
manent separation, by the knowledge and recollec-
tion alone, that this gallant and distinguished army
is at the very zenith of its glory and its reputation,
and that the same army which aided the exploits of
a Coote, and witnessed the dawn of a Wellington’s
career, should, at this epoch, be proving itself equally
zealous, devoted, and efficient, in a new and unusual
service, wherein the strong ties of cast and preju-
dices, of habits and customs, have vanished beneath
the touch of discipline and attachment to the ser-
vice, and that valour which had hitherto been almost
limited to the narrow confines of a country, has
proved itself of general application wherever re-
quired or directed. With the proud consciousness
of having shared the dangers and honours of such
an army, and being the oldest soldier serving in
India, Lieutenant-general Bowser now bids his com-
rades a last, a heartfelt and an affectionate fare-
well; acknowledging with a grateful recollection,
the zeal, ability and public spirit by which he has
been aided in his duties, by all the staff and depart-
ments, who are alike distinguished for a high mili-
tary pride and ambition, to maintain the distin-
guished reputation of the army in all its branches.”
In the month of April, complimentary Orders, of
518 SERVICES OF THE
which the following extracts refer to the regiment,
were issued to the troops employed during the Ava
war, by the Governor-General in Council, the Com-
mander in-chief in India, and the Governor of Fort
St. George.
Extract of General Orders by the Right Honor-
able the Governor-General in Council.
“Fort William, 11th April, 1826.
“The relations of friendship between the British
Government and the state of Ava having been
happily re-established by the conclusion of a defi-
nitive treaty of peace, the Governor-General in
Council performs a most gratifying act of duty, in
offering publicly his cordial acknowledgments and
thanks to Major-General Sir Archibald Campbell,
and the army in Ava, by whose gallant and per-
severing exertions the recent contest with the Bur-
mese Empire has been brought to an honourable
and successful termination.
“In reviewing the events of the late war, the
Governor-General in Council is bound to declare
his conviction that the achievements of the British
army in Ava have nobly sustained our military repu-
tation, and have produced substantial benefit to the
national interests.
“During a period of two years from the first
declaration of hostilities against the government of
Ava, every disadvantage of carrying on war in a
distant and most difficult country has been over-
come, and the collective forces of the Burman
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 519
empire, formidable from their numbers, the strength
of their fortified positions, and the shelter afforded
by the nature of their country, have been repeatedly
assailed and defeated. The persevering and obsti-
nate efforts of the enemy to oppose our advance
having failed of success, and his resources and
means of further resistance having been exhausted,
the king of Ava has, at length, been compelled to
accept of those terms of peace, which the near ap-
proach of our army to the gates of his capital,
enabled us to dictate. Every object, the Governor-
General in Council is happy to proclaim, for which
the war was undertaken, has been finally and most
satisfactorily accomplished.
“The Governor-General in Council finds himself
at a loss for adequate terms to describe the satis-
faction with which the Government regards the
general good conduct of the troops, European and
native, who have served in Ava. Their patient
endurance of the fatigues, privations and sickness
to which they were unavoidably exposed in a hostile
country, and in an inclement season, subsequent to
the capture of Rangoon, was not less conspicuous
and praiseworthy, than the spirit and determined reso-
lution with which they maintained, during that period,
an incessant and most harassing warfare of posts.
Their irresistible gallantry in storming the Burmese
stockades, however strong their defence by nature
or art, and the success which crowned their repeated
encounters with the enemy, reflect equal credit on the
520 SERVICES OF THE
troops who achieved those exploits, and on theirleaders,
who justly confiding in British energy, discipline, and
courage, were never deterred by the most formidable
disparity of numbers, or difficulties of position, from
assaulting the enemy whenever the opportunity could
be found. - -
“While the Governor-General in Council enu-
merates, with sentiments of unfeigned admiration,
the 13th, 38th, 41st, 89th, 47th, 1st or royals, 87th,
and 45th regiments, the Honorable Company's
Madras European Regiment, and the Bengal and
Madras European artillery, as the European troops
who have had the honour of establishing the renown
of the British arms in a new and distant region;
His Lordship in Council feels, that higher and more
justly merited praise cannot be bestowed on those
brave troops than that amidst the barbarous hosts
whom they have fought and conquered, they have
eminently displayed the virtues, and sustained the
character of the British soldier.”
Extracts from General Orders, by his Excellency
the Right Hon. General Lord Combermere,
G.C.B., Commander-in-chief in India.
“Head-Quarters, calcutta, 14th Arm, 1826.
“The services of the army, lately employed
against the state of Ava, having been successfully
terminated by the conclusion of an honourable
peace dictated to that power, the Right Hon. the
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 521
Commander-in-chief in India embraces the happy
occasion, to express to the troops of his Majesty,
and of the honourable Company, from the Presi-
dencies of Fort William and Fort St. George, who
were employed in the late war, his best thanks and
acknowledgments, for their highly praiseworthy con-
duct on every occasion which presented itself for
distinguishing themselves. - -
“The difficulties met with by the troops during
the progress of hostilities, in every quarter in
which the war was carried into the enemy's coun-
try, were of a nature surpassing what has ever be-
fore been experienced in India; while the baneful
effects of the extremely noxious climate in which
the troops had to maintain their positions, added
to the severe privations and fatigues to which they
were unavoidably exposed throughout the whole
period of their service, have been borne without a
IQUITII] UIT. -
“Owing to these causes, the losses sustained by
the army during the two years of hostility have
been great beyond example, and cannot be remem-
bered without the deepest sympathy and regret;
whilst the zealous devotion and fortitude mani-
fested by those who have borne up against such
aggravated distresses, must ever be a theme of ap-
plause and admiration.
“His Excellency is also highly gratified in hav-
ing to observe that the conduct of the several
corps and detachments on every occasion, where
522 SERVICES OF THE
the enemy gave them an opportunity of engaging,
was fraught with that spirit of gallantry and cou-
rage which ever distinguishes a British soldier, and
through which they invariably overpowered and de-
feated the enemy; the successful results of their
services are to be appreciated by the terms upon
which the war has happily been brought to a
conclusion.”
Extract of a Letter from Brigadier-General Cotton
to the Chief Secretary to the Government, Fort
St. George, on his retiring from the command
of the Madras division of troops in Ava : pub-
lished in the General Order, by the Government
of Fort St. George, 13th of June, 1826.
“To David Hill, Esq., Chief Secretary to the
Government at Fort St. George :
“Sir, The command of the Madras troops in
Ava, which I had the honour to hold during the
greater part of the war, having terminated by the
ratification of peace between the British Govern-
ment and the King of Ava, it is impossible for me
to take a final leave of the distinguished body with
whom I have been associated, without expressing
to his Excellency the honourable the Governor in
Council my sense of the zeal, gallantry, and disci-
pline, which the troops from Fort St. George have
displayed throughout a long course of arduous
service.
“It is not within the confined limits of a report,
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 523
possible to do justice to individual merit; but the
exemplary conduct of every officer and soldier who
has been employed, whether of his Majesty's regi-
ments, or of the honourable Company’s European
and Native troops, has been so conspicuous as to
preclude the necessity of selection; and to deserve
that I should solicit to place my grateful acknow-
ledgment of their services upon the records of
Government. -
“Having gone through the pleasing duty of
expressing my sentiments of the gallantry and me-
ritorious exertions of the Madras division of troops,
I beg respectfully to offer my sincere thanks to the
honourable the Governor in Council, for the proud
distinction of having been entrusted with so im-
portant a command, and to assure his Excellency
that the height of my ambition will be to find my-
self placed upon any future occasion in a post so
flattering and so honourable.
“I have the honour to be, Sir,
“Your most obedient humble servant,
(Signed) “WILLoughby Cotton,
Brigadier-General.”
“Calcutta, May 29, 1826.”
“The Governor in Council deems it proper to
repeat in General Orders, the acknowledgments of
Brigadier-General Cotton's distinguished services
in Ava, which have already been often conveyed
to that officer. To zeal, judgment and gallantry,
524 SERVICES OF THE
and to the most active and unremitting attention to
all the duties of his arduous and important com-
mand, Brigadier-General Cotton has united in a
remarkable degree the faculty of carrying other
men's minds along with him, and has thus brought
the division under his orders to act with one
heart and hand. The Governor in Council is per-
suaded that the sentiments expressed in the fore-
going letter will be peculiarly gratifying to every in-
dividual both of the staff and in the line who served
in that division. -
“The troops of this presidency, who were en-
gaged in foreign service against the dominions of
the king of Ava, have already been honoured by the
approbation of the Governor-General in Council ;
and, though this government is sensible that its
praise cannot add any weight to that distinction,
yet it is a grateful duty which it gladly discharges
to follow the example of the supreme Govern-
ment in acknowledging the admirable military spirit
displayed throughout the service in Ava and Arra-
can, by every officer, non-commissioned officer, and
private, of his Majesty's and the honourable Com-
pany's troops, European and Native.
“The expedition to Ava has been distinguished
from every former expedition sent from India, by its
duration, by its great privations, by difficulties of
every kind, arising from the climate and the nature
of the country, by its constant harassing duties,
and by its frequent conflicts with the enemy. The
THE AWA. M. E. L. All-
ºº º º º º




FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 525
European troops, in meeting and overcoming all
these obstacles, have nobly sustained the character
of the British army. The native troops have proved
themselves worthy of fighting in the same ranks
with European soldiers.” -
On the 8th of June the regiment left Pegue for
Rangoon, where on arrival it embarked on board
the ship “Argyle,” and sailed on the 13th for Ma-
sulipatam. After they had been some days at sea,
the ship was discovered to be on fire in the hold;
the flames however were prevented from spreading
by the activity of the crew, assisted by the men of
the regiment, in throwing overboard the tents of the
corps, which having, it is supposed, been stowed
away in the hold whilst damp had ignited and nearly
caused the destruction of the ship and all on board.
The “Argyle" reached Masulipatam roads with-
out any further accident on the 23rd July, and the
following day the regiment landed : out of 863
gallant men who had embarked at the same place
in April 1824, about 100 only returned, and these
broken down by privations and hard service; nearly
all the rest died in Burmah, more from disease and
starvation than the sword of the enemy.
During all its service in Burmah, the regiment
was most fortunate in the very talented, attentive,
and liberal medical officers who had at different
times charge of it. r
J. Deare, Esq., since retired from the service,
formerly distinguished for his gallant conduct during
526 SERVICES OF THE
the mutiny at Vellore in 1806, went over with the
regiment as its surgeon; he was succeeded in Ran-
goon by Dr. Campbell, whose extreme liberality
and kindness to the sick during the great sickness
and scarcity, were most conspicuous, and will be
remembered by the survivors as long as they live.
On Dr. Campbell's promotion, he was succeeded by
Dr. Bond, who returned with the regiment to Masuli-
patam.
In July 1824, after the departure of the corps
for service, the second European regiment was
formed by Major Gibson at Masulipatam, from the
men of the Madras European Regiment, left behind
on the regiment proceeding to Ava, and about 250
recruits at that time landed from England. In the
beginning of December this corps marched from
Masulipatam and relieved the Bengal European
Regiment at Kamptee on the 5th January, 1825,
and being there joined by a large detachment of
recruits and volunteers from Madras, it soon became,
from the zeal and energy of Major Gibson and his
officers, a highly efficient and well disciplined regi-
ment. -
During the year, two very excellent officers of
the corps died from the effects of the service in
Ava: Captain Charles Forbes at Masulipatam on
the 26th March, 1825, had repeatedly been noticed
in the late war for his gallantry and activity: he
had also seen service at the Eastern Islands, and
during the Mahratta wars: Captain James Roy
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 527
died on the 5th September, 1825, on his March up
to Nagpore, on the banks of the Godavery, where
a monument has been erected over his remains by
his brother officers, with the following inscription:—
Sacred to the Memory of
Captain JAMEs Rox, 2nd European Regiment,
who departed this life on the
5th September, 1825, at ToMPETT, on
his way to NAGPORE. -
This monument is erected by
his brother officers of the
1st and 2nd European Regiments, in token of
their esteem and regard for his
worth as a soldier and as a friend.
Captain Roy had been for many years adjutant
of the regiment; he had seen much service to the
eastward in 1809-1810, during the Mahratta war,
and in Burmah; he had been distinguished on all
occasions for his gallant bearing, coolness and in-
trepidity; a warm-hearted, high-minded and pro-
perly religious man; his many good and noble
qualities endeared him to the corps, and his loss
was sincerely regretted by all ranks in the regi-
ment. -
Towards the end of the year, intelligence was
received of the death of Major-general Archibald
Brown, on the 4th of May, in England.
General Brown had served in the regiment as
subaltern and captain during the early Mysore wars;
had risen in it to the rank of field-officer, and com-
manded it in the expedition against the Moluccas
in 1795-96.
528 - SERVICES OF THE
During its service in Ava, the officers of the
regiment had suffered in health almost to as great
a degree as their men ; Captain Cursham and Lieu-
tenant Robertson had been killed; Captains Forbes
and Roy, Lieutenants Green, Grubb and Charlton,
had died either in Burmah or immediately after
leaving it; Lieutenants Butler, Doveton and Cham-
bers, had been sent home dangerously ill, and with
one or two exceptions, every officer who returned
had his constitution much shattered. This was also
the case with the men, among whom there was a
great mortality after they landed, particularly among
the non-commissioned officers. By the beginning
of 1827, a considerable number of recruits had
joined from England, and shortly afterwards Lieu-
tenant-colonel, now Major-general Waugh, who had
been appointed to the regiment in March, joined
and assumed command: under his personal super-
intendence, the drill of a large body of recruits,
as well as the instruction of the rest of the regi-
ment in the new exercise, and the introduction of
an excellent system of interior economy, was per.
severed in with so much vigour and determination,
that the regiment appeared at the review in the end
of the year in such excellent order as has never
been surpassed. -
On the 18th February, Lieutenant Boyce, of the
1st European Regiment, a very promising officer,
died at Masulipatam, from disease brought on by
the privations endured in Ava. During the year,
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 529
two other officers of the regiment, Lieutenants
Hopper and Marshall, died.
On the 24th February, 1827, among other of.
ficers thanked in General Orders, for zeal evinced
in training and exercising extra corps, Captain
Kyd, of the 2d European Regiment, commanding
the 4th extra native regiment, was mentioned as
one of the officers entitled to the approbation and
acknowledgment of the Commander-in-chief.
On the 12th June, 1827, the following thanks
of the Honorable the Court of Directors were pub-
lished in Government Orders.
“Resolved unanimously, That the thanks of this
Court be given to the Brigadier-Generals, Briga-
diers, field and other officers of His Majesty's and
the Company’s forces, both European and Native,
for their gallant and meritorious conduct in the field
throughout the late operations against the state of
Ava.
“Resolved unanimously, That this Court doth
acknowledge and highly applaud the zeal, discipline,
and bravery, together with the patient endurance of
fatigue, privation and sickness, displayed by the
non-commissioned officers and privates, both Euro-
pean and Native, employed against the Burmese,
and that the thanks of the Court be signified to
them by the officers of their respective corps.”
About the same time of the year, new colours
were presented to the 2d European Regiment, at
Kamptee, by General McDowall, who highly com-
M. M.
530 SERVICES OF THE
plimented the corps on its splendid appearance and
high state of efficiency. -
On the 10th July, the following General Order
by the Madras Government, was published to the
army": - . . .
“The Honorable the Governor in Council directs
that the following order be published in General
Orders, and that minute-guns, sixty-five in number,
be fired at all the military stations under the pre-
sidency of Fort St. George on the occasion therein
mentioned. -
“With sentiments of the deepest concern, the
Government announces the decease of the Honorable
Sir Thomas Munro, Baronet, Knight Commander
of the Most Honorable Order of the Bath, Governor
of the presidency of Fort St. George. This event
occurred at Putteecondah, near Gooty, on the even-
ing of Friday, the 6th instant.
“The eminent person, whose life has been thus
suddenly snatched away, was on the eve of returning
to his native country, honoured with signal marks of
esteem and approbation from his sovereign, from the
East India Company, which he had served for more
than forty-seven years, from every authority with
which he had occasion to co-operate, from the public
at large, and from private friends. From the
earliest period of his service, he was remarkable
among other men. His sound and vigorous under-
standing, his transcendant talents, his indefatigable
application, his varied stores of knowledge, his at-
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 531
tainments as an oriental scholar, his intimate ac-
quaintance with the habits and feelings of the
native soldiers and inhabitants generally ; his
patience, temper, facility of access and kindness
of manner, would have insured him distinction in
any line of employment. These qualities were
admirably adapted to the duties which he had to
perform in organizing the resources and establishing
the tranquillity of those provinces where his latest
breath has been drawn, and where he had long been
known by the appellation of ‘Father of the people.’
In the higher stations, civil and military, which he
afterwards filled, the energies of his character never
failed to rise superior to the exigencies of public
duty. He had been for seven years at the head of
the Government under which he first served as a
cadet, and afterwards became the ablest of its
revenue officers, and acquired the highest distinction
as a military commander. He had raised its cha-
racter and fame to a higher pitch than it ever en-
joyed before. His own ambition was more than
fulfilled, and he appeared to be about to reap, in
honourable retirement, the well-earned rewards of
his services and his virtues, when these have received
the last stamp of value from the hand of death.
“Though sensible how feeble and imperfect must
be any hasty tribute like the present, to Sir Thomas
Munro's merits, yet the Government cannot allow
the event, which they deplore, to be announced to
the public without some expression of their senti-
ments. M M 2
532 SERVICES OF THE
“The flag of Fort St. George will be imme-
diately hoisted half-staff high, and continue so until
SunSet. -
“Minute-guns, sixty-five in number, correspond-
ing with the age of the deceased, will be fired
from the ramparts of Fort St. George.
“Similar marks of respect will be paid to the
memory of Sir Thomas Munro at all the principal
military stations and posts dependent on this pre-
sidency.”
On the 21st of July, a meeting of the inhabitants
of Madras was convened, when among other reso-
lutions the following was adopted:—
“That to perpetuate the remembrance of Sir
Thomas Munro's public and private virtues, a sub-
scription be immediately opened for the purpose of
erecting a statue to his memory.”
In a very short time a sum was raised great be-
yond all precedent : 8000l. was set aside for an
equestrian statue of Sir Thomas Munro, and to
Mr. F. Chantry was entrusted the task of casting
that splendid one of bronze, which now adorns the
esplanade of Fort St. George. A full-length paint-
ing of the illustrious: deceased, and a beautiful en-
graving was also executed. The former is now
hung up in the college-hall at Madras.
The natives of the ceded districts also came for-
ward; and to their proposition to perpetuate the
memory of “The Father of the People,” as Sir
Thomas was there styled, the Government resolved,
|
stºº ºr slº T-Mºo-Bº; ºctºº lºgº, on THE GLAcis ºr rºº sº GEORGE -
--------
- -

FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 533
“That a substantial and proper stone monument
be erected at Gooty over his remains; that a well
be dug and trees planted round the spot at Puttee-
condah, where Sir Thomas Munro died ; and that a
choultry and tank be built at Gooty for the accom-
modation of travellers, to be called ‘The Munro
Choultry and Tank.’”
These buildings and works were subsequently
executed.
In 1831 the remains of the late Sir Thomas
Munro, Bart., K.C.B., were removed from Gooty
under the escort of the 5th regiment of native
infantry, and interred in St. Mary's church, Fort St.
George.
Sir Thomas Munro arrived at Madras in January,
1780, and did duty as a cadet with one of the bat-
talions of the European Regiment in Fort St.
George. He was shortly appointed to the grena-
diers of the corps, and with them accompanied the
armies, under Sir Hector Munro, Sir Eyre Coote,
and General Stewart, during the wars in the Car-
natic with the French and Mysoreans, until the
peace in July, 1783, during which time he was with
the European Regiment at the retreat from Conje-
veram, the relief of Wandiwash, battle of Porto
Nova, siege of Tripasore, the battles of Palliloor
and Sholingur, at the battle of Arnee, and the ope-
rations before Cuddalore.
In 1786 he was promoted to a lieutenancy in the
Madras European Regiment, and joined a battalion
534 SERVICES OF THE
of the corps in Fort St. George, after which time
he did duty with different Sepoy battalions until
1788, when he was appointed an assistant in the
intelligence department under Captain Read, and
continued being employed in confidential situations
during the wars with Tippoo, and at the sieges of
Seringapatam. He was, in 1799, in civil charge of
Canara; in 1800 appointed to the civil administra-
tion of the ceded districts; and in 1817, during the
Mahratta wars, commanded a division of the army,
and reduced the southern Mahratta country.
In 1818 General Munro embarked for England,
and in 1820 returned to India as Governor of Ma-
dras, and continued so until his death.
In July, 1827, a very chaste and elegantly silver-
mounted snuff-mull, of the largest size, was pre-
sented to the mess of the Madras European Re-
giment, by Sir John Malcolm, K.C.B., K.L.S.
The following inscription was engraved upon it:-
“To the Madras European Regiment, from Sir
John Malcolm, K.C.B., K. L.S., in remembrance
of Mahidpoor.” - . .
In General Orders of the 24th of October, the
thanks of the Houses of Parliament were commu-
nicated to the army for their zeal, discipline, and
bravery, during the war in Ava. - -
During 1828 and 1829 the 1st European Regi-
ment was stationed at Masulipatam, and the 2d at
Kamptee.
In June, 1828, intelligence was received of the
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMIENT. 535
death on the 19th of February, in England, of
Major-General Daniel Burr, a very old and distin-
guished officer, who had commenced his military
career, and long served in the Madras European
Regiment. General Burr joined the 1st European
battalion as an ensign in 1767; he served with it
at the reduction of the Ramnadporam and Sheva-
gunga Pollams, at the storming of Ramnad and
capture of Callacoil, and the reduction of the Tan-
jore country. As a captain, General Burr served in
the campaigns of 1781, 1782 and 1783, and com-
manded a company of grenadiers of the Regiment
at Cuddalore. In 1800, as colonel, he commanded
the regiment and troops in the expedition to the
Moluccas, and in 1801 captured the island of
Ternate.
On the 6th of November, Captain Benjamin
Hooper died at Masulipatam ; he had been long
with the regiment, and was present on all active
service with it to the eastward, and throughout the
Mahratta and Burmese wars.
On the 15th of December, 1829, the 1st Euro-
pean Regiment marched out of Masulipatam, en
route vid Hyderabad to Kamptee. On the 1st of
January, 1830, the 1st and 2d European Regi-
ments were ordered to be joined into one regiment,
and designated the “Madras European Regiment,”
to consist of two flank and six battalion companies, the
1st European Regiment forming the right wing, the
2d European Regiment the left wing. The facings
536 SERVICES OF THE
of the corps were at the same time changed from
French grey to white. On the arrival of the right wing
at Kamptee, on the 5th of March, 1830, it relieved
the head-quarters and left, which marched for Ma-
sulipatam, under command of Major Kyd, viá Hy-
derabad, to within sixty-three miles of which city it
had arrived on the 26th of April, when a despatch
was received at about three P.M., requiring it to
move on Hyderabad with the utmost expedition.
The thermometer at the time, in the coolest tents,
was 105". In less than two hours the ground was
cleared, the wing marched all night, rested during
the excessive heat of the following day, continued
its march most part of the night, and arrived under
the walls of Hyderabad at seven o'clock on the
following morning, without leaving behind a single
man. Sixty-three miles, including all stoppages, in
thirty-eight hours, was a wonderful and almost un-
paralleled performance for Europeans in India,
during the hottest season of the year.
The regiment remained encamped under the walls
of the city for seven days, in hourly expectation of
the force being ordered to attack it, but much to the
disappointment of every one, the Hyderabad people
gave in, and the regiment continued its march.
Shortly after it left Hyderabad, the camp was at-
tacked with cholera, and upwards of 300 soldiers
and camp-followers died before they reached Baiz-
warra, forty miles from Masulipatam, where the
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 537
disease left them. The regiment reached its des-
tination in May.
On the breaking out of the Naning war, the
head-quarters and left wing of the regiment were
ordered to Malacca. On the 27th June, 1832, the
detachment and light companies under command of
Captain Puget of the corps, embarked on board
H. M.'s ship “Alligator,” and on the 11th July,
the remaining two companies, under Captain French,
on board H. M.'s ship “Imogen.” Captain Puget's
detachment landed at Malacca on the 13th July,
and continued encamped on Baker's Plain until the
5th August, when, on peace being concluded, they
re-embarked, and were landed at Masulipatam on
the 23rd September. Captain French's detach-
ment arrived at their destination after the peace,
and were not disembarked, but returned in the
“Imogen º’ to Masulipatam, where they landed on
the 21st August. -
On the 23rd October the left wing marched to
Secunderabad, where it arrived on the 19th No-
vember, having on the march lost a number of men
and camp-followers from cholera. It remained at
Secunderabad until the 10th May, 1833, when it
again marched under command of Captain Puget
to join the head-quarters and right wing at Kamptee.
On the 20th May, Captain Puget died, and on the
15th June, after a particularly distressing march
during the hottest season of the year, it arrived at
Kamptee.
538 SERVICES OF THE
In 1832, Dr. William Geddes, the surgeon of
the regiment at Kamptee, was particularly compli-
mented by His Excellency the Commander-in-chief
Sir G. T. Walker, for the excellent management
of his hospital and the success of his treatment,
shewing, compared with the other European corps
in India, so particularly small a proportion of sick
and casualties. Shortly afterwards, Dr. Geddes re-
turned to Europe, and retired from the service ; on
his leaving the regiment his brother officers pre-
sented him with a handsome gold watch as a mark
of their regard and esteem. During the time he
was attached to the regiment, Dr. Geddes, by his
extreme kindness and attention to the sick, and the
very great interest and trouble he took in every
thing that related to the welfare and comfort of all
ranks, made himself universally beloved, and few
officers have left any regiment whose departure has
been so sincerely regretted.
The late Lieutenant-Colonel Elderton had, some
months previous to the junction of the left wing at
Kamptee, assumed command of the head-quarters
of the regiment there. On the arrival of the left
wing, the whole of the regiment, both men and
officers, were immediately mixed and re-formed into
different companies, no one of which but was com-
posed of both men and officers of different wings,
and by this and other means the distinction of 1st
and 2nd regiments, or right and left wings, were as
much as possible abolished, and in a very short time
FIRST MA DRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 539
a uniform system of discipline and interior economy
was introduced throughout the Madras European
regiments. The hardship upon the junior com-
missioned and non-commissioned staff of the corps,
who, on the reorganization of the regiment, were
deprived of their appointments, was considerably
lessened by their shortly being reappointed on the
promotion of the seniors. Lieutenants Neill and
Nicolay, who had been deprived of their appoint-
ments as staff of the right wing, were shortly after-
wards reinstated by the promotion of Captains Duke
and Hawes the adjutant and quarter-master of the
regiment; and the promotion of Messrs. Dick and
Duncan to the rank of warrant officers of the ord-
nance, allowed the two next seniors, Sergeant-major
Williamson and Quarter-master Sergeant Gavin, to
succeed them in the non-commissioned staff of the
regiment. -
In July, 1833, intelligence was received in India
of the death, in England, on the 30th of May, of
Sir John Malcolm. This distinguished officer joined
the Madras European Regiment, as a cadet, in
1781, and was appointed an ensign in the corps, in
October of the same year; and eventually rose to
the rank of captain in it. He served at Seringa-
patam, in 1792, where he was noticed by Lord
Cornwallis. He returned to England in 1794, and
the following year served at the taking of the Cape
of Good Hope, under Sir Alured Clarke, and pro-
cured 400 recruits for the corps, from the German
540 SERVICES OF THE
troops taken prisoners of war on the occasion. On
his return to Madras, he became secretary to the
Commander-in-chief; and in 1798, town-major of
Fort St. George. He afterwards commanded the
Nizam's contingent during the last Mysore cam-
paign, and at the fall of Seringapatam ; and was
one of the commissioners for the settlement of the
Mysore territory. In 1800, Captain Malcolm pro-
ceeded on a mission to Persia. On his return to
India, he was appointed Resident at Mysore, and
continued employed as diplomatic agent for the
Governor-General of India, in concluding most
important treaties with the Mahrattas and Persians.
In 1809, Lieutenant-Colonel Malcolm assumed
command for a short time of the Madras European
Regiment, at Masulipatam, after which he was
again employed in concluding some most important
treaties with Persia, when he was invested by His
Majesty, the King of Persia, with the order of the
lion and sun, and presented with the star of the
order, ornamented with diamonds, and also a valu-
able sword. Brigadier-General Malcolm returned
to Bombay, in 1810, where he remained until his
departure for Europe, in 1812, the object of his
stay there being the compilation of a most valuable
history of Persia. Shortly after his arrival in Eng-
land, in July, 1812, Brigadier-General Malcolm
received the honour of knighthood, from his sove-
reign, and a grant of 50,000 rupees from the Court
of Directors. During Sir John Malcolm's stay in
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 541
England, in April and May, 1813, he was examined
before both Houses of Parliament upon various sub-
jects connected with India, then under discussion.
In 1816, Sir John returned to India; and, in per-
mitting him to return, the Court of Directors re-
commended him in the strongest terms to the
Government of India, for employment suitable to
his rank and former services. He arrived in Bengal
early in 1817, when he was immediately attached as
political agent to the army of the Deccan, and, be-
sides, commanded the 3rd division of that army.—
At the battle of Mahidpoor, in particular, the con-
duct of Sir John Malcolm, in leading the attack
against the left of the enemy’s line, at the head of
his old corps, the Madras European Regiment, was
particularly distinguished, and acknowledged in the
highest terms by Sir Thos. Hyslop, the Commander-
in-chief. The notice taken by Lord Hastings of
Sir J. Malcolm's conduct throughout the war, is
thus expressed in General Orders of the 21st of
February, 1818:-“The chivalrous intrepidity dis-
played by Brigadier-General Sir John Malcolm, in
the battle of Mahidpoor, and the admirable tact
manifested by him in the subsequent negotiations,
advanced the public interests no less than they dis-
tinguished the individual.” In a letter to the select
committee of the 8th of the same month, his lord-
ship likewise remarked,—“The zeal and success of
Sir T. Hyslop merit your complimentary attention.
Sir J. Malcolm has shown equal valour and ability,
542 SERVICES OF THE
joined to indefatigable exertion, so that his beha-
viour deserves cordial notice.” In the British House
of Commons the following panegyric was bestowed
on him, by Mr. Canning, in moving the thanks of
the House to the Commander-in-chief and army of
the Deccan, for the victory at Mahidpoor;-“And
also to Sir John Malcolm, who was second in com-
mand on that occasion, but who is second to none
in valour and renown. The name of that gallant
officer will be remembered in India as long as the
British flag is hoisted in that country.”
The Rajah of Mysore about the same time pre-
sented him with the sword and belt of Holkar, valued
at nearly 2000 rupees, which had been captured at
the battle of Mahidpoor by the Mysore horse.
After the fall of Asseerghur, to the speedy re-
duction of which Sir J. Malcolm's rapid advance so
materially contributed, he was employed in adjust-
ing the claims of Scindia and Holkar. On his
quitting Malwah, in August, 1821, the Supreme
Government of India noticed his conduct, in a let-
ter to the secret committee, as follows:—“That
the controlling, political, and military authority
vested in Sir J. Malcolm had been eminently
serviceable to the public interests.” -
Soon after his arrival at Bombay, he was invested
with the Grand Cross of the Order of the Bath, by
His Excellency, Sir C. Colville, acting for the
Governor-General. In His Excellency's address
was the following paragraph —
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 543
“In your person, Sir John, I can, without fear of
the imputation of flattery, say, that in Europe, as in
Asia, and in every branch of the public service, it
will be freely admitted that the distinction is most
amply and in -every way earned, which has been
long, and will, I hope, be much longer held up
and appreciated as the proud reward alike of
diplomatic and ministerial, as well as of military
merit.”
After visiting Calcutta and Madras, Sir John
Malcolm determined to proceed to Europe over-
land. He quitted India on the 2nd of December,
1821, and arrived in England on the 30th of April,
1822, where, soon after his arrival, he was presented
with a superb vase, valued at 1,500l., as a testimony
of respect from the gentlemen who acted under him
in the Mahratta war of 1818-19. Previous to his
departure from India, in addition to the complimen-
tary order by the Government of Fort St. George,
of the 29th October, 1821, was the following by
His Excellency, the Most Noble the Governor
General in Council, dated Fort William, 20th of
the same month —
“Major-General Sir J. Malcolm, having obtained
the permission of Government to return to Europe,
for the recovery of his health, His Excellency the
Governor-General in Council deems it due to the
distinguished character and talents of that merito-
rious officer, on the occasion of his approaching
departure from India, and consequent resignation
544 SERVICES OF THE
of the high and important military and political
station which he holds in Malwah, to express, in
the most public manner, the sense which the
Government entertains of his eminent merits and
services, and the regret with which it regards the
necessity that now compels him to retire from the
scene where his talents have been displayed with so
much credit to himself, and with such signal benefit
to the public interests.
“To enumerate the various occasions on which
Sir J. Malcolm has been employed by successive
administrations, to fill the most important diplomatic
situations, and for his conduct, in which he has fre-
quently received the highest approbation and ap-
plause of the Government in India, and the most
flattering marks of the favour and satisfaction of the
authorities in England, would far exceed the limits
to which this general expression of the consideration
and esteem of Government must necessarily be
confined. Although His Excellency the Governor-
General in Council refrains, therefore, from the
specific mention of the many recorded services
which have placed Sir J. Malcolm in the first rank
of those officers of the Honourable Company’s
service, who have essentially contributed to the
renown of the British arms and councils in India,
his Lordship in Council cannot omit this opportu-
nity of declaring his unqualified approbation of the
manner in which Sir J. Malcolm has discharged the
arduous and important functions of his high political
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 545
and military station in Malwah. By a happy com-
bination of qualities, which could not fail to win the
esteem and confidence both of his own countrymen
and of the native inhabitants of all classes; by the
unremitting personal exertion and devotion of his
time and labour to the maintenance of the interests
confided to his charge; and by an enviable talent
for inspiring all who acted under his orders with his
own energy and zeal, Sir J. Malcolm has been ena-
bled, in the successful performance of the duty
assigned him, in Malwah, to surmount difficulties of
no ordinary stamp, and to lay the foundations of
repose and prosperity in that extensive province,
but recently reclaimed from a state of Savage anar-
chy, and a prey to every species of rapine and
devastation. The Governor-General in Council
feels assured, that the important services thus ren-
dered to his country, by Sir J. Malcolm, at the
close of an active and distinguished career, will be
not less gratefully acknowledged by the authorities
at home, than they are cordially applauded by those
under whose immediate orders they have been
performed. .
“By order of His Excellency the Most Noble
the Governor-General in Council.
(Signed) “GEORGE SwintoN,
“Secretary to the Government.”
Sir John Malcolm had intended to pass the
remainder of his life in his native land; but at the
earnest solicitation of the Court of Directors and
N N +
546 SERVICES OF THE
His Majesty's ministers, he once more, in 1827,
sailed for India as Governor of Bombay, which
office he held, with the highest distinction, until
his return to England, where, up to the time of his
death, in May, 1833, he took a very leading part in
the numerous discussions at that period, on the re-
newal of the Company’s charter, and other important ,
political changes. Among the many illustrious men
who have at different times belonged to the Madras
European Regiment, the name of Malcolm will
ever be famous in Indian history: few have so ably
and zealously served their country, and still fewer
have been the means of contributing more to its
greatness, and the extension of our Indian empire.
During his retirement from more active employ-
ment, Sir J. Malcolm had attained considerable
celebrity as an author. Among many valuable
works written by him, are, the “History of Persia,”
“Sketches of Persia,” “Memoirs of Central India,”
“The Administration of British India,” “Life of
Lord Clive,” &c. &c.
Chantry executed two splendid statues of Sir J.
Malcolm. One is erected in Westminster Abbey,
London; the other in the Town-Hall, Bombay;
both by subscription—one by his friends in Eng-
and, the other by the community of Bombay. A
pillar also, built of granite, 100 feet high, was erec-
ted to his memory on a high hill overhanging the
town of Lanholm. This was the exclusive act of
his fellow Dalesmen, of the Esk.
STATUE FIRECTED IN MEMORY OF SIR. I. MAILCOLM.IN WESTMINSTER ABIME".
Lºndºn smith Eliºthill
-- º -

FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 547
Towards the end of the year, intelligence was
received of the death in England, of another very
old officer of the corps, Lieutenant-General Sir
Thomas Bowser, K.C.B. Sir Thomas Bowser
had joined the Madras European Regiment, as an
ensign, in December, 1773, and rose in it through
every grade until he attained the rank of Lieutenant-
Colonel, in 1797. Sir Thomas had served with the
regiment at the capture of Pondicherry, in 1778, in
the campaign of 1780, where he was a lieutenant in
Captain Ferrier's Company of Grenadiers of the
regiment, and was wounded and taken prisoner at
Colonel Baillie’s defeat. Lieutenant Bowser conti-
nued a prisoner, heavily ironed, until 1784. He
afterwards served in all the other wars in India, until
his departure for Europe in January, 1826. During
his long and distinguished service in India, Sir
Thomas Bowser had twice been Commander-in-chief
of the Madras army. He never entirely recovered
from the wounds he received in 1780, and the bru-
tal treatment he, in common with the rest of the
prisoners, experienced, whilst a prisoner of war to
the Mysore tyrant. The galling of the heavy irons
on his legs whilst confined in the dungeons at Ban.
galore, produced a disease in the legs that could
never be reduced, and which eventually carried off
this veteran and kind-hearted soldier, on the 14th of
July, 1833.
The regiment continued stationed at Kamptee
from 1833 to the end of 1839. The arrangements
N N 2
548 SERVICES OF THE
for consolidating the two regiments into one had
been generally complained of by the officers of the
European corps in all the presidencies, and had
been the subject of memorial from the Madras and
Bombay regiments. In 1838 these were replied to
in the following General Orders by Government:—
General Orders, by the Right Honourable the Go-
yernor in Council.
“Simla, 29th June, 1838.
“The Right Honourable the Governor-General
directs the publication of the following paragraph of
a letter from the Honourable Court of Directors, in
the military department to the address of the
Governor-General in India, No. 3, of 1838, dated
the 11th of April last.
“The Government of Madras has forwarded to
us several memorials from officers of the European
regiment at that presidency, bringing to our notice
the consequences entailed upon them as to rank
and certain pecuniary advantages, by the arrange-
ment of the year 1829, under which the two regi-
ments of European Infantry of five companies each
were incorporated into one regiment of eight com-
panies, but the officers still remained for the pur-
poses of promotion, as they stood before the incor-
poration, viz., in two separate corps or wings.
“A memorial on the same subject was preferred
to us, by officers of the Bombay European regi-
ment, in the year 1832, to which we replied on the
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 549
24th of October, 1832, through the Government of
Bengal, in the following terms:—
“‘We conceive in opinion with the Governor-
General, as expressed in his minute of the 7th of
November, 1831, that no supercession, properly so
called, has been the result of the new form given
to the European regiments by the orders of your
Government of the 2d of November, 1829; and
that no argument can be founded upon a fortuitous
irregularity of promotion among the officers at-
tached to the two wings of those regiments, for
setting aside an arrangement which has reduced the
expence and improved the efficiency of these corps.’
“We still adhere to these sentiments; but we
are of opinion that for the satisfaction and content-
ment of the officers, measures should be taken
which will have the effect of obviating prospectively
the supercession in regimental duties of one officer
by another in the same regiment.
“ With this view we now direct that officers of
the European regiments, hereafter promoted in any
one wing, shall not be entitled to regimental rank
in virtue of such promotion, unless they were pre-
viously the senior of their rank in the regiment;
but so long as they serve with the regiment their
rank so obtained shall be brevet only, and not re-
gimental; they will notwithstanding be entitled to
the pay and allowances of their advanced rank, and
to its full advantages for line promotion.
“With a view to the adoption of an eventual
550 SERVICES OF THE
arrangement by which all such questions shall be
obviated, we further direct that no vacancies amongst
the ensigns, in one of the wings, either the right or
the left, as you may think most expedient, be here-
after filled up ; but that as vacancies for ensigns
occur in it, appointments of an equal number be
made to the remaining wing. When all the ensigns
now attached to the wing to be reduced shall have
been promoted, future vacancies of lieutenants in it
will not be filled in that wing but by promotions in
the wing which is retained, and so on in the other
ranks. The establishment of the officers in the
European regiment will thus eventually be two
lieutenant-colonels, two majors, ten captains, six-
teen lieutenants, and eight ensigns, with one colo-
nel; the number of colonels in the infantry branch
of the service calculated as including two for the
European regiment, to remain as at present, the
junior being unattached.
“The number of companies may in future be
fixed at ten instead of eight, with sixty-five privates
in each.
“The arrangements detailed in the foregoing
paragraphs will be adopted simultaneously at the
three presidencies on the 1st of September next,
from which date, effect will be given to the Honour-
able Court's Orders, in regard to the commissioned
officers of the Company's European Infantry Regi-
ments; those of the left wings of regiments, respec-
tively, being gradually absorbed in the manner pre-
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 551
scribed by the Court, as casualties shall hereafter
occur in that wing.
“From the same date, the regiments above spe-
cified will be formed of ten companies each, of four
sergeants, four corporals, two drummers, and sixty-
five privates per company.”
“ 18th of September, 1838, No. 159.-With
reference to G. O. G., No. 127, dated 31st of
July, 1838, the following revision of the establish-
ment of the Madras European Regiment to have
effect from the 1st instant ; and all ranks in excess
of the number herein laid down, to become super-
numeraries until vacancies occur to bring them on
the established strength:”
REVISED ESTABLISHMENT.
One colonel, two lieutenant-colonels, two majors,
ten captains, sixteen lieutenants, eight ensigns, two
surgeons, two assistant-surgeons, one sergeant-major,
one quarter-master-sergeant, one schoolmaster-ser-
geant, forty sergeants, forty corporals, twenty drum-
mers, and 650 privates; non-effective, one adju-
tant, one quarter-master, ten colour-sergeants, two
drum and fife-majors, one drill-sergeant, and one
drill-corporal.
On the addition to the army, by Government
Orders of the 16th of August, 1839, of another
European regiment, a detail of non-commissioned
officers, drummers, and corporals, was transferred
from the regiment, and marched from Kamptee in
September, en route to Arnee, where the new 2d
552 SERVICES OF THE
European Light Infantry Regiment was directed to
be embodied (from the 16th of October), when the
old corps was again designated the 1st Madras
European Regiment. - -
On the 31st of December the A and B compa-
nies of the regiment marched from Kamptee, under
command of Major Howden, en route to Kurnool
to relieve two companies of H. M.'s 39th Regi-
ment; but their destination was afterwards changed,
and they were ordered to Secunderabad, where they
arrived on the 11th of February, 1840, the same
day on which the E. G. and H. companies marched
from Kamptee, under command of Captain Weir,
and relieved H. M.'s 55th at Secunderabad on the
16th of March. . .
On the 28th February, new colours were pre-
sented to the head-quarters of the regiment at
Kamptee, by Major-general John Woulfe, com-
manding the Nagpore Subsidiary Force, and on
the 7th March, the regiment having been relieved
by H. M.'s 39th regiment, marched under com-
mand of Major Kerr, and arrived at Secunderabad
on the 10th of April. With the exception of the
1st Bombay European Regiment, which, before its
transfer to the East India Company on the 23rd
September 1668, had been raised by Charles II. in
1661, and sent out the following year to occupy the
island of Bombay, H. M.'s 39th was the first regiment
in the royal army which landed in India. Alder- .
corn's regiment, the present 39th, first landed at
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 553
Madras in Sept. 1754, and were recalled to Europe
in 1757, when nearly all the private soldiers were
transferred into the Bengal and Madras European
corps, and many of the officers entered the Com-
pany’s service. During its service in India, H. M.'s
39th were frequently serving with the Madras Euro-
peans in different affairs, and particularly at the re-
capture of Calcutta and operations near it, the cap-
ture of Chandernagore, and at the battle of Plassey,
when, after the expiration of nearly a century, the
two regiments again met in Central India. -
In February, the following establishment for each
of the regiments of European infantry was fixed
by the Right Honorable the Governor in Council,
and promulgated in General Orders.
One colonel, 2 lieutenant-colonels, 2 majors, 10
captains, 16 lieutenants, 8 ensigns, 1 surgeon, 2
assistant-surgeons, 1 sergeant-major, 1 quarter-
master sergeant, 50 sergeants, 20 drummers, 50
corporals, and 800 privates. I adjutant, 1 quarter-
master, 10 colour sergeants, 10 pay sergeants, 1
hospital sergeant, 1 schoolmaster-Sergeant, and 2
assistant-schoolmasters: 1 drum-major, 1 fife-major,
1 drill-sergeant, and 1 drill-corporal, being included
in the above.
On leaving Nagpore, a very handsome marble
tablet was put up in the church at Kamptee, on
which was the following inscription :-
sº
554 SERVICES OF THE
SACRED
To the Memory of the undermentioned officers of the 1st Madras European
Regiment, who died at or near Kamptee, during the time the troops served in
THE NAGPor E SUBSIDIARY FORCE.
- Captains.
James Roy died 5th September, 1825
James Victor Brown 3 9 5th June, 1831
Joseph Puget - 3 y 20th May, 1833
Charles Nutting $ 2 29th September, 1837
Edward Simpson 3 * 30th July, 1839
* -- Lieutenants.
Stephen Wm. S. Shairp died 23d April, 1830
Naylor Burrard 9 y 3d February, 1834
Charles Young 5 8th May, 1835
Francis Hamilton 3 y 14th February, 1837
Ensigns. ;
John Mathews died 28th May, 1828
James Clarke 5 § 21st September, 1833
William Newby 75 16th February, 1836
Surgeon Thomas Bond $ 2 28th July, 1829
Assist.-Surgeon John Davies , , 15th April, 1837
Also to - -
Nineteen sergeants, two drummers, fourteen corporals,
and three hundred and ninety privates of the regiment, whose remains
are interred in the churchyard adjoining.
THIS TABLET
Is erected by the officers of the First Madras European Regiment, on the
occasion of the corps quitting the station in the year 1840, as a token of their
esteem and regard for their deceased brother officers and soldiers.
By a General Order by Government of the 12th
January, 1841, the pay and allowances of the Eu-
ropean troops, women, and children, in the three
presidencies, were equalised according to the Ben-
gal standard, by which the Madras soldier gained
many advantages, more particularly married soldiers
and their families; the European wives of soldiers
retaining their monthly pay of five rupees, with the
addition of 2% rupees for each legitimate child,
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 555
until it attained the age of fourteen years, or was
otherwise provided for. East Indian wives of soldiers
who before received no pay whatever, were allowed,
if at the same time daughters of European soldiers,
3} rupees per mensem, and their legitimate children
the same allowance and on the same conditions as
those of Europeans. -
In March, the following highly complimentary
order was received at regimental head-quarters,
and was subsequently published to the army in the
General Orders by Government of the 12th March,
1841 : immediately after its receipt it was read to
the regiment, paraded for the purpose :
“The Right Honorable the Governor in Council
having had under consideration the many honorable
services of the 1st Madras European Regiment,
whose career is to be traced through the most
eventful (periods of the military history of British
India, has been pleased to order that in commemo-
ration of its victories under Lawrence, Clive, Sir
Eyre Coote, Lord Cornwallis, and other distin-
guished generals, it shall bear emblazoned upon its
colors the motto “Spectamur Agendo,” and the
names of the following battles and expeditions in
which it has borne part :
“Arcot ; which it successfully defended under
Lord Clive in 1751.
“Plassey; to which place it accompanied Lord
Clive in 1756, and assisted in the victory gained on
the 23rd June, 1757.
556 - SERVICES OF THE
“Condore; where it greatly distinguished itself
under Colonel Forde, in December 1758.
“Wandiwash; for the victory on the 20th
January, 1760.
“Sholingur ; where it fought with success on the
27th September, 1781.
“Nundy-Droog; which it assisted to eapture in
1791, and for which His Lordship in Council is
pleased to permit it also to bear a royal tiger on the
colours and appointments.
“Amboyna, Ternate, Banda; to which islands
the regiment proceeded with the expeditions in
1796 and 1809-10. -
Pondicherry; the corps having been employed at
the sieges and reduction in 1761, 1778, and 1793.
“In reviewing the services of this gallant regi-
ment, the Right Honorable the Governor in Council
has had before him various records of its employ-
ment in the early wars of the Carnatic, and in
Southern India, of which the present brief notice
gives but a general indication, and for which it is
but necessary to refer to the military operations at
different times near Trichinopoly, from the year
1746 to 1761, to its share in the resistance against
the French under Lally, Conflans, Bussy, Law, and
other enterprising commanders; its various engage-
ments in the Northern Circars and Cuttack, and its
service in Ceylon in 1795-96.
“The 1st European Regiment was actively em-
ployed throughout the campaigns against Hyder Ally
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. . 557
and Tippoo ; during the latter it assisted in the
storming of Bangalore, and in the engagement
near the walls of Seringapatam under the command
of Lord Cornwallis; and already does it bear on
its colours testimonials of the last Mahratta war, in
which it was present at the sieges of Talnair, Mal-
ligaum, and Asseerghur, and of the bravery and
devotedness which were so conspicuous in Burmah.
“The Right Honourable the Governor in Council
feels that in conferring these distinctions upon the
1st Madras European Regiment, he does but accord
a tribute of well-merited honor to the army of Fort
St. George, and his Lordship is assured that the
decorated banners of its oldest corps, while exhibit-
ing a proud memorial of past achievements, will
never cease to wave over soldiers whose good con-
duct in garrison and bravery in the field, will well
maintain what has been so nobly won by their pre-
decessors in arms.” -
Before relinquishing the command of the Hy-
derabad Subsidiary Force, the late Major-General
James Wahab, C.B., one of the colonels of the
regiment, published a Division Order, of which the
following is an extract:— - -
“Secunderabad, Head-Quarters, Hyderabad Subsidiary Force,
“29th August, 1841.
“It is Major-General Wahab’s pride to find his
name enrolled as one of the Colonels of the 1st
Madras European Regiment, whose eulogium has
lately been proclaimed by much higher authority
558 SERVICES OF THE
than his, but he feels it due to this fine regiment to
state, that for upwards of eighteen months during
which it has been under his divisional command, not
one man has been brought to trial for any serious
crime. The Major-General in his retirement will be
most happy to hear of its continued good conduct.”
In December, new colours were presented to the
corps by Major-General Riddell, the whole of the
Hyderabad Subsidiary Force being paraded in
review order to witness the ceremony.
In handing over the colours to the regiment, the
Major-General delivered an impressive address, and
was replied to by Lieutenant-Colonel Bell, com-
manding the regiment.
In February, 1842, considerable excitement pre-
vailed among the native troops at Secunderabad, in
consequence of their being deprived of their batta;
from the 5th to the 9th, most of the native regi-
ments were in little better than a state of open
mutiny, and during the whole of that period the
regiment was frequently employed against their
native comrades,'— a harassing and painful duty,
but which was performed in a most satisfactory
manner. The conduct of the regiment, particularly
their activity and promptness in getting under arms,
and the good temper they showed towards the
mutineers was the astonishment and admiration of
every one. e
In one of his despatches to the Supreme Govern-
ment, General Fraser, the British Resident at
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 559
Hyderabad, thus expressed himself:—“Expressive
of my approval of the conduct of the 1st Madras
European Regiment, under its commanding officer,
Lieutenant-Colonel Bell, the behaviour of this regi-
ment has been perfectly exemplary, and such as
justly to entitle them to the highest commendation.”
After the disposal of all the prisoners, the follow-
ing extract from Division Orders, by Major-General
M. Riddell, commanding Hyderabad Subsidiary
Force, was published.
“Secunderabad, February 12th, 1842.
“The tranquillity of the cantonment having been
restored, Major-General Riddell takes this early op-
portunity of expressing in orders his entire appro-
bation of the troops of all arms who have been
called upon to act in support of the authority of
Government contravened by a portion of their mis-
guided comrades.
“The distinctions lately conferred on the 1st
Madras European Regiment have shown the cha-
racter of that corps when employed in the field, and
it will now be the Major-General's gratifying duty
to represent in its merited colours their steady disci-
pline in garrison. Nothing could exceed the good
conduct, temper, and firmness evinced by the men
when brought into contact with the natives. No
fault in any individual tended in the slightest degree
to detract from the perfect discipline evinced by the
corps, thus proving that all felt that the character of
the British soldier is to be upheld not alone by
* N N 8
560 SERVICES OF THE
bravery in action, but steadiness and orderly conduct
in quarters, and Major-General Riddell feels as-
sured that this fine corps will ever continue to
deserve the high opinion now entertained of it.”
On the 12th April, a General Order by Govern-
ment was published, in which instructions were
issued as to the disposal of the native troops who
had evinced a highly insubordinate spirit on the
recent occasion at Secunderabad, and its sense was
recorded of the good conduct of those troops who
stood forward to maintain authority.
The following extract refers to the regiment on
the occasion.
“The Right Honorable the Governor in Council
having received the instructions of the Government
of India upon the reports from the British Resident
at Hyderabad, and the Major-General commanding
the Subsidiary Force, of the recent insubordinate
proceedings of a portion of the native troops at
Secunderabad, proceeds to communicate to the
army the following observations and orders.
“The exemplary conduct of the Head-Quarters
of the 1st battalion artillery, and of the 1st Madras
European Regiment under Lieutenant-Colonel
Bell, merits the highest praise. His Lordship
desires that it may be intimated to these corps, that
their steady and soldier-like behaviour upon this
painful occasion has received the most favourable
notice of the Government.”
During the two years and upwards the 1st Madras.
FIRST MADRAS EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 561
European Regiment has been stationed at Secun-
derabad, it has received a great many recruits, and
is at present about 1200 strong, in a high state of
fficiency, and most anxious for the opportunity to
add to the honours and distinctions already won and
emblazoned on its colours.
Since its arrival in the Nizam's dominions, the
corps has not suffered beyond its average from sick-
ness ; several fine soldiers have, however, died, and
three very promising young officers, Lieutenants
McKenzie, Waller, and Jourdan, have been sud-
denly carried off.
In bringing this record of the corps to a conclu-
sion, nearly two hundred years since its existence as
a military body, and almost one hundred after its
formation into a battalion, it may, without the impu-
tation of flattery, be said, that no regiment in India
has done greater service to the state, –none has
ever surpassed it in gallantry in the field, or good
conduct in quarters; nor can any corps, in referring
to its past history, more appropriately quote the
motto “Spectamur agendo.”
THE END,
G E N E R A L IND EX.
vºv-rºw.r.º.
Particulars concerning the Formation, Organization, Uniform, State of
the Corps, &c., are referred to under the head “Regiment.”
ABBott, Lieut., at Pagoda point, 450
Abercrombie, Gen., arrival of, Feb.
1792, 361
Abington, Major, (Bombay Army)
at Tellicherry, 304
Adams, Lieut., killed at Sittang, 487
Adams, Major, at Moorshedabad,
Mootejil, and Gheriah, 215; at
Patna, 217
Adnet, Capt., killed at Condore, 146
African slaves and topasses in the
forces, 2
Agnew, , at Seringapatam, 381
Airey, Lieut., at Chingleput, 152; at
the Mount, 159; at Conjeveram,
164
“Aldercorn’s” Regiment (now Her
Majesty's 39th) first regt. sent to
India, 118; retrospect of, 552
Aldercorn, Col., at Wandiwash, 135;
recalled, 137
Alighur and Thanah, capture of, 123
Allen, Ensign, at Banda, 401
Allam Khan, governor of Madura,
defends his fort against Captain
Cope, 32
Amalparrah taken by assault, 189
Amboor, assault of, under M. D’Au-
teuil, 23
relief of, 1767,233
Amboyna, capture of, 368; in 1810,
392
Andamans, arrival at of corps, 440
Anderson, Lieut., wounded at Car-
rangooly, 284
Andrews, Capt., notice of, 118
— Mr., at Madras, 145
Lieut., killed, 247
Maj. A., in the Deccan,
; 418; wounded at Malligaum,
Angrias, the pirate, attack upon the
forts of, 120
Anicul, capture of, 236
An-war-oodean, Nabob of Arcot, his
war with Chundah Saib, 22
Arcot taken by the English 1751,
38 ; invested by Chundah Saib
and the French, 40; storm of by
the French, 43 ; capture of, 1760,
186; siege of (1780) raised, 275;
plunder of, 315
Arlier, battle near, 244
Armegon, English factory at, re-
moved to Madras, 2
Armstrong, Capt. (Bombay Eur. R.)
125
Arnee, battle of, 47; battle of 1782,
310; ambuscade near, 312
Arras, battle of, 259
Artillery, part of the garrison of
Fort St. George in 1690, 7; in-
creased in 1691, 8
Asseerghur, siege of, 429
Astrue, M., French commander at
Seringam, 91, 98, 101 ; wounded,
102
Avaracourchy, capture of,325; again
in 1790, 336
Bahar, campaign of Shah Zada, 211
Bahoor, battle of, 76
Baillie, Col., at Perambaucum, 275;
prisoner and wounded at Pallilore,
279
Lieut., wounded and prisoner
at Pallilore, 280
Baird, Capt., (afterwards Sir David)
wounded, 281
Balasore burnt, 7.
Ballapah, son-in-law of Morai Row,
killed, 94
Ballipoor, affair near, 347
Banda, capture of, 368; in 1810,
399
Bangalore, disaster at, 243; opera-
tions before, .343; capture of,
344
O O 2
564
INDEX.
Bannatyn, Capt., killed at Conje-
veram, 164
Bantam, detachments to, 1
Baramahal, sixteen hill-forts cap-
tured, 235
Barnet, Commodore, despatched with
a squadron in 1745, 13; his opera-
tions on Coromandel coast, and
death, 14
Barrabuttee, fort of, capture of, 386
Basden, Major, at Whitehouse Pa-
goda, 468, 469
Bassein, siege and capture of, 272
Beerboom, victory at, 214
Belcher, Mr., killed, 124
Bell, Lieut.-Col., at Hyderabad, 559
Bellacombe, M., French governor of
Pondicherry, 3d siege, 269
Bengal, Nabob of, intrigues of, 127;
operations in 1759, 206
Bermuth, pass of, 388
Bernadotte, (afterwards Marshal and
King of Sweden,) at Cuddalore,
322
Black, Capt., wounded, 155
Blair, , wounded at Black Town,
151 --
Blane, Col., at Cuddalore, 318
Bond, Dr., at Masulipatam, 326
— Sergt., killed at Kemmendine,
456
Bonnivaux, Capt., at Cuddalore, 323
Boscomar, Admiral, at the siege of
Pondicherry in 1748, 18
Bourdonaise, M. de la, the French
admiral, his expedition to the
Coromandel coast, 14; his siege
and capture of Madras, 14
Boujour, Major, at Changama, 226;
(Lieut.-Col.) at Callacoil, 255
Bowa-Peer, affair at, 260
Bowser, Sir Thos. (Lieut.), wounded
and taken prisoner at Pallilore,
280; (Capt.) at Dindigul, 337;
(Lieut.-Gen.) takes the command
of the army,435; takes leave, 516;
‘. his death, 547
Boyce, Lieut., death of, 528
Braithwaite, Col., at Mahé, 270; at
Tanjore, 304; at Mahadapatam,
305; at Nagore, 305; his brave
defence at the Coleroon river, 307;
vote of thanks to him and the
forces at Pondicherry,369; (Maj.-
Gen.) departure for Europe, 385
Brereton, Major, at Black Town,
150; takes the command of King's
troops, 163; (Col.) at Wandiwash
and Trivatore, 172, 180; death of,
185 -
Bridges, Capt., killed, 124
Ensign, at Cortalum and
Totcum, 174
Brooke, Lieut., killed, 155
Capt., at Mulwalgul, 239
Brown, Col., death of, at battle of
Pallilore, 294
Capt., at Arnee, 310; (Col.)
departure for Europe, 385; (Maj.-
Gen.) death of, 527
Browne, Lieut.-Col., at Mahé, 270
Bruce, Maj.-Gen., at Cuddalore, 318
Bucannan, Capt., Bombay Eur. R.,
125
Budge-Budge, capture of, 122
Bullock, Lieut., killed at Black Town,
151
Burmah, embarkation for,439; cam-
paign in, 440
Burr, Capt. D., at Cuddalore, 317;
(Col.) at Ternate, 384; (Maj.-
Gen.) death of, 535
Bussy, Marquis of, at the assault of
Amboor, 23; at Arcot, 174; pri-
soner at Wandiwash, 182
Butler, Lieut., wounded at Rangoon,
461 -
Buxar, battle of, 218
Callacoil, in Marawah, surprise of,
255
Calcutta, taken by the Nabob of
Bengal, 121; retaken by Col.
Clive, 123; invested by the French
in 1757, 124
Callender, Capt., at Condore, 145;
killed at Masulipatam, 168.
Calliaud, Capt., at Trichinopoly, 102,
104; convoy affair at Trichinpoly,
114; at Madura, 134; at St. Thome,
156; (Major) takes command of
Company’s troops, 163; at Con-
jeveram, wounded, 164; in Ben-
gal, 170; (Col.) at Patna, 211,
214; (Brigad.-Gen.) death of, 402
Campbell, Capt., escort French pri-
soners, 75 - --
— Col., at Cuddalore, 318
— Sir A., takes the command,
436; his death, in Dec. 1824, 516
— Surgeon, notice of, 326
Candeish, hill-forts, reduction of,423
cº, Capt., killed near Donabew,
469 -
Carberry, Lieut., his death at Ternate,
409
INDEX.
565
Carnac, Major, at Gyah-Maunpore,
214; at Patna, 218
Carnatic, war with Doost Ally, in
1741, 11; operations in the, in
1757, 137; movements in Dec.
1759, 174; campaign of 1765,219;
invasion of by Hyder, 1780, 274;
the passes into secured, 350
Caroor, capture of, 325
Carrangooly, capture of, 173; storm
of, 283; destroyed, 314
Cathcart, Lieut.-Col., at Cuddalore,
317
Caveripatam, affair of, 225; surren-
der of, 250
Ceylon, corps formed for, 1796, 369;
flank companies there, 404
Chadds, Capt. (R.N.), at Pegue,453;
at Kemmendine, 460, 465
Chamberlain, Gunner, commended,
456
Chambers, Lieut., at Sittang, 508,
514; (Maj.) at Kemmendine, 449
Champness, Lieut., at Vellore, 301
Chandernagore, skirmish at, 123;
capture of, 125; affair with the
Dutch, 207
Changama, battle of, 225
Charlton, Lieut., wounded at Sittang,
507; again wounded at Sittang,
514, 515
Charnock, Mr.,
Hooghly, 6
Chase, Capt., at Trivadi, 88
Ensign, wounded at Black
Town, 151
Cheape, Capt., at Kemmendine, 449
Chillamberam, capture of, 190; at-
tack of, 286
Chingleput, surrender of, 80; rein-
forced, 144
Chinsurah, hostilities of the Dutch
at, 207 -
Chisholm, Lieut., at Conjeveram, 176
Chittagong attack, 6; 1689, 7
Chittapet, capture of, 185
Chittoor, capture of, 302
Chouke, battle near, 273
Chundah. Saib, proceedings in the
Carnatie, 22; surrenders to the
Tanjore General, and afterwards
assassinated, 74; his character, 75
Civil servants, in the army prohibit-
ed. 3
- Clarke, Capt., at Sugarloaf Rock, 62
Ens., killed at Pallilore, 280
Clifford, Capt., artillery, at Mahé,
270 -
his defence of
Clive, Lord, (then Mr.) a prisoner of
war at capture of Madras in 1745;
escapes, 15; made ensign, 16;
(Ensign), distinguishes himself at
siege of Pondicherry, 18; (Lieut.),
at Devi Cottah, 19; at Wolcondah,
34; at Verdachellum, 37; (Capt.),
at Arcot, 38, 40, 46; at Arnee, 47;
at Samiaveram, 66; at Wolcondah,
72; at Covelong and Chingleput,
79; on furlough in Nov. 1751,
80; (Col.), arrives from England,
Oct. 1755, 120; serves against
Pirate forts, 120; defence of Cal-
cutta, 124; made Omrah of the
Mogul empire, with Jaghire of
30,000l. per annum, now “Clive's
Fund,” 207; Governor-General in
May 1765, 220; return to Eng-
land, 1767, 222; honours awarded
him, 222; Sir J. Malcolm's eulo-
gium on him, 222; his death in
London, Nov. 1774, 261; review
of his career, 261 ; his conduct
questioned in Parliament, 263;
his dignified vindication, 263,265
Close, Sir Barry, at Seringapatam,
381; death of, 403; his monu-
ment in St. Mary’s, Fort St.
George, 404, 433
Coconadah, affair at, 174
Coiladdy, affair at, 62
Colar, capture of, 236
Cole, Capt., (R.N.) at Banda, 399
Coleman, Lieut., killed at Mahid-
poor, 416
Colla Abdulla, Nabob
poisoned, 13
Collins, Capt., at Cuddalore, 323
Colombo, capture of, 368
Condore, battle of, 37; battle of,
1758, 145
Conflans, M. French, commander at
Rajamundry, 145
Conjeveram, affair at, 39; taken from
the French, 49; operations near,
58, 59; defence of, 135; capture
of, 164; fired by Hyder Ali, 275
Conroy, Lieut.-Col., assumes com-
mand of the Regt. 472; killed at
Sittang, 486 -
Cook, Major, at Black Town,
(wounded), 151; at Mahé, 270
Coombes, Capt. at Rajdier, 423
Coote, Sir Eyre, at Calcutta, 123;
at Gutwah, 127; at Plassey, 129;
at Madras, 1759, 169; at Caran-
gooly, 173; battle of Wandiwash,
of Arcot,
566
INDEX.
177; at Permacoil (wounded),
188; at Villenore, 192; at Pondi-
cherry, 198; his return to the
command, order by him, 271 ;
commander-in-chief in the Car-
natic, 281; at Carrangooly, 283;
at the Pollams, 298; illness of,
314
Cope, Captain, service at Porto Novo
in 1749, 19; at Waldore, 26; at
Trichinopoly, 31; at Tinnevelly
and Madura, 31; wounded at
Kistnaveram, 56 -
Cornwallis, Lord, assumes command
of the army in Mysore, 342; at
Seringapatam, 348; at Oossoor,
350; at Seringapatam, 359
Cosby, Ensign, (afterwards Sir Henry)
at Oulgarry redoubt, 197; at Arian-
copang redoubt, 198; (Capt.) at
Changama, 226 ; Mysore camp,
236; at Oossoor, 242; wounded
near Arlier, 245; (Lieut.-Col.) at
Tinnevelly, 327
Cossimbazar and Patna taken by the
Moguls, 7
Cotgrave, Major, at Paniani, 314;
killed at Cuddalore, 322
Cotton, Gen, at Panlang, 467; let-
ter of retirement, 522
Court, Capt., (Artill.) at Amboyna,
392,393
Covelong, surrender of, 79
Coverpauk, battle at, 59
Covin Sing, Subadar, gallantry at
Pondicherry, 199
Cowly, Capt., at Changama, 226
Crie, Lieut., killed at Rayacotta, 352
Crillon, French General, 171 ; his
barbarity, 172
Crowe, Lieut., killed at Seringam,
82
Crowly, Ensign, at Poonamallee, 149
Cuddalore, surrender of to the
French, 139 ; attacked by the
French 1748, 17; defence of, 190;
surrender of to the French, 308;
battle before, 316; French fleet
appear in the offing, and rein-
forced it, 321
Cufley, Capt., at Mahidpoor, 418
Cuppage, Capt., at Vellore, 302;
(Major) at Damicotta, 363
Cursham, Capt., killed at Sittang,
508, 515
Cuttack, capture of, 385
Cutwah, capture of, 127
Daboun, battle of, 259 .
Dacca, Nabob of, war against in
1685, 5 -
D'Ache, Count, French Admiral, en-
gagement with Admiral Pollock,
138
Dallah, capture of, 440; stockades
carried, 451, 463
Dallas, (afterwards Lieut.-Gen. Sir
Thos.) his fame as a swordsman,
311
Dalrymple, Maj., at Seringapatam,
362
Dalton, Capt., at Wolcondah, 34; at
Utatoor, 35; at Kistnaveram, 56;
at Trichinopoly, 50; at Sugar-loaf
Rock, 62; at Elmiseram, 64; at
Utatoor, 69; at Putchanda, 70;
quells a plot at Trichinopoly, 78;
escapes assassination, 78 ; sor-
ties, 89
Damal Cherry, action at, 11
Damas, Chevalier de, at Cuddalore,
322
Damicotta and Sattimungulum, cap-
ture of, 363
Daood Khan, treachery of, 9
D’Auteuil, M., commands the French
at Amboor, 23; at Villanore, 26;
his defence of Volcondah, 73
Davaporam, capture of, 325
Davies, Capt., at Carrangooly, 283
Lieut., killed at Mallygaum,
425
Deare, Surgeon, notice of, 325
Deccan, the corps employed in the
Mahratta war in 1817, 409
Dencanicota, capture of, 236
D'Estaigne, Count, French Admiral
with a fleet at Madras, 137; taken
prisoner, 152
D'Esterre, Lieut., wounded at As-
Seerghur, 432
De Wassevot, Capt., at Wandiwash,
183; Pondicherry, 185
Devi Cottah, fort of, attack of, 19
Dickinson, Capt., at Sittang, 488,
515 ',
Dindigul, capture of, 325; again in
1790, 336
Donabew, operations before, 470;
capture of, 471
Donaghue, Lieut.-Col., stockade near
Donabew, 469
Doost Ally, Nabob in 1732, 10
D'Orres, arrival of a fleet under at
Pondicherry, 285
Doveton, Captain, at Nundidroog,
INDEX.
567
354; (Brigadier) in the Deccan,
409; (Gen.) his pursuit of Bajee
Rao,422; at reduction of Candeish
forts, 423
Dowse, Lieut., at Nundidroog, 356
Draper, Col., at Black Town, 150;
at Wandiwash, 180
Dupleix, M., the French governor of
Pondicherry in 1745, 13
“Dupleix Tatha Bad,” (Dupleix's
Town of Victory,) inscribed pillar
destroyed, 61
Edmondston, Col., at Cuddalore, 318
Eiser, Lieut., at Pondicherry, 195
Elderton, Lieut.-Col., at Kamptee,
538
Elliott, Lieut., killed at Conjeveram,
164
Lieut.-Col., at Cuddalore, 318
Ellis, Mr., wounded, 124; murdered
sºme by the German Sumroo,
21
Elmiseram, affair near, 62; capture
of, 64
Elphinstone, Col., at Cuddalore, 318
Eroad, capture of, 340
Evans, Major, at Kemmendine, 449
Faqueer's Tope, affair, 92
Felix, Lieut., shot at Kistnaveram, 56
Fermosa, detachment to, 1
Ferrier, Capt., death of, 280
Field-deputies of the Nabob of My-
sore encumber Gen. Smith, 241
Fisher, Capt., at Masulipatam, 167;
at Coconadah, 174
Fitcher, French commander, 118
Fitzgerald, Capt., at Singarpetta
pass, 234; (Major) at Bangalore,
245
Fitzpatrick, Lieut., wounded, 155
Fletcher, Col., Sir Robt., campaign
in Benares, 219; wounded at Tan-
jore, 256; slain at Pallilore, 279
Flint, Lieut., at Wandiwash, 284;
(Capt.) defends Wandiwash, 809
Floyan, Col. Sir A., at Hyderabad,
409 -*.
Floyd, Col., affair near Sattamungul,
340; wounded at Bangalore, 343;
against Syed Saib, the Mysore
General, 337; at Sattamungul,
340
Forbes, Capt., notice of, 118.
- Capt. D., at Amboyna, &c.,
392, 399; notice of his exploits,
407; his death, 408
Forbes, Capt. death of 526
Forde, Col., at Condore, 145; at
Masulipatam, 165; at Chander-
nagore and Bedarrah, 207
Fraser, Lieut.-Col., killed at Asseer-
ghur, 431 -
Freer, Corporal, forlorn hope, nea
Kemmendine, 446 -
French, Capt., at Malacca, 537
French Rock, affair at, 54; battle of,
in 1754, 115
Fulerton, Dr., spared in the massa-
cre at Patna, 217
Fullarton, Col., at Davaporam, 325;
at Madura and Tinnevelly, 326
Lieut., wounded at Sittang,
507
Galway, Ens, killed at Pallilore, 280
Gauh, Major, at Plassey, 129
Geddes, Surgeon W., complimented,
538
Gen. Orders:—Gen. Coote's at Pal-
lilore, 295; by Sir Eyre Coote at
Arnee, 312; Gen. Stewart's at
Cuddalore, 322; of Lord Corn-
wallis' at Nundidroog, 355; of
Lord Cornwallis at Seringapatam,
360; another, 363; thanks of
Court of Directors for . Pondi-
cherry, 369 ; of Gov.-Gen. con-
cerning Cuttack, 387; by Govt.
concerning Amboyna, 393; hono-
rary badge for Mahidpoor, 433;
for Pindarrie and Mahratta cam-
paign, 434; by Govt. on Major
Gowdie's departure,401; of Lieut.-
Gen. Abercrombie, 1814, at Wal-
lajabad, 402; of Govt. concern.
ing the detachment from the
eastern islands, 405; list of the
officers;mentioned in, 407; of Sir
T. Hyslop, at Mahidpore, 417;
of Gov.-Gen. to Sir A. Campbell,
466; by the Gov.-Gen., for the
Burmese campaign, 516; by Lord
Combermere, 520; by Gov.-Gen.
to Brigad.-Gen. Cotton, 523 ; by
Court of Directors, thanks for
Ava campaign, 529; by Gov.-in-
Council of Madras, on late Sir T.
Monroe, 530; by Govt., honours
to the regt., 555 -
Ghee, Capt., death of, near Colar, 237
Gheira, pirate fort of, capture, 120
Gheriah, battle of, 215
Gibson, Capt., thanks of Governor
to, 437
568
INDEX,
Gingee taken by the French, 30;
capture of, 203 -
Gingens, Captain De, sent to assist
Mahomed Ally, 33 ; at Wolcondah,
34; defence of Trichinopoly, 52
Glass, Lieut., at Arcot, 40; dis-
abled, 41, 48 -
Goddard, Col., at Bassein,
Bhore Ghaut, 272
Golden Rock, battle of, 92; sur-
prise of, 104
"Gordon, Col., at Cuddalore, 318;
Major, killed at Talnair, 420;
Capt. at Kemmendine, 454
Gore, Bombay Regt., at Tellicherry,
204 -
Goreham, Lieut., at Carroor, 249
Gorie, Lieut., prisoner at Pallilore,
280 -
Gowdie, Capt., at Pallilore, 277;
(Major,) at Bangalore, 343; at
Oossoor, 350; at Rayacotta, 351;
at taking of hill forts, 352; at
Nundidroog, 353; (Maj.-Gen.,)
departure for Europe, 401
Graham, Sergt., Bombay army, at
Seringapatam, 381
Grant Maj., at Plassey, 129
Grantham, Sir Thomas, commission
to, 5 .
Greenhill, Maj., wounded at Mally-
gaum, 426
Grubb, Lieut., wounded at Dallah,
452
Guzerat, campaign in, 258; in 1779,
271 .
Gwyn, Sergt., at White House Pago-
dah, 468
Gyah-Maunpore, battle of, 214
Gyfford, Mr. first governor of Fort
St. George, 4; takes the com-
mand in Bengal, 5
and
Haigh, Lieut., at Sittang, 515
Halliburton, Lieut., wounded at
Pallilore, 280
Hancorn, Lieut., wounded at Ma-
hidpoor, 416
Hantley, Col., Bombay force, at
Bassein, 272
Harcourt, Lieut.-Col., at Cuttack,
387 *
Harrison, Lieut., at Trichinopoly,
109; his death, 111
Hart, Ensign, at Cortalum and Tot-
cum, 174 .
Harvey, Lieut., wounded at Sit-
tang, 487
Hastings, Mr. suspends the Gover-
nor of Madras on the affair at
Pallilore, 281 • *
Heath, Col., against the Pindarries,
419
Hera Sing, the Ragpoot chief, at
Seringam, 82 -
Highland regiment arrived, 1760,
195
Hill, Ensign, at Kemmendine, 454
Hill-forts, near Rayacotta, captured
by Major Gowdie, 352; surren-
der of to Hyder Ali, 247 - - -
Hill Rajahs, operations against in
1802, 384
Hodgson, Col., reconnoissance at
Rangoon, 441 -- .
Holkar, his movements at Mahid-
poor, 411
Holt, Lieut., killed at Tripetty, 107
Home, Major, wounded at Sittang,
507, 515 - -
Hooghly, hostilities at, in 1686, 6;
capture of, 1757,123
Hooper, Capt. Benj. at Panlang,
467; death of, 535
Hope, Lieut., wounded at Pallilore,
280
Hopper, Lieut, death of, 529
Horne, Ensign, at Tokum and Cor-
talum, 187
Hoskan, Sergeant, bravery of, 247
Hossamlee, battle of, 258
Hume, Capt., wounded at Black
Town, 151; at Mahidpoor,417
Hunter, Lieut., killed at Conjeve-
ram, 164
Hughes, Adm. Sir Edw., at Nega-
patam, 306
Hyderabad, forced march to, in Jan.
1830, 536; services of the regi-
ment there commended, 559
Hyder Ali, at Trichinopoly, 112; in
the Mysore war, 1767, 224; his
invasion of the Carnatic in 1780,
274; his indignities to the wound-
ed, and bodies of the slain at Pal-
lilore, 279; refuses exchange of
prisoners, 293; his treachery,
313; his death in December,
1782, 314
Hyslop, Capt., killed at battle of
Pallilore,294 :
Hyslop, Sir T., in the Deccan, 409;
at Mahidpoor, 414; resigns the
Deccan command, 421 --
Independent Companies, original
existence of the regiment in, 1 ;
INDEX.
569
first formed into regular batta-
lion, 17
Injellee taken, 7
Innes, Lieut.-Col., appointed to
command, 389
Lieut., at Tinnevelly in 1751,
31; at Trivatone, 42; at Arcot, 46
“Interlopers” ordered to be sent
home, 4
James, Commodore, his squadron
arrives, 125
Jaulnah, detachment at, 421
Java, early detachment to, 1 ; de-
tachment of Sappers to, 402
Jeffries, Lieut. (R.N.), wounded at
Amboyna, 394
Jourdan, Lieut., death of, 561
Kamptee, quarters in, Jan. 1830,
535; tablet in the church to de-
ceased officers, 554
Kandalla, defence of, 273
Karrical, capture of, 189
Keating, Col., at Hossamlee, 258
Keene, Lieut., at Coverpauk, 59
Kelly, Lieut.-Col., at Cuddalore, 317
——Col., death of, Sept. 1791, 341
Lieut.-Col. H., commands
the Burmah expedition, 439
Kellet, Lieut. (R.N.), at Kemmen-
dine, 457, 459, 460
Korjean, M., French commander at
Bahoor, 77
Kerr, Lieut., at Dallah,452
Rilpatrick, Capt., at Arcot, 46; at
Golden Rock, 99; wounded, 104;
commands at Trichinopoly, 107;
(Major) at Plassey, 129
Kirk, Capt., killed at Golden Rock,
99
Kirkpatrick, Capt., at Wolcondah, 34
Kistnaghery, capture of, 235
Kitson, Capt., at Kemmendine, 449
Knox, Capt., at Condore, 147; at
Masulipatam, 167; at Patna, 212
Lieut., death of, 280
Knowles, Major, at Mahidpoor, 418
Kokeen, storm of, 464
Kurnool, surrender of, 404
Kyd, Capt., wounded near Kemmen-
dine, 445; noticed in Gen. Ord.,
529
Lalguddy, capture of, 66
Lally, Count de, French commander
arrives, 138; at the battle of Wan-
divash, 177
Lamberton, Sergt., gallantry of, 135
Lang, Col., supersedes Col. Wood,
246; at Caroor, Avaracourchy,
and Dindigul, 325 ; appointed to
the corps, 389 -
iºn, Lieut., prisoner at Pallilore,
80
Lawrence, Major, commander of the
forces in 1748, 17; defends Cud-
dalore, 17; besieges Pondicherry,
made prisoner, 18; at Devi Cotta,
19; made Generalissimo by the
Soobah at Villamore, 26; services
there, 27, 28; returned from Eng-
land, 1751, 61; leads reinforce-
ments to Trichinopoly, 61; affair
at Coiladdy, 62; at Sugar-loaf
Rock and Elmiseram, 62; at Ba-
hoor, 76; at Trivadi, 85, 87 ; con-
voy affair at Trichinopoly, 97; at
Faqueer's Tope,92; at Weycondah,
106; relieves Trichinopoly, 111;
at Tanjore, 114; (Col.) retires from
command, 163; (Maj.-Gen.) re-
turns to Europe, Dec. 1761, 204;
character of, 205; his statue, 206
Lindsay, Capt., at Arnee, 310
Lucas, Corporal, promoted at Kem-
mendine, 457
Lushington, Mr., murdered at Patna,
by the German Sumroo, 216
M“Alister, wounded at Carrangooly,
284
M“Craith, Capt., saves Col. Murray
at Talnair, 420
McDowall, Lieut.-Gen., takes leave
of the army, 390
Col., at reduction of Rajdier,
423
McKain, Capt., at Caveripatam, 225
Mackay, Lieut., at Cuddalore, 317
McKensie, Ensign, at Tripetty, 107
M“Kenzie, Lieut., death of, 561
McLean, Capt., at Rajamundry, 147;
at Koncale, 165 . -
McNeill, Lieut., prisoner at Pallilore,
280
Madras, fortifications strengthened,
8; besieged in 1703, by the Ma-
homedans, 10; its capture by the
French, in 1745, 15 ; restored in
Aug. 1749, 21 ; besieged by Lally,
1759,148; siegeraised, 160; list of
officers who served at the siege, 161
Madura, unsuccessful assault of, un-
der Capt. Cope, 1751, 32; storm
and capture of, 1757, 134; cam-
paign in, 218; reduction of, 326
570
INDEX.
Mint erected at Madras in 1725, 11
Molucca Islands, expedition to, 1802,
384; in 1809, 392
Mongheer, surrender of, 216
Monro, Sir Thomas, death of, general
order respecting, 530; subscrip-
tion for statue at Madras, 530;
Choultry and tank at Gooty, 531;
review of his life, 538; his pre-
sent of a Snuff-mull to the mess,
534
Monson, Col., supersedes Coote at
Pondicherry, 196; wounded, re-
tires, 198
Monteith, Capt. wounded at Palli-
lore, 280
Montresore, Capt., at Seringapatam,
362
Moore, Mr., services at Devi Cottah,
19
Moorehouse, Capt. (wounded) at
Carrangooly, 284 ; at Veracunda-
loor Pass, 299; (Lieut.-col.) artil-
lery, at Paulghautcherry, 339;
killed at Bangalore, 344
Moorshedabad, capture of, 215
Morai Row, at war with Murzufa
Jung, 25; at Trichinopoly, 112 ;
joins the British under General
Smith, 236 ; battle near Colar,
237
More, Ensign, at Wandiwash, 284
Capt. at Veracundaloor pass,
299
Mahadapatam, capture of, 305
Mahé, capture of, 203; capture of,
1778, 270
Mahidpoor, battle of, 412
Mahomed Ally assisted by the Eng-
lish at Trichinopoly, 24, 31;
assisted again in 1751, 33
Mahomed Camal, beheaded by the
Nabob, 108
Mahomed Issooff, at Chingleput, 153
Mahratta Cavalry, superiority of, 85,
95 - .
Mahratta war, the first, 258; in 1803,
385
— campaign, 409
Mainville, French general, killed, 170
Maissin, French officer, at Trichino-
poly, 109
Malacca, capture of, 368; expedition
to, 537
Malcolm, Sir John, at Seringapatam,
381; relieves Col. Innes in the
command, 392; in the Deccan,
409 ; at Mahidpoor, 414 ; at
Asseerghur, 429 ; takes leave, 436;
thanks of the Governor in Council
to him, 437; his death, 539;
notice of and honours to, 540, 546;
statues to him, 546 -
Mallet, Col., at Pegue, 453
Mallitore, Capt., killed at Masuli-
patam, 168
Mallygaum, siege of, 425
Manilla, expedition to, 375
Marriott, Col., at Kurnool, 404
Marshall, Lieut., death of, 529
Maskelyn, Mr. Edmund, taken pri-
soner at Madras, 15
- Lieut., taken prisoner at
Utatoor, 35
Massey, Lieut., wounded at Pallilore,
280
Masulipatam, siege and capture of,
165; disturbances at, 391; march
of the regiment through the jungle
from Nagpore to, 438; high state
of discipline there, 439
Matthews, Capt., at Mulwalgul, 238
Maxwell, Col., at Seringapatam, 359
Meadows, Maj.-Gen., commander-in-
chief, Feb. 1790, 335 ; at Nundi-
droog, 354; at Seringapatam, 359
Meer Cossim Ali, hostilities with,
215
Meer Jaffer proclaimed Nabob of
Bengal, 133
Meer Sahib, Hyder's general, at Porto
Novo, 289 " . ;
| Montague, Capt. at Cuddalore, 318
— Major, at Tricatore, 191 ;
Trivadi, 192
Morison, Col., wounded, 164
Sergt. killed, at Kemmen-
dine, 445
Mortiz Ally, Nabob, 12
Mouick Chund, Governor of Cal-
cutta, 122
Mount, St. Thomas’, affairs at, in
1758, 148, 157
Mount, the, affairs at, 153, 156
Mulwalgul and Colar, capture of,
226; retaken by Hyder, 238
Munroe, Major, at Buxar, 218
Sir Hector, 3d siege of Pon-
dicherry, 268; at Perambaucum,
275; at Porto Novo, 287,291; at
Negapatam, 305
| Murray, Lieut. Alex. M*Gregor, at
Tanjore, 255
— Col. at Secunderabad, 410;
at Mahidpoor, 414; wounded at
Talnair, 420 -
INDEX.
571
Murzufa Jung, his proceedings in the
Carnatic, 22
Musurpet, capture of, 66; affair at,
171 | Ootradroog, capture of, 356
| Ootramalore, sickness at, 136
Orton, Capt. at Carroor, 249
Myers, Capt. killed at Arras, 260
Mysore war, 223
- campaign of 1790, 336; 340
invasion of, 236 ; war ter-
minated, 251
Nagore, capture of, 305
Nagpore, letter of Mr. Jenkins at, to
Colonel Scot, complimenting the
Madras troops, 438 ; operations
before, 419; detachment served as
sappers in Dec. 1817, 433
Names of distinguished officers of the
corps previous to 1800, 380
Naning war, 537
Nash, Lieut., wounded at Pallilore,
280
Nattes, Ensign, killed mounting the
breach at Mallygaum, 426
Naval fight off Pondicherry, 1778,269
Negapatam, capture of, 306
Nellicottah, slaughter at, 120
Neriad, affair at, 259
Nicholson, Capt., R. N. Vice Ad-
miral in India, operations with a
fleet in the Ganges in 1665, 5; at
Chittagong, 7
Niscon, Capt. at Carroor, 249
. Lieut.-col., at Tanjore, 304;
at Nagore, 305
Capt. at Amboyna, &c. 392,
399; death, 408 -
Nizam Ali, conduct of his favourite
wife at the battle of Trinomallee,
230
Nodler, Capt. artillery at Mahè, 270
Nundidroog, Storm and capture of,
353
O’Brien, Lieut., wounded at Carran-
gooly, 284
O’Brien, Serjt., his bravery at Mal-
lygaum, 427; forlorn hope near
Remmendine, 446
Officers posted to the corps, Nov.
1799, 379; in Jan. 1800, 383
Ogilvy, Lieut. (Sir D.) at Dindigul,
337
Q’Hara, Lieut. James, honourable
promotion for services at Pondi-
cherry, 270
Oldham, Col. at Eroad, 340
Oocara, affair at, 340
Oodwa, lines of, stormed, 216
Oossoor, relief of 242; capture of,
236; capture of, 1791, 350
Ootampollam, capture of, 338
Owen, Col. at Veracundaloor pass,
298
— Rev. Mr., chaplain of 3d
batt., 368
Page, Capt., at Kemmendine, 458
Palamkeen, Major Lawrence's story
of, 100
Palier, Capt. at Trichinopoly, 114;
(Major) wounded at Black Town,
151; killed at Madras, 161
Pallilore, disaster at, 277; battle of,
293
Paloor, capture of, 294
Paniani relieved, 314
Panlang Stockades, storm of, 467
Panwell, battle near, 273.
Parliament, vote of thanks by, Nov.
1804, 389
Parr, Jieut., at Wellore, 301
Patna, entry of, by Clive, 133; de-
fence of, 1759, 207; relief and de-
fence, 211, 213; battle near, 213;
storm and capture of, from Cossim
Ali, 217 ; battle of, 218
Paulghaut, capture of, 326
Paulghautcherry, capture of, 339
Pay, established in Feb. 1798, 376
Peace in January 1749, 18; con-
cluded, Jan. 1755, 119; with
France, news of, July 1, 1783,
324; with the Mahrattas, June
1782,313; concluded with Holkar,
Jan. 1818, 418
Pearce, Col. at Pulicat, 292
Pegue, capture of, 453; expedition
to, 476; campaign in, 478; state of
the force, 479; departure from,
525
Pegou, Capt., at relief of Trichino-
poly, 113; killed, 114
Pepper, Col., commands the Regt.
at Pegue, 476; wounded at Sit-
tang, 507, 514
Perambaucum, affair of, 275
Permacoil, capture of, 188; sur-
render of, 309
Perrot, Lieut., R.N., killed at Chan-
dermagore, 126
Phillips, Capt., slain at Pallilore,
279
Capt., at Amboyna, 392
572
INDEX.
* Governor of Fort St. George,
T61
Pindarries, routed under Cheetoo, at
Kurroad, 419
Pitt, President of Fort St. George,
his defence against Arabs' fleet, 10
Plassey, battle of, 128–134
Poetse, Chevalier, his French detach-
ment captured, 175; killed at
Wandiwash, 182
Pagodah-point stockades, 450
Polier. See Palier
Poligars of Tinnevelly, campaign
against, 327
Pollock, Admiral, engagement with
the French Admiral D'Ache, 138
Polygar chiefs, services against, 119
Pondicherry, taken by the Dutch in
1693, 9; siege and capture of, 194
—203; hurricane and flood, 201;
works, &c. of, razed, 1761, 204;
restored to the French, 223; third
siege, and second capture, 268;
works demolished, 1779,271; sur-
render of, 1793, 367
Poonamallee, headquarters at, 401
Poony River, passage of the, 302
Porto Novo, battle of, 287
Portuguese, enlistment
hibited, 3
Power, Lieut., twice wounded at
Sittang, 487, 507
Preston, Capt., at Chingleput, 152;
at the Mount and St. Thomé, 154;
at Wandiwash and Trivatore, 172
Priaman, detachment to, 1, 6
Pringle, Capt., at Carrangooly, 284
Puget, Capt., at Malacca, 537; his
death, 537 -
Putchanda, surrender of, 70
Pye, Capt., killed, 124
of, pro-
Rainer, Adm., expedition to the
Dutch possessions, 368
Rajamundry, capture of, 148
Raja Saib proclaimed Nabob of the
Carnatic by the French, 76
Rajdier Fort, capture of, 423
Rangoon, landing at and capture,
440; actions near, 460; burning
of, 464; embarkation of regt. for
Masulipatam, 525
Rayacotta, storm
351
Raymanghur, capture of 352
Reake, Capt., at Kemmendine, 454
and capture of,
REGIMENT, (the)
origin of the corps, 3
re-organised, 1690, 7
want of recruits, 10
re-organized into three regiments,
220
re-organized into four battalions,
256
regulations regarding the posting
of sergeants of the corps to Sepoy
corps, 257
stations in 1776, 267
change of uniform, 267
new uniform for the army, May
1785, 328
re-organization into four regi-
ments, 328–334 -
change of uniform, 329
stations of the different battalions
and their strength 1792, 365
formation of a detachment into
sappers, 369
stations of the battalions in 1796,
369
formation of the four battalions
into two regiments, 370
field officers, list of, 374
new pay-warrant in Feb. 1798, 376
new organization of corps, 377
officers posted, Nov. 1799, 379
uniform, 379
officers posted in Jan. 1800, 382
men drafted into the artillery 1810,
401 -
inspection by Lieut.-Gen. Aber-
crombie in 1814, and his gen.
ord., 402 -
losses of the corps in . Ava, 473,
513, 525
names of officers in Ava campaign,
514
division into two regiments, called
First, and Second European
Regiments, Aug. 1825, 474
officers posted, 475
fire on board the “Argyle,” 525
organization of 2nd regiment at
Kamptee, 1826, 526 -
1st regt. at Masulipatam, 1827,
534
the two regiments again joined,
Jan. 1830, 535
arrangements for consolidating the
regiments complained of, 548
gen. orders of Gov. in Council
thereon, 548, 552
new colours Feb. 1840, at Kamp-
tee, 552 . -

INDEX.
573
Regiment, (the) continued:—
marches to Secunderabad, April
1840, 552
tablet raised to deceased officers at
Kamptee, 554
honours to the regiment, 555
address of the Governor in Council,
555
new colours presented by Maj.-
Gen. Riddell, Dec. 1841, 558
gen. order of Government in praise
of the regiment, April 1842, 560
Reid, Capt., at capture of hill-forts,
352
Reimbursement of the troops for
losses at Conjeveram and Chingle-
put, 282
Repington, Lieut., at Tanjore, 97
Retrospect at close of 18th century,
380 ; enumeration of illustrious
names, 380
Revel, Lieut., artillery officer, at Ar-
cot, 41, 48
Lieut., killed near Trichino-
poly, 113
Reynolds, Ens., at Kemmendine, 458
Ridge, Capt., at Trichinopoly, 102
Robertson, Capt., at Seringapatam,
362
Lieut., wounded, 447
Robson, Capt., at Kemmendine, 454
Rose, Capt., killed near Donabew,
469
Ross, Lieut.-Col., at Cuddalore, 323
Roy, Capt., at Kokeen stockade,
465 ; at White-house Pagodah,
468; death of, 526, monument to
him at Godavery, 527
Rumley, Capt., at Pallilore, 277
Ryves, Capt., (R. N.) at Kemmen-
dine, 460
Saadut-Oalla, Nabob, 1709, 10
Sahojee, Rajah of Tanjore, aided by
the British, 18
St. David, Fort, becomes the seat of
government on capture of Madras
in 1745, 15; invested by the French
in 1746, 16; invested by Lally,
139; surrender of, 140
St. George, Fort, first a presidency, 2;
constitutedagovernorship,Mr.Gyf-
ford its first governor, 5; defence
of, 148; siege raised, 160; list of
officers who served at, 162
St. Helena Regiment, detachment
from, at Madras, 1783, 327
St. Thomas' Redoubt, capture and
recapture, and release of prisoners
by Lally, 201
Sale, Capt., at Cuddalore, 323
Major, at Kemmendine, 449;
Rangoon, 461
Samiaveram, occupation of, 66; sur-
prise by the French of, 66; re-
taken, 69
Sattamungul, capture of and affair
near, 340
Saubenet, French officer, killed, 151
Savendroog, capture of, 356; review
of British, Nizam's, and Mahratta
armies, 357
Scot, Lieut.-Col., at Mahidpoor, 417
Secunderabad, regt., commended for
discipline at in 1842, 559
Sepoys, estimate of their discipline
in 1752, 65
Seragee's operations against Madras
in 1677, 4
Serle, Capt., killed at Arras, 260
Seringam, description of, 50; attack
of the enemy's camp at, 81; battle
at in May 1752, 90
Seringapatam, battle of, 348; storm
of the lines, and battle on the
island, 358 ; operations of the
siege, 361
Seyd Mahomed, Nabob, assassinated,
13
Shah Zada, his campaign in Bahar,
211
Sherlock, Capt., defence of Wandi-
wash, 176
Shoeghein, capture of, 481
Sholingur, battle of, 296
Simmons, Ensign, at Coverpauk, 59
Sinfray, French officer, at Plassy, 129
Singarpetta pass, battle of, 234 |
Sittang, first attack, and failure,
485; second attack, storm, and
capture of, 489; detailed account
of, 491–511 .
Smith, Capt. Joseph, at Seringam,
115; at Terriore, 143; wounded
at Black Town, 151; at Oulgarry
redoubt, 197; (Col.) at Seringa-
patam, 1767, 224; at Changama,
226; at Vaniambaddy, 233; at
Kistnagherry, 235; (General),
returns to Madras to plan future
Mysore war, 241; Hyder Ali’s
dread of him, 246; baffles Hyder
near Madras, 251 ; Hyder begs a
portrait of him, 253; at Tanjore,
255
574
INDEX.
Smith, Capt. Richard, at Munsurpet,
I71
Capt. Stephen, at Arnee,
186; at Trinomallee, 188; at
Gingee and Thiagur, 203
Ens., wounded at Kemmen-
dine, 458
Somers, or Sumroo, German com-
mander of Cossim Ali, his bar-
barity, 216
Spankie, Lieut., at Mahidpoor, 418;
thanks of Governor to, 437; death
of, ib.
Speke, Capt., R.N., wounded at
Chandermagore, 126
“Stay-and-tiff” stockade, storm of,
446
Stedman, Capt., killed at Sittang,
507, 516 -
Stevens, Admiral, with a fleet at
Pondicherry, 201
Stewart, Capt., killed at Conjeve-
ram, 164
Stewart, Gen., in command at Ma-
dras, 283; at Porto Novo, 287,
291; wounded at Pallilore, 294;
succeeds Sir E. Cootes in com-
mand, 314; at Cuddalore, 316
Col., at Cuddalore, 318
Col., fort adjt. at Dindigul,
337; at Ootapollam, 338; at Paul-
ghautcherry, 339
Lieut. Duncan, wounded at
Amboyna, 394
Stinton, Lieut., wounded near Kem-
mendine, 445
Sudber Ally takes Trichinopoly, 11;
assassinated, 12
Sudder Khan, Hyder's General, taken
prisoner at Tellicherry, 304
$uffrein, Admiral, with French fleet
at Cuddalore, 321
Sugar-loaf Rock, affairs at, 62, 102,
104
Suja Powie, hostilities with, in 1765,
21
Sulf Ali Beg defends Nundidroog,353
Syriam, operations near, 450
Taishan, Lieut., at Kistnaveram, 56
Talnair, storm of, 420
Tanjore, king of, assisted by the
English, 1745, 25; operations of
Lally in, 140; defence of the city
against him, 141 ; campaign, 1772,
254; capture of, 255; defence of,
304
Tanner, Capt., at Carrangooly, 284
- Tapoor, pass of, affair at, 341
Tate, Corporal, bravery at Mally-
gaum, (wounded) 427; at Ko-
keen stockade, 465
Tauna, fort of, stormed, 7
Tellicherry, capture of, 203; defence
of, 304
Ternate, capture of, 368, in 1810,
399; capture of, 384
Terriore, capture of, 143
Thiagur, surrender of, 203
Thome, St., affair at, 154, 156
Thomson, Adjt. D., killed at Pon-
dicherry, 269
Major, at Cuttack, 388 ;
(Lieut.-Col.), in the Deccan, 409
Timbrell, Capt., at Kemmendine, 449
Timery, surrender of, 46
Tinnevelly, reduction of, 326
Tippoo Sultaun, retreat of, 232; re-
commencement of hostilities with,
326; his sons received as hostages,
365
Tod, Col., at Tripasore, 233
Toombudra river, companies at, 404
Toring, Lieut., wounded at Arras,
260
Torriana, Lieut., at Arras, 260
Trenwith, Lieut., killed at Arcot, 40
Trichinopoly, taken by Sudber Ally,
in 1732, 11 ; by Chundah Saib, in
1736, 11 ; by the Mahrattas, in
1742, 12; by Nizam-ul-Muleck,
13; reinforced, in 1751, 37; oper-
ations at, 49; description of, 49;
defence of, 52, et seq.; relieved by
Major Lawrence, 64; treacherous
attempts on, by the Mysoreans,
78; close investment of, by the
French, in 1752, 83; relieved, 96;
convoy affair, in Aug. 1753, 97;
attacked by the French, Nov.
1753, 108; relieved, 111 ; convoy
affair, Feb. 1754, 112: battle of,
16th Aug., 114; attacks on, in
1757, 134; escalade repulsed, 135;
its investment raised, 1760, 187
Trincomalee, siege and surrender of,
368
Trinomalee, capture of, 143; sur-
render of, 1760, 188; besieged by
the Mysoreans, 195; battle of, 227
Tripasore, capture of, 292
Tripetty, action at, 107
Trivadi, surrender of, 76; battles of,
in 1753, 84, 87; affair at, 192
Trivatore, capture of, 1758, 142;
again, 172
INDEX.
575
Tucker, Capt. (R.N.), at Amboyna,
393
Turing, Lieut., wounded at Pallilore,
250
Turner, Ensign, at Tricatore, 191
Ulore, post of, captured, 80
Ummulneir, capture of, 428
Utatoor, affair of, 35
Valdore, capture of, 189
Wallaut, camp at, under command of
Lord Cornwallis, 342
Vaniambaddy, battle of, 233
Vansittart, Mr., Clive's successor in
Bengal, 214
Vaughan, Lieut., wounded at Conje-
veram, 164
Vellore, first relief of, 300; second
relief of, 315; garrison trained to
gun-exercise, 315; forces concen-
trated near, Feb. 1791, 342
Vencatigherry, capture of, 235
Wendalore, affair at, 58
Verdachelum, surrender of, 34
Villanore, battle between the Soobah
and Murzufa Jung, in 1745, 27;
capture of, 192
Willaporam, capture of, 189
Wizagapatam, taken by Arungzebe,
in 1688, 7; reinforced, 125 ; arma-
ment to, 144
Wolcondah, assault and battle of, 34;
attack and surrender of, 72
Wade, Lieut., killed at Pallilore, 280
Wahab, Maj.-Gen., his division order
on relinquishing command, 557
Wakely, Lieut., killed at Seringam,
82
Walker, Capt., killed at Veracunda-
loor Pass, 299
Lt.-Col., near Rangoon, 461
Wallajabad, head-quarters at, 401,
402
Waller, Lieut., death of, 561
Wandiwash, capture of, 135; cap-
ture of, 172; defence and battle
of, 176, 185; first relief of, 284;
second, 291 ; siege raised, 292;
third relief of, 309; destroyed,
314
Wangenheim, Col., at Cuddalore, 318
War declared, 1757, with the French,
123
Watson, Admiral, arrival at Madras
with ships, 118
Waugh, Maj-Gen., assumes the com-
mand, 1827, 528
Webber, Lieut. (afterwards Maj.-
Gen.), wounded at Pallilore, 294
Major H., at Banda, 384
Weir, Ensign, at Kemmendine, 454,
458
Wellesley, Gen., Assye and Argaum,
389
Welsh, Capt., at Oossoor, 351
Westcott, Mr., service at Willanore,
in 1745, 26
Wetway, Sir John, commission to, 5
Weycondah, assault of, 106
White Pagodah Stockades, storm of,
468
Williamson, Bengal army, wounded
at Cuddalore, 321
Wilson, Dr., slain at Pallilore, 279
Wood, Capt., at Arcot, 186
Col., in the Baramahal, and
capture of sixteen hill-forts, 235;
at Mulwalgul, 238; at Oossoor,
242; at Bangalore, 242; super-
seded, 246
Wrag, Capt., prisoner at Pallilore, 281
Yates, Lieut., at Banda, 401 ; (Maj.)
at Kemmendine, 453
Yorke, Capt., killed at Masulipatam,
167
Major, at Beerboom, 214
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1.
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THE ZOOLOGY OF THE WOYAGE OF H.M.S. SULPHUR,
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and in the circumnavigation of the globe. In many of these, no doubt, the industry
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yet in others there will for some time remain abundant scope for the Naturalist. Among
the countries visited by the “Sulphur,” and which in the present state of science are
invested with more particular interest, may be mentioned the Californias, Columbia River,
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Animated by a devotion to science, the following gentlemen have liberally engaged to
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