' ' ,, '//.:' f ffft/t //// / // TIIK HISTORY BENGAL EUROPEAN REGIMENT, ROYAL MI1NSTER FUSILIERS, I!()\V IT HELPED TO WIN INDIA. LIEUT.-COLONEL P. K. INNKS, Lute of the. Ixt Bengal European WITH II.LI sri:.\riiiN>. LONDON ilMl'KIX. MARSHALL A CO. STATinXKKS' HALL COl 'HT. K.< 1886. Copyrightall riii PRINTERS : THE ARMY AND NAVY CO-OPERATIVE SOCIETY, LIMITED, 117, VICTORIA STREET, WESTMINSTER, S.W. UENY MORSE STEFHEMS EDICATED TO oYAL UNSTER USILIERS, iN GLORIOUS MEMORY OF THEIR ILLUSTRIOUS ORIGIN, f;HE ENGAL uROPEAN EGIMENT, OF WHOSE HONOUR, FAME, AND DECORATIONS THEY ARE THE INHERITORS AND TRUSTED GUARDIANS. 512608 INTRODUCTION. HAVE placed on record the services of " The Bengal European Kegiment," in order that the in- heritors of it's fame and trophies may for all time bear in grateful memory it's gallant exploits ; which in so large a degree have conduced to the civilization, peace, and security of millions of Her Imperial Majesty's subjects. The names of Clive, Warren Hastings, and Eyre >ote, are well known to history; those of Herbert Idwardes, Hodson, and Cavagnari, are household words; but there still remains a long list of heroes, both amongst the Officers and Kank-and-File, whose actions were as noble, and whose endurance was as great, though their valorous deeds have not been so promi- tently recorded. All their names it has been my ideavour to indelibly preserve. In fulfilling this sacred trust, I owe my hearty tanks to all those who have afforded me their kindly .id ; to the Secretary of State for India, who has VI. courteously allowed me free access to the archives of his Office; to Major John Henry Barnard, C.M.G., of the Royal Minister Fusiliers, who devoted much time and labour to research in the Adjutant- General's Office in Bengal ; to my brother Officers, who have furnished me with valuable information and details of personal experience, not otherwise obtainable : thus encouraging me to further and perpetuate this important record. Lastly, I have been desirous to rescue from oblivion the glorious name of " The Bengal European Regi- ment," the last remnant of which, in July, 1881, disappeared from the Official Army List. R R. INNES. 11, CHENISTON GARDENS, KENSINGTON, 6th February, 1885. WAK SEKYICES OF THE BENGAL EUROPEAN REGIMENT. Vlll. WAR SERVICES OF "THE BENGAL EUROPEAN REGIMENT." DATE. WAR SEEVICE. PAGE. 1756 Capture of the Fort of Baj Baj 25 1757 Re-capture of Fort William, Calcutta 27 Capture of the Fort of Hugli 21) Battle of Chitpore 32 Capture of the Fort of Chandernagore from the French 41 Capture of the Fort of Kutwah 55 Battle of PLASSEY 59 1 75S Battle of CONDORE (against the French) 76 Attack and Capture of the French Camp 79 Occupation of Rajamundri 81 Capture of the French Position at Narsurpore 1759 Storm and Capture of the French Fortress of Musulipatam 86 Relief of Patna , 9$ Defeat of the Dutch at Chandernagore 104 Battle of Bederra against the Dutch 104 1760 Defence of Patna 112 Battle of Seerpore ... 116 Defeat of the Emperor of Delhi at Belkoss 119' Relief of Patna 121 Battle of Beerpore 122 1761 Battle against Shah Alain and the French at Suan 130' 1763 Battle of Manjee 141 Battle of Kutwah 147 Battle of Geriah 149 Capture of the Fortified Position at Suti 153 Storm and Capture of Undwah Nala 160 Capture of Monghyr 164 Siege and Capture of Patna 173 1764 Defence of Patna 190- Battle of BUXAR 204 Assault of the Fort of Chunar 213 Storm of the Nawab Vazir's Camp near Benares 218- 1765 Capture of the Fortress of Allahabad * 219 Capture of the Fort of Chunar 220 IX. \VAR SERVICES OF "THE BENGAL EUROPEAN REGIMENT." ( Continued). WAR SERVICE. PAGE. Action at Karrah 220 Battle of Kalpi 221 Battle of Kutra 247 Battle of Patuta ; 252 Cajtture of the Fort of Bidgeghur ( 253 Capture of the Fort of Karnmgalli ' 257 Relief of Wandiwash | 257 Assault of Chilambram 259 Battle of Porto Novo against Haidar Ali and the French : 260 Second Relief of Wandiwash 263 Capture of the Fort of Tripassore 264 i Battle of Pollilore | 264 Battle of SIIOLIXCJIIUR | 265 Battk- of Veracundalore 265 Relief of Vdlore 266 17*2 Battle of Arnee 267 17*3 >i-gt' of Cuddalore against the French 26'.) 1704 Battle of Boetura in ROIIILCUXD 275 1804 Capture of the Fortress of Gwalior j 287 ! Battle of Deig ! :.'*<. Storm and Capture of the Fortress of DEIG \ -2 ( M 1*i>;> Four Assaults on the Fortress of Bhurtpore 300 l*os Expedition to the Idand of Macao ; ;;n> 1*1O-17 Operations in Java 312 1814 , Nepal War 316 1817 Pindaric War 320 I.SLV, . Menu and Capture of the Fortress of BIIURTPORK ... 328 l*;}8 Campaign in AFGHANISTAN 340 i*:m Storm and Capture of GHUZNEK 348 ]84<> Capture of the Fort of Pushoot , Battlr,,t KKHOZMirilUR 1*46 M..ni. and Captun- of SOBRAON 398 Campaign in thr rrX.IAl'h 419 Battl.-of ( HILLIANWALLAII 422 15attK-of f.OO/KIIAT 4^5 WAR SERVICES OF "THE BENGAL EUROPEAN REGIMENT." ( Continued). DATE. WAR SERVICE. PAGE. 1852 Capture of PEGU 435 Relief of Pegu 438 1857 Battle of Budli-ka-Serai 460 Assault of the Eed Gar Serai 462 Battle of Subzi Mundi... .. 464 Battle of Nujjufghur 470 Storm and Capture of DELHI 475 Battle of Narnoul 496 Affair at Gungehri 501 ,, Action at Puttiallee 503 Occupation of Mynpoorie 504 1858 Siege and Capture of LUCKNOW 516 Action at Baree 524 Action at Sahadit 525 g before the public the second edition of this History, the Author explains that he has found it inexpedient to apply the Classic spelling to certain of the proper names ; his reason being that they are borne on the Regimental decorations and known : amongst our soldiers, according to the old or phonetic lling thus, Paltisi is here spelt " Plassey," Lakhnao "Lucknow," Dig " Deig," &c., &c. This explanation is offered as some critics have siiL^ested that the Indian Classic orthography should in all cases have been used. CHAPTER I. . K.t-1 to 1756 Early days of the British in Bengal Capture l>y Siraju M daulali .Madras reinforcements arrive to the succour of Bengal dive's arrival at Fulta Formation of the Bengal Kun>i>ran battalion Battle of Baj Baj Recapture of Calcutta. 16441756. EFORE commencing to place on record the origin and services of the Bengal European Regiment, which was the parent of the Royal Munster Fusiliers, we propose to give a passing glance at the political causes which led to its formation; causes altogether >> widely different from those which preceded the enrolment of other Regiments of the Line, that it will be necessary to consider the position of affairs in Bengal for some time prior to the enrolment of the Regiment. Tin- 1st and '2m\ Bengal European Regiments, which now con>titnte the 1st and i'nd Battalions of the "Royal Munster Fusiliers." were, until 1S."S (when the Kuropean portion of the Indian Army was hrnught under the immediate control of the Horse (Juards). the only two British Infantry Regiments of any considerable >tanding attached to the Bengal Presidency in the service of the Kast India Company. Some additional European Regiments, Itoth Cavalry and Infantry, were raised by the Kast India Company for service immediately before, or in Consequence of , the Sepahi Mutiny in India. 1S;>7-/)S; but they 2 INTRODUCTORY. ID 14-1750. were scarcely more than in process of organization when they were merged into the Royal Army. In the early days of the East India Company, the Officers in their service were appointed by the "Court of Directors;" their only requirements being good health, courage, and common sense. The pay of the Officers was little more than nominal, prize-money was plentiful; and those Officers who were fortunate enough to render services to the Native Chiefs were handsomely, and some- times profusely, rewarded. Cadets so appointed were not pro- moted to Eusigncies until they had educated themselves for their profession of the Army ; and in many instances they served as private soldiers in what was called the " Cadets' Company ; " * or carried their muskets in the ranks, attended all drills, and took their guards in common with the privates of the Regiment. Leave to Europe was not in any case permitted. A Cadet took service for his life ; and if he found it necessary, on account of ill health, or from. any other cause, to absent himself from the country, he was deprived of his Commission. All the servants of the Com- pany, whether civil or military, were permitted to carry on trade on their own account ; which, with the advantages they possessed over the Native Traders, ensured very handsome profits. Recruits were acquired by means of press-gangs, who were paid a handsome commission on the number of men engaged. These press-gangs were employed by the East India Company under the authority of the Crown. Men were usually pressed into the service when in a state of intoxication ; and they were frequently kidnapped, forcibly conveyed on board ship, and embarked before they were aware of their fate. On arrival in India escape was impossible ; the soldiers were at the complete mercy of their masters, whoever they might be for the time being ; they were * The Cadets' Company, or " The Select Picket v as it was usually called, was composed entirely of "gentlemen Cadets" waiting for their Ensign's Commission. "The Select Picket" occupied the post of honour in the field, and "was always posted on the right of the advanced i^uard." Kwt India Military Calendar, vol. t, p. -14-45. INTROIH CTMKY. l\ ucntly harslily and even cruelly treated: and in cases of 1644 -175 'j insubordination the culprits wen* placed in irons and made to ork with the Native Convicts on the roads. In later years enlistment for the Indian Army has heen con- ducted in precisclv the same manner as for the ISritish service. The Kast India Company's principal recruiting depot was tahlished at I'arkhurst,* and no soldier was enlisted in India H he could prove that he was of purely European extrac- di , I The establishment of English trade in Bengal, under the sanction of the Emperor of Delhie, and the patronage of the Nawab of Bengal, was secured in lii."ir, just one hundred years prior to the formation of the "Bengal European Regiment," not\ the "Royal Minister Fusiliers," upon whose colours are emblazoned the names of the many hard-fought battles and sieges, which they have inherited from their time-honoured ancestor. It was in the year li>44 that Dr. Boughton obtained the sanction of the Emperor of Delhie for the removal of the restrictions on British trade, so serious an obstacle to its pursuit that its discontinuance in Bengal, and the breaking up of the factories, were contemplated. The circumstances which led to the cancella- tion of these restrictions are thoroughly authenticated, and savour strongly of Kastern romance that we may be pardoned for detailing them. In the year 1U4. one of the daughters of the Emperor Shall Jehan met with a serious accident her dress catching fire, and fore the flames could be extinguished, she had sustained such jrious injuries that the Native Doctors pronounced the Prince ur.ible. Shah .lehan. who had lately heard of the great skill of e English Doctors, wrote to the British Governor of Surat, ing him to send one of his Surgeons to effect a cure. Now, * Ultimately tin- Ka>t India ( '<>ni];my sold their recruiting depot at I'cirklmrst to tin- Kn:lish (iovcrnnirnt . and built barracks for their recruits Chatham, and frm thence they \\MV n-nmvcd t> \\arley. 4 EARLY DAYS OF THE BRITISH IN BENGAL. 1644-1756. on board the East India Company's ship " Hopewell " there was a doctor, Gabriel Boughton, who consented to try his skill on the Imperial patient. Boughton proceeded under a royal escort to the Emperors camp, then in the Deccan, where he soon succeeded in restoring the Princess to health. The Emperor, overcome with gratitude, informed the doctor that he was prepared to grant him any favour he might ask. Boughton, influenced more by anxiety to serve his masters than to enrich himself, begged that he might be empowered to establish an English factory for the East India Company on the banks of the river Hugli, and that the English should be allowed to trade without payment of any duty. His requests were. granted, and Boughton was supplied with a "firman " to the Viceroy of Bengal, instruct- ing him to treat the bearer with all honour, and to convey to him, or his assigns, land on which he was to be permitted to erect an English factory, and trade without payment of duty. On his arrival at Rajmahal, where Sultan Sujah (the Emperor's son), then Viceroy, was residing, Boughton's medical skill again did him good service, by effecting a cure on one of the favourite ladies in the Viceregal zenana, whose malady had baffled the native physicians; so that the goodwill arid patronage of the Viceroy were secured, in addition to that of the Emperor. Thus it was that a few years after the events just narrated, trade was firmly established with Bengal; and in 1652 a small force, consisting of an Ensign and thirty men, was allowed to be employed by the East India Company, as a guard of honour; " which little band," says Colonel Broomc in his " Rise and Pro- gress of the Bengal Army," " may be looked upon as the nucleus " " of the present extensive Army retained by the Company in " " the Bengal Presidency." Thirty-four years after British merchants had established themselves at the town of Hugli, a dispute arose between the Nawab's representative and Mr. Job Charnock, the Company's at their factory, who in consequence was driven for KAIILY DAYS OF THK lli:rTI>II IN I'.K.VJAL. ,") hue from the country ; juul on his return moved tlie factory 1644-175G o :i village on the left bank of the river, thirty-seven miles nearer to the sea. This village was called Chatanati, adjoining which was the Kali Ghat, and on the site of these places now -lands the capital of India. In the year 17<><), the Viceroy of Bengal effected a loan from the East India Company, to enable him to dispute the succession of the Emperor ; and in exchange for this accom- tion the township of Calcutta and the adjacent lands, ther with privileges which they had not hitherto enjoyed, were granted to the Company. In 1707 Calcutta was formed into a Presidency town, subordinate to Madras. Trade increased, and comparative security prevailed, notwithstanding that the Princes of India showed jealousy at the growing influence of the British, and placed restrictions on their commerce. Nor were the Native Rulers their only enemies, for the French, the Portuguese, the Danes, the Dutch, each with its rival East India Company, had in its turn to be dealt with. But of all the foreigners the French alone held large possessions, and exercised important influence in Bengal at the Viceregal Court. It would be foreign to our purpose to trace the petty wars, 1756. the successes, and the disappointments of the next fifty years; and it will be sufficient to state that, as our trade and influence increased, our establishments had to be augmented in proportion; so that in the year 17.">t'> the military force in Bengal consisted of four Companies of European Infantry and one of Artillery, as well as some hundreds of Native soldiers. In addition to these regular forces, there were two Companies of Militia at the Pre>i- dencv which were composed of European and Armenian inhabitants, and Officered principally by members of the Civil Service. In 17.~>ii, Siraju 'd daulah succeeded his uncle, Ali Vardi Khan, U Viceroy <>f the provinces of Bengal, Behar, and Orissa: and it was duriiiir his short rciirn that events occurred which led to the b CAPTUllE OF CALCUTTA JJY SIllAJi; D DAULAH. 1750. formation of the Bengal European Regiment. Siraju 'd daulah was a Prince eminently unsuited to the position of Viceroy. As a child he had been petted and spoilt; ua a man, Mills, in his "History of India," describes him as "voluptuous; on his" " own pains and pleasures he set a value immense, on the pains " " and pleasures of other men no value at all. He was impatient, " " irascible, and headstrong/' Some authors have affirmed that, before his death, Ali Vardi Khan warned his nephew to be on his guard against the encroach- ments of the English, whose powerful navy he feared and whose influence he could not resist. No sooner had Siraju 'd daulah ascended the throne, than the idea of driving the British from his territories gained power over him; and, to give his actions the semblance of justice, he sent a, dispatch to the Government of Calcutta, couched in offensive and threatening language. He called on the Governor (Mr. Drake) forthwith to desist from repairing his fortifications or constructing any defences for his position; adding, that his neglect of these commands would be held as a casus belli, and the consequences must be on his own head. It was in vain that the Governor urged that he was repairing his fortifications solely with the view of resisting possible attacks from the French as war between that country and England was considered im- minent and that the French fortifications at the neighbouring settlement of Chandanagore were in perfect repair, whereas those of Calcutta had been long neglected and were falling into decay. The Nawab was not to be pacified. On receipt of the Governor's reply, he ordered his troops to prepare for a campaign ; and in a few days he left his Capital, Murshedabad, at the head of an army 50,000 strong, and advanced on the English settle- ment of Calcutta. On June 1st, 175(), he attacked the English factory of Kassimbazar, which was situated within a few miles of Murshedabad, and garrisoned by some 50 men only, the defences being altogether inefficient. Air. Watts was the chief at this i-M'TURE OF r.U.rrTTA \\\ SIRAJU D DAILAH. factory, and ho hud constantly represented to the Government at i ?:>;. Calcutta that it was untenable. IJut reinforcements had been refused, and the Commander had been informed that, if he could not hold his position with the troops at his disposal, he had better effect a retreat as best lie could. When the Nawab arrived before the factory, he summoned Mr. Watts into his presence, receiving him with anything but courtesy, and compelling him to sign an agreement, under severe conditions, that the new works at Calcutta should be forthwith demolished, and the servants of the Company, on duty at Kassimbazar, be given up. The factory \\as plundered, .and the Officers subjected to such indignities that Lieutenant Elliot, of the Company's service, Commanding the troops, shot himself to escape from the hands of his torturers. ( )n the iUh of June, the Nawab proceeded on his march to Calcutta. On reaching the Dutch settlement of Chinsurah and the French settlement of Chandernagore, he endeavoured to induce the troops at those places to join him in his expedition against the British. He failed, however, in his attempts; so he levied a war-tax on the Dutch of 50,000, and on the French of a like amount ; both being paid, partly in cash, and partly in munitions of war. When the news of the capture of Kassimba/ar reached Cal- cutta, the Council, feeling their insecurity, became seriously alarmed, and dreading lest the Nawab should be incensed against them, they had abandoned the repairs of the fortifications. To add to the confusion, the Council were at variance amongst them- selves, some strongly urging the necessity of placing the Fort in temporary repair, others recommending that they should throw themselves on the mercy send the women and children, for security, on board the Company's ship " Dodaly," at anchor close at hand. Messrs. Manningham and Frankland, members of the Council, were deputed to superintend the arrangements: but these men, who should from their position have set a bold example of self-denial and courage, so utterly failed that, reaching the ship with their charge, they steadily refused to return to their posts. Worse than all, after consulting with Captain Young, who commanded the vessel, they weighed anchor and dropped down the river; thus cutting oft' the principal means of retreat from the garrison, many or whom were defending their position, now threatened on all rides. Next morning it was found that many of the ships, following the example of the "Dodaly," had deserted during the night ; so that there was but scanty accommodation for the remainder of the women and children who had not been sent on board ship the previous evening. It was, therefore, deemed necessary that their >afety should be at once secured; but by this time a panic had him- I'.ith. taken possession of many in the garrison. Mr. Drake, the 17hui of Calcutta in 17."iii. src pji-rc :'!. 10 CAPTURE OF CALCUTTA BY SIIIA.TU 'l) DAULAH. 1756. troops, deserted their posts and fled on board the remaining vessels ; which, in their turn, weighed anchor, and left the defenders to their fate. The number of the troops in garrison was now reduced to under 200 men. A council of war was called ; and Mr. Holwell, though not the senior, was appointed acting Governor, and entrusted with the supreme Command. A redistribution of the force was ordered ; and the breaches hastily repaired with bales of cloth and cotton. The personal courage displayed by the gallant band who had elected to remain in the garrison formed a noble contrast to the cowardice of the deserters. The enemy, emboldened by their success, and by the knowledge that the strength of the defenders had been reduced by desertion, attacked the weakest parts of the Fort in overwhelming numbers ; so that the defenders, as soon as they had succeeded in repulsing an attack, had to rush at the top 01 their speed to render succour to their weaker comrades on the other side of the Fort. Thus hour by hour their number was reduced ; whilst the ranks of the attacking-party were being constantly reinforced. Still this courageous little band fought on until mid-day, when, to their surprise and relief, the enemy's fire suddenly ceased ; and soon afterwards an Officer from his ranks advanced, waving a flag of truce. A parley ensued ; but it soon became apparent that the flag was simply a ruse on the part of the enemy to enable him to approach the defences; for, taking advantage of the cessation of fire, he attempted to seize the Eastern Gate. In the meantime Mr. Holwell had hoisted a white flag, but all to no avail ; the enemy pressing on with unabated energy. One hope of effecting an honourable retreat remained the Company's ship " St. George," Captain Hague, having some days previously been sent up the river to assist in the defence of one June 19th, of the outposts, called "Perrin's Point/' A boat WHS sent 175G. o ff from the Fort to Captain Hague, with instructions to drop down to the river-gate, where the defenders would embark. ItK <>F CALf'UTTA HY SllJA.lt 'l> DATLAII. 11 lilt alas! fate was against them! The "St. deorgc." through ]:;><;. tli mistake of a nervous pilot, stuck in the mud, and the last hope of escape vanished. Resistance -\vas now hopeless: the enemy pre.-.-rd on ; and at ."> o'clock all was over. The Fort was captured, and Siraju \\ daulah entered with his troops. The defenders, m my of them badly wounded, were bound with ropes and brought before the Xawab. Amongst the prisoners was one lady, Mrs. Carey, who, when her husband (a Commander of one of the ships) refused to leave his post in the Fort, elected to share his fate rather than accompany the deserters. The Nawab received the prisoners courteously, and ordered them to be unloosed. lie at the same time promised Mr. llolwell, "on the word of a soldier" that no harm should befall them. The prisoners were then handed over to a guard of Native Officers, who marched them oft* to one of the verandahs of the barracks. By this time the buildings in the vicinity of the Fort were in flames; and the sultrv air and hot smoke were becoming unbearable. About S p.m. a party of Sepahis under Native Officers arrived, and ordered the prisoners to move into some place of security. Little dreaming of their destination, they readily complied; but before riey had time to resist they found themselves forced into a small room annexed to the barracks, and which was called the "Black Hole." It had been used as a prison for the European soldiers, and intended to hold a few men only. It was but eighteen feet Mjuare, and had only two small barred windows. Into this room the prisoners, lit) in number, many of whom were badly wounded, were forcibly thrust. The door, which opened inwards, was, after some difficulty, closed upon them, and securely fastened on the outside. Then followed one of those scenes of horror which we would gladly shut from our memory. The harrowing details of this terrible torture are described by Mr. Holwell, who was one of the sufferers, in a letter dated L'Sth of February, 1757, addressed to his friend, Mr. William Da\i>, in which he enters into the 12 CAPTURE OF CALCUTTA BY S1KAJU ? D DAULAII. 1756. minutest details. Parching thirst, delirium ; then madness, death, and putrefaction, rapidly succeeding each other, so that when the door was forced open in the morning after that terrible Sunday night, 23 ghastly figures were all that remained alive. Amongst the survivors was that noble woman, Mrs. Carey ; her husband having succumbed to the torture on the previous evening, she was left alone indeed. " Amongst those that perished on " June 20th, " that fatal night were nearly all the military, including " 1756. " Captains Clayton, Buchanan, Witherington; Lieutenants " " Bishop, Hays, Blagg, Simpson and Bellamy ; Ensigns Piccard, " " Scott, Hastings and Wedderburn ; with Ensigns Coales and " " Dumbleton of the Militia, and 74 of the Regular and Militia " " force. The only Commissioned Officer who survived was " " Ensign Walcot. Mr. Patrick Moran, who subsequently " " received a Commission, and rose to be a Captain in the service, " " and 13 men of the Regulars and Militia, only remained alive."* Mr. Holwell, and Messrs. Court, Walcot, and Burdet, were heavily ironed, and placed under the charge of a man named Mir Modin, by whom they were treated with the greatest severity. The other prisoners were released, excepting Mrs. Carey, " who was too young and handsome."! The deserters who fled from the Calcutta Fort with Captain Minchin found themselves exposed to many dangers during their passage down the river Hugli. In passing the Forts of Tannii and Baj Baj they were exposed to a heavy fire, and 3 of their ships were driven on shore. It was not until the 26th June that the fugitives reached Fulta, a Dutch shipping port situated at the mouth of the river. This town was selected as a rallying point, as it was near at hand when June 26th, relief should arrive from Madras; and it was improbable 1756. that the Nawab would pursue them thus far over a difficult country. Furthermore, in the event of danger, they could at any * Captain Arthur Broome, " Rise and Progress of the Bengal Army," p. f Wheeler's " Early Records of British India." unc July. time weigh anchor and drop further down the river: or, if 17:><;. necessary, put out to sea. The military portion of the party at Fulta consisted of 4 Officers and 100 Regulars, as well as about 50 Militiamen, who had been merchants and tradesmen in Calcutta. The names of the Officers of the Regulars were Captains Minchin and (irant, Lieutenants Smith and Wedderburn. Day by day this force was augmented by accessions from the outposts : Ensign Carstairs and 25 men arriving from Balasore ; Ensign Muir and 20 men from Jugdeah ; and Lieutenant Cudmore and 24 men from Dacca. Then ultimately there were the brave survivors from the " Black Hole," Ensign Walcot and Mr. Moran with 13 men, so that in a few weeks the force numbered some 450 Europeans. The news of the capture of Kassimbazar, the settlement which was subdued by Siraju 'd daulah on June 4th, reached Madras on I uly 15th. when it was resolved at once to make arrangements for sending reinforcements to Calcutta, for it was thought not unlikely that the Xawab, flushed by his paltry victory at Kassim- ha/ar. might possibly attempt the reduction of Calcutta itself. Major Kilpatriek. of the East India Company's service, was .-elected for the command of the proposed expedition. He was an Officer of much and varied experience, having taken a prominent part in the capture of Arcot, 1751, and subsequent campaigns. The force placed under Kilpatrick's command con- sisted <>t' 2-">o men, "chiefly Europeans." The Court of Directors had .-mi Instructions to Madras, some months previous, that reinforcements were to be sent to Bengal, and Major Kilpatriek had been nominated for this command, with a seat in the Council at Calcutta; so that arrangements had already been made for an expedition to Uengal. The force .-ailed from Madras in the troopship 1 Vlaware " on the 20th of .Inly, and reached Fulta on the 2nd of August, 175(1. Il is to be regretted that the names of the Officers who 14 MADRAS REINFORCEMENTS ARRIVE. 1756. accompanied this expedition are unknown ; but Mr. Archibald Keir, Surgeon of the " Delaware," appears to have served also in a military capacity, being afterwards appointed a Lieutenant, and ultimately obtaining his Company in the Indian Service. When Kilpatrick reached Fulta he learned for the first time that Calcutta had been captured and partially destroyed. Though his force had been so considerably augmented by the refugees, he did not feel himself strong enough to attempt its recapture ; and therefore determined to await instructions from Madras before taking further action. It was on the 5th of August that the news of the loss of the Fort of Calcutta, the terrible story of the " Black Hole " tragedy, and the flight of the defenders, reached Madras. The Council was hastily summoned, and, notwithstanding that war between England and France was considered imminent in Europe, and all available troops would probably be required in Madras, it was determined to dispatch what was then considered an overwhelming force, to join Kilpatrick at Fulta, and to recapture our lost possessions. Mr. Robert Clive, who had been a "Writer" in the service of the East India Company, had subsequently so distinguished him- self, both as a soldier and a politician, that he was selected for the command of the second expedition. Clive had just returned to Madras from England, where King George II. had been pleased to reward him for his military services with a Commission as Lieutenant-Colonel ; so that he was in every way suited for the command to which the Madras Council appointed him. It was not until the 16th October, 175CJ, that the expedition left the Roads of Madras. The Military force consisted of 250 men of H.M. oOth Regiment, under Captain Grant, with whom were Captains Eyre Coote and Weller ; also Lieutenants Waggoner, Corneille, and Carnac ; and Ensigns Yorke, Donnellan, and Broadbridge. There were also five Companies (570 men) of the Madras CLIVI/s AIMMVAL AT FILTA. 15 European Regiment : hut of these only three reached their 1756. (lest iimtion : sonic of the transports being disabled during the voyage, and obliged to bear off towards Vizianagram. The three Companies of the Madras European Regiment were >. '\ (-rally eommanded by Captains F. Gaupp, Pye, and Fraser ; and amongst the Officers attached were Lieutenants R. Campbell, T. Knnibold. and Adnct ; Ensigns li. L. Knox, L. Maclean, and II. Oswald. In addition to the Infantry, there were SO European Artillerymen, under Lieutenant Jennings, and also !.")()() Madras Sepahis, under command of their own Officers whose names are unknown. The Naval force consisted of five of the King's ships of war: the "Kent" ((.)), the kk Bridg\vater" (20), under Admiral Watson ; and there were also five Company's ships employed as trans- ports. The expedition, after several mishaps, joined Kilpatrick's force at Fulta, in December, 17*3b' the last ship arriving on the 20th of that month. Colonel dive's arrival at Fulta was hailed by the troops and fugitives with unbounded joy. They had been anxiously looking for relief for six weary months; succour had come at last. Clive, who was looked on as the very symbol of power,* in whose tact, skill, and courage, all had confidence, had arrived amongst them: to restore- them to their homes, to lead them to victory, and to retrieve the shaken honour of England. Clive's first care, on assuming the command of the land forces, was to mould into >hape the material at his disposal. Kilpat rick's force, hastily raised in Madras for service in Bengal, had consisted <>f -><) Europeans; who had suffered so M-verely from malarious fever that one-halt' had died, and of the other half not more than 2<> or ;JO were fit for duty. Then then- \\as the remnant of the Bengal military force, which had * Clive was known under the name of Sabat Khan," or, Darin- in War. 16 OLIVE'S ARRIVAL AT FULTA. 1756. been strengthened by a Company of Volunteers, formed from amongst the civilians and respectable inhabitants who had escaped from Calcutta and the out-factories. In addition, several sailors, belonging to ships which had arrived and were unable to dis- charge their cargoes, had offered themselves for service, and joined the military on shore. Under dive's orders, all these detachments were collected together on the 16th of December, in a camp pitched to the eastward of the town of Fulta ; and a few days afterwards were formed, under Major Kilpatrick's supervision, into one Regiment, which was then called "The Bengal European Battalion." Although the nucleus of the Bengal European Battalion had existed, in some shape or another, for eighty years previous,* it was not until December, 1756, that the different Companies and detachments were enrolled as a Regiment, and placed under one Commander. It is to be regretted that, in the confusion resulting from the loss of the British Capital, the disorganization of the Council, and the impossibility of sending regular dispatches to the Court of Directors, the Military records about this time are in a very unsatisfactory condition. Orders appear to have been issued without proper records having been preserved ; and, indeed, some important measures, entailing changes in the Military and Civil systems, appear to have been carried out without proper sanction having been obtained or even solicited. It appears quite clear from Colonel Clive's Diary, dispatched officially to the Court of Directors in February, 17.37, that " The Bengal European Regiment " was organized by him on or immediately prior to the 22nd December, 1756; for he notes that, on that date, the Grenadiers and the Artillery Companies from the " Salisbury " and " Bridgwater," in which vessels they had arrived from Madras, "joined the Battalion, which was in" " the camp." The " Battalion " referred to must have been the * " Government Gazette." No. 1 010. October 30th, 1868. FORMATION OF THE BENGAL EUROPEAN BATTALION. 17 Bengal European Battalion/' which he had just formed ; for 1756. icre was no other Battalion in the camp or indeed with his i. \rniy. As Major Kilpatrick was the senior Company's Officer, and a> his detachment had been merged into the " Bengal European Battalion," it is highly probable (notwithstanding that he had been nominated to a seat in Council) that he was the first ( 'nmmanding Officer of the Regiment; but certain it is that it was under his supervision that it was organized. The following is a nominal roll of some of the Officers who first served with the Regiment, their names having been collected from various sources and authorities. RANK. Captain ieutenant isign Surgeon NAME. Dugald Campbell Mills Dickson John Meadows Cudmore ... Smith Wedderburn Le Beaume... Walcot ... Carstairs Muir Moran Douglas Sommers ... Carr Xatlianial Wilson REMARKS. Joined the force from Bul- ramguri in the sloop " Dragon." Escaped from Calcutta and made his way to Fulta. Ditto ditto. Ditto ditto. Brought his European detach- ment from Dacca. Escaped from Calcutta and made his way to Fulta. Ditto ditto. Was sent with despatches from Fulta to Madras asking assistance. He returned with dive's force. Survived the " Black Hole " disaster and ultimately escaped to Fulta. Brought his European detach- ment in from Baleshwar. Brought his European detach- ment in from Jugdeah. A civilian who survived the " Black Hole" disaster, and ob- tained an Ensign's commission in the Battalion. In medical charge. 18 PREPARATIONS FOR AN ADVANCE. 1756. In addition to those recorded in the foregoing nominal roll, it is probable that the Officers with Major Kilpatrick's detach- ment from Madras also joined the Battalion; but their names are, unfortunately, not known. Captains Minchin and Grant were under arrest for having deserted their posts during the defence of Calcutta. Minchin was dismissed the service; but Grant was pardoned; having pleaded in his defence " that he had urged Mr. Drake (the " " Governor) to return the same evening that they fled from the " " Fort to succour those left behind, and that there was truth in " " this assertion may be inferred from the fact of his having been " " readmitted to the service."* Colonel Clive had been entrusted with despatches from the Madras Government for the Nawab Siraju 'd daulah. These, together with covering letters from himself and Admiral Watson, " which were full of threats,"! were forwarded unsealed to the care of Manakchand, now Governor of Calcutta ; but he declined to forward these dispatches ; they being couched in terms which he feared would cause the Nawab's resentment to rebound on himself. Manakchand had not lost sight of the importance of defend- ing the approaches to his capital. He first turned his attention to repairing the walls of Fort William, partially destroyed when it had been captured by the Nawab in the previous June. He had also repaired and strengthened the walls of the Fort of Tanna ; and commenced a new Fort as an outpost, which he called Alighur. He also caused two large ships, laden with bricks and other heavy materials, to be kept in readiness, so that they might be sunk in the channel of the river if the British ships should attempt it's ascent. But it was to the Fort of Baj Baj, on the left bank of the river Hugli, between the Fort of Tanna and the Port of Fulta, that Manakchand had devoted * Broome's " Rise and Progress of the Bengal Army." f Mill's " History of India," Book IV., Chapter iii. PREPARATIONS FOR AX ADVANCE. 19 liis special attention. Outworks were constructed commanding 1750. the approaches, the defences strengthened, and it was garrisoned by some of his best troops. Obviously Baj Baj would be the first point of Olive's attack ; and, indeed, on its capture depended the primary success of his expedition. In consultation with Admiral Watson and Captain Eyre Coote who now commanded the detachment of the 39th Foot, it was .arranged that the royal troops should act as Marines on board the ships of war; the Bengal European Battalion, the three Companies of the Madras European Battalion, and the Madras Sepahis, together with the European Artillery and 2 field-pieces with ammunition, to form the Army for service on land. Soon after dive's arrival at Fulta, he was prostrated by a severe illness ; probably the same malarious fever which had nearly annihilated Kilpatrick's detachment. On the 23rd December he wrote an official letter to Major Kilpatrick, making over to him i lie charge of the preparations for an immediate advance on the Fort of Baj Baj. A Council of War was held on board the Admiral's ship, when a general plan of action and order of march were arranged. The land troops were ordered to disembark with the 2 field- pieces at a village called Moyapore, from which point they were to march across country towards the Calcutta road, to the north- ea>t of the Fort, where the troops were to lie in ambush. The .-hips of war were, at the same time, to move up the river and take nji their jiositions close to the Fort, on which they were to open fire from their heavy guns. It was anticipated that the defenders would soon evacuate, in which case the fugitives would attempt to escape by the Calcutta road, near which it was planned the British troops would be lying in wait, to pounce upon them. This general plan of action was sanctioned by the Council of War. at which were present Admiral Watson, Colonel Clive, '20 BRITISH ADVANCE ON CALCUTTA. 1756. Major Kilpatrick, and Captain Eyre Coote. Olive recorded his disapproval of much that was sanctioned ; but was out-voted. He was in favour of landing the guns and troops nearer to- Baj Baj than Moyapore, as he feared a tedious and uncertain march over an unknown country would be attended with un- necessary fatigue and danger. He says in his dispatch dated January 8th, 1757 : " You must know our march from Moidapore '* " to Budge Budge was much against my inclinations." It was on the 27th of December, 1756, just seven days after the arrival of the last ship from Madras, that the force, as just detailed, sailed up the river Hugli from Fulta, and next day anchored at the village of Moyapore. The troops selected for service on shore landed the same evening ; but, before giving an account of their midnight march,, we will follow Manakchand's Army. Anticipating an immediate attack on his Fort at Baj Baj, Manakchand assembled his troops, about 2000 men,, and marched! to its support, occupying on arrival the ground where our Army had intended to lie in ambush. Manakchand, who had dispatched his spies to watch and report on the movements of the British, had received information of their landing at Moyapore; and, hour by hour, these spies, hovering round our advancing troops, brought him information of our movements. Kilpatrick, in immediate command, although Clive accom- panied the land force, found his difficulties commence as soon as he had landed his troops. He had hoped to procure cattle to- December 28th, drag his guns and ammunition, but the villagers, 1756. warned by Manakchand's spies, and fearing the resentment of the Nawab, had driven off their cattle into the jungle. Then Kilpatrick found himself surrounded by swamps and water-courses, whilst there was no road, and the guides pressed into his service soon proved their inability or unwillingness to assist him. The first difficulty was overcome by the soldiers THE BATTLE OF BAJ BAJ. 21 volunteering to drag the guns, the second by trusting to the 1756. sagacity of the leaders ; and thus the British force commenced its march ; and Admiral Watson moved his ships further up the river, taking up his position during the night in close proximity to the Fort of Baj Baj. The country between Moyapore and Baj Baj was found December 28th-29th, to be a vast swamp, intersected by numerous ravines; 1756. anc j } 1C hardships and fatigues of the march are described as having been " very great." The guides in whom reliance had been placed purposely led the troops astray ; and it was not until after sixteen hours' hard marching that they halted on the Calcutta road, to the north-east of the Fort. From the position which the British troops occupied, the ships could be seen at anchor ; but the Fort was hidden from their view by clusters of trees. Near the road was a deserted village, on the western side of which there was a hollow, formed by a large pond or lake, now dry. Into this hollow the main force, including the Bengal European Battalion, descended ; the two guns having been placed on the north side of the deserted village. A detachment of 200 Sepahis was now sent from lis position to reconnoitre in the direction of the Fort, and to open communication with the ships. The reconnoitring party was " followed by Captain Pye at the head of the " " Grenadier company and the rest of the Sepoys, with orders " to possess himself of the suburbs of the town, and send " an immediate report when he had effected it ; but not " attempt anything further. Captain Pye, finding the pillah " 41 abandoned, marched down the riverside and put himself under " tthe orders of Captain Coote, who was landed with the king's " troops. They had just struck aflagg on one of the advanced " batteries."* It must not be forgotten that Clive was at this time in total 'norance of the presence of Manakchand, who had been * Clive's Diary. '2 '2 THE BATTLE OF BAJ BAJ. 1766. previously informed of the British movements, and was now waiting in ambush to surprise our troops. Overcome by fatigue after their weary march, the British soldiers piled their arms in the bed of the dry pond, and retired to snatch a few hours' sleep amongst the ruins of the deserted village ; the ordinary precaution of planting sentries for the protection of the guns and arms being neglected. Clive has been justly censured for this neglect ; but Malcolm, as an apology for him, urges that " having landed in Bengal only " " seven days, and being ill, he must have depended upon others "' " for intelligence, and he justly complains of the want of it. The " " nature of the country is, however, such as to offer to almost " " any number the power of concealing themselves." But surely it need scarcely be observed that if the nature of the ground was such as is here described, the neglecting to take the ordinary pre- cautions to guard against a surprise was all the more culpable ! At any rate, no valid excuse can be urged for the Officers in command, who were guilty of neglecting one of the first principles of warfare when in presence of an enemy. It must, however, in justice be remarked, that although the story of the sentries not having been planted is accepted by all historians as authentic, Clive, in his own Diary, does not refer in any way to the subject, although he gives a very detailed account of the siege. Scarcely an hour had elapsed when Manakchand, taking advantage of our neglect, dispatched his Infantry to seize the British guns and arms. The former were captured without a December 29th, blow from our sleeping gunners, and, indeed, might 1756. have been turned against us, had their captors under- stood how to bring them into action ; neglecting to spike the guns, and having no draft cattle, Manakchand's soldiers did not attempt to remove them. A sharp matchlock fire was now opened from the jungle- surrounding the hollow, which woke up the troops, who, pell-mell,. THE BATTLE OF BA.T BAJ. 23 hurried to secure their arms. It was a critical moment, but Olive's 1756. generalship never shone so brilliantly as when his position was all but lost. Notwithstanding that the enemy's fire was severe and incessant, the British Infantry succeeded in gaining possession of their arms. Clive was now in their midst, and speedily formed them into platoons, despatching one from the centre and one from the left, to drive back the enemy. It was a moment of breathless anxiety ; had the enemy resolutely charged down the sloping banks the result must have been disastrous ; but, fortunately, they contented themselves with firing from the underwood behind which they were concealed. Our centre platoon lost 8, and the left 3 men before they reached the bank ; when, immediately rushing upon the enemy, they forced him to retreat towards the village. In the meantime, the Volunteer Company, which it will be remembered was attached to the Bengal European Regiment, joined by our Artillery, recaptured the two guns ; and the Artillery, rapidly loading with grape, opened fire on the retreating foe. The tide was now turning in favour of the British ; when the hostile Cavalry were observed advancing in great force, headed by Manakchnnd on his elephant. Clive, having succeeded in driving back their Infantry, pushed forward under cover of his two guns, and threatened to engage the Cavalry, who, timidly halting, awaited orders. Our Artillery were now rendering splendid service, doing good execution amongst both the enemy's Cavalry and Infantry. Just at this time a bullet striking Manak- chand's turban caused him suddenly to order a retreat in the direction of Calcutta, leaving the British in possession of the field. "This skirmish," says Clive in his Diary, "in all lasted" " about halt'-an-hour, in which time Ensign Keir* with 9 private " men were killed, and 8 wounded." The enemy's "loss was com- " * There must he an error in dive's Diary. Ensign Keir was not killed on this occasion, for he was present with the Regiment on 28th February, 17.">7. It is proliahlf lie \vns wounded only, or that the name has been mis- taken for Ensign C'arr, wh> was killed. 24 THE BATTLE OF BAJ BAJ. 1756. " puted at 200 of inferior note killed and wounded, 4 Jemadars " " killed and 1 elephant, besides about 40 who perished in the " " confusion of passing a creek in the precipitance of their " flight," Whilst our troops were engaged in repelling Manakchand's Army, Admiral Watson, in the " Kent," had outsailed the other ships, and anchored in close proximity to the Fort, on which he poured shot and shell from his big guns. At noon he had succeeded in silencing the enemy's cannonade and had effected a considerable breach. The whole British force now marched down December 29th, to the advanced battery near the river, which the 1756. enemy had abandoned in the morning ; our troops drawing up in front of the Fort, under cover of a high bank. At sunset 250 sailors, with 2 9-pounders, were landed from the "Kent/' these guns being mounted on the enemy's advanced battery ; but this was not accomplished without loss, for, during the operation, some of the 39th Regiment were wounded. Our troops being now utterly exhausted a bivouac was ordered ; sentries being planted and every precaution taken to guard against surprise. At 7 the next morning orders were issued for the storming of the gateway, under cover of the 2 9-pounders which had been December 30th, landed from the " Kent " on the previous evening. The 1756. storming party consisted of the detachment of the 39th Foot, the Grenadier Company of the Bengal European Battalion, 100 Seamen, and 200 Sepahis. At 8 o'clock, just before the troops moved forward to attack, a sailor named Strahan, who with a few of his comrades had been drinking freely in anticipation of hard work, conceived the idea of seeing what was going on inside the Fort. Clamber- ing through the breach Strahan found the walls deserted, and, shouting to his companions, proclaimed with cheers that he had captured the Fort. His companions quickly followed, but soon CAPTURE OF THE FORT OF BAJ BAJ. 25 found themselves hotly engaged with the enemy's rear-guard, who 1756 were smoking over the fire before joining their comrades, who, having received the news of the defeat and flight of Manakchand's Army, had evacuated the Fort during the night. More of our sailors soon followed, and after a short skirmish it was proved that the drunken sailor, Strahan, was right when he proclaimed that he had taken the Fort. But this capture was not accom- plished without a sad loss ; Captain Dugald Campbell of the Bengal European Kegiment being unfortunately killed by accident .as he was posting sentries over a captured magazine.* In the Fort '2'2 pieces of cannon and 33 barrels of gun- powder were found. After disabling the guns, the batteries were demolished and the buildings inside the Fort destroyed. On the evening of December 30th, 17;">(), the troops re-embarked, the Sepahis taking the route along the banks of the river, and the Artillery following in boats. Manakchand and his troops were much surprised at the reception they had met with at the hands of the British, for it was fresh in their memory how they had captured the Fort at Calcutta in the previous June, and how the British Governor and Military Commander had deserted their posts. Their estimation of the courage and endurance of the British was at its lowest ebb ; and, in short, they despised their enemy, and had quite expected that he would a second time have fallen an easy prey. How great, then, was their dismay to find themselves not only beaten off the field by a mere handful of these men whom they despised, but their Fort of Baj Baj also easily captured, and the victorious Army, full of confidence, nearing the capital itself. * The widow of this Officer, who had escaped witli her husband from Bulramguri to Fulta. married Mr. Warren Hastings (afterwards Governor - (Irncral of India), wlio was serving at tin- battle of Baj Baj as a Volunteer with the " Bengal Kuropi-an Kepim-nt." Mrs. Hastings died at Kassimbazar, near Murshedabad, where she was buried. Glei(fs Memories of Warrai Hastinys. Vol. !.,;>. 49. 26 BKITISH ADVANCE ON CALCUTTA. 1756. Manakchand was thoroughly cowed, and his fears were shared December 31st, by his whole Army, which, halting a few hours- 1756. a t Calcutta, and leaving 500 men only to guard Fort William, marched with all haste to join the Nawab at Murshedabad, and inform him of their disasters. At 10 a.m. on the 31st the fleet sighted the Tanna Fort where the " Kingfisher," which had arrived on the previous day, was anchored. It was proved afterwards that the enemy at Tanna were so surprised at the sudden appearance of the " Kingfisher,"" just as they were preparing to sink their laden vessels in the channel of the river, that they desisted, and the vessels were found lying snugly under the guns of the Tanna Fort. As our fleet approached random shots were fired by the enemy,, but at 2 p.m. their guns were silenced and they abandoned both the Fort of Tanna and Alighur, which were immediately occupied by our sailors. Clive in his Diary says, " We found here 56 pieces of cannon," " chiefly large, some shot, and a small quantity of powder." 1757. O n January 2nd at 5 a.m. the " Bengal European Regiment "" and 3 Companies of the " Madras European Regiment " landed near Alyghur where they joined the Sepahis, who had marched along the banks of the Hugli ; the united force proceeding with 2 field-pieces towards " Turnam's Gardens," where some strong batteries had been erected by the enemy to impede our approach to Calcutta. As soon as our troops reached the Gardens the enemy retreated, leaving his guns in our possession. At 10 a.m. our ships had arrived abreast of Fort William, the- land troops being still en route ; but Admiral Watson of necessity commenced operations, for some of the ships were caught in the eddy whilst taking up their respective positions for action, and before they could right themselves the guns of the Fort opened fire pretty warmly. The ships soon came to anchor, and throwing some shots at the ramparts, drove the enemy from their batteries, through the RECAPTURE OF CALCUTTA. '21 Gate, before the arrival of our land troops. The boats 1757. >f the squadron then landed a detachment of the 39th Foot, who, jo : ning some of the Infantry on shore, quickly occupied the Fort. A lariiv number of guns were captured, as well as shot, shell, grenades, &c. Thus Fort William, after having been in the enemy's possession for upwards of six months. \v;is recaptured on January 2nd, 1757, and British power so far re-established in Bengal. General References. Chapter I. Stuart's "History of "Bengal." Hamilton's " Xew Account of the East Indies." "The Seir Mutakherin." Calcutta Ed. Grose, "Voyage to the East Indies." Holwell's "India Tracts." 1st Report, Select Committee, House of Commons. Mill's "British India." " Founders of the Indian Empire." Malleson. "History of the Bengal Army." Broome. William's "Bengal Infantry." " dive's Dispatches and Correspondence." Malcolm. F.ast India Military CaK-n-lar. Ive's -' Voyage and Historical Narrative." "Life of Lord dive." Caraccoli. Wheeler's "Early Kecords of British India." Proceedings of the Council, Bengal Presidency. (ilt-iu's Memoirs of Warren Hastings." Orme's ' Military Transactions in Bengal." &c., &c. CHAPTER II. Capture of the Town and Fort of Hugli The Nawab marches on Calcutta The Battle of Chitpore Discomfiture of the British, who retire on Fort William The Nawab offers terms of peace, which are accepted War declared between Great Britain and France Clive determines to attack the French settlement of Chandernagore Objections raised by Admiral Watson The Battle and Capture of Chandernagore. I HE British residents found that sad havoc had been created amongst their property, which had fallen into the hands of Siraju 'd daulah when Calcutta had been captured by him in June, 1756. How- ever pleasing the prospect of a return may have January 2nd, been to the fugitives, their joy was considerably abated when they found their houses burnt, property destroyed, and that they had not the wherewithal to re-establish themselves in comfort ; nor was the Government in a position to materially assist them. But the British Army had regained a firm footing in the country by the recapture of Calcutta, and it soon became apparent that Manakchand's force had in its flight created such a panic by its description of the courage and strength of the British that, to ensure complete success, an immediate advance was advisable. Reliable information having at this time been obtained that a portion of the treasure which Siraju 'd daulah had captured at Calcutta had been conveyed to the Town and Fort of Hugli, situated on the river about 33 miles above Calcutta, a small force, consisting of 150 Europeans and 200 Sepahis, was organized under Major Kilpatrick to reduce the Fort; a 20-gun ship, with three smaller vessels, being told off to accompany the expedition. CAPTURE OF THE TOWN AND FORT OF IIUGLI. 29 Manakchand's retreating Army had produced such an effect 1757. on the Garrison at Hugli that they made but slight resistance, the Town and Fort being captured on the 10th of January ; but the treasure 15,000 fell far short of British anticipations. It was during this expedition that intelligence reached Clive that War in Europe had been declared between the French and English. This news materially affected the aspect of affairs in Bengal, both from a political and a military point of view; for between the towns of Hugli and Calcutta there was the French Settlement of Chandernagore, garrisoned by 300 French soldiers and a train of European Artillery, as well as a considerable force of French Sepahis. Should the French amalgamate with the Xawab's Army it was to be feared that the latter would recover their confidence, and the united forces become formidable. Clive, under these circumstances, determined to treat with die Nawab, who, he anticipated, would now be willing to listen January 10th 31st, to his overtures ; but in the meantime the news 1757. had reached the Nawab that our troops had captured and plundered his Fort and Town of Hugli. Siraju 'd daulah's fury knew no bounds. lie would listen to no overtures ; he would punish these impudent adventurers, and utterly extermi- nate them. With this intention he assembled his whole Army, consisting of 18,000 Horse and 15,000 Foot, and 40 guns, and ordered an immediate advance on Calcutta. Clive had lost m> time in strengthening his position. Some of his Europeans had been absent with the expedition sent to reduce Hugli; but he had with him the greater portion of the Bengal European Kegi- nu-nt and the detachment of the Madras Europeans, as well as a considerable number of Madras Sepahis ; all of whom he employed in the construction of a fortified encampment, with several entrenched outposts. With only so small a force at his disposal ('live deemed it advisable to concentrate his troops outside Calcutta, instead of having to defend its extensive walls. The position of the entrenched camp, which was about a mile 30 THE NAWAB MARCHES ON CALCUTTA. 1757. to the north-east of Calcutta and half-a-mile from the river, was February 2nd, well chosen. To the eastward of the city was the Salt- 1757. Water Lake, which in those days extended further inland than at present; this lake stretching towards the sea formed an impassable barrier to a hostile army, and rendered it difficult for the Nawab to advance on Calcutta, except in sight of dive's entrenchments. On the 3rd of February, 1757, Admiral Watson was dining with Colonel Clive in his newly-formed camp when, during dinner, they were startled by seeing the advanced guard of the Nawab's Army inarching at about half-a-mile's distance in the direction of Calcutta. Watson hastened to his ship to prepare for action, and Clive ordered out a strong detachment with 2 field-pieces, at once opening fire on the enemy, who, nothing daunted, replied from 10 heavy guns, some of them 32-pounders. Darkness setting in, Clive ordered his troops to retire to the -entrenchments, a few men having been killed and wounded. The British force had lately been somewhat strengthened by the arrival of the Company's transport " Marlborough," which had left Madras with Clive's army ; but, being " a heavy sailer," had fallen behind the other ships which had arrived at Fulta in December. In addition to troops the " Marlborough " brought some field Artillery, ammunition, and stores, which were much needed. The Nawab, who commanded his army in person, took up an extended position on the plain to the south-east of the city., having crossed the River Hugli on the 30th January, about 10 miles above the Hugli Fort. From the French at Chandernagore, and from the Dutch at R K. ;'>.") having been disabled ; one of these being gallantly recaptured i7;,7. Itv Knsign Yorke with a few Europeans, who rescued one of the disabled innis ; and a charge of our troops to the front cleared a passage, sd that tin* main road was at last gained. By following the road through Calcutta the Fort was reached about noon, when it was found that our loss amounted to 27 European Infantry. ]'2 Sailors, and is Sepahis killed; 70 European Infantry, 12 Sailors, and 35 Sepahis wounded. Captains Pye and Bridges of the Madras Service, and Mr. Belcher, private secretary to ( 1 olonel dive, were killed. The same evening the troops re- turned to their fortified camp, boldly marching within a quarter of a mile of the enemy's position. Thus ended the battle of Chitpore, which from a military point of view must be classed as a failure and a defeat, the more gloomy when we take into account that we had no means of supplying the places of our dead and wounded Europeans, whereas on the enemy an equal or much greater loss would have little or no effect. Dissatisfaction now showed itself amongst our troops, who blamed their Commander for having sacrificed their comrades in a badly-concerted, rash attack. Had Clive, they argued, taken the road which runs parallel with the river and thus gained the Maratha Ditch at Pen-ill's Point, he could have inarched without obst ruction under cover of the outer fortifications of the town, and so found himself at Amiehand's garden. But they were not aware that Hive's plan of action included the seizing of the enemy's Artillery impossible had he taken the route by the river. Clive was on his mettle, and he never showed to such advantage as when he was surrounded by difficulties to most men insur- mountable. He would not admit his defeat. What though he had bc-en forced into a somewhat undignified retreat, why should February Ith. he not turn his military mismanagement into a political 1<>)7 - Mieco.-s .' He grasped the idea, and acted on it. Fortune wa> already smiling upon him, and he now learnt for the first time that the enemy were far more disheartened than the British. 36 THE NAWAB OFFERS TERMS OF PEACE. 1775. Our guns, during our progress through their camp, had created terrible havoc amongst the enemy, their loss far exceeding anything Clive had imagined. They were dismayed and cowed ; 22 " Officers of distinction," 600 soldiers, and 500 horses having been killed, besides several elephants, camels, and a vast number of draught cattle. The Nawab also was terrified, having never before been so near the rage and tumult of battle, to which his temperament was averse. Whilst upbraiding his Officers for their cowardice, he was himself only anxious to find an excuse for retiring from the presence of an enemy whom he had now learned to dread. The next morning Siraju 'd daulah made proposals of peace, to which Clive replied that " he had marched through his " " camp with no other intention than to convince him of what " " the English troops were capable, who, he said, had cautiously " " hurt none excepting such as had opposed them, but that he was " " willing to renew the negotiations for peace."* The Nawab, to prove his sentiments of friendliness and sincere February 6th 9th, desire for peace, struck his camp and moved about 1757. 3 miles to the north-east, passing on his march the British entrenched camp without showing any hostile signs. On the 9th of February the terms of a treaty were agreed to and ratified, under the oaths of the Nawab Siraju 'd daulah, Mir J'afar Khan, and Roi Dulab, the Nawab agreeing to restore February 9th, the Company's factories, giving permission to the English 1757. to fortify Calcutta as they might choose, to coin gold and silver at their own mint, and hold their merchandize exempt from duty ; the 38 villages granted to the British by the Embassy in 1717 to be restored; and in general all previous privileges, Imperial and Vice-regal, to be confirmed.! Nor was this treaty the climax of Clive's success ; for, on the llth of February, when the Nawab commenced his return mar * Orme, Book VII., p. 135. t Orme, Book VII. , p. 136. THE NAWAIJ'S TERMS ACCEPTED. 37 to his Capital, he sent Amicliand to Colonel Clive with a further 1757. treaty of alliance, offensive and defensive, against all enemies. Clive was naturally elated, for never in his most sanguine hours February 10th 15th, nat ^ ne anticipated such success; and this proposed 1757 - treaty for an alliance, offensive and defensive, relieved him from a difficulty which had lately threatened to overwhelm him. News, as previously stated, had been received from England that War had been declared between Great Britain and France ; l.~>th iNth, thus Chandemagore with its garrison was at Clive's !'" mercy, and, by his alliance with the Nawab, his anxiety lest the French and Siraju 'd daulah should foregather wafl dispelled. This second treaty was signed as quickly as possible and returned to the Nawab, with an intimation from Clive that he desired to attack the French at Chandemagore, and asking the Nawab'fl sanction. Siraju \1 daulah hesitated; but trembling lest he should be again forced into hostilities with the British gave an evasive consent, at the same time asking that 20 English Gunners might be permitted to serve in his Artillery, and further that an English Resident might be appointed to his Court. IJnth these requests were readily acceded to, the gunners being sent and Mr. Watts appointed Resident at Murshedabad. The Nawab now continued his march to his Capital, and Clive deter- mined to lose no time in prosecuting his plans for the reduction of Chandemagore. Since the formation of the Bengal European Battalion in December, 17f)l>, great changes had taken place in the materiel of the Regiment. Clive, on the recapture of Calcutta, had reinstated and formed into levies some of the old Bengal Sepahis, who had tied from the Settlement when it was captured by Siraju 'd daulah in June 1 , 17~><>, and these new levies were now officered from the Bengal European Battalion. Again, some of original Officers of the Battalion had disappeared, the records 38 CHANGES IN THE BENGAL EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 1757. not showing what had become of them. Captain Dugald Campbell and Ensign Carr were killed in the action of Baj Baj, and Ensign Walcot had died from the effects of his sufferings in the " Black Hole." Captains Mills, Dickson, Meadows, and Grant; Lieutenants Cudmore, Smith, and Wedderburn ; Ensigns Carstairs, Douglas, Somers, and Moran had become non-effective, although some of these rejoined the Regiment afterwards. Lieutenant John Fraser had been promoted to a Company in the Battalion in suc- cession to Captain Campbell, deceased, and on the same day a Commission as Lieutenant was granted to Ensign Carstairs, who was appointed to do duty with the Sepahi troops. Lieutenant Cudmore was promoted to Captain-Lieutenant, and Lieutenants Dyer and Keir, and Ensigns Prichard, Rider, and Delabare, and Adjutant Gibbons joined the Battalion. From a return signed by Commissary P. R. Peakes and laid before the Council on 28th February, 1757. it appears that the Battalion mustered on that date only 250 effective Officers and men, including 38 Artillery attached. The Volunteer Company was reduced to 13 men, many who had served as Volunteers having returned to their several callings when Calcutta was recaptured. The barracks which had been in Fort William were destroyed during the occupation of Siraju 'd daulah's troops, the materials having been employed to construct a Mahomedan Mosque, which was, under the Nawab's orders, erected in the centre of the Fort. The European troops, therefore, were quartered " in the % Play-House,' and dwelling-house of General " " Alsop, and the upper part of the horse stables/' which had, under the orders of the Council, been put into repair and adapted for the purpose. The following is a nominal roll of the Officers present with th Regiment on 28th February, 1757 : * * Broonie says that Captain Christian Fischer, a Danish Officer, joined the Bengal Battalion on 7th February, 1757, but though his name does not CLIVK I'KOI'OSKS TO ATTACK CIIANDEKNACOKK. ;>'. Captain Grainger Muir, Lieutenant Keir, 1757, ,, Lebe;uune, Ensign Pricbard, John Fraser, Kider, Captain-Lieutenant Carstairs, Delabare, Lieutenant Dyer, Adjutant William Gibbons. Following Siraju 'd daulah's half-hearted permission for the British to attack the French, Clive now determined on sending February 1 5th 28th, an expedition against Chandernagore without 1757. further delay, and for this purpose crossed the Ilugli with his whole available force on the 18th of February; but an unlooked-for difficulty arose. The French, taking alarm at the British preparations, besought the Xawal) " for his own safety" to render them his protection; pointing out that should he permit the English to destroy the French interests in Bengal, he would lose the alliance of the latter and the English would then have him completely at their mercy. These representations had the desired effect. The Xawab had not previously seen matters in this light; so now wan 11 ing up to the occasion, he wrote to Clive positively for- bidding him to attack the French, evincing his earnestness and faith by sending to M. Renault, the French Governor at Chan- dernagore, a large sum of money to aid him in his preparations for defence, as well as a force of 1500 men, under command of Rajah Dulab Ram, to strengthen his garrison. Under these circumstances the Council at Calcutta, deeming it injudicious to act in direct disobedience of the Nawab's commands, waived the idea of sending an expedition against the French; and (live was prepared to sign a treaty of neutrality. But at this stairc another unforeseen difficulty presented itself. Admiral Watson positively refused to sign any treaty with the French, on the ground to use his own words "that no treaty can be" appear in the mil lai.l het'.nv the Council on L'sth February, he was present with the Kattalion at the Battle nt' 1'lassey. June. 17.">7. 40 CLTVE PROPOSES TO ATTACK CHANDERNAGORE. 1757. " binding with Chandernagore until it is ratified by Pondicherry. " " Calcutta is an independent, Chandernagore is a dependent " " settlement. If we sign a treaty, then, with Chandernagore we " " bind our own hands ; we do not bind those of our rival." To this argument Colonel Malleson, in his " Life of Clive," justly replies, " considering that the rival was the suppliant to have his " " hands bound, the objection, though doubtless sound in law, was " " more plausible than solid." The Admiral remained obdurate ; and the treaty was held in abeyance. During this delay intelligence had reached the Nawab that Delhie had been captured by Ahmud Shah Durani. This news filled the young Nawab with abject fear ; for it \vas not improbable that the conqueror, flushed with his success, might attempt to obtain possession of the Bengal provinces. Siraju 'd daulah, therefore, wrote to Clive, urging him to march to his assistance ; but in this communication no reference whatever was made to the French question. Simultaneously with the receipt of the Nawab's letter the Council in Calcutta learned that reinforcements which had left Bombay in the preceding October, had arrived at the mouth of the river Hugli, consisting of 2 strong Companies of the Bombay February 15th 28th, European Regiment, under Captains Buchanan 1757. and Armstrong, with Captain-Lieutenant Egerton ; Lieutenants Palmer, Moltimore and Walsh ; and Ensign Robertson ; and a detachment of Artillery. The " Cumberland," 74, with a detachment of the 39th Foot, was also close at hand. The English Army, with these additions, was considered sufficiently strong to attack the French at Chandernagore, even though the Nawab should assist them with his troops. Our ships of war formed a very important part of the armament which Clive proposed to bring against the French ; but the Admiral would not be influenced by Clive's arguments. He still deter- mined that he would not move against the French without the express consent of the Nawab. Watson therefore wrote ATTACK o\ T I IK FKKNCH FORT AT CHANDKIINAGORE. 41 threatening letter to the Nawab, accusing him of not having 17;,;. faithfully fulfilled the terms of the treaty, and telling him that if the conditions remained unfulfilled for ten days longer he " would kindle such a flame in the country an all the waters of ' "' the Ganges should not be able to extinguish." The Xawab, much alarmed at the tone of Admiral Watson's letter, and hoping to allay his wrath, replied that he hud faithfully observed that part of the treaty which provided for an offensive and defensive alliance, and further denied that he had in anv wav assisted tin- French; adding ''if your enemy with an upright" " heart claims your protection you will give him life ; but then " " you must be well satisfied of the innocence of his intention ; " u if not. whatever you think right, that do." This letter the Admiral considered a sufficient authority to l-V)i iary -j.'itli L'sth. ^n'l'ant his joining Clive in the expedition against Chandernagore ; but the Nawab, on re- flection, fearing that he had said too much in his letter, wrote to Watson next day, positively forbidding an attack on the French settlement. The Admiral, however, determined to act on the first letter, which he considered had given him the desired permission : so he now treated all further communications with contempt, and issued orders for his ships to prepare for action. The French settlement of duuftLernagore is situated on the banks of the river Ilugli about thirty miles above Calcutta; the territory covering only a space of about two miles in length along the river bank and a mile-and-a-half inland: the Dutch settle- ment of Cbinsorab adjoining to the north. The French Fort of Chandernagore, called Fort d'Orleans. was a xjuare building ,-ituated about thirty yards from the river, with bastions at the corners, each mounting 10 32-pound guns. On the eastern side was a ravelin, abutting on the river and covering the approach to the water-gate; and on this ravelin 8 \\'l- pounders were mounted. There were also heavy guns on the terrace- surrounding the church which stood in the centre of 42 ATTACK ON THE FRENCH FORT AT CHANDERNAGORE. the Fort ; many guns being also mounted on the walls behind the battlements. The French garrison consisted of 146* European Infantry, 300 Sepahis, and about 300 Militia formed from amongst the Euro- pean inhabitants of the town ; and there were, in addition, a number of French sailors, drawn from the ships lying under March 1st 14th, the guns of the Fort. The English force consisted 1757. of the Bengal European Regiment, the detachment of the Bombay and Madras European Regiments : these, after leaving sufficient men to garrison Calcutta and the outposts, amounting in all to about 700 European Infantry. Besides, Olive had 150 European Artillery and 1500 Sepahis ; but the most important part of the expedition was the ships of war. There were the "Kent" (64), the "Tiger" (60), and "Cumberland" (70), the detachments of the 39th Regiment still acting as Marines on board ship. On the 7th March Clive commenced his advance, and on the 14th sighted Chandernagore. The British approach was made from the westward, along the high road leading towards the north face of the Fort. Here the French had thrown up a battery held by strong detachments ordered to dispute our advance. Clive drove back the enemy's skirmishers, pushed on towards the French position, and gained possession of several houses offering admirable cover, and from March 14th _ 23rd, which a continuous fire was kept up, compelling the 1757. French to spike those of their guns which they were unable to remove, and take refuge within their Fort. Four of their outposts to the south of the Fort were also withdrawn during the night, the guns being previously removed ; and next day our troops occupied the town. The 16th and 17th were em- ployed in landing our siege-train guns, which were got into * Various authorities place the French garrison at a much higher figure, but Malleson, who has examined the old records at Chandernagore, ascer- tained they only had 140 French Infantry in the garrison. TAl'll KK OF TIIK FRENCH FOIiT AT C'HAXDFU.N A< i UK. 43 ])ositiun under a heavy cannonade from the Fort ; notwith- 1757. Btanding which, a battery on the banks of the river was occupied by our troops and 3 32-pounders placed in position. These latter guns were silenced on the following morning, and on the 21st the enemy's fire beat down a house near one of our batteries, in the ruins of which several of our men were temporarily imprisoned, but none mortally hurt. On the 22nd our batterv was repaired and so strengthened that our 3 32. pounders were again brought to bear on the Fort. In the meantime the ships of war were moving into their position, the "Tiger" (liOj leading the advance, and as she passed the Fort sweeping the ravelin with a broadside, and. taking up her position opposite the north-eastern bastion, an-h L>:;nl, pouring a heavy fire from her guns ; and at the same time her sailors, mounting to the tops, discharged a constant musketry fire into the body of the Fort. Next came the "Kent" (T>4). carrying Admiral Watson's flag, and appointed to the centre position ; but just as she was about to drop anchor a deadly fire was brought to bear upon her deck, killing several of her sailors and disabling her Com- mander, who, stunned by his wound, could not give his directions with sufficient rapiditv. The "Kent" in her confusion slipped her cable and was carried by the tide about fifty yards down the river to the position which should have been occupied by the "Cumberland." and became exposed to a withering fire both from the south-east and south-west bastions of the Fort. The cannonade was now terrific some 80 guns pouring forth their tire >imultaneoii>ly : the broadsides of the ''Kent' 5 and *' Tiger " Iteinir assisted by our batteries on shore, which ably assailed the two bastions of the Fort with their cross fire. But the French guns were not to be ca>ily >ileneed : and indeed it soon appeared that although the " Tiger," which was pitted against the north-eastern bastion, held her own. she was getting badly mauled. The Admiral, nothing daunted, now brought the guns 44 CAPTURE OF THE FRENCH FORT AT CHANDERNAGORE. 1757. of his lower as well as those of his upper deck to bear against the bastions, and for a few moments succeeded in silencing several of their guns, but the French Commander, rallying his men, concentrated the whole of his fire upon one particular part of the deck of the " Kent ; " and at once the ship was on fire. The conflagration spread rapidly, and with it a panic ensued, during which some 80 men left their quarters and attempted to escape. It was an anxious moment, but Admiral Watson stood firm, surrounded by the flames, whilst his Officers strove manfully to get the fire under. They w r ere soon joined by some of the sailors who, recovering their self-possession, and finding that courage and exertion might still save their ship, rejoined their Officers and set to work with a will which soon mastered the fire. The cannonade from the ships was now resumed in all its fury, the enemy on his side giving signs of exhaustion. One after another his guns had been dismounted, and his fire had perceptibly slackened ; but for two hours more the battle raged, every minute giving greater promise of victory for the British. At 9 o'clock a white flag was seen floating on the walls of the Fort, and the combat suddenly ceased. Admiral Watson was now requested to receive a deputation of the French on board his ship ; but, fearful lest they should see the damage which had been done and the plight to which he was reduced, he deputed Captain Eyre Coote of the 39th to go ashore and receive the French proposals. But whilst the terms of surrender were being discussed several of the French Officers and soldiers escaped from the Fort and took the road towards Kassimbazar to join M. Law of Lawrieston, who, with a small body of French Artillery and Infantry, held the French factory at that place. After proceeding a few miles the fugitives reached Raja Dulab Ram's force, sent by the Nawab to assist the French; and under Dulab Ram's protection they succeeded in reaching their destination. At 3 p.m. the English took formal possession of the CAPTUKE OF THK KKKNTH FORT AT CH AM >F,KNAGORE. 45 March 2.>rd, French Fort, and the British Ensign displaced the 1757 1757. /*/, -in-ill -//> of France on the flag-staff battery. 'lonel Clive, in his letter to the Court of Directors, dated ;'()tli March, 1757, says, "You will observe that the surrender" " was made to Admiral Watson, but common report will be just in " publishing how great a share the land forces had in this conquest. " " There were about 500 Europeans in the Fort, 250 Seapoys, and " " 100 Topasses, Mustees, c., bearing arms. Of the Europeans " " about \'2'} have given their parole of honour, 300 sick and" kw well arc prisoners, and the rest were cither killed in the siege or " ' made their escape." Besides these, Broome states that " there " ' were nearly 50 ladies," and Ives mentions specially the case of M. Nicholas, who lost his all, as he had neglected to remove his goods from the town to the Fort; a subscription was raised amongst his captors for his relief and he was presented with 1200, on receipt of which he cried out with joy, " Good God ! " u they are friends indeed!" The British loss was very severe on board the " Kent " 3 Officers and 37 men killed, 6 Officers and 74 men wounded ; on Mar -h L'.-'.rd, :Mth. board the "Tiger" 1 Officer and 14 men killed, l ""'" and 5 Officers and 40 men wounded. The " Kent/' soon afterwards condemned, had 6 shots in her masts and 1 \'2 in her hull; but the "Cumberland," not having taken up her position on account of the " Kent" having slipped her anchor, took no part in the battle. The loss of the land troops was trifling, not exceeding 30 or 40 in killed and wounded. The English took 130,000 at Chandernagore. The news of the French having lost their Settlement* reaching the Nawab the next day, he flew into a fit of imgovern- ( )n JII.-IIT being established in 17(>."> Chandernagore was restored to the Fivnrli : hut when hostilities broke out in 17'.M it was a .ya in seized by the Kn-h^h : restored by treaty in ISOL*. retaken tin- same year and held by the Knjjish till the Peace iu 1815; and filially made over to the French, 4th December, 1816. 46 CAPTURE OF THE FRENCH FORT AT CHANDERNAGORE. 1757. able passion; publicly threatening to take the life of Mr. Watts, the English Resident at his Court. He had daily sent letters both to Colonel Clive and Admiral Watson positively forbidding the attack on the French, but his letters and messages had not been even acknowledged. Whilst the Nawab's passion was in a blaze a black cloud from the direction of Patna cooled his wrath against the British; a messenger arriving with the news that his dreaded enemy Ahmed Shah Durani was in full march against him. This news ultimately proved to be false ; but it had the effect of reducing Siraju 'd daulah into a state of abject terror ; and he now wrote both to Watson and Clive congratulating them on their victory over the French, and offering the Company the Settle- ment of Chandernagore on the same terms as it had been held by their vanquished foes ; moreover, as a substantial proof of his sincerity, he sent 45,000, as a part of the compensation- money promised under his treaty as a peace-offering to the English residents of Calcutta for the destruction of their property in June, 1756. (jeneral References. Chapter 1L " The Seir Mutakherin," Calcutta Edition. Grose's " Voyage to the East Indies." Holwell's " India Tracts," 3rd Edition. First Report, Select Committee, House of Commons. Mill's " British India." Malleson's " Founders of the Indian Empire" (CliveJ. Broome's " Rise and Progress of the Bengal Army." Williams's " Bengal Infantry." Clive's "Despatches and Correspondence." Ive's "Voyage and Historical Narrative." Caraccioli's " Life of Lord Clive." East India Military Calendar. Orme's " Military Transactions in Bengal." "Proceedings of the Calcutta Council, 1757." &c., &c. ( II Al'TKU III. ('live seheines to depose the Nawab Siraju 'd daulah Treaty with Mir ,1'afar Halaji llao offers to co-operate with the British against Siraju 'd daulah The Kurdish Auent leaves Murshedubad Clive, with an English force, man-lies against the Nawab Capture of Kutwah The Council of \Var The Battle of Plassey Mir J'afar proclaimed Nawab Siraju 'd daulah's flight, murder, and burial. M MEDIATELY after the capture of Chandernagore Clive, 1 laving provided for the protection of his April 1st 15th, newly-acquired possession, withdrew 1757. the bulk of his Army to Calcutta, and r Admiral Watson took back his ships of war. The early part of the campaign had in the past three months been brought to a successful issue; but still much had to be accomplished. There was now a temporary cessation of hostilities, iiiid ('live turned his attention to his plans of future action. His first care \va> to protect himself against the machinations and intrigues of the Murshedabad Court. lie had many opportunities of judging the real character of the young Nawab, whom he had insulted and defied with such impunity. Clive was firmly con- vinced that Siraju 'd daulah was not to be trusted; that his friendliness had been the result of fear; and that he was only awaiting his opportunity to be avenged for the many humiliations to which he had been subjected at the hands of the British. Clive appears at this time to have determined to entwine a Apri] 1st 15th. wc '^ w" the Xawab had equivocated in the matter of the British attack on Chandernagore, he still treasured the idea that he would be able in case of need to make the French his allies, and pit them against the British; and it was therefore with dismav that he received a communication from Clive, requesting permi ion to attack the French at Kassimbazar, where M. Law commanded a small efficient force, lately augmented by 50 of the fugitives from Chandernagore. The position was awkward: for if the Nawab consented to Clive's request he would lose the alliance of the French ; whilst if he refused he would probably provoke the English, who might march upon his Capital. There was a third course open to him, April 1 oth Kith. ;in d he elected to adopt it. He furnished M. Law 17.">7. w ith money, ammunition, and carriage, and dispatched him on an imaginary expedition, telling him he might expect shortly to be recalled, when the present difficulty had been sur- mounted, lint M. Law replied, " Be assured, my Lord Nawab, " this is the last time we shall see each other. Remember inv " " wurds: we .-hall never meet again.''* On the 16th April M. Law eroeaed ihe river and proceeded in the direction of Bchar. As soon as Clive heard of the Nawab's ruse he dispatched a party of the :iJth Foot in pursuit; at the same time sending a small detachment of Europeans and Sepahis to strengthen the Knglish factory at Kaimha/ar. Soon after the departure of M. Law the Xawab became aware t the report of the threatened invasion of his provinces by i- Mutakherin. E 50 THE TREATY WITH MIR j'AFAR KHAN. 1757. Ahmed Shah Durani was false ; he therefore plucked up his courage and determined to free himself from the thraldom im- posed on him by the Calcutta Council. Siraju 'd daulah was not only threatened from without, but he had, by his ungovernable temper and insolent bearing, alienated from himself even those whose interests might have induced them to support him on his throne. The meshes which Clive had spread were being imperceptibly drawn closer round the Nawab ; whilst the principal nobles of his own Court were assisting in the plots for his destruction. i s t 3i s t, Siraju 'd daulah had not at this time one friend, whilst 1757. he was surrounded by enemies at home and abroad; but of all these, Mir J'afar Khan he who was most bound to him by strong ties of relationship, who had promised his pre- decessor on his deathbed that he would advise and protect the young Nawab this man was the worst and basest.* He entered into a conspiracy with the British to secure himself the Viceregal throne, agreeing to pay to the East India Company 1,200,000 ; to the English inhabitants of Calcutta 1,600,000; and to the other inhabitants 325,000. In addition to these enormous sums he purchased the goodwih 1 of the Navy and Army by promising them 500,000 ; and moreover he agreed to give the Council and Officers 600,000; lastly the Commanders and Members of Council entered into a subsidiary agreement with him to receive an extra donation of 315,000. These sums were duly apportioned so that each Officer and Civilian should receive what, even now-a-days, would be con- sidered a handsome fortune ; Colonel Clive's share alone amount- ing to upwards of 200,000. During these negotiations and before the signing of the treaty, Mir J'afar Khan had stipulated that Amichand, the English Agent, should remain in ignorance of the plot ; but Amichand was far too cunning a schemer to be kept * Mir J'afar Khan was married to the sister of Ali Vardi Khan (the late Nawab), and was consequently uncle to Siraju 'd danlah. THE FORGED TREATY. <>0,000; telling Mr. Watts that unless his claim were admitted he would inform Siraju 'd daulah of the conspiracy and cause all concerned to be arrested. This \vas a dilemma: but (Tivc and his Council had no idea of allowing the Amichand difficulty to destroy the plot. It was, tlu'ivfore, proposed that a false treaty should be prepared, in which the provision for Amichand should be inserted. This pro- position was submitted to Admiral Watson, who sternly refused to be a party to such a disgraceful fraud ; so Clive, with the consent of the Council, forged Admiral Watson's signature to a sham treaty, which was shown to Amichand as the original document and accepted by him as genuine. The plot matured; and under dive's guidance relations between the British and the Xawab were strained to the utmost. It was pretended that Raja Dulab Ram's force, still at Plassey, caused umbrage to the Council at Calcutta ; for although the Nawab had undoubted right to locate his troops in any part of his territories, yet Plassey had always been considered a position the occupation of which indicated distrust. It was thence that an attack on the Xawab could be most easily effected; and, in fact, Clive secretly intended to make his attack on Murshedabad from that place. Now, not only Dulab Ram's force of 1500 men were located at Pla-scy. but the Xawab had ordered it to be considerably augmented* On the 3rd of May a mysterious letter was received by the Council, delivered by an unknown messenger, who represented himself as 1 eing in the service of I>alaji Rao, the Maratha Chief of Behar, proposing that the English should co-operate with him against Siraju M daulah. Xow this proposal, had Clive believed it to be genuine, might have dovetailed in with his own views: but he was under the impression that he had dis- covered a plot. lie thought that the letter had been instigated 52 BALAJI RAO'S OFFER. 1757. by the Nawab, in order that he might find ont in what light the Council would receive such a proposition. By Olive's advice the mysterious letter was forwarded to the Nawab, under cover of one from the Council, in which it was pointed out how true and loyal were the intentions of the British. "With these despatches was also sent a second letter from the Council enquiring why the Nawab's Army was kept at Plassey fully equipped for Avar ; so- injuring the trade and confidence which should exist between allies. Now, in point of fact, the letter Avhich had caused so much suspicion Avas genuine ; CliA r e had over-reached himself ; but the result Avas all that he could desire, for confidence was restored at Murshedebad, and the troops were Avithdrawn from Plassey. The NaAvab had been warned by M. Law, before he Avas sent away from Murshedabad, that he Avas surrounded by enemies and traitors, and he now began to realise the value of the warning. He became suspicious of all around him, removing Nandkumar from the Governorship of Hugli, Avhilst his relations with Mir J'afar AA r ere so hostile that the Nawab Avas preparing to attack him in his palace. In the meantime Clive had sent instructions to Mr. Watts British Resident at the NaAvab's Court, who had throughout been assisting in the plot to be prepared to make his escape, and Mr. Watts had Avith this view secretly dispatched to Calcutta a great deal of valuable property from the English factory at Kassimbazar. Mir J'afar Khan now informed Mr. Watts that the time for his departure had arrived, sending at the same time a trusty serA r ant to Clive to advise his immediate advance on the Nawab's Capital. On June 13th Mr. Watts with his assistants left Murshedabad; going out for their usual ride, they ordered supper to be prepared for their return, but AA 7 hen they had proceeded a few miles they put spurs to their horses and made for Clive's camp, Avhich they reached in safety the next day. THK ACKNT LKAVi:< M I K>HKI ) A \\\ I). , r )3 Siraju \1 daulah heard of Mr. Watts* flight the following 17.">7. morning, when for the first time he fully realised his perilous position. lie was overwhelmed with terror, and relinquished his intentions of punishing Mir J'afar, although now more than June 14th, ever convinced of his perfidy. Regardless of his high position the Nawab sought the traitor in his palace, appearing before him as his suppliant. This visit resulted in an outward recon- ciliation, and Mir J'afar and his confederates, having sw r orn fidelity on the Koran, were restored to favour. The Nawab, now imagining himself secure, veered round to an attitude of defiance towards the English. The time had arrived for Clive to throw off the mask ; so, dismissing the Xawab's Ambassadors from his camp, he charged them with a despatch for their Prince, which said that " he had " er\ ice after the capture '' " of Chandranagur and who would undoubtedly desert to their " " count ryineii on the first opportunity. That consequent on the " ' iiiiinbers of the enemy and the great distance from Calcutta all " " supplies would be cut off and would reduce the Europeans in'' " particular to great distress. Finally he suggested that if it was " " decided not to come to immediate action it would be advisable " " to return to Calcutta at once, although he fully admitted the" " disgrace this measure would entail on their arms, and the " " injury that must occur to the Company's interests from such a" * proceeding/'* With Clivc 12 Officers voted "against immediate action," amongst them were Captains Christian Fischer and Lebeaume ; with Captain Eyre Coote 6 voted "for immediate action," amongst them were Captain Grainger Muir and Captain-Lieutenant Carstairs ; all of these Officers being of the Bengal European Regiment. The resolution not to fight was carried by a majority of 12 again > i 7. The decision of the Council of War by no means relieved dive's anxieties ; but, on the contrary, he appears to have been much impressed with Major Eyre Coote's arguments. In the evening he left the camp unattended and bent his steps towards a clump of trees near at hand, where he could in solitude review i he position and determine on his future course. He was a brave, determined soldier; but he possessed a large amount of prudence and caution; these qualities being so evenly balanced against his anxiety to consummate his schemes, that it required but one grain to turn the scale ; and that grain Major Eyre 'Coote had thrown in. Clivc determined to fight. * Broome's "Rise and Progress of tin- IJmgal Army," p. 130; arid Inference to Onne, Vol. II.. }>\>. 70, 71. 58 ADVANCE TO PLASSEY. 1757. At this time Olive received a letter from Mir J'afar Khart saying that the Nawab had halted at Muncarra, a village six June 17th miles to the south of Kassimbazar, where he intended to- 1757. entrench himself and await the event ; and proposing that the English should surprise him, marching round by the eastern side of the Island. This counsel Clive thought savoured of treachery ; for were he to follow the proffered advice he would be separating himself from his base, and thus afford the enemy an opportunity of overthrowing him by simple weight of men and guns. Any way the advice was bad, and not to be enter- tained. Clive replied that he should march to Plassey without delay, and would next morning advance six miles to Daudpore ;. and should Mir J'afar not join him there, would make peace with the Nawab. The messenger was dispatched with Olive's reply, and before sunrise the troops were en route. Nearly the whole of the 20th was spent in crossing the river, and it was evening before the whole force had landed on the opposite bank. The rain poured in torrents, and the fatigue of the soldiers from wading through the mud and water was increased by having to protect their ammunition from the wet ; but after a severe march they reached Plassey at 1 a.m. the 23rd June, 1757. The troops now bivouacked under a grove of trees* 800 yards long and 300 broad, surrounded by a mud bank and a ditch June 23rd which formed to some extent a ready-made entrenchment ;: 1757. sentries were posted and the weary soldiers were soon buried in sleep. But not so Clive, who knew no rest; for he soon discovered that the Nawab's Army was close at hand, and in the stillness of the night he could distinctly hear in his front the sounds of drums and martial music. Clive had under his command in the field 950 European Infantry, 100 European Artillery, with 8 ()-pounders and 2 howitzers; 50 sailors; 2,100 Sepahis and some Lascars. The * The last of these trees disappeared only a few years since. Tin: IIATTU-: (r ii.. \SSEV. position of our troops in the grove faced north : on our left flank 1757- was the river Bhagirathi, on our right the open j)lain ; in rear at a distance of about a mile was the village of Plassey; about three-quarters of a mile in front and resting on the river was a large mound surrounding a tank; beyond the latter being two redoubts, one forming part of the enemy's entrenchments, the other slightly in advance. Near the mangoe grove and on the banks of the river was a small hunting-lodge, which Clive occupied soon after the arrival of our troops. The enemy's Army consisted of 35,000 Infantry and 15,000 Cavalry. The Cavalry were superior to the Infantry in physique, \vdl mounted, and, being chiefly enlisted in the north from amongst the Patan tribes, were born soldiers. Mis Artillery was still more efficient, with 53 guns, 32-, 24-> and lX-pounders ; the whole directed by M. St. Frais, a French- man, who had with him a small body of French soldiers, mostly Artillerymen, working their own guns. M. St. Frais had no doubt materially assisted the Xawab's Generals with his advice as to- the disposition of the troops and their general plan of action. The position which the enemy occupied faced the grove about a inile-and-a-half to the north ; their entrenchments running along their whole front, their right resting on the river Bhagirathi, their left extending far away on the plain ; and behind the en- trenchments was their camp. Before daybreak Clive, from the roof of the hunting-lodge,. watched the movements of the enemy preparing for action. Many of their heavy guns were mounted on large wooden platform-stages raised about six feet from the ground, the ammu- nition as well as the gunners being mounted on the stages. These huge masses were moved along by 40 or 50 oxen; an elephant accompanied each stage, pushing it on with his head when the oxen gave in. Brigades of Horse and Foot, each with its pro- portion of Artillery, extended over the plain in a curve until they nearly reached the village of Plassey. St. Frais and his> 60 THE BATTLE OF PLASSEY. 1757. Frenchmen, with 4 light guns, occupied the large mound to the north of the grove ; supported by a body of 7000 Foot and 5000 Horse, with two heavy guns, all under command of Mir Mudin the best and most faithful of the Nawab's Generals. The enemy's main Army was in three Divisions ; under Rajah Dulab Ram, Yar Luft Khan, and Mir J'afar; the last being on the extreme left. The right of the enemy's Army rested on the redoubt which formed part of his entrenchments; and, circling round, completely out-flanked the British, who were, however, protected on their left by the river Bhagirathi. It now appeared that the enemy's plan was to completely double up the British force, and to drive them by means of his heavy guns and Cavalry into the river. But Clive had provided June 23rd. against this contingency ; for, if unable to resist the masses 1757. and pushed by them from his ground, he could at any rate keep them in check whilst he gained his boats moored to the bank alongside the grove ; and the rapid stream would soon convey him to the Fort of Kutwah, where he could hold his own until he had communicated with Balaji Rao; who he knew would gladly join in an attack on the Nawab. Clive formed his European troops into four Battalions; the first, under Major Kilpatrick, was composed of the detach- ment of the Madras European Regiment ; the second, under Major Grant, of the Bengal European Regiment ; the third, under Major Eyre Coote, of the detachment of the 39th Foot; and the fourth, under Major Gaupp, of the detachment of the Bombay European Regiment. The four European Battalions <31ive placed in the centre of his line, flanked on either side by 1000 Sepahis ; and his 6 guns between and slightly in advance of his European and Native Battalions. All the forces were now in position, and the French fired the first shot, which killed one and wounded another of our Grenadier Company, posted on the right of the Bengal European Battalion. THE r.ATTf.i: OF I'F.A flV. 61 e example of the French was quickly followed by the whole of the enemy's Artillery, which simultaneously commenced a heavy fire, which must have annihilated the British force had its aim been well directed. Our '2 howitzers replied to the French Artillery, whilst our <' light guns brought their fire to bear on the large stages carrying the enemy's heavy Artillery. After the l:\pse of half-an-hour, during which we lost some 30 men, Olive ordered his troops to retire under cover of the grove. The enemy, elated at what they mistook for a retreat, made a general advance, and threatened to overwhelm the British; but for- tunately, their guns being badly served, their shot for the most part flew over the grove. Clive had ordered his troops to lie behind the mud-banks, from which our guns were now doing good M-rvice, whilst our men were not exposed. At 11 a.m. Clive called his Commanders round him, and informed them that it traa his intention to act on the defensive during the day, and it night assault the enemy's camp. In the meantime our men were sheltered, and consequently were suffering no loss; whilst from behind the banks which enveloped the grove they con- tinued to pour a well-directed fire on the enemy; creating ,-ome havoc amongst the masses, and ever and anon exploding their ammunition, which, packed close to the guns on the raised '68, caused much loss and confusion. t \'2 o'clock the rain, which had been holding off for some hours, began to fall in such torrents as is seldom seen, except in i':.rd. the early days of the monsoon ; but Clive had remembered the old Knglish adage to keep his powder dry; and thi> precaution being neglected by the enemy caused their fire to sensibly slacken and equalised the contest. We mu.-t now record what was going on in the enemy's camp. here the Nawab had remained in his tent beyond the reach our guns. lie was surrounded by his attendants and flatterers, o were cou>tantly a>suring him that his troops were In-having ibly and gaining an easy victory; but he was ill at 62 THE BATTLE OF PLASSEY. 1757. About noon he learnt to his grief that Mir Mudin was mortally wounded ; he was dearly loved by the Nawab, being the one man whom he felt he could really trust. Mir Mudin met his death in the following manner. Believing that the British guns must be silenced by the rain, he advanced at the head of a troop of Cavalry towards the grove, but was received with a volley of grape, which mortally wounded him and caused his Cavalry to retire in confusion, many being left with their General, killed or wounded. Siraju 'd daulah, terrified at this loss, sent for Mir J'afar Khan, to whom he told his grief and implored him to befriend him. In his terror and despair the Nawab took off his turban and casting it at Mir J'afar's feet, passionately exclaimed "Mir J'afar, that turban thou must defend!" But the traitor was unmoved, and, crossing his hands on his breast, swore eternal fidelity ; but at the same time, feeling his helpless relative's crown within his grasp, he firmly resolved to seize and place it on his " recreant head." Taking a respectful leave of his Prince he returned to his command, whence he wrote to Clive informing him of what had taken place, and urging him to push on, for the victory was in his hand. This letter did not reach its destination until after some hours, as the messenger could not approach the British Commander ; so that Clive was left in doubt as to Mir J'afar's intentions. St. Frais, notwithstanding that some of his supports wavered after the loss of their General Mir Mudin, fought manfully, holding his position with tenacity, although our howitzers had been June 23rd, dealing destruction amongst his men ; but the Navvab's fire 1757. had by this time slackened all round, and the British were now able to confidently hold their own. Clive, who had not rested during the previous night, felt the necessity of refreshing himself for the contemplated night attack ; so, giving orders to Kilpatrick to act on the defensive only, he handed over the command, directing that he was to be called if anything of importance should THE BATTLE OF PLASSEY. 63 occur : :ind then, entering the hunting-box, soon fell sound asleep. Shortly after Kilpatrick had taken command 1 he noticed that St. Frais' supports were retiring, and he felt that if he made a ) old dash on the French Artillery he might drive him to flight and probably secure some of his guns. Hastily calling forward 250 European Infantry with 2 light guns, he made a rapid dash towards St. Frais' position on the mound, and at the same time sent a messenger to Clive to tell him what he was doing. Clive was up and amongst them before they had advanced across the plain, and as soon as he saw that St. Frais had lost his supports he realised the importance of the movement, and heading the charge himself, sent Kilpatrick back to bring up the rest of the force. St. Frais, though terribly outnumbered, fought manfully; iaut finding himself deserted and betrayed by his supports he gradually gave way, disputing every inch of ground and deliberately limbering up his guns retired in perfect order. His position was captured and a well-directed fire opened on the retiring Frenchmen. me of the enemy now made a half-hearted advance towards the grove, but Mir .Tatar's Division held aloof. Clive, suspecting that the enemy contemplated a dash at his boats and baggage, despatched a party of Sepahis to strengthen his river-guard, at the same time directing his fire on the advancing foe, which had its desired effect, but he was unable to account for the eccentric movements of Mir J'afar's Division, still separated from the rest of the enemy. Although >< -vrral of the Nawab's Generals were implicated in the plot against their Sovereign, their soldiers were in total ignorance of any treachery, and could not, therefore, understand how so small a Uritish force could overwhelm so powerful an Army as their own; so. declining to accept defeat, they brought up large bodies of Cavalry who had not hitherto taken an active in the en-a-vmcnt and who, having obtained dry powder part in the 64 THE BATTLE OF PLASSEY. 1757. from their entrenchment, poured a heavy fire on the mound which Clive had just captured from the French. Nothing daunted,. Clive boldly advanced, posting a portion of his Infantry and & guns at the smaller tank slightly in advance ; and the rest of his troops, with 3 guns, he placed about 200 yards to his left. From this advanced position his light guns, at shorter distance and with surer aim, were now dealing destruction on the enemy ; the oxen and cattle attached to their heavy guns being disabled and thrown into complete confusion. It now for the first time struck Clive that Mir J'afar's Division, apparently threatening his boats and baggage, must be hovering about to seize the first opportunity of communicating with him. This relieved the British Commander from a great anxiety, and he June 23rd, was now enabled to reduce his guards over the baggage and 1757 bring them to the front, where they were much needed ; for St. Frais, who had taken up a fresh position further off, was serving his guns well against our advancing troops. At this time it was noticed that Mir J'afar's Division was being separated further from his main Army ; and Clive, now fully convinced that he had nothing to fear in that direction, resolved by a supreme effort to drive St. Frais and his Artillery from their second position. This was the more important as they held the redoubt which formed part of the enemy's entrenchments. Two Divisions of the British Army were ordered to advance and attack the redoubt, one of them on the right and the other on the left ; the main body being held in reserve, prepared to advance to the assistance of either of the Divisions requiring support. The right storming-party gained an eminence com- manding a portion of the enemy's entrenchments ; whilst the left, charging the redoubt, succeeded in gaining a footing inside ; when the right party, with cheers, rushing down the sloping ground, the two Divisions uniting attacked the French, driving them from the redoubt at the point of the bayonet, and capturing all their guns. THE BATTLE OF PLASSEY. o'5 In the meantime Siraju 'd daulah, yielding to the persuasions 1757. of hi;? Officers*, mounted a camel, and, followed by 2000 Horsemen, fled to Murshedabad. ('live, who had by this time pushed forward his troops within the enemy's entrenchments, was complete master of the field and of their camp, and at five o'clock the enemy were in full flight towards Murshedabad. Mir .Tatar's letter, which had been sent to dive immediately after the interview with the Nawab, now reached its destination, and dive sent a reply to the effect that he would receive Mir J'afar the next morning at Daudpore ; whilst Major Eyre Coote was dispatched to take up and continue rhe pursuit of the enemy. o ended the Battle of Plassey : and although Olive's success was mainly brought about by the treachery of Siraju 'd daulah's Generals, yet credit is none the less due to the soldiers of the British Army, who fought in total ignorance of their Commander's schemes. The loss of the British was marvellously small ; only 7 Europeans, including 2 Artillery Officers, and 16 Native soldiers having been killed, and 13 European soldiers and 3l> Natives wounded.* The loss of the enemy, on the other hand, was Comparatively enormous, his killed alone being computed at 500, whilst ;> elephants and vast numbers of cattle were left dead on the field : .">;> pieces of cannon and the whole of the camp equipage falling into our hands. r Plassey "' was the fir.M decoration emblazoned on the Colours The Iiengal European Regiment:" and it has been inherited bv "The Royal Minister Fusiliers." The action decided, our soldiers saw before them the plain strewn with valuables of every description, all of which were theirs by right of conquest: but (live, anxious to follow up his victory. * ( 'olonel Mallrsuii gives this as the loss of tin- IJritish : l>nt the " Historical Keronls" of the Madras Kuropeaii Regiment place our loss at a much higher iigure. F (>(> MIR J'AFAR PLACED ON THE THRONE. 1757 offered the soldiers a donation of money to forego their prize and inarch at once to Daudpore, about ten miles on the road towards Murshedabad. The troops unhesitatingly acquiesced ; and regardless of their fatigues started on their march with hearty cheers. Next morning Mir J'afar, with his son Miran, was conducted to the British camp. His conscience told him how false he had been to his Sovereign and how false he would have been to the British, if it had suited his purpose ; but it was Olive's June 24th, policy to let bygones be bygones, and to consummate his 1757. schemes, which had thus far succeeded almost beyond his expectations. On entering the British camp Mir J'afar, alighting from his elephant, was received by a guard of honour, the sound of whose presented arms startled and alarmed him, his hand impul- sively seizing the hilt of his sword. But his anxiety was relieved as Olive, hastily advancing towards him, saluted him as Sovereign of Bengal, Behar, and Orissa. A conference then took place, at which it was arranged that Mir J'afar should proceed without delay to Murshedabad, and, if possible, prevent Siraju 'd daulah's escape. But the ex-Nawab, hearing of Mir J'afar's approach, expedited his flight; and on the night of the 24th June, 1757, disguising himself in a mean dress, and taking with him a casket of his most precious jewels, he escaped with his favourite wife Zutf-ul-nissa, who elected to share his fate. A boat manned by a picked crew was waiting at the ghat; and in four days the party reached Rajmahal, a distance of ninety miles. Here the ex-Nawab determined to rest ; and having found a deserted garden on the banks of the river in which were some empty buildings, landed; and, after having cooked some food, retired for the night. In the morning the fugi- tives were discovered by a Native Priest, whose ears Siraju 'd daulah had caused to be cut off some months previous, and who reported his discovery to a brother of Mir J'afar's, residing at Rajmahal. A party was at once sent to seize the fallen Nawa OF >iK.\.ir "D DAII.MI. ('.7 who was treated with every indignity and couveved hack a 1707. prisoner to the presence of Mir.T'afar Khan. before whom he pros- trated himself and in abject terror pleaded for his life. Sirajn M danlali was given over to the custody of Mir .J'afar's son Miran, "a youth not seventeen, cruel and barbarous ; " who caused his prisoner to he confined in a distant chamber "one of the vilest in the Palace'' where this hoy sent some of his menial servants to murder him. The intrusion of these men convinced Siraju 'd danlah that he wa< doomed, and his terror threw him into an agony of lamentation: hut, finding his cries of no avail, he vielded to despair: imploring a few minutes' respite to make his ahlntions and to pray. A pot of water chancing to be near at hand was thrown over him by one of the servants, and he was then immediately stabbed ; the other assassins advancing and hacking him to pieces. Xext morning his mangled corpse was paraded through the streets of Murshedabad on an elephant; after which it was placed in a plain stone coffin and buried beside the late Xawab Ali Yardi Khan. On the ^."itli of June the British force marched to Maidapore, whence Mr. Watts was dispatched with an escort of Sepahis to salute the Xawah Mir ,1'afar Khan, and arrange for the payment the large sums due to the Mritish under the Calcutta treaty: it was found that the treasury did not in specie and jewels contain more than sufficient to pay one-third of the amount. Arrangements were consequently entered into with Raja Dulab Ram and the Hankers of Murshedabad, by which one half of the amount due I'l. 1(M). ()()() was arranged for in jewels and cash, and bills for the other moiety extending over three years were accepted. These preliminaries having been satisfactorily completed Clive entered the capital, taking up his residence at the 1'alac - Murad June JUtli. lagh: fnun whence he proceeded in state to the Navvab's 17; ' Palace, where he was re-ei\cd in the public audience-hall by M( ran and the principal officers of state. Mir , Tatar was then led by (live to the throne, on which with some apparent diffidence 68 DEATH OF AMICHAND. 1757. he took his seat, saluted by all present as their Sovereign, and imme- diately afterwards proclaimed throughout the City and Provinces. The time had now arrived to inform Amichand of the deception which had been practised on him ; and, seeing how great a wrong had been done him, more charity might have been displayed in the manner in which he was undeceived. He was simply informed, when the two treaties were produced, that the one shown by the Council in Calcutta was a forgery and a sham, and that he was to receive nothing. The shock on discovering that he had been duped was so great that Amichand fell in a fainting fit to the ground; softening of the brain soon afterwards supervened, and he died two years after in a state of imbecility. During the remainder of 1757 the Bengal European Regiment was for the most part divided into separate commands. A portion of the Battalion accompanied Major Eyre Coote in his fruitless July 1st Dec. 31st, pursuit of M. Law and his French followers ; who, 1757. finally taking refuge in Oude, were protected by the Nawab of that country. The detachment, after an arduous and hazardous march through an unknown and hostile country, returned to Murshedabad on the 14th September, and was stationed at the factory of Kassimbazar; whilst the rest of the Regiment was ordered down country to Chandernagore and Calcutta, where it remained for several months in quarters. General References. Chapter III. Orme's "Military Transactions in Hindustan." Proceedings of the Bengal Council, 1757. Stuart's " History of Bengal." Mill's " British India." Williams's " Bengal Infantry." Caraccioli's " Life of Lord Clive." East India Military Calendar. Broome's " Rise and Progress of the Bengal Army." Malleson's " Founders of the Indian Empire." (Clive.) First Report, Select Committee, House of Commons, 1773 Malleson's "Decisive Battles in India." Auber's "Rise and Progress." " The Seir Mutakherin." Calcutta Edition. &c., &c. CHAPTER IV. The Officers and men of II. M. :>9th Regiment, the Madras and Bombay European Regiments, are transferred to the Bengal European Regiment Major (lovin, of the Bombay European Regiment, is appointed to a Command in Bengal Dissatisfaction of the Bengal Officers at his appointment Raja Anandraz applies to the Calcutta Council for assistance against the French An Expedition, consisting of a wing of the Bengal European Regiment, Artillery, and Sepahis is ordered for service in the Northern Circars Colonel Forde appointed to command The Battle of Condore British advance on Rajamundri Siege and Capture of the Fortress of Mussulipatam from the French Termination of the War in the Northern Circars. HE disgraceful treaty which the Calcutta Council had concluded with Mir .J'afar Khan was now producing a plentiful crop of its inevitable fruit. There was a general feeling amongst the Officers of the Army that now, possessed of ample means, they were independent of the service, and this feeling Sent, mbrr l>t frequently resulted in insubordination; whilst the 1758. European soldiers, with their pockets full of money, plunged into every description of debauchery and excess, destroying it heir health and thinning their ranks to such an extent that had it not been for the timely arrival of a large body of recruits from England, the troops at Calcutta and Chandernago re would have soon become totallv inefficient. In this unsatisfactory state of affairs orders were received at Calcutta for the return of II.M. :\ l M\i Regiment to England: 70 MAJOR GOVIN APPOINTED TO THE COMMAND. 1758. but, as liberty had been granted to the Officers and men to enter the Company's Service, nearly all the detachment volunteered for the Bengal European Regiment ; and Colonel Clive, about this time, finding it inadvisable to send back the detachments of the Bombay and Madras European Regiments, at their own request incorporated these also with the Bengal European Regiment. This amalgamation was carried into effect on September 1st, 1758; and on the 29th of January, 1759, the two Companies which had been sent to Bengal from Bombay in 1756, were struck off the strength of their Regiment at that Presidency.* Of the Officers so transferred, Lieutenants Carnac and Yorke, and Ensigns Donellanf and Broadbrook, of H.M. 39th Regiment, received a step of rank in the Company's Service. Major Kilpatrick, who had been so intimately associated with the Bengal European Regiment since its formation at Fulta in 1756, had died in the previous October, and Clive was now seek- ing a Field Officer of judgment and decision to command the Regiment. Just at this time Captain Govin reported his arrival in Calcutta, having been sent from Bombay to take command of the detachment of his Regiment lately absorbed into the Bengal Europeans. This Officer was known to Clive as possessing " a high military reputation," and as he was considerably senior to all the other Captains, Clive promoted him to the rank of Major, and appointed him to the command of the Regiment. J In stating that Major Govin was nominated to the above * "Regimental Records, 1st Bombay European Fusiliers, 1759." f Donellan was executed at Warwick, in 1781, for the supposed murder of his brother-in-law, Sir Theodosius Boughton. He was condemned on the evidence of his mother-in-law, who, through remorse, on her death- bed, confessed that she had administered the poison herself which had deprived her son of life, and declared Mr. Donellan to have been innocent. \Vill ItniM, p. (\'2. J Major Govin was re -transferred to the Bombay Presidency in 1761, when he was appointed to the Command of the Bombay European Regiment. Ll'lMHNT command some explanation is necessary: for lie was at the same 1768, time appointed second in command of the Bengal Army. In 17.">S the number of troops employed in the Bengal Presidency was >o small that the Officer second in command of the Armv held also the command of the European Regiment, receiving at the same time reports from all other troops. The Native Infantry had but '2 European Officers to each Battalion; such Officers, selected from the roll of the European Regiment, were simply struck off duty; as an instance of this we may quote the ease of Ensign .John Matthews, who was com- manding the 1st Native Infantry which afterwards bore his lame, Matthews ka pultun when he was promoted to a Lieu- nancy in the Bengal European Regiment, vice, Moltimore, killed in action. Major Govin's promotion to a Majority was considered by the other Captain* in the Regiment as a grievance; and, smarting under what they held to be an injustice, they made a strong and not over-respectful remonstrance to Colonel Clive; who, believing that the ill-feeling towards the new Commanding Officer was the re>ult of insubordination, refused to countenance their remon- strance. Captain- (irant, Rumbold, Cudmore, Armstrong. Keir, ( 1 ranger. Muir. Campbell, and Carstairs forwarded their commis- sions to ('live, and requested permission to resign the service, which request was complied with; Clive reporting the circumstances to the Council in the following letter: The remonstrating -Captains have either wilfully or ignorant ly " I" nil-represented the nature- of superseding. An Officer cannot be " t% said to be superseded unless one of inferior rank in the same " ' C..rps be put over his head. Now I can safely aver that I" never during the whole of my command, have done so by any " < )ttieer except in the case of Captain-Lieutenant Wagoner to " 'whom I refused giving a vacant Company, as 1 did not think" kk him deserving thereof. Tin- incorporation of the troop.- haxing " k - been determined on as a ncco-ary mea.Mirc tin- >evcral ( )tli 72 EXPEDITION AGAINST T1IK FRENCH 1758. " of the three different establishments being now united were " " of course to take rank according to the date of their different " " commissions in the same manner as the Officers of the different " " Corps in Her Majesty's Service when they happen to meet. " " Now as Captain Govin had been ordered here by the Presidency " " of Bombay to take command of their detachment without their " " knowing that such incorporation was to take place, it is evident " " they could have no design of injuring the Officers of this " " establishment, as has been injuriously represented ; and there- " " fore to have sent him back after having been so formally ordered " " here, would have been the highest indignity to the Council of " " Bombay, as well as to the gentleman himself ; and, as he " " remained here, he had an undoubted right to take that rank " '* which the seniority of the commission gave him. The truth " " of the matter is, that most of the gentlemen who have been " " so violent in their remonstrances were grown sufficiently rich " " in your service to be desirous of any pretence of quitting it. '" " They will prove however no great loss, as no services can be " *' expected from men who have so little spirit and gratitude as to " " resign their commissions at this critical time and on ill- " " grounded pretences." Captains Muir, Carstairs, and Campbell having expressed their regret, their resignations were cancelled, and they were restored to the service, but not without loss of rank. It is now necessary to turn our attention to events taking place in the Northern Circars. This country lies to the south of Bengal, and is now called the " Territory of the Nizam ; " extending 470 miles along the sea-coast in the direction of Madras, and inland to a depth varying from 30 to 100 miles. The country known as the Northern Circars was in 1758 completely controlled by the French, who, under their General, Count de Bussy, had in 1753 subdued the country ; dictating his own terms to the Subahdar, and making the French practically the independent Governors of the Province. Bussy, at all times IN TIIK NOKTHKKN rn:r.\i:<. 73 jealous of the English settlers, had expelled them from this 1758. territory. In April. 17f>s, the French General, Count Lally, assumed command at Pondicherry, the chief seat of the French Govern- ment in India. Lally, contemplating war against Tanjore, directed Hussy, with all his available force in the Northern ( 'ircars, to join him without delay, and to make over the Command of his province to the Marquis de Conflans who was a man deficient in the qualities requisite for governing a country which had taxed all the energies of Bussy himself. Count Lally was unsuccessful, and news soon reached the provinces of which Contians had been appointed Governor that I jail v had been compelled to make an inglorious retreat. Anandraz Gajapati, the son of the Subahdar from whom the government had been wrested by the French, had for some time been heading a conspiracy for their overthrow, and he now felt that the time had arrived to act decisively. Haiderabad, the capital s t -j,t, nii.ci. city, had been denuded of French troops, and certain measures which Conflans had dictated had rendered the French super- vision irksome to the people. Anandra/. having assembled an Army >f ;>0(M) men. on September 2nd. 17. "is, captured the French set t lenient of Yishakpatansiin, took the French Chief prisoner, plundered the factory, and hauled down the French flag. Knowing that war existed between the French and English in Kui-ope, and hoping to obtain assistance from the latter, he hoisted the British Hag, and at once dispatched a messenger to the Council at Calcutta informing them what he had done. lie pointed out that his countrymen were only anxious to rid themsel\e> of the French control, and that with the assistance if a small English force he would drive the enemy from his country. The Council did not look with favour on Anandra/'s proposals, but (live at once saw the advantages to be derived by a British expedition to the Northern Cirears. and determined to overcome 74 EXPEDITION AGAINST THE FRENCH 1758. all difficulties. Seeing that the state of affairs at Murshedabad was unsatisfactory, and Bengal threatened with an invasion by the son of the Emperor of Delhie, to denude the Presidency of European troops was attended with risk, but the importance of the undertaking, to Clive's mind, outweighed all objections. One thing was certain Clive could not absent himself, and must therefore appoint some other Officer to command the expedition whilst he watched affairs in Bengal. Lieutenant-Colonel Forde, formerly of H.M. 39th Regiment, had lately been sent from Madras to command the Company's troops in Bengal ; and Clive, entertaining the highest opinion of his judgment, coolness, and capacity, entrusted to him the military command of the expedition; Mr. Johnstone being appointed by the Council to act as Political Agent. The troops with Forde comprised 5 Companies of the Bengal European Regiment under Captain Adnet,* with Captains Christian Fischer, Martin, Yorke, and Moltimore, and Captain-Lieutenant Patrick Moran ; f one Company of European Artillery, with 100 Lascars, and (> field-pieces, and 2000 Sepahis. This force embarked on the 12th October, reaching on the 20th the Port of Vishakpatanam, where it was augmented by Anandraz with 5000 followers for the most part undrilled and unarmed and 40 Europeans of different nationalities, with 4 field-pieces, under an adventurer named Bristol ; these latter forming Anandraz's main strength. It was anticipated that General Conflans would have resented the capture of Vishakpatanam before the arrival of our troops. but he was timidly awaiting reinforcements in the strong Fortress of Mussulipatam with a force of 500 French soldiers, 6000 * Captain Adnet was one of those Officers who had been lately transferred from the Madras to the Bengal European Regiment. f Captain Moran was one of the very few prisoners who had escaped the horrors of the " Black Hole " in 17o(j. IN T1IK NoliTllKHN rillCAl^. 75 (1 -ciplined and well-armed Sepahis, and a Brigade of Artillery, 17.V<. \vitli :')<) guns, and about '>' )(> Native Cavalry.* On the l.")th October, Mr. Andrews, who had heen dispatched : K.tli 1'oth. in)lu Madras to arrange terms, concluded the following treaty with Anandraz : 1. The Raja to pay the extra expenses of the British Army during the time it s'lould be employed 5000 a month and pay the Officers double batta ',()() a month these sums being payable as soon as the Raja should be put in possession of the town of Kajamundri. I'l. The Raja to be possessed of all the inland territory belonging to the Country powers, but the Company to retain all the sea-coast from Vizagapatam to Musulipatam, with the several towns and ports on that line. 3. No treaty for the subsequent disposal or restitution, whether of the Raja's or the Company's possessions, to be made without the consent of both parties 4. All plunder and prize to be equally divided. After considerable difficulty carriage was provided, and Colonel j)oc. 1st i'.r.l. Forde commenced his march; joining the Raja's Force on December 1st. and <>n the 3rd coming within view of the French Army, entrenched near the Fort of Peddapore a posit "HHI well chosen and commanding the high road. On the lith Forde took ] u of an eminence called Chambol, also th 9th, '"inmanding the high road, and here he awaited an attack, which on account of the enemy's >uperior strength he was hourly expecting. Having waited two days and the enemy not moving, Forde determined to force him into action next morning by threatening his rear. In the * The troops under his (('ontliuis') command "were tin- most seasoned" Mid tin- li.-.-t disciplined of all those who served tin- Fivnrh ('ninjMiiiy in" - 'lulu-rn India. Tln-y \\vrc tin- MU-II l>rforr \vlnnii the faiiu-d Maratha " ( 'avalry had IH-.-II srattnvd. and who, but a short time before, had forced" ' their way Through tin- opposing hosts to relieve Bussey at Hydrabad." History J tin l-'r-h in Jmiid, page 531. 7fi THE BATTLE OF CONDORE. 1758. meantime a deserter from the Bengal European Battalion probably one of the French prisoners* who had joined the Regiment after the battle of Chandernagore persuaded Conflans that our Army was composed mostly of untrained recruits; so, acting on this impression, Conflans sent a party of French soldiers with six light guns to seize a height which Forde had neglected to occupy, and which overlooked the British camp. Conflans intended to occupy this height under cover of the darkness on the night of the 8th December, and early on the following morning to open fire on the British camp. Both the British and French Commanders had ordered the contemplated movements to take place on the same morning each ignorant of the other's intention. Colonel Forde had arranged with Anandraz that their united force should quietly quit their ground at 4 a.m., and move along the main road to Condore in rear of the enemy's camp. The result of these manoeuvres would be that, when December 9th, the French fire should be opened at daybreak, Conflans 1758. would find that the English camp had been struck and his enemy gone. Anandraz, thinking however that 9 o'clock would do for the march as well as the inconvenient hour of 4 a.m., had not moved off the ground when the enemy suddenly opened fire, which so accelerated his movements that they were turned into a flight. Conflans, still believing that the British force consisted only of raw recruits, naturally concluded that they had run away and therefore determined to pursue them and gain what he anticipated would be an easy victory. The Raja, thoroughly alarmed, had dispatched several horsemen to beg Forde to return as the enemy were pursuing him ; but Forde, who had marched as planned, was far on his road before the messengers overtook him. The fugitives, however, now not far * Many of the French prisoners taken at Chandernagore were serving in the ranks of the Bengal European Regiment during this campaign. THE BATTLE (( >M >< >KK. 77 behind, soon joined Forde, the united forces proceeding to 1758. Comlore. As soon as the British force had occupied Condore, the enemy appeared 1000 yards in their rear moving towards Forde's left t'ank. Orders were issued to prepare for immediate action. Forde placed the Raja's panic-stricken troops on his right and left flanks; next to them his Native Infantry; and in the centre the Bengal European Battalion, with whom were Bristol's Artillery ; the guns being placed on the right and left of the European Battalion. The British now advanced to meet the enemy, who opening tire, Forde halted, his centre being covered by a field of corn which completely concealed the Europeans from view. The Sepahis on either flank for Anandraz's troops had by this time decamped and concealed themselves in a hollow were in full sight of the enemy. Now the Native Regiments which accompanied the British force had, by Olive's order, been clothed in red ; the French, seeing the red coats, were naturally under the impression that the European soldiers had been placed on the Hanks and the Sepahis who usually wore white clothing in the centre. Under this delusion, Conflans advanced his French Europeans towards our 2nd Native Battalion; Forde, who at once saw the enemy were at fault, rode up to the 2nd Native Battalion to encourage them, but when these found themselves out-tianked. and pitted against the French Europeans, they retired in the direction of Chambole. The Freneli, now thinking they had put the British Europeans to Hight. advanced rapidly, obliquing to their right, but in so doing became somewhat scattered; Forde grasped the oppor- tunity, and dim-ting the Bengal European Battalion to change front, took the French in flank, pouring a heavy musketry tire on their disordered companies as they came up opposite to the British line. Nearly half the French (irenadier Company of the " Battalion of India * fell under our first volley. Taken com- pletely by surprise the French hurried back to regain the cover 78 THE BATTLE OF CONDOLE. 1758. of their guns which they had left in rear. The Bengal European Battalion, elated with their success, now vigorously pursued the enemy, charging in echelon of Companies, left in front. Captain Adnet, who commanded the Regiment,, was leading, and Captain Yorke with No. 4 Company was acting in reserve, to afford immediate assistance to any of our Companies needing succour. The French rallied at their guns and opened a hot grape fire on our advancing troops. Adnet being mortally wounded and December 9th. several of our men falling ; but the advance was nowhere 1758. checked, the men rushing on the enemy's guns, 13 of which they captured, and again put the enemy to flight. In the meantime the 1st Native Battalion had been taking a leading part in the fight ; attacked by the French Native Infantry, who vastly outnumbered them ; but our Sepahis held their ground with tenacity. The French Sepr.his, seeing their European comrades in full flight and their guns captured, also fled, and our 1st Native Battalion rejoined the British Europeans. The 2nd Native Battalion, who had early in the day fled towards Chambole, now returned to the field and joined the British Army. Forde determined to rapidly follow up his success, and make a dash at the enemy's camp. With this view he attempted to induce Anandraz to send some of his Cavalry ahead, but they were all concealed in the hollow and refused to expose themselves to danger ; Forde, therefore, pushed on single-handed without his guns, which, on account of the muddy state of the roads, were left in rear ; our troops now sighted the French, who, with the intention of protecting their camp, had placed in position some heavy guns, and with these disputed the British advance. Forde halted for his guns, deployed his Infantry, and took up a position from which he could, at a moment's notice, make a dash on his enemy; this movement had just been completed when our Artillery appeared ; and the British Commander ordered the leading Company of the Bengal European Regiment to advance Tin: r.ATTi.i: or OONDORE, 7ses>ion. The British Army now loily pursued the French, who, throwing away their arms, rled ( r gave them-elves up as prisoners of war. The l<> ni the French was 6 Officers and SO men killed or mortally wounded, and (\ Officers and 70 men made prisoners or wounded; all these belonging to the French European "Battalion of India;" ',\~2 brass cannon, 50 tumbrils and other carriages, 7 mortars, 3000 draught bullocks, and all the camp equipage fell into our hands. Of the British, Captain Adnct and 1") men of the Bengal European Regiment were killed, 4 Officers and :\() men wounded, amongst the latter Mr. Johnson political Officer serving as a volunteer with the Grenadier Company of the Bengal Europeans ; and about 100 men of the Bengal Native Infantry were killed or wounded. Captain-Lieutenant Oswald was promoted to a Company in the Bengal European Regiment, vice Captain Adnet killed, and En>ign .John Xollikins was advanced to a Lieutenancy. The Battle of Condore* is justly ranked by Colonel Malloon amongst "the Decisive Battles of India," for it was a battle between the English and French for supremacy in India. The Hindoos, the prehistoric owners of the Indian soil, are, and ever have been, a subservient race: mild, faithful, and obedient, but unfitted physically to govern or command. The Mahomcdan.- had conquered the Hindus, and reigned over the land until the Portuguese, the Dutch, the Danes, the English, and the French appeared upon the scene as rivals. The Portuguese, the Dutch, and the Danes were few in number, and, although they at one time held considerable possessions in India, were >oon cclip.-ed by the English and the French, who stood face to face, aspirants for the supreme power. ThcM- nation.- could not both govern India: the weaker mu.M Miccumh absolutely. In Europe a peace would be a matter of * For remarks 011 the decoration I ..iMore " see Appendix A. 80 PURSUIT OF THE FRENCH ARMY. 1758. treaty, but in India one of the rivals must retire, and the con- queror remain supreme. Oondore was one of the test battles which declared victory to be in the ascendant for the British ; on account of their superior generalship, and the courage and perseverance of their troops. For this ascendancy England is indebted, on this occasion,, to Forde's generalship, and to the fortitude, endurance, and valour of the Bengal European Regiment the only British Regiment employed on this Campaign. Colonel Forde's success was due to the masterly precision of his strategic movements. Forde intended that the French Com- mander should fall into the trap of hurling his Europeans at our red-coated Sepahis, whilst the Bengal Europeans were lying in wait to drop down on their hostile flank. Forde knew that his Native Battalion could not hold its own against the French Europeans, and that, retreating, it would be pursued by the French Cavalry, thus leaving the Bengal Europeans to measure its strength against the French European Battalion alone ; that the former would be the victors he had no doubt, seeing that the French Regiment would be taken at a complete disadvantage. Condore formed only a part an essential one it is true of our brilliant successes in the Northern Circars; and, considered politically, it marked the first step in the decline of French power in India, as opposed to that of the British. The Cavalry under Anandraz were employed as scouts ; and our 1st Battalion of Sepahis was dispatched in pursuit of the enemy, followed by the rest of the Native Infantry ; Forde coming December 10th, last with the Bengal European Regiment and Bristol's 1758. Artillery. Our advanced force reached Rajamundri on the morning of 10th December and occupied the town ; the French having vacated it on our approach. Several pieces of Artillery and a large quantity of ammunition, as well as many hundreds of bullocks, were found in the Fort ; these were reserved as prize under the terms of the treaty with PUK8UIT FOTNI) TO HE IMPOSSIBLE. 81 Anandraz. On the same day that our troops entered Kajamimdri 1/.V\ si party of the French fugitives were seen crossing the river with a quantitv of stores. 4 field-pieces, and a howitzer, which they were landing on the opposite bank. Xo time was lost in di spate liing a party in pursuit of the fugitives. Under cover of the Fort guns, lately captured from the enemy, boats were manned and sent across the river, on seeing which the French, completely demoralised, left their guns and stores on the hank an easy prey to the British. ber llth, Forde was now anxious to push on as quickly as possible, to Mussnlipatam the principal Fortress and own in the Northern Circars where it was evident the French Army would attempt to make a desperate resistance, and gain rime for the arrival of reinforcements. General Conflans had not waited the result of the Battle of Condore. As soon as he found he had been outwitted by Forde he hurried from the field towards Rajamundri, protected by a body of French Cavalry and Artillery with 4 field-guns, and next morning, December 12th, he reached the Fortress of Mussuli- patam, instructing, en route, all his outpost Commanders to follow him as quickly as possible. Fnrde was unable to pursue, his treasure being completely exhausted. Six thousand pounds only had been brought in his treasure-chest from Bengal, as arrangements had been made with Anandraz that he should supply his proportion of the expenses of the campaign immediately after the capture of Rajamundri. Of the iY.O(M). I'l'OOO had already been lent by Forde to Anandraz for his current expenses. This Chiefs crafty policy became now apparent. Anandra/. wished to drive the French from his terri- tories, but being unequal to the task, he induced the English, under false pretenees, to undertake the hazardous work, hoping afterwards t IY00, and giving bills for iY.OOO more, payable in 10 days 1759. Preparations were now made fora general advance: Bristol, with his European Artillerymen and a portion of the Kajalfs Troops, being left in command of the Fort of Rajanmndri, where a depot was formed for our stores, sick, and wounded. Elur, a town nearly midway between Rajanmndri and Mussulipatam, was reached on (Jth February; the French soldiers uary 6th, who had garrisoned this place having been withdrawn 1759. |, v ('onflans as he was retiring from Condore. Here Korde unwillingly halted for Anandrax, but the delay enabled him to detach a force to seize the French factory and town of Xarsurpore. situated on an island in the Delta of the Godaveri. On the approach of our troops the Narsurpore garrison of 100 French soldiers and 400 Sepahis made their escape by water, and joined the French "Army of Observation," under Du Rocher, composed of 200 Europeans and 2000 Sepahis, encamped about .">0 miles from Elur, and watching Forde's movements. The British detachment captured several guns and a large quantity of stores at Xarsnrpore, after which it returned to Elur, where it joined the headquarter camp of the British Army. On the 1st March Colonel Forde commenced his advance on Mu.-sulipatam, Anandrax having by this time rejoined; the Zamindar of Xarsurpore, a witness to our success, also joining Forde with 1">0() men. On the .">rd the British Army crossed the lake of h, Kolar, at this season little more than a swamp, and on the 6th k arrived before the Fortress of Mnssnlipatam, which stands on an inlet about 1 miles from the sea. The south face of the Fort, resting on this inlet, i> upwards of 500 yards wide, rendering it practically nnas.siilable. The three other faces of the Fortress are Mirroundcd by >wamps, varying in depth from 3 to 18 feet. The j-hape of the Fort was an irregular parallelogram, about 800 yards in length and 500 in breadth : and on the outline of the works were 11 bastion.-, connected by curtains, the whole >urrh camp with all his followers and marched to protect his 1759. own dominions. But this was not all. ConHans, feeling perfectly secure in his fortified position, now only needed a powerful ally to a tack the besiegers in rear, and therefore placed himself in communication with Sahibut Jung, the Subahdar of the Deccan, a-king as>istanee. Confians' request was so readily acceded to tiiat Salahut filing immediately marched to the relief of the beleaguered French garrison with an Army of 35,000 men, having previously sent his commands to the Raja Anandraz and to the /amindar of Narsurpore to join him at once with all the troops at their disposal. The beleaguering force was now in great peril, entirely due to the duplicity and want of courage of Anandraz. Had Forde been enabled to follow up his success immediately after the battle of Condore he would have met with feeble resistance when he reached the Fortress of Mussulipatam; but the delay had enabled Conflans to materially strengthen his position and collect his troops, so that he had now at his disposal a larger and stronger force than the besiegers. Notwithstanding these disadvantages the British kept up a continuous fire from their batteries, doing .on>idcrahle injury to the fortifications; but the enemy were usually able to repair at night the damage of the day; our mortars, however, destroying and setting on fire several im- portant buildings in the Fortress. Such was the state of affairs when, on the ^7th March, information was received that Salabut .lung had arrived within three days" journey of Mussulipatam. But Furde's cup ot' difficulties and dangers was not yet full, for an incident now occurred \\hich to a weaker mind would have probably proved fatal. Dissatisfaction bad been showing itself among.-t the troops, on account of their not having received their pri/e-money. It was perfectly true that the prize-money had been retained by Forde: and, moreover, the soldiers bad a grievance, in that all the prixe was, by usage, the >.le property of the captors, 8() THE BRITISH ARMY BEFORE MUSSULIPATAM. 1759. whilst the Company had ruled that a moiety was to be reserved for the Government. It was under these circumstances that the troops determined to make a stand for what they considered their just rights. Now Forde was not a communicative man, and had not made known to the soldiers the discouraging intelligence that he was hard pressed for money with which to supply their daily rations ; that he and all the Officers had given up their private money to buy food for the troops ; and that, finally, the prize-money had been borrowed from the treasure-chest to supply the Army with the necessaries of life. The dissatisfaction, however, broke into open mutiny ; the Europeans of the force threatening to march away if their demands were not conceded. Forde knew that the men had a grievance, and was prepared to acknowledge it ; so, telling them to nominate a certain number of deputies to represent their grievances, he met them with much tact and judgment, and treated them with consideration and kindness. He made them acquainted for the first time with the true position ; and told them that money was on its way from Bengal, and that as soon as it should arrive the arrears of pay and prize-money should be distributed ; at the same time assuring them that he w r ould recommend to the Government that it should relinquish its moiety of the prize in consideration of the dangers, difficulties, and privations the troops had so loyally endured. The men, more than satisfied, were delighted ; and the siege was prosecuted with increased ardour. But whilst Forde's master mind had been employed in over- coming what foreboded a serious disaster, he had dispatched Mr. Johnson to Anandraz now en route to his own territories to point out to him that he was exposing himself to great danger by separating himself from his alliance with the British. He March 28th April 1st, could not, observed Forde, hope to escape from 1759. the clutches of both Salabut Jung and Du Kocher, but, returning to his allegiance and joining in the attack on Mussulipatam, he would, as soon as the Fortress was reduced, have 17;>9 all the countenance and support of the British. Anandraz, more frightened at Forde's alternative than at the prospect of I)u Roeher attacking his territories, returned : and under instructions received from Forde occupied the town of Mussulipatam. now entirely denuded of the enemy's troops. Forde's next move was to place himself in eommunieation with Salabut Jung, not with any hope of gaining him over, but simply to delay his march, so that he could deliver his assault before Salabut could arrive ; and with this view he proposed that Salabut .lung should consent to receive a British envoy at his camp in order that he might be made acquainted with Forde's proposals. This Salabut accepted, informing Forde that he would remain at Bai/wara until the envoy arrived. Forde was now determined to make his assault without delay ; the more so, as he had just been informed that the ammunition for his heavy guns would not last more than two days. The plan of attack was as f ollows : During the whole of the 7th April Forde's batteries were to pour a continuous fire on the fortifications, in the hope that they would effect some breaches by which our troops could assault : he would then carry the Fortress April <;th. nv s torm. But, to mislead the enemy as to the real point of 1 ''' attack, ami to prevent him from making repairs, our fire was to be directed equally against all the bastions. Anandraz's force was ordered to attack the entrenchments at the end of the causeway nearest to the Fort, not in the hope that they would be able to storm the gate, but that they would employ the enemy in that direction. Forde re.-olved to direct his main assault on the north-east bastion. A, and at the >ame time to make a deinonstrat ion against the south-west angle of the Fort, J. For this latter purpose, Captain Knox was to be sent with a strong body of red-coated Sepahis. who were, whilst making what was intended as a feint oulv, to effect an entrance if practicable. There was a deep >wamp round this angle of the Fort which was supposed to be 88 THE STORM OF MUSSULIPATAM. 1759. impassable ; but Forde had ascertained that at the ebb tide, due about midnight, a passage could be effected. If, therefore, Knox could pass the swamp unperceived he might find this part of the enemy's position unprotected, and effect an easy entrance. The portion of the British Army to make the main attack on which the success or failure of the enterprise depended was formed into three divisions under Captain Cullender* and consisted of 312 men of the Bengal European Regiment, 30 Artillerymen, 30 sailors, and 700 Sepahis ; of the three Divisions No 1 was com- posed of the Grenadier Company of the Bengal Europeans, and the Grenadier Companies of the Sepahi Battalions with some Artillery, Captain Fischer commanding ; No. 2 Division consisted of the other 4 Companies of the Bengal Europeans, and 50 sailors under Captain Yorke ; No. 3 Division being formed from the remainder of the Sepahi Battalions, under Captain Maclean. The various parties were all under arms at 10 p.m. on the 7th April 7th, April, and as some extra time would be required by Captain 1759. Knox to effect this passage across the swamp, he was directed to start somewhat earlier than the storming party and to main- tain absolute silence. Colonel Forde ordered that the grand assault should be made at midnight, and each Commander was to commence operations when he should hear the big gong of the French Fortress strike twelve o'clock. The main attacking party was drawn up in readiness to march, but was delayed on account of the incomprehensible absence of their Commander, Captain Callender, who was nowhere to be found ; and, consequently, Captain Fischer was appointed to com- mand the main attack. * Captain Callender was an Officer of the Madras Army who had been sent to the Northern Circars by the Madras Council with orders to assume Military Command should the Bengal troops succeed in driving the French from the Province. It appears that the Madras Government were fearful lest the Northern Circars should be annexed " by the gentlemen of Fort William 1 ' to the Bengal Presidency. All was now ready when, in the stillness of the night, the big 17,v.. gong tolled out the expected signal. Captain Knox was now heard to open fire towards the south- west corner of the Fort, opposite the bastions, I and ,J, and Anandraz, with his troops, immediately rushed along the causeway firing in all directions and making a terrible noise, which speedily attracted the attention of the garrison, many of whom rushed to defend the entrance gate, F. The ab.-ence of -Captain Callender caused some slight delay, so that the centre Division was not quite up to time. They had struggled manfully through the mud and water, but their progress was more impeded than aided by their haste ; for they heard the tiring ahead whilst thirsting to take their share in the assault. Captain Fischer's, the centre. I Hvision first reached the breach, A. and charged up the incline; Captain Yorke's on his right and Captain Maclean's on his left, both replying to the fire which was being poured on the centre party from the bastions, N and B. Fi.-chcr's party had now gained a footing in the breach, Yorke's following close behind ; and together they found themselves on the April sth. ramparts, when, turning sharply to their left, they charged 1 '''' and captured the St. John's bastion, X, thus leaving the way clear for Maclean's Sepahis, who. quicklv following, scaled the walls. Fix-hcr, elated with his success, charged along the ramparts on the north face of the Fortress, and. capturing the two bastions, B and C, pushed towards the ravelin beyond the second bastion, C. commanding the causeway where Anandraz was making his demonstration. Fischer, looking over the ramparts, saw a large body of French Europeans in the ravelin, which was separated from the Fortress by the large heavily-ironed main gate : he x'i/rd the opportunity, and, without a moment's hesitation, ran along the rampart and dropping down close to the gate, K, closed and fastened it on the inside, thereby completely isolating the French s. now u>elely employed in awaiting Anandraz's expected attack. 90 THE STORM OF MUSSULIPATAM. 1759. Fischer, now returning towards the Churchyard bastion, C, was to his amazement confronted by Captain Callender; who, without in any way accounting for his absence, claimed the command by virtue of his seniority. This was accorded, and the party moved on ; but immediately afterwards Captain Callender was struck by a bullet which killed him on the spot, and Captain Fischer again assumed the command. We will now turn to Captain Yorke's No. 2 Division, which, taking the direction of the south or river face of the Fort, with the intention of sweeping along the ramparts on the east face, captured the St. John's and Dutch bastions, N and M, at the point of the bayonet. Captain Moran, accompanying Yorke's Division, secured a light field-piece, near the Dutch bastion, M, which was now brought to bear with terrible effect on the enemy, crowding the ramparts in front. Yorke had not proceeded far when he, observing a body of French soldiers advancing towards him along a road below the ramparts, descended with a few of his men, and bravely seizing the French Officer in command, told him the Fortress had fallen and peremptorily ordered the April 8th, party to surrender. They, obeying without resistance, were 1759. disarmed and sent under escort to the " Camelion " battery, A, which had been captured early in the assault. Yorke now continued to move along the lower road, where he had captured the French party, under considerable annoyance from one of the batteries above, from which a hot fire was poured on the British below. Yorke turned to attack them, when they gave a final volley of musketry and, immediately afterwards surrendering as prisoners of war, were disarmed and sent to join their fellow prisoners in the ' ; Camelion " battery. Full of excitement at his success, Yorke pushed on to the " Francois " battery, L, at the south-east angle of the Fort ; but, as he approached, some of his men, passing near an " expense " magazine, raised a cry that there was a mine under their feet. The cry quickly attracted the attention of the whole party, who, calling out " a mine, a mine," THE CAPTrilK or THF FoKTKF <>F MTT88ULIPATAM. ( .1 HIM! in the opposite direction along the nunp;irts. Yorke was furious at seeing that tlie success of his last movement was placed in peril through this folly, which was rapidly developing into a panic, rushed with his Officers after his men, and speedily over- taking some of those who had served with him in H.M. 39th, succeeded in persuading them that it was a false alarm. The party hereupon formed up and charged the hast ion, L, Yorke leading, with a drummer on each side playing the Grenadier march. But Vnril Sth, t ne delay had enabled the defenders to place a field-piece in position : and when the party were within a few yards of the hast ion a charge of grape was poured on them, which killed the two drummer boys and several of our men, wounding many others, including Yorke, shot through both thighs Yorke's party now retreated, carrying their wounded to the " Camclion " bastion. Conflans during this time was at the Magazine, protected by the Grenadier Company of the French European Battalion; and made confusion more confounded by issuing contradictory orders, based on the exaggerated reports which were con- stantly reaching him. He appears to have completely lost his head, and given himself up to despair: and now receiving a report from his principal Officers that all his batteries had been captured, sent an officer to Forde, who was giving his orders from the St. John's battery, ottering to capitulate on honourable terms. When this BiMMge was received Forde had just learnt that his ammunition was nearly expended, but he, nevertheless, replied that he would make no terms: the surrender must be absolute April Nth. :lll( l at discretion, and if the garrison continued to offer re>i>tanee he would put them to the sword. The result was that (Vntlans surrendered the Fortress unconditionally. The firing now ceased, and at daybreak the English collected their prisoner- on the parade-ground, and placing them under a guard of inn Kuropeans and Jon Sepahis, with 2 field-pieces, the British 92 AFTER THE CAPTURE OF THE FORTRESS. 1759. flag was hoisted on the staff, and the Fortress and town of Mussulipatam passed over, by conquest, on the morning of the 8th April, 1759, to the East India Company.* The British Army took prisoners 91 European Officers and Civil Servants of the French Company ; 409 European soldiers ; and 2537 French Sepahis. The French returns showed that Ho French European soldiers were killed, and that the British captured 120 pieces of heavy Ordnance. Of the Bengal European Regiment, Captain Moltimore and one Lieutenant name unknown were killed ; Captain Yorke was severely wounded ; and Captain Callender of the Madras Service doing duty was killed. The total loss of the British was 22 Europeans killed and 62 wounded; and of the Sepahis, 50 killed and 150 wounded. Lieutenant Thomas Robertson was promoted to a Company, vice Moltimore, and Ensign John Matthews, and Francis Cozens to the two vacant Lieutenancies in the Regiment. Five Districts held to be amongst the most valuable posses- sions of France in the East Indies, with an annual revenue of 400,000, were wrenched from her and henceforward became possessions of the East India Company. Salabut Jung, six days after the capture of Mussulipatam, signed * Colonel Broome, in his " Rise and Progress of the Bengal Army,' 1 p. 241, says : " When the whole attendant circumstances are considered the numerical " ' superiority of the enemy, the strength of the place, and the disadvantages " ' under which the English force was labouring, as also the great importance r 'of the conquest few achievements on Indian record can be compared' ' with this brilliant affair, which is surely deserving of commemoration. ' 'And it is to be hoped that the corps, still in existence, which were' ' employed in that assault may, even at this late date, receive the distinction ' ' so justly due, and be permitted to emblazon the word ' Mussulipatam ' ' ' on their colours and appointments. These corps are the Royal Artillery, ' 'the 1st Bengal European Fusiliers, and the 1st Regiment of Bengal Native' ' Infantry." AKTKK THK ("AI'TniK OF TIIK F( >l!Ti:K>-. 93 a treatv conferring on the captors the whole ( 'irear of Mussnlipa- 1759. tain with eight districts, as well as the Circar of Nizanipatanam and the districts of Kondavid and Wakalmannar. Ultimately the Kmperor of Delhie, at the instance of Clive, granted the whole of the territory to Xi/am Ali (the successor of Salabut .lung), since which time it has been known as "The Territory of the Xi/am," hut the right of the English to these districts has never been questioned. ( 'olonel Forde now gladly dispensed with the services of Anandraz and his troops; but it is only just to record that the soldiers of his army did the work appointed to them during the siege and capture of Mussulipatam satisfactorily, several of his soldiers being wounded in maintaining their position on the causeway which Forde had instructed them to hold. It must not be forgotten that the success of this campaign was in a great measure due to Clive, who so truly estimated the value of the acquisition that he did not hesitate to accept the responsi- bility of overruling the decision of his Council and undertaking the defence of the Bengal Provinces with so few troops at his disposal. ('live also truly estimated the value of Colonel Fnrde's* soldierlike qualities, but had even Forde been pitted against a French Commander of skill and courage, he would hardly have attempted the siege of Mussulipatam with the small force at his disposal, but he rightly calculated on the inefficiency of the French Commander, whose only ability was shown in his capacity for securing his personal safety. Fully admitting Conflans' incompetence, still Colonel Forde, as Commander of the little besieging force in the Northern Circars, must ever rank as one of the first of English commanders. * On 14th October, 17f>4, Lord Clive addressed the Chairman of the Court of Diivrtors. in tin- following words: Pr;iy d<> not forget F<>rt his father, Alain Ghir Sain, the Emperor of February. Hindustan, succeeded in collecting a numerous Army; at the 17.0i. head of which ne was inarching with the avowed intention of invading the territories of the Nawab Mir J'afar. Shah Alain had offered (live large rewards for the countenance and support of the British in his undertaking; but was informed that any attempt to .- -t at defiance the authority of the Emperor, or anv attack on the territories of our Ally, Mir J'afar, would be relented by our Government. Copies of this correspondence were forwarded to the Nawab Mir J'afar, who was informed that we were preparing to march to his assistance ; and, to this end, Clive, February L'.")tli, w ^ tu a ^ nis available force, left Calcutta on the 25th February. He took with him the five Companies of the European Regiment left at Calcutta and Chandernagore when the right wing of the Regiment went to the war in the Northern ( 'irears, 1.">( )0 Sepahis. 96 OLIVE ADVANCES TO THE RELIEF OF PATNA. 1759. Calcutta and Chandernagore were now garrisoned by the sick and recruits of the Bengal European Regiment, a few gunners, some lately-raised Sepahi levies and the Calcutta Militia and Volunteers. The British force, on reaching Murshedabad on the 8th of March, was joined by the Nawab's Army, under Mir J'afar's eldest son, Miran, and on the 9th of April the united forces March April, arrived before Patna, to find that Shah Alam, who had 1759. been vigorously assaulting that city, had raised the siege on hearing of the near approach of dive's Army. Shah Alam had been reinforced by M. Law and his Frenchmen ; but his Army, composed of men of different nationalities and conflicting interests, had become so demoralised, that Shah Alam was forced to take refuge within the territories of the Raja of Bundelkund. Clive, having repaired the defences of Patna, injured during the late siege, now cleared the country of the remnants of Shah Alam's rebel Army, and brought into subjection several petty Chiefs in arms against the Nawab ; returning before the end of April to Patna. Here he left a detachment under Captain Cochrane, composed of one Company of the Bengal European Battalion ; a detail of Artillery with two field-pieces ; and five May June, Companies of Sepahis ; and, retracing his steps, reached 1759. Calcutta with his main force early in June. In reward for these services Clive received something more than expressions of gratitude; Mir J'Afar presenting him with the Zamindari of those districts south of Calcutta which had previously been rented to the East India Company, and the income of which was 30,000 per annum. These rents were afterwards a subject of contention between Clive and the East India Company. Notwithstanding the many advantages that the Nawab Mir J'afar had derived from his alliance with the English, he would gladly have thrown off the restraint which their protection imposed on his actions. > i-.i/i \\ i:i:.\ MIR /AFAR AND THE DUTCH. 97 I le had IK-CM compelled to draw so heavily on his own resources, as 1759. veil as on those of his friends, that the latter were being alienated from him: whilst the trade of his country was being seriously prejndieed by the superior advantages which he had been forced t i^rant to his Calcutta patrons; and his re-venues had been mortgaged to enable him to meet the claims constantly falling due under his treaties with the Council. Clive had forced Mir J'afar to feel that the patronage of the British was essential to 1 is very existence; a state of thraldom from which the Nawab would gladly have emancipated himself. But how was this to be effected? The French had been rendered powerless by the loss compelled to seek the ai>tauce of the liritish to enable him protect his menaced provinces; but now, this difficulty overcome, the Xawab re-opened negotiations with the Dutch. ('live had long suspected that Mir J'afar had entertained hostile propositions from the Dutch, and he was confirmed in his when in August a Dutch vessel with a number of Malay soldiers arrived in the river Ilugli. Clive at once 1 '''' informed the Nawab and solicited instructions ; when the latter prohibited the landing of the troops, and desired the Dutch H 98 INTRIGUES BETWEEN MIR j'AFAR AND THE DUTCH. 1759. Governor at Chinsurah to co-operate with the English forces and prevent the landing of any foreign soldiers whatever. To allay suspicion, the Dutch Governor informed the Nawab, that the vessel causing such needless alarm had been driven into the river by stress of weather whilst on her way to Nagapatanam, and that she was merely taking on board supplies before proceeding on her voyage. Notwithstanding these plausible assurances, Clive remained on the alert. He posted troops in the Fort on the river, with instructions to board all suspicious craft, and, if necessary, detain them. A few days after, a Dutch boat containing 18 Malay soldiers was captured at " Charnock's Battery." Under Olive's orders the prisoners were returned to their ships which soon put to sea; but Olive was now fully convinced, not only that the Dutch intended to land troops, but that the Nawab was playing into their hands. In October, 1759, Mir J'afar came to Calcutta, avowedly to October, pay his respects to Clive ; but in reality to be near at hand, 1759. as the Dutch Governor had informed him that he was now prepared to strike. During the Nawab's visit to Calcutta seven Dutch war vessels filled with troops arrived at the mouth of the river Hugli. There could now be no doubt of their hostile designs. The Nawab assumed an air of injured dignity, declaring his intention of driving the whole of the Dutch from the country, and for this avowed purpose proceeding with his camp in the direction of the Dutch settlement of Chinsurah; but halting on his road at a place called Kojah Wuzeed's Garden, he summoned the Dutch Agents to wait upon him and receive his orders. The conference does November, not appear to have been of a hostile nature, for on the 1759. Agents going through the form of promising that the ships of war should be sent away as soon as the season permitted, the Nawab granted them some coveted privileges previously denied, thus clearly proving that he bore no enmity towards them. But INVASION OF BENGAL BY THE DUTCH. 99 the Dutch ships, in place of taking their departure, moved further 1759. up the river, and landed some of their troops; whilst at the same time reliable information reached Calcutta that the Dutch Agents were enlisting Sepahis at Chinsurah, Kassimba/ar. and Patna. with the connivance of the Nawab. It was now evident that Mir J'afar was in league with the invaders, whose schemes to overthrow the power of the British in Bengal were transparent to the far-sighted Clive. who at once correctly surmised that the Dutch with their powerful squadron \\ould attempt to force a passage up the river Hugh, land their troops, and march towards Chinsurah; all which eventuated as he foresaw. But the Dutch force had no field-guns ; they therefore arranged with their countrymen at Chinsurah to attempt to s ipply the deficiency by effecting a junction with their main Army at a given point en route. It was not anticipated Mat any serious opposition could be offered by the English ; for the Dutch Europeans far out-numbered their enemy, and the Malay soldiers, who formed an important part of the Dutch expedition, were believed to be vastly superior in courage and physique to our Bengal Sepahis. These schemes Clive had to counteract, without causing umbrage at the Murshedabad Court. The force on board the Dutch vessels moving up the river consisted of 700 European Infantry and S()() Malays, all well November trained and fully-equipped soldiers. At Chinsurah the Dutch had !.")() European Infantry and Artillery and a number of Sepahis. who, in the event of a British disaster, would be quickly augmented by a part, or even the whole, of the Nawab's Army. The English available force at or near Calcutta consisted of I-IBO men, being a part of the left wing of the Bengal European nient, and 1200 Sepahis. But. notwithstanding this disparity in the forces of the belli- gerents. Clive had full confidence in himself and his resources. I immediately sent orders to the Commanders at our outposts 100 INVASION OF BENGAL BY THE DUTCH. 1759. and factories to march at once towards Calcutta with every avail- able European soldier ; knowing well that though there was little chance of these reinforcements arriving before a blow had been struck ; in the event of disaster or defeat, he would have some November, reserves to fall back upon. The Calcutta Militia, numbering 1759. some 300 men, mostly Eurasians, were hastily embodied; and finally about 50 Volunteers, half of whom were formed into a troop of Cavalry, joined the English Army. In addition to these precautions, a fast-sailing vessel was dispatched to inform Admiral Cornish, cruising on the Arracan coast, of the state of affairs in Bengal ; and urging him to sail up the river Hugli with all dispatch. Clive's next move was to prevent a junction between the Dutch troops on board ship and those at Chinsurah, for, until their forces should meet, their main Army was without field-guns.. But here a difficulty presented itself; England was not at war with the Dutch in Europe, so that, until the invaders should make some hostile demonstration, Clive was not in a position to act offensively. This difficulty was, however, soon removed by the Dutch themselves ; who not only advanced towards Calcutta in defiance of remonstrances, but early in November sent a threatening letter to the Council, demanding that the British should forego their claim to the right of search, and that Dutch vessels should at all times be allowed free progress up the Hugli river. To this communication the Council replied : " That the " " British, in retaining the right of search, were acting under the " " orders of the Emperor, and the instructions received from the "' " Viceroy, Mir J'afar ; they, therefore, had^no power to grant the " " requests of the Dutch, but proffered their services as mediators " "between the Dutch and the Emperor and Viceroy." The November, skilled effrontery of this reply was worthy of Clive, and 1759 - it appears to have had the effect which he most desired ; for the Dutch Commander, irritated to a degree, without deigning a reply, immediately attacked and captured several small British vessels lying off the Port of Fulta, and, tearing down the INVASION OF BKXCAL HY THE DTTfll. 101 British colours, transferred the guns and stores to the Dutch 1759. ships, (live now reported the circumstances of the outrage to the Nawab. requesting tliat the insult might he avenged without any Native interference whatever. .lust ahout this time (Colonel Fordo and Captain Knox arrived in Bengal from the campaign in the Northern Circars. Colonel Fordo was at once appointed by ('live to command all the Company's Knives in the Presidency, and Captain Knox to eommand the Fort of Tannali and " Charnook's Battery," both . on tne >'i v <'i' Hugli. Fordo, on assuming command, imme- diately possessed himself of the Dutch position at Ikurnagore, and. rapidlv crossing the river with a >mall body of troops, marched, under orders from ('live, direct to Chanderna- gore, to prevent a junction between the Dutch troops on board their ships and those at Chinsurah. During these events there wore three Company's armed ships lying near the mouth of the Hugli, and Clive had instructed their oommandere to weigh anchor and proceed towards Calcutta to protect the town ; but they were unable to comply, the Dutch Squadron having sailed past them. The British ships, however, weighed anchor and approached the enemy. ( )n the L'i'nd of November the Dutch landed all their troops on the right hank of the river, with the evident intention of forming .a junction with their fellow countrymen at Chinsurah. Now, the Dutch invading Army having separated itself from its base on hoard ship, Clive determined to attempt to destroy the Dutch vessels before their Army could reach its destination on shore : seeing at a glance that if he could prevent its junction with the troops at Chinsurah he would have the whole Dutch armament at his mercy. This was our ( 'ommander's general plan of action, and, as the invading Army was unacquainted with the country, Clive felt that he would probably be able to take them at a disadvantage nnd crush them on their march. 102 NAVAL FIGHT AGAINST THE DUTCH. 1759. Knox was at this time ordered to join Fordo, who had with him the main body of the British force, and Olive at once turned his attention to the destruction of the Dutch fleet. As soon as the Dutch troops had landed; their war ships dropped down the river, casting anchor at " Melancholy Point." In so doing they passed close to our three Indiamen, under com- mand of Commodore Wilson, who made as if he intended to push past them and sail towards Calcutta, but the Dutch Commodore told Captain Wilson that if he persisted he would fire on the British ships. Wilson cast anchor, referring for instructions to Clive, who told him to demand from the Dutch Commander instant restitution of the British ships captured at Fulta, as well as a full apology for the insult offered to the British flag ; and, in the event of a re- fusal, Wilson was instructed to attack the enemy. The demand Norember 24th, w as made as ordered ; but the Dutch Commodore 1759. treated it with scorn ; so, on the 24th November,. Wilson weighed anchor and approached his enemy. Wilson had under his command only three armed merchant ships the " Duke of Dorset," commanded by Captain Forrester; the " Calcutta," by Captain Wilson ; the " Hardwicke," by Cap- tain Sampson these ships carrying amongst them 90 guns. The Dutch Squadron consisted of six ships of war. The " Vlissingen," 36 ; the "Bleiswyk," 36; the " Welgeleegen," 36; the " Prince of Orange," 36 ; the " Elizabeth Dorothea," 26 ; the "Waereld," 26; and the " Mossel," 16. Thus the Dutch Squadron was in strength double that of the English, both in number of ships and guns. Captain Forrester led the British attack, bringing his ship alongside the " Vlissingen." It was Commodore Wilson's intention to have brought up his other two ships to assist Captain Forrester, but, the wind having suddenly veered round, they were unable to reach him. Never- theless, Forrester engaged his enemy with vigour, pouring on him NAVAL FKJHT AGAIXST THE DUTCH. 103 a furious cannonade, which after a couple of hour.- compelled the 1759 M Yliingen" to strike. Just at this time the " Ilardwicke " and ovemU-r 24th, the " Calcutta" managed to come up, attacking two of 1759. the encmv's vessels: but they, declining the challenge, cut their cables and ran: whilst a third, in her hurry to escape, went ashore. Soon afterwards the remaining Dutch ships weighed anchor and retired from the fight. The " Bleiswyk '* got as far as Kalpi. when she was captured by the British men-of-war "Royal (u-orge" and "Oxford," which opportunely arrived and secured their prize whilst they were hastening to the protection of Calcutta. The victory was in every way complete. The battle had been fought with courage, skill, and judgment, and is undoubtedly "worthy to he compared with the best achievements of the" "British Navy."* The "Duke of Dorset" had ninety shots in her hull, but her loss in killed and wounded was considerably less than that of the enemy. Clive had thus succeeded in destroying the naval base of the invading army whilst it was inarching to join its compatriots at Chinsurah, who, it will he remembered, were to effect a junction and supply the much-needed Field Artillery. To effect this object the Dutch Commander at Chinsurah determined to attempt to drive the British under Forde out of Chandernagore before their reinforcements, which had left Cal- cutta, could arrive. On the evening of the 23rd November the Dutch force left Chinsurah and, without opposition, occupied a portion of the city November 23rd 24th, of Chandernagore: but, next morning, Forde, who 17 ^ 9 - had been nursing his wrath all night, advanced against his enemy; and it is a strange coincidence that the belligerents met at the same hour that Commodore Wilson was attacking the Dutch fleet off " Point Desolation." * Malleson. 104 THE BATTLE OF BIDERRA. 1759. The numbers engaged at Chandernagore were about equal ; but Forde had the great advantage of fighting on his own ground, and moreover his soldiers were used to hard knocks, whereas very few of the Chinsurah troops had been previously engaged. The enemy were quickly driven out of Chandernagore with the loss of those guns which would have been of such vital importance to the main Army and thrust back into their own territory, crippled and disheartened. The same evening Captain Knox arrived with 220 men of the Bengal European Regiment, bringing Forde's force up to 320 European Infantry; 80 European Artillerymen, with 4 field-pieces ; and 800 Sepahis ; as well as the small troop of European Volunteer Cavalry, well mounted and full of confidence. There were close at hand 150 of the Nawab's Cavalry, sent from Murshedabad avowedly to assist Forde, but in reality they were merely spies, with orders to allow the belligerents to decide the battle unaided, and then unite with the victors. Forde now learnt that the Dutch main Army, under a French Officer, Colonel Roussel, was expected to reach Chinsurah early the next morning, so he sent off an express to Clive telling him Xovember 23rd, that if he were empowered to attack the Dutch main 1759. Army whilst en route he believed he could utterly destroy them. This note was delivered to Clive late at night as he was playing cards with his friends. Without leaving the table he wrote on the back of Forde's letter, ' ' Dear Forde. Fight them " " immediately , I will send you the Order of Council to-morrow." This reply reached Forde early on the morning of the 25th November 25th, November, when he immediately occupied a position 1759. selected with great care on the previous day. In front of this position was a deep, broad, irregular ravine, forming a natural strong defence ; an arid plain stretching out in front, across which the Dutch Army must pass. On the British right was the village of Biderra, which Forde at once occupied ; his left resting on a grove of trees in which he concealed his Till: DEFEAT OF THE DUTCH AliMV. 105 Artillery, supported by the Volunteer Cavalry, who had been 1759. instructed to take advantage of any confusion occasioned by our Artillery fire. The enemy had no Cavalry, and had found it impossible to move their heavy ship guns across country. In European Infantry the Dutch vastly out-numbered the British; but they were deficient in every other branch. At 10 a.m. the enemy emerged upon the plain, when they saw the Uritish Infantry drawn up to oppose their advance. Full of confidence they rapidly pressed forward to the attack, under a smart musketry fire; but their progress was checked by the December 25tb, ravine and a halt was ordered, causing confusion, of 1759. which Forde took advantage by pouring a murderous shower of grape from the grove of trees. The Dutch stood their ground manfully for a time; then, seeking cover but finding none, they were mowed down by sections. During the hesitation our Infantry charged down on the enemy, struggling in the ravine, and, aided by the small body of Volunteer Cavalry, put them to flight ; the Xawab's Cavalry now joining in the pursuit. The rout soon became so complete that only 14 of the enemy succeeded in reaching their destination. The battle, which is described as having been "short, bloody, and decisive," did not last an hour, the Dutch leaving 1-0 Europeans and 200 Malays killed, and :>00 wounded, whilst Colonel Roussel, 14 Officers, ;>.~>0 Europeans and 200 Malays were made prisoners. The position of the British had been so judiciously selected that their loss was trifling; whereas the Dutch, in an unknown country, fell an easy prey to the victors.* * The following is the account given by the Dutch East India Company, see " Groae'l Voyage to the East Indies," vol. II., p. 376 : " On tin- i^th. when the troops and other bands which on the 22nd before," " were gone on shore, were, in their projected march, come near Chander-" nagon- tliry were there met by the English ; who according to their own" ''account to the number of 1170 were posted very advantageously, and" "provided with a numerous Artillery. No sooner were those troops come" 41 within cannon-shot but they were fired on by the English, and though all " 106 OLIVE PKOTECTS THE DUTCH 1759. Immediately after the battle Forde occupied Chinsurali,, meeting with only slight resistance. We have here an illustration of what important events have frequently resulted from battles in which only a few hundred of our soldiers have been engaged. The battle of Biderra, taken in connection with the naval fight, is one of the most brilliant and important military combinations in Indian history, but is seldom referred to by English historians. The power of the East India Company was trembling in the balance when Forde on the 22nd of November left Calcutta with his handful of men to fight the Dutch Army. The Nawab Mir J'afar had formed an alliance with our enemy, in the hope that their united forces might drive us from the country at a time when so large a proportion of our European Army was employed in a foreign war. But Clive was equal to the occasion; his cool courage, great daring, and masterly strategy asserted the power of the British, and confirmed our supremacy in Bengal. The Dutch lately so subtle, so confident, and so overbearing December, now appeared as humble suppliants. The Nawab, discover- 1759. i n g th a t his schemes to be rid of the British yoke had failed, turned upon his crushed accomplices with vindictive hate, threatening them, now that they were smarting and prostrate, with utter annihilation ; and doubtless he would have carried his threats into effect, had not Clive interceded in their favour. Miran, who must have been close at hand watching the course the people were extremely fatigued by a very long march, which they were ' obliged to make for the space of three days ; yet with much bravery they ' stood the fire of the English ; and though unprovided with any Artillery ' marched up with a full and steady pace to the enemy ; but meeting on ' their way a broad deep ditch, which they were constrained to pass to avoid' being destroyed by the Artillery of the English, the troops in passing that ' ditch fell into some disorder ; the English taking advantage of this circum- ' stance, redoubled the fire of their Artillery and Musketry, and the disorder ' already arisen being thereby increased, caused the slaughter of a part of ' those troops, another part was made prisoners ; and the rest were con- ' strained to retire." FROM THE TIIKKATS OF THE XAW.YB. 107 of events, now appeared on the scene with GOOD Horse, to drive 1759. the remnants of the Dutch from their possessions in Bengal. ('live, on learning this, proceeded at once to Chinsurah, and seeing he had nothing to gain by the extinction of the Dutch, whereas their presence in Bengal, as dependants on the English, might in the future he turned to account, arranged a peace for them with the Nawab. restored to them their factory at Chinsurah, and engaged that they should retain all their former privileges ; at the same time taking care that their wings should be clipped, so that there should bo no fear of their appearing in the field as our rivals. They were to be allowed to retain in their service only 125 Kuropean soldiers: and they agreed to pay 100,000 to the British as an indemnity for the expenses of the war. The Dutch and English Governments in Europe subsequently appointed a mixed Commission to report on all the circumstances- connected with these affairs; when it was recorded by the Commissioners that Olive's conduct throughout had been marked by a prudence, judgment, and generosity entitling him to* unqualified commendation; and that the Dutch Naval Authorities- were the unprovoked aggre.-v-or.-. \Ve must now, though unwillingly, part from Colonel Forde ; who, though he had never held a Commission in the Bengal European Regiment, contributed so effectually to its honours and distinction. lie was serving at Madras at the time Kilpatrick was selected for the command of the relieving force sent to- Mengal: and Clive hoped to permanently secure Forde's services in the latter Presidency. The opportunity presented itself when Major Kilpatrick died : and ( 'live at once applied for and obtained Forde's services. He arrived in Bengal, 175S, with the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel; but the Court of Directors, for some un- explained reason, refused to confirm the selection. In the mean- time, however, ('live had appointed Forde to command the expedition against the French in the Northern Circars ; and. 108 DEATH OF COLONEL FORPE. 1759. although he learnt on his return that lie had been dismissed the Service under orders from England, he consented, at Olive's earnest solicitation, to undertake the direction of the military operations against the Dutch. Forde had fully demonstrated that he was a worthy successor to Clive, but the Court again declined to confirm his appointment, and he returned to England a, disappointed and ill-used man. It was ten years after that the Court of Directors realised the value of Forde's services, when they attempted to make atonement by appointing him with Messrs. Vansittart and Scrafton to form a select Committee to supervise affairs in Bengal ; but the ship on which they were returning to India was supposed to have foundered at sea, for she was never again heard of. In the Bengal European Regiment Colonel Forde's name was a household word, and his memory was ever held in love, honour, and respect. Clive, whose health was broken and constitution impaired, now determined to seek in England the repose he so much needed ; but, before leaving India, it was necessary that certain changes should be effected both in the Civil and Military departments. The appointment of Colonel Forde not having been sanctioned, Major Caillaud of the Madras Service was nominated to the command of the Bengal Army. This Officer had performed distinguished services in his own Presidency, where he had -displayed marked ability; and his selection as Commander in Bengal gave universal satisfaction. In the Civil department Mr. Holwell, the senior Member of Council, applied for leave to visit Europe to seek rest after the unparalleled hardships endured and services rendered during the past four years ; and the services of the other Members of Council not being available, Mr. Vansittart a Madras civilian was appointed Governor of Bengal. All these arrangements having been perfected, Clive felt DEPARTURE OF CLIVE FOR ENGLAND. himself at liberty to leave India; but, before doing so, he 1759, dictated the course of action to be adopted to oppose the advance of the Shazada Shah Alain, who had again appeared in the Held. In .December Captain Fischer landed in Bengal with the right wing of the Bengal European Regiment, much reduced by the campaign in the Northern Circars ; but in the previous October 200 recruits had joined the headquarters, and a number of Europeans, Dutch, French, and Germans, made prisoners at the battle of Biderra, were drafted to the Regiment, bringing it up to its full strength. The force ordered to take the field against Shah Alain con>i>ted of 300 of the Bengal European Regiment; 50 European Artillerymen, with 6 field-pieces; and three Sepahi Battalions; under the personal command of Major Caillaud. The advance Division inarched from Calcutta on the 26th December under Captain Thomas Fenwick, with whom was Captain James Spier; both of these Officers having been tranferred from the Madras Army to the Bengal European Regiment. Colonel Clive reached Murshedabad on January 6th, 1760, January, wnen ^ W5ls arranged that a large Native force under the Sha/ada Miran should join the British Army and take the field against Shah Alain. Clive now informed the Nawab Mir , Tatar of his intended departure from India, the intelligence being received with much mi>giving. Major Caillaud was introduced to the Nawab as Clive' s Miceessor. It was, at the Xawab's request, arranged that 200 men of the Bengal Kuropean Regiment should be permanently quartered at February L.T>th, Mnrshedahad for the protection of the Native Capital, 1760. :m ,l .,11 iicrosary precautions having been taken Clive returned to Calcutta, whence he sailed for England on the 25th February, 1760. 110 GENERAL REFERENCES. General References. Chapter V. Orme's "Military Transactions in Bengal." Malleson's " Decisive Battles of India." Auber's " Rise and Progress of British Power in India.' Malleson's " Founders of the Indian Empire " (Clive). Broome's " Rise and Progress of the Bengal Army." Williams's " Bengal Infantry." Philippart's " East India Military Calendar." Mill's " British India." Thornton's " History of the British Empire in India." Grose's " Voyage to the East Indies." &c., &c. CHAPTER VI. Kaja Hani Xarian gives battle to the Emperor at Patna Total defeat of Hani Xarian and his English allies Dr. Fullerton assumes command Arrival of the relu'vinir British Force, under Major Caillaud Battle of Secrpore Defeat of the Emperor's Army Kuddum Hussain, the Nawab of Purneah, in iw<>lt Caillaud, deserted by his allies, defeats the Emperor at Belkoss Defence of Patna by Dr. Fullerton Relief of Patna by Knox Captain Kiio.x engages and defeats the troops under Kuddum Ilussain at Beerpore Major Caillaud gives chase to Kuddum Ilussain The Shazada Mirau's death The war suspended Mir Kassim declared Nawab and Mir J'afar d posed Re-organization of the Company's European troops Captain Yorke defeats the Raja of Bhirboom, at Kirwah Battle of Suan, M. Law and his French Corps made prisoners The Emperor Shah Alam sues for peace. INCH tln campaign in the previous year against the Shah/ada Shall Alain a change of much impor- tance had taken place at the Court of Delhic. The Emperor, Alam Gir Sani, had been put to death by his Prime Minister: and, at the instigation of the murderer, a puppet had been placed on the throne. Shah Alain, being the eldest son of Alam Gir Sani and the acknowledged heir to the throne, was now the Emperor f IIindu>tan, to \vhoin all owed allegiance. But, although the pre- text of Shah Alain being in rebellion against his father no longer existed, the right of the Emperor to Interfere with the act.- of his Viceroys was frequently ignored, or considered merely nominal ; BO, as Shah Alam had when he was Shah/ada made war 112 KAJA KAM NARIAN ATTACKS THE EMPEROR. 1759. against the East India Company and their ally Mir J'afar, no change was now made in their attitude towards each other. In consequence of the influence which Shah Alain was enabled to exercise now that he had become titular Emperor, he had been enabled to collect an army of considerable strength ; at the head of which, towards the end of January, he threatened the city of Patna and our fortified factory near at hand. Captain Cochrane, of the Bengal European Regiment,. commanded the Company's troops at Patna, consisting of 100 Europeans under Ensign Winclebeck, with whom was January, another Subaltern name unknown ; 70 European Artillery,. 1760. w it\i 2 guns, under Lieutenant Buck ; 5 Companies of Regular Sepahis; and 3 Local Companies,* under an Ensign. Dr. Fullerton was the Surgeon to the detachment, and there was also a Mr. Barwell, serving as a Volunteer. Raja Ram Narian, the Governor of Patna, who had been of doubtful allegiance during the campaign in the previous year,, was now a firm supporter of the English and Mir J'afar. Ram Narian had, under Captain Cochrane's orders, collected his troops from the district, and enlisted a considerable number of Sepahis to act with the English detachment protecting the city and the Company's factory. Raja Ram Narian held imperative orders, both from the Nawab Mir J'afar and Major Caillaud, the British Commander,, not to risk a battle with the Emperor's troops, but await the arrival of the British force, rapidly advancing to his assistance. Just about this time a considerable body of well-equipped Cavalry, commanded by a distinguished Chief named Rehim Khan, joined Ram Narian's force. This acquisition made him numerically superior to the Emperor's force, and as there had been several skirmishes between the rival Armies, which had * These Local Companies were frequently employed at our factories. They were composed of mercenaries of all nationalities. Their Officers were some- times attached for duty with the Regular troops. DEFEAT OF RAM XAIIIAN AND HIS BRITISH ALLII>. 113 usually resulted in victory to Ram Narian, he was sorely 1760. tempted to disobey orders by offering battle to the Emperor, and defeating him before the arrival of the British reinforce- ments. Ram Xarian had now under his command 40,000 men; and on the 9th of Febnwry, much against Captain Cochrane's advice, he moved out from his entrenchments and offered battle to the enemy. They, nothing loth, accepted the challenge, advancing from their camp and taking up their position in front of Ram Narian's troops drawn up in three lines; the English detachment ebrmiry 9th, under Cochrane being in reserve. The British Com- 1760. maiider had fully determined that the Company's troops should take no part in the action, unless it should be necessary to protect the Raja from injury or capture. After a little skirmishing on both sides a body of the Kmperor's troops made a gallant charge, breaking completely through the Raja's lines and creating much confusion amongst his platoons, some of which, thinking they had better secure their safety whilst there was yet time, deserted over to the Kinperor's side. Notwithstanding these defections the main body of Ram Narian's troops manfully re-formed, and now stoutly held their ground, materially assisted by the British in reserve with their two field-guns: but just when the scale seemed turning in the Raja's favour lie found himself in considerable personal danger, many of his best Officers having fallen around him, and behaving received several slight wounds, ruder these circumstances Ram Narian sent a message to Captain Cochrane, begging him to come to his as-istuiice, he being hard pressed and unable to retreat. < ij.tain Cochrane held orders that he was under any circum- stances to protect the Raja against personal injurv ; he therefore at once proceeded to obey the call with his two subalterns. Volun- teer Harwell, and four Companies of Sepahis, Tin's small party I 114 RAM NAEIAN'S DEFEAT. 1760. with much difficulty forced their way up to the Raja, who was February 9th, bravely defending himself ; but in doing so our loss was 1760. heavy indeed, for in repelling the repeated attacks of the enemy Captain Cochrane and his three subalterns were killed, and our Sepahis, finding that their Officers had fallen, broke and fled, quickly pursued by some of the Emperor's Cavalry, who, charging amongst them as they were scattered over the field, cut them up piecemeal. A Sergeant of the Bengal European Regiment now, seeing the perilous position of the Raja, placed himself at the head of 25 Sepahis, and charging gallantly forward secured Ram Narian, whom he escorted to the European detachment, they having with great difficulty maintained their position in reserve, attacked by large bodies of Cavalry on both flanks. The Officer left in command of the reserve had also been killed, as well as Lieutenant Buck commanding the European Artillery. Dr. Fullerton, being now the only English Officer who had survived the battle, assumed command. Dr. Fullerton's name is known to history as a brave, gallant soldier, and his military prowess never shone with greater lustre than when he brought the remnant of the Ram Narian's defeated force into the city of Patna, not, however, without leaving one of his disabled guns in the hands of the enemy ; but, before abandoning it, he had spiked it with his own hand. The Emperor did not follow up his victory, or, beyond doubt, the city would have fallen into his hands. There is something most touching in the record of this great sacrifice of life. Of the Bengal European Regiment, 4 Officers gave their lives in attempting to perform a simple act of duty; the Officer com- manding the Sepahi Infantry was also killed, as well as the only Artillery Officer with the force ; none were left but that brave man, Fullerton, who, when he saw all his comrades dead, manfully fulfilled the duty, to perform which these six Officers had sacrificed their lives. MA.JOI: CAILLAUDfi KKI.IF.F vo\:ci: AI;KI\I>. 11,") Ram Xarian, full of regret, now busied himself in improving the 17110. defences of the city, and knowing that Major Caillaud must he 'ebruury 10th 18th, near at hand, finessed to gain time, lie sent to 17'!o. f] 10 Emperor saying that he wished to enter into negotiations, but that at present his wounds prevented him from personally paying his respects. On the 19th of February the joyful news reached Patna that Major Cailland, with the British Force, was close at hand. In the meantime the Emperor, elated with his success in having, as ebruury 19th 20th, ne was Phased to think, subdued the British Army, 176 0- contented himself with making only a half-hearted attack on the City, which he discontinued as soon as he heard of the near approach of the British reinforcements. Cailland was anxious to offer battle at once, but Miran com- manding the Xawah's troops urged delay; it was then arranged 'ebruary L'L'nd, tnjlt our Attack should be delivered early on the morning 17((( '- of the 22nd, and the British camp was advanced to within three miles of the enemy; but a second time Miran urged that his arrangements were not complete. Whilst our camp was being pitched on the newly-chosen ground, Cailland with a small >rt rode forward to reconnoitre, when, finding that the enemy was not on the alert, he seized two villages about a mile in advance of his position. In each of these villages he placed a Company of his Sepahis, and in the rear he posted a support of 100 men. The enemy, seeing this movement, made an advance, pushing forward some of their heavy Artillery, supported by (Rivalry and Infantry. The British support of 400 men were now ordered to quickly join their comrades in the two villages, and a Company of Europeans with two field-pieces added to their force. Major Caillaud at this time observed that the enemy had struck his camp, and was making a general advance ; a large body of his Cavalry being seen movin^ towards the two vill;i The British force took position in immediate front of its 116 THE BATTLE OF SEERPORE. February 22nd, own camp, and between the two villages ; the Bengal 1760. European Battalion in the centre, supported by 3 guns on either flank ; these again being flanked by 2 Battalions of Sepahis, forming the right and left extremities of the line. Miran had been instructed to place himself in rear of, and as a support to, the British force his Cavalry extending right and left ; but in place of carrying out this arrangement which he had previously agreed to he massed his whole force in close column to the right and slightly in rear. The Emperor's Army was formed into three Divisions, one of which now attacked the left of the British position and attempted to occupy the village of Seerpore ; but Caillaud, turning his guns obliquely, poured a sharp fire on the advancing enemy, who hesitated. At this moment a troop of Shah Alam's Cavalry circled round to the rear of the village, where they were un- opposed, as Miran had, contrary to orders, massed all his troops to the right. The remaining two Divisions of the Emperor's Army now attacked Miran's troops with such earnestness that the latter showed February 22nd, signs of discomfiture, inducing Caillaud, with some In- 1760. fantry and six field-pieces, to push forward towards the village on his right, to protect Miran and his frightened Irre- gulars. The relieving force advanced steadily until they were about forty paces from the enemy's Cavalry ; when, halting and firing a volley, they effectually checked the ardour of the attacking force, and enabled Miran to rally his scattered troops. Our Infantry now fired a second volley, and, charging along the front of Miran's unsteady brigade, so successfully assailed the enemy that they fell into confusion ; when our Sepahis, rushing forward, engaged the enemy's Infantry, who were driven back at the point of the bayonet, their Cavalry following under volleys of our grape and musketry, Miran's Cavalry, being now reassured, made a successful charge on the fugitives, completing the work which 1750. our Sepahis had begun. The Emperor's Army broke and a general stampede ensued, their Officers in vain attempting to rally the men. In half-an-hour the field was cleared of the enemy, only the dead and wounded remaining to show where the battle of Seer- pore had been fought. The British now captured the enemy's camp which had been deserted during their hurried flight and here, to their surprise, Tebruary 22nd, cm r soldiers found and retook their own camp equipage 1760. a nd cattle, which had been looted by the enemy's ( 'avalry, who had, early in the action, passed to the rear of the village of Seerpore. The pursuit continued till nightfall, the Emperor with his fugitive troops having retired on the town of Behar, sixteen miles distant. The casualties of the British were few ; but the enemy lost two of their best Commanders, as well as a large number of their troops. Miran was slightly wounded, and his uncle Mahomed A mil- Khan was killed. Major Caillaud was desirous of rapidly following up his success; but Miran, strongly opposing the measure, retired with his troops to Patna, where he celebrated his victory with much pomp and debauchery. It was the 29th February before Miran consented to rejoin Major Caillaud, and it was the 2nd March before the British force reached Behar, when it was found that the Emperor's Army had larch 2nd, left that town on the 29th February and was now rapidly 1760. marching towards Bengal; thus the advantage which Caillaud had gained at Seerpore wa* hopelessly sacrificed by the wilful obstinacy <>f Miran. Our Army started in hot pursuit, Miran now realizing the fatal error he had commit ted. Shah A lam had got to our rear and was hastening to occupy districts which had promised him their 118 THE EMPEROR PURSUED BY THE BRITISH. 1760. support. After four days Caillaud, having taken advantage of a rapid stream \vhich had checked Shah Alam's progress, came close to the enemy, and would have made a night attack had not Miran again proved obstinate. The Emperor escaped a second time, and, taking a south- March 6th, westerly direction, struck across the hills, still pursued by 1760. the British, Miran following. Soon after Major Caillaud and Miran had left Murshedabad to relieve Patna January 22nd, 1760 information was sent to Mir J'afar that Kuddum Hussain, the Nawab of Purneah who owed allegiance to Mir J'afar and several influential zemendars were in revolt, and had promised assistance to the Emperor, should he appear in their Provinces. Under these circumstances, fearing that the malcontents might attack the rear of Caillaud's Army marching towards Patna, Mir J'afar proceeded towards Rajmahal, taking with him Captain Spier and the 250 men of the Bengal European Regiment stationed at Murshedabad for its protection. But no sooner had terms been arranged with Kuddum Hussain than Mir J'afar's attention was directed towards his Eastern frontier, where a large body of Maratha Cavalry, under the notorious and dreaded chief Sheobut, had appeared with the avowed intention of assisting the Emperor if he should approach Mir J'afar's capital. Sheobut exercised considerable influence in Bengal, so much so that on his approach the Council in Calcutta thought it necessary to embody the Militia and dismiss all armed Natives not in the service of the Company. Captain Fischer with 250 of the Bengal European Regiment, 4 light guns, and 300 Sepahis, were sent to reinforce Spier, and Captain Yorke who had by this time recovered from March,1760. ,. J . . his wounds was ordered to hold himselt in readiness to take the field with 250 more of the Bengal European Regiment and 500 Sepahis ; this latter detachment being at the Presidency. RETREAT OF THE EMPEROR TO PA IN A. 'aptain Spier now had under his command ")00 European 1760. Infantry, '20 European Artillery, with ft light guns, and ,")<)(> Sepahis. On the 4th of April a junction was effected between Major Caillaud's, Captain Spier's, and Miran's forces at Mungulkote, the Xawal) Mir J'afar still accompanying Spier's detachment. The Emperor Shah Alain, who had been reinforced by the Maratha Cavalry under Sheobut, was at this time at Maunkur. Captain Fischer, with '200 men of the Bengal European Regiment, was ordered to march to Murshedabad to protect the capital, and ( 'aillaud now moved in the direction of the Emperor's camp. Caillaud was desirous of attacking Shah Alam in his new position, but Mir J'afar showed what then appeared an unac- countable disinclination to give his support, refusing to allow his troops to act on the offensive, and declining to accede to Caillaud's pril Uth, request for the loan of horses to mount some of his European Infantry whom he wished to employ as Cavalry. It now came to Major Caillaud's knowledge that the Nawab had icily made overtures to the Emperor, and it was subsequently proved that before leaving Murshcdabad he had proffered his allegiance to him, the British being left in ignorance of the negotiation. Notwithstanding the altered circumstances Caillaud determined to attack the Emperor, with or without his allies; and on the pril 7th. morning of the 7th April he marched with his troops to the village of Bclkoss, opposite to the Emperor's encampment. The attack was led by the Bengal European Kcgiment, who. under cover of our Artillery, rushed into the stream: which they were rapidly fording, when the enemy, after tiring a few shots, >rt fi'v to their camp and hastily withdrew: but the British, having no Cavalry, weiv unable to follow. The Emperor and his Maratha allies having evaded pursuit, doubled round and returned towards 1'atna, which had been left under protection of Raja Ram Narian with onlv a few Sepahis. 120 DR. FULLERTON DEFENDS THE CITY OF PATNA. 1760. Knox, by this time near at hand, was sent by forced marches with his detachment of 200 Bengal Europeans, a complete Battalion of Sepahis, and a detail of Artillery, with 2 light field-guns, to assist Ram Narian; whilst the remainder of the field-force under Caillaud accompanied by the Nawab's troops returned to Murshedabad, which they reached about the 25th of April. Patna was now in imminent peril ; for M. Law, with his corps of French Europeans whose numbers had been augmented by April, our escaped prisoners and French deserters had come to terms 1760. w ith the Emperor and marched to Patna, where he intended to await the arrival of his allies, and then carry the city before British reinforcements could arrive. But M. Law, after having been encamped close to the city for some days, marched towards Behar, where he formed junction with the Emperor; when the united forces returned to Patna and renewed the siege with vigour. Dr. Fullerton, again the only English Officer in the garrison, undertook the general control of the defence ; he had repaired old April 10, breaches and planted his guns in well-chosen positions ; but 1760. the besiegers, led by the French Europeans and supported by the Emperor's and the Maratha troops, made such determined assaults that Ram Narian's soldiers, completely disheartened, wavered in their support. The walls of the City had been breached in several places, and the enemy succeeded at one time in planting the Emperor's colours on one of the bastions ; when Fullerton and his gallant little band of Sepahis rushed to the rescue, and, capturing the colours after a severe hand-to-hand fight, regained possession of the bastion. Just when help was so much needed a joyful cry was raised that relief was at hand. A cloud of dust and the glitter of the sun on bayonets was seen on the other side of the river; the shouts of the Europeans and the inspiring sound of the fife and drum were distinctly heard, reviving the spirits and hopes of the besieged, who, CAPTAIN KNOX I5IMN<:s UKLIKF. rushing to their deserted posts, defended them with renewed 1760. vigour. Boats laden with refreshments were sent across the river to the relieving party ; and Knox with the 200 men of the Bengal European Regiment, Maclean with his well-seasoned Sepahis, and the European Artillery with their field-guns, were heartily welcomed by the citizens : and Ram Narian's soldiers " gave up " " their apprehensions about an escalade and about an assault," " and said openly that now the English were within their walls" the enemy would not dare to come to attack again."* Knox with his Europeans had marched from Burdwan to Patna 800 miles in 18 days; but his men, being fresh and elated with their reception, at once marched through the city with their colours flying and drums beating. The next day Knox attacked the enemy's advanced position, surprising them whilst they were at their midday meal, driving them in confusion from their camp which he captured, together April ->(Hli. with their guns, stores, and ammunition and returning 1700. before sunset in triumph to the City, he was received by the citizens with acclamations of joy and relief. The next day the Imperial troops and the French corps retired to the village of (lyah Manpore. It is now necessary to refer to the movements of the Native force under Kiiddum Hussain, the Nawab of Purneah, who it will be remembered had in the previous month come to terms with tlu? Xawab Mir .Tatar Khan. The conditions of peace and promises of fidelity which Kuddum Hussain had made were all forgotten as soon as Mir .Tatar Khan with his European detachment was out of reach, and Kuddum Hussain who all along had determined to link himself with the Emperor now busied himself in extorting money from his people to enable him to raise an Army. After a few weeks he had managed to collect a force said to consist of 0000 Cavalry, 10.HOO Infantry, and * Words of a Native historian. \vh> was a \\itnc.ss to the scene described. 122 THE BATTLE OF BEERPORE. 1760. 30 guns, with which he marched rapidly to join the Emperor's camp at Gyah Manpore. Major Caillaud started in pursuit; but Kuddum Hussain was well supplied with baggage, cattle, and elephants, so that the British were unable to overtake him. Under these circumstances Caillaud wrote to Knox at Patna, instructing him, if possible, to prevent a junction between Kuddum Hassain and the Emperor. Captain Knox now learnt that Kuddum Hassain had reached Hajeepore, a town on the opposite side of the river Ganges ; and June 15th, having collected his force, which consisted of 200 of the Bengal European Regiment, a Battalion of Maclean's Se- pahis, and 5 field-pieces, crossed the river on the 1 5th June. Knox was accompanied by the brave Raja Shitab Roy, the commander of a choice body of Cavalry, who had lately joined the British force. As the enemy under Kuddum Hussain were within 10 miles, Knox, in consultation with Shitab Roy, arranged a night surprise but the guide misled them ; so, after a tedious march, they, returned to their camp at daybreak. They had no time for rest, June 16th, for the enemy appeared early in the morning, and Knox advanced to meet him, taking up a well-chosen position near the village of Beerpore, and leaving one Company of Sepahis to guard his camp and boats on the left bank of the river. The enemy soon appeared in much greater force than Knox had anticipated, quite surrounding the British force, which in all did not exceed 800 men. Knox formed his troops into a hollow square, receiving in this position several charges from the enemy's Cavalry, who were, however, repeatedly driven back, our square being materially assisted by our Artillery ; but such was the numerical superiority of Kuddum Hassain' s force that these attacks were continued for six consecutive hours, exhausting the little band of heroes, who were at one time well-nigh overwhelmed. Captain Knox now sallied forth at the head of the Grenadier Company of the Bengal HIE BRITISH 1TRSIK KTDDIM HAS>AI\. 123 luropeans, who drove back the enemy, enabling the Sepahis 1700 maintaining the square to recover their position. Kudduin Ilassain, finding his attempts to break the British square futile, ultimately withdrew his army; leaving 400 men and 3 elephants dead on the field, and 8 heavy guns in our hands. The loss of the British was comparatively small; a brave young ( )tiicer, Lieutenant MeDowall,and 16 men of the Bengal European Regiment being killed, as well as many Sepahis. Knox had now luiu- Kith, to learn that the company of Sepahis left to protect his - camp on the river bank had been overwhelmed and annihi- lated. The camp followers had rushed to the boats and pushed into the stream, leaving the Sepahis a prey to the enemy, and carrying the news to the frightened inhabitants of the city that the British force had been completely exterminated. Captain Knox pursued the enemy for several miles, until, darkness coming on, he reluctantly gave up the chase, and, crossing the river, returned to Patna. When the inhabitants found that, in place of a defeat, the British had gained a glorious victory, their joy knew no bounds, a Native historian recording that "from that day" "the English acquired a reputation for determination and" " invincibility that did them good service in many a subsequent" action." Knox, having replenished his camp, started next day to renew June 17th, his pursuit of Kuddum Ilassain, who had of necessity aban- 1760. doned his plan of joining the Emperor, and was pushing towards Bcttca. On the _!2nd June Major Caillaud and Miran arrived at Patna with their forces, so, Knox and his detachment having been re- called. Major Caillaud took up the chase. On the '2~>l\i the enemy were sighted, their movements much hampered by their heavy baggage. Caillaud prepared for an attack, the enemy oprning lire from hi> heavy gun.-, and doing sonic execu- tion; nevertheless, the I>riti>h advanced against Kuddum llassain's 124 DEATH OF THE SHAZADA MIRAN. 17 0. position, behind some villages and a grove of trees, which he abandoned on the near approach of our troops. The enemy now June 25th. finding himself opposed by a much larger force than on the 1760. previous occasion when he was driven from the field, fled, leaving in our possession a number of heavy guns and a great quantity of camp equipage. During this action Miran displayed his usual disinclination to co-operate with his allies; nevertheless, Major Caillaud followed up his victory, in the hope of gaining possession of the large amount of treasure which Kuddum Hassain was carry- ing off. On the 2nd of July the periodical rains commenced with unusual violence. The British Army were forced to seek shelter July 2nd, from their watery fury, the camp being pitched in a grove of 1760. trees at the foot of the Nepaul Mountains. During the night the lightning flashed incessantly, and the storm raged with constantly-increasing and alarming violence. Miran, fearing that his state tent, which had been pitched in an exposed position, might be blown down, moved into one sheltered by the trees, in which he was being shampooed by his body servant, July 2nd, whilst his Court story-teller was lulling him to sleep. In a 1760. moment the Shahzada's tent was seen to be surrounded by a blue flame, a vivid flash of lightning illuminated the scene, and when the frightened attendants arrived three blackened corpses were found amidst the dtbrix of the burning tent. So died Miran, respected by none and despised most by those who knew him best. He is justly described as having been tainted with all the vices of his cousin Siraju 'd daulah, without possessing one of his redeeming qualities. This event increased rather than diminished Major Caillaud's difficulties, for it was the custom amongst the Native Armies in India on the death of their commander to disperse to their homes ; and it was probable that Miran's soldiers, knowing that their late chiefs interest had been more with Kuddum Ilussain than RETURN OF THE BRITISH ARMY TO PATNA. the British, would either go to their villages or desert to the 1760. enemy. Caillaud sought and obtained the influence of some of Miran's Generals, but, the pay of the troops being several months in arrear, the soldiers became insubordinate and threatened to forciblv 2nd 29th, possess themselves of whatever they could secure, and 1760. desert to their homes. With much tact Major Caillaud succeeded in quelling the mutiny by promising to quickly obtain funds from Calcutta, on arrival of which the discontented troops should receive their arrears of pay; and it was ultimately arranged that he should command the united forces, pending orders from Murshedabad. Under the circumstances it was deemed prudent to discontinue the pursuit of Kuddum IFassain; and Caillaud, therefore, retraced his steps, the army reaching Patna on July 29th, 1760. The monsoon being now at its height the war was suspended. Caillaud quartered his troops in the city of Patna, and the Emperor occupied a position at Daudnuggur, about 30 miles to the west. But affairs in Calcutta of which we have of necessity for >ome time lost the thread were in a very unsatisfactory state. Mr. Yansittart, the new Governor, had arrived from .Madras to find that, although the payments under the notorious Mir J 'afar treaty had temporarily enriched the Company's servants and citi/ens of Calcutta, the treaty had left all the country under the Murshedabad administration in a dissatisfied and impoverished condition. In order to pay the instalments due under the treaty the Xawal) had of necessity made such heavy demands on the resources of the wealthy nobles and bankers that their allegiance \\ii- shaken : whilst the cultivators of the soil, in many instance-, were reduced to abject poverty. The pay of Mir. Tatar's troops was much in arrear. inducing them to desert to the enemy: his trca.-iiry was exhausted, and his debt under the treaty had not 126 THE TREATY WITH MIR KASSIM KHAN. 1760. been fully discharged. But affairs were not in a much better condition with the Calcutta Council, whose credit was at so low an ebb that they had been unable to raise money to pay their European Army ; indeed, at this time, the current expenses of the Government were only met by drawing so heavily on the Court of Directors in London that they were nearly driven into bankruptcy. Under these circumstances, the Governor having sent for Major Caillaud to assist the Council with his advice, he handed over his command to Captain Knox, the next senior officer, and September 10th, proceeding to obey these orders, arrived at Calcutta 1760. on the 10th of September, where a Commission as Lieutenant-Colonel was awaiting him, this promotion having been awarded for his distinguished services in the field. On the death of the Shahzada Miran, Mir J'afar had recognised his son-in-law, Mir Kassim Khan, as heir to the hrone, and as such he was deputed by the Nawab to welcome the new Governor, and assist in the deliberations of the Calcutta Council. Mir Kassim, who is to figure so prominently in this history, being a master of intrigue and a shrewd politician, at once conceived the idea of converting the trust which his Sovereign had reposed in him to his own advantage. On the 27th September Mir Kassim entered into a treaty with the Cal- cutta Council stipulating that he should be appointed Mir J'afar's September 2 7th, Deputy at the Murshedabad Court, and as such should 1760. foe endowed with almost absolute powers. This treaty concluded with what had become the usual provision for pecuniary payments to the contracting officials. The Members of Council were promised from 30,000 to 50,000 each, Colonel Caillaud* 20,000, and Captain Yorke 13,400. On October 1st Mir Kassim returned to Murshedabad to pave the way for the approaching coup d'etat. On the 3rd Mr. * Colonel Caillaud voted against the treaty, and left India before th payments were stipulated for. MIR .T'AFAK DKI-OSKD AND MIR KASSIM APPOINTED XAWAB. 127 October lstL ; oth, Vansittart, Accompanied by Mr. Warren Hastings 1760. 1760. an( | ^[ r< Lnshington, readied the capital, and Mir , I 'afar was made acquainted with the resolutions of the Calcutta Council. The interviews which took place between the Governor and the Xawab loth, 16th, and 18th bore no fruit; so the latter was informed that he would be allowed only two more days to decide. Mir .Tatar, terrified at the aspect of affairs and fearing that he might be assassinated at Murshedabad, retired to his palace on the opposite side of the river; and, as no communica- tion had been received from him on the 19th, Colonel Caillaud was ordered to proceed with 200 men of the Bengal European Regiment to join the troops of Mir Kassim and surround the Nawab's palace. The English soldiers occupied the centre square; and Mir .Tatar was called on to formally resign in favour of Mir Kassim, now appointed by the English Deputy-Nawab and successor to the throne. These overtures were refused by the Nawab ; but Mr. Warren Hastings giving him to understand that resist- ance was useless. Mir .Tatar declared that his life would be insceure if he were left in Mir Kassim's power. At length he October 20th, consented to resign absolutely, the Council guaranteeing 1 <" ( ' () - his personal safety : and, this having been done, Mir J'afar, the ex-Nawal), was conveyed under a strong escort to Calcutta, where some fitting houses were prepared for his reception, and a liberal allowance was provided by Mir Kassim, who now reigned in his stead. The newly-appointed Xawab had long since realised that the defect < in Mir .Tafar's government were primarily due to his obligations to the English. A system of dependence and thraldom had existed, which had completely paralysed the late Nawab's actions, and rendered him ah>olutcly >ulervient to the Calcutta Council. Mir Kassim, therefore, determined to make a bold r-trnkc lor freedom. On assuming the Government the many Court favourites, who 128 REFORMS INTRODUCED BY MIR KASSIM. had amassed fortunes to the detriment of the State Treasury, were made to disgorge their ill-gotten wealth ; their estates were November December, confiscated ; and such sweeping reforms intro- 176 - duced that the Nawab was enabled very shortly after having assumed power to satisfy to a great extent the claims of the English, and to advance 25,000 to the Council to enable them to make a remittance to Madras, urgently required, and 70,000 for the arrears due to the British troops at Patna. With this latter amount Colonel Caillaud returned to Patna, accompanied by Major Carnac previously appointed by the Court of Directors to command the Bengal Army, Colonel Caillaud' s services being required at Madras. Before leaving Bengal Colonel Caillaud* made some changes in the organization of the Bengal European Regiment, now 1200 strong, many of the soldiers being French, Dutch, and Germans who had purchased their freedom by consenting to serve in the ranks of the Regiment. With the approval of the Council two troops of Dragoons and one of Hussars were raised ; the troopers being taken from the Bengal European Regiment, which was now in consequence only 1000 strong, including two Grenadier Com- panies. The newly-raised Cavalry were Officered from the Infantry, each troop of Dragoons having 1 Captain, 2 Lieutenants, and 1 Cornet, and the Hussar troop, called " The Body Guard," having 1 Lieutenant and 1 Cornet only. The experiment of mounting our Infantry soldiers and employing them as Cavalry did not prove a success, on account of the smallness of the under- bred Bengal horses, which were not up to the weight of the English troopers. A body of Moghul Horse, found to be far more efficient, was employed about this time with the English Army, being engaged on the same system as those of the * Colonel, afterwards Brigadier-General, Caillaud retired from the East India Company's Service on 17th March, 1775, when he resided at his seat in Oxfordshire, where he died at ft very advanced age in 1810. Di:i I:AT OF THE KA.IA OF UHIKHOO.M. Irregular Cavalry of the present day, but no European Officers 1760. were attached to the Native Cavalry. Soon after Major Carnac had assumed Command a circum- stance occurred which produced a complete change in the >vstem of the Murshedabad Army. Captain Martin White was sent with a detachment of the Bengal Europeans and some Sepahis to suppress an insurrection in Bhirboom. The Raja of that district, at the head of an Army of 20,000 Infantry and -")()()() Cavalry, had taken up his position near the village of Kirwah, defying his Sovereign's power. Captain Yorke, with 200 Europeans and a body of the Nawab's troops, had proceeded from Murshedabad to join White, Mir Kassim accompanying Yorke's division. On ascertaining the enemy's position, Yorke in- structed White to take a circuitous route and attack the enemy in rear, whilst Yorke would assail him in front as soon as he should hear the firing of White's party. This simple manoeuvre was executed with so much judgment and tact that the enemy, finding themselves simultaneously assailed both in front and rear, broke and tied : leaving their camp, guns, and stores in our possession. This victory over the Raja of Bhirboom had the effect of traiHjuillisiug the whole of his Provinces as well as that of Burdwan : and is specially worthy of our attention, as it resulted in vast reforms being introduced by the Nawab into his Army. Mir K:iiin. who seldom ventured under tire, had been present during our attack ou the Raja of BhirboonTs camp; and, much impressed with the great superiority of our tactics and troops over those of the Native states, determined, on his return to his Capital, to reorgaui/e his Army and, as far as possible, introduce amongst them the Knglish system. Major Carnac, now in chief command of our Army at Patna, prepared to pursue with vigour the campaign against the Em- peror Shah Alain, who had established his headquarters at the city of Behar, having with him M. Law's French Corp.-. Carnac experienced many difficulties on account of the remnant of K 130 BATTLE OF SCAN. 1760. Miran's Army clamouring for their arrears of pay. 90,000 had been sent by Mir Kassim, in addition to the 70,000 which Colonel Caillaud had distributed; but still the Nawab's troops were somewhat in arrears, and consequently refused to march. Major Carnac, therefore, determined to take action with his own troops only. When he was at his first camping-ground, however, the dissatisfied troops joined him, having, in secret council, elected to serve with the British in their campaign against the Emperor. On 15th of January, 1761, the united forces arrived at Suan, 6 miles from Behar, on a stream formed by a branch of the Mahani river; and here Carnac found the Emperor's Army drawn up on the opposite bank. Our Artillery immediately January 15th, opened fire, under cover of which the British crossed the 1761. river without opposition, the enemy retreating amongst the dykes and rough ground formed by the changing course of the stream. The Nawab's troops, as usual, remained in the rear, awaiting the turn of events. Carnac now advanced, but the enemy continued to retire, although on three occasions they halted and took up fresh ground, finally electing to encamp on the open plain. The British Army formed up for attack ; the Bengal European Regiment being in the centre, flanked on either side by a Battalion of Native Infantry ; the Artillery between the Europeans and Sepahis. A third Bat- talion of Native Infantry and a small body of Cavalry were held in rear as a reserve. Our guns were now pushed slightly forward, and a general advance made ; but, the enemy's Cavalry attack- ing our line on both flanks, some confusion arose, making the result of the battle doubtful ; when, most opportunely, a well-directed shot from one of our 12-pounders killed the Mahout and wounded the elephant on which the Emperor was riding, and directing the movements of his Army. The animal, now freed from restraint, frightened, and wounded, rushed uncontrolled to the rear. The news that the Emperor had disappeared from the field soon spread, M. LAW AM) HIS FKEXCII FOLLOWKIJS .MADK l'liI>()\KI{S. };\\ creating a panic amongst his troops; who. in the absence of their 17C1. Commander, were rushing uhout seeking orders, hut finding none. By this time the 1 British force had heen re-fonned, and our Artillery opened fire on the confused masses of the enemy, who began to give ground: and. our Infantry charging, broke and fled from the field. M. Law, with his French soldiers, endeavouring to check the flight of the Emperor's troops, took up a strong position to cover their retreat; drawing up his Infantry inline with his six guns in front, from which he discharged grape on the advancing British; but, as the French were occupying an elevated position, the Bengal European Regiment managed to get below their fire ; and, charging up the hill, captured the French guns. The Bengal Europeans now advanced with shouldered arms towards the French Officers, 13 or. 14 of whom stood by their Commander and Colours on the rising ground, with some f)0 French soldiers in their rear. The Frenchmen, wearied with the vagrant, profitless life they had been leading since we had captured their possessions at Chandernagore, seemed determined to sell their lives as dearly as possible; but, when they saw the English soldiers advancing with shouldered arms, they were ama/ed at the generosity of their conquerors. Major Carnac now, ordering his soldiers to halt, advanced towards the French Officer-:: and, saluting, told them he did not wish to take their lives, if they would surrender. M. Law replied that he and his comrades would submit only on the condition that they might retain their swords: but, this Stipulation not agreed to, they would resist to the last. The terms were accepted: and M. Law with his Officers giving themselves up as prisoners of war were placed on their parole. All our Officers now advanced, cordially shaking hands with their prisoners, and the British troops were inarched hack to their camp, where the French Officers were hospitably entertained by those of the English Army. The Emperor was soon enabled to collect hi> scattered troops. 132 SURRENDER OF THE EMPEROR SHAH ALAM. 1761. amongst whom there had been but slight loss ; and proceeded at once towards Patna, which he knew had been left but poorly protected. But Major Carnac, intercepting him, forced him south towards those Districts where for several months his troops had been encamped, and where he was not welcomed on his return. The British were now pressing on the Emperor's rear ; he had but a scanty supply of provisions, his treasury was empty, and his troops deserting. On the 2nd of February, 1761, the English Army overtook the enemy, who attempted to make some show of resistance ; but, on Carnac forming his force for attack, they all fled, not rallying until they had covered some twenty miles. The Emperor Shah Alain, February 2nd feeling his case to be hopeless, sent an express intimating I 761 - his readiness to come to terms, and proposing that he should visit Major Carnac in person. The meeting took place at the town of Gyah, when an agreement was entered into, under the stipulations of which Shah Alam's claim to be Emperor of Hindustan was to be acknowledged by the Company, and, for his maintenance, he was to receive from Raja Ram Narian Rs. 1000 a day. Hostilities having now ceased, the Emperor, with Carnac's permission, pitched his camp with that of the British Army, and the conditional treaty was sent to Calcutta for the consideration of the Council. A detachment of 200 of the Bengal European Regiment, with some Native Infantry, Artillery, and Cavalry, was ordered to remain at Gyah under Captain Alexander Champion and watch events in Behar ; but, shortly afterwards, Champion's detachment took the field against a Chief named Ramghur Khan, who with his lawless troops had seized a Fortress and was devastating the whole district. The British detachment, having defeated Ramghur Khan's Army, drove them back amongst the jungles and low hills. Major Carnac, with the main Army and accompanied by the Emperor, returned to Patna, which he entered on 14th February, 1761. IE EMI'EKOII ATTEMPTS TO SEI/E HIS TI The Emperor, on learning that the Calcutta Council would not 1761. February 14th, accede to his request that lie should be escorted to his 176L capital by British troops and placed on his throne under British auspices, accepted the invitation of some powerful Chiefs who offered to join him with their troops, advance on Delhie, and seize the capital in his name. The Emperor, naturally anxious to occupy his throne, left Patna in June under the escort of these supporters ; a British Guard of Honour accompanying him to the Bengal frontier. (it ncral References. Chapter VI. Colonel Broome's "Rise and Progress of the Bengal Army/' Williams's " Bengal Infantry." Philippart'g " East India Military Calendar." Thornton's u History of the British Empire." Wilson's Edition of Mills's " British India." Malcolm's " Dispatches and Correspondence of Clivi*." Caraccioli's " Life of Lord Clive." &c., &c. CHAPTER Til. Reorganization of the Murshedabad Army Rupture between the British and Mir Kassim Mr. Ellis appointed Principal Civil Officer at Patna Occupation of Patna by the British Recapture of Patna by the Nawab's troops Retreat of the English Battle of Manji Total defeat of Carstairs' troops Mir Kassim deposed and Mir J'afar reappointed Nawab Advance of the British towards Patna Lieutenant Glenn's detachment attacked Cap- ture of the Fort of Kutwah Battle of Kutwah Battle of Geriah Storm and Capture of Undwah Nala. S soon as the Nawab Mir Kassim Khan had assumed the reins of government he introduced vast reforms into his military and civil departments. Three years after his accession to power he had dis- charged all state debts, and his revenues showed a surplus over expenditure. The many grasping favourites who had surrounded Mir J'afar's Court had been forced to disgorge their ill-gotten gains; and the Murshedabad army, formerly an expensive, ill-trained, badly-equipped rabble, had been remodelled into a serviceable force, vastly superior to the armies under any of the native rulers in India. Mir Kassim, who had been a witness to the superiority in battle of troops trained by British Officers over those of Native Com- manders, determined to re-form his army on the English system ; and for this purpose engaged the services of some able adven- turers, on whom he conferred military rank and titles. Amongst the men so commissioned were two whose names are well-known in Indian history ; Reinhard, the Alsatian, called Mill KASSIM REORGANIZES Ills ARMY. Sombre " or " Sumru," and Markar, the Armenian. To these 1762. men was entrusted the remodelling () f Mir Kassim's Army; audit is admitted that they performed their military reforms with judg- ment and skill. Under their supervision a gun factory was established at Murshedabad, where guns, after English patterns, and quite as serviceable as any that could be brought against them, were cast; and the carriages, constructed with elevating screws and the latest improvements, were as highly finished as any in the country. At the same time agents were employed at the ports to purchase any serviceable European guns offered for sale. In- fore the end of 1762 Mir Kassim had thus organized an army of 25,000 men; the Sepahis equipped and drilled on the English system ; a regiment of Artillery with a siege-train an(J. batteries of field-guns, the Artillerymen being chiefly Europeans ; and Cavalry, composed of Northern horsemen distinguished for their valour and skill in war. The Nawab had proved himself an able governor, and worthy of the confidence which the Council had placed in him when they elected him to the Subadarie ; but, although truly anxious to remain at peace with the British, Mir Kassim felt that he was strong enough to maintain his independence. He well knew that the evils which had befallen his father-in-law, Mir J'jifar, had been the result of his cringing, servile attitude towards the Calcutta Council; and he determined that he would not allow himself to fall into a like error, lie removed his Court from Murshedabad t<> Monghyr, in order that he might not be too closely watched by the Calcutta Council ; improved the defences of his new capital, converting the city into a Fort re of considerable st rength, from whence lit; spoke with an authority and confidence widely different from the sup- pliant terms employed by Mir ,1'afar. The reforms introduced by the Nawab Mir Kassim had sub- stantially improved the wealth and trade of his country: but their effect was considerably marred by the Calcutta Council having 136 THE NAWAB MIR KASSIAl's GRIEVANCES. 1762. passed a rule that no country goods were to be allowed down the river Hugli free of tax unless accompanied by an official English permit. The issuing of these passes or permits was assumed to be the private privilege and gain of certain high officials in the Com- pany's service, who, in many instances, had sold their interest to outsiders; so that it soon became impossible for the Nawab's officials to discern who did and who did not legitimately hold these passes ; for it was only necessary to put on board a cargo- boat a few men dressed as Sepahis, and show the Company's flag, to hold the boat exempt from the inspection of the Nawab's customs-officers. Mir Kassim felt that this enactment of the Council was an infringement of his rights as Nawab ; placing his subjects in an unfair position, and seriously affecting the trade and revenues of his country. It was under these circumstances that he re- presented the hardships of the case to the authorities at Calcutta, and urgently called for reform. Mr. Vansittart, the Governor, fully acknowledged and much regretted the evil ; but he had not the support of his Council; Mr. Warren Hastings being the only member who shared the opinions of the Governor that the enactment of which the Nawab complained was a disgrace to British legislation. Soon, however, the wrong became so apparent that the Council were forced into countenancing the introduction of some measures tending to lessen the evil. With this view, Mr. Vansittart, having obtained what he believed to be the full powers of his Council, was deputed to visit the Nawab at Monghyr and arrange terms. The Governor knew full well that his colleagues would not ratify any agreement for sweeping reforms, which would deprive them of the pecuniary benefits accruing to them from the system, but he hoped, at any rate, to modify the evil. The terms arrived at between the Nawab and Mr. Vansittart stopped far short of the former's requirements, but Mir Kassim reluctantly gave his consent to a trial, warning the Governor that, :XT A<;I-:NT AT PATXA. should the amended regulations fail to afford relief to his subjects, he would proclaim free trade throughout his provinces. The Calcutta Council, however, on being informed of the proposed terms, refused to give them even a trial: and the Nawab was informed that the negotiation had fallen through. Mr. Kllis, an injudicious man of violent impulses, had lately been nominated to the Council; but, notwithstanding these defect.-, he was unadvisedly appointed at this time our Govern- ment Agent at Patna, and thus brought into close communication with the Xawab at Moughyr. It soon became apparent that the Council were hastening the country into war. They knew that their predecessors had reaped rich harvests under the treaties which had placed the Native Killers on their thrones, and they hoped to derive equal benefits for themselves, if they could find a puppet who would accept the throne and meet the wishes of the Council by consenting to confirm the enactment for the continuation of the objectionable passes. There was no difficulty in finding a candidate for the throne, should Mir Kassim be deposed. Mir , I 'afar, the ex-Nnwab, forgetting his bitter experiences, allowed himself to be again put forward; but. before arrangements had been completed in Calcutta for his resumption of power, the storm had burst at Patna. When Mr. Vansittarl found that the Council would not accept the terms he had arranged with the Nawab, he persuaded them, before taking active measures, to send a deputation to Mir Ka>sim asking him to modify his views, >o that hostilities might be avoided. For this purpose, Messrs. Hay and Amyatt pro- ceeded to Monghyr; but on arrival 14th May they found Mir Kassim firmly resolved not to accept any compromise beyond that to which he had agreed with Vansittart : so that negotiation* again failed. Hut, whil.M the Knglish I )eput ies were at Monghyr. the Nawab's Agents at Patna reported that Mr. Kllis was preparing to seize 138 MK. ELLIS SEIZES THE CITY OF PATNA. 170o. that city, and the rumour was apparently confirmed by the arrival at Monghyr of a fleet of boats from Calcutta, containing munitions of war for the British troops at Patna. The Nawab ordered these boats to be detained, and Messrs. Hay and Amyatt, although treated with respect, to be placed under surveillance. An Envoy was now sent by Mir Kassim to the Calcutta Council to represent the threatening attitude assumed by Mr. Ellis, and request that the English soldiers on duty at Patna might be sent to Monghyr, so that he might be assured of peaceable intentions. The Council declined to entertain the Nawab's request, and indeed treated it as an act of hostility, and directed their Deputies to return to Calcutta forthwith. Mir Kassim, however, was bent on making one last effort to preserve peace. He charged Mr. Amyatt before he had received the order of withdrawal to proceed to Calcutta and represent to the Council the painful position in which he was placed by the hostile attitude assumed by Mr. Ellis, and the undisguised preparations which he was making for war. Mr. Amyatt, following the course suggested by the Nawab, started on his return journey to Calcutta; but he was assassinated near Murshedabad, and his escort either shared his fate or were taken prisoners. Mr. Ellis, learning that the Nawab Mir Kassim was strength- ening his garrison inside the city of Patna, and that it was most improbable that peace would be preserved, determined to take June 25th, the initiative. Early on the morning of the 25th June 1763. Ellis ordered the Company's troops, consisting of 4 Com- panies of the Bengal European Regiment and 2500 Sepahis, to forcibly take possession of the city. The soldiers marched from the fortified factory on the bank of the Ganges, and, scaling ladders being in readiness, there was no difficulty in ascending the undefended walls and opening the city gates from the inside ; when the English, having gained an entrance, marched through the main streets of the citv in two columns. NAWAlfs TROOPS I'NDKK .MARK All KKTAKK 1'ATNA. The Xawab's soldiers on guard over the gates, not anticipating 1753. any hostile movement, were completely taken aback ; and, hastily ing a few shots, some sought shelter in the back streets, whilst icrs fled into the open country. Mir Mehdie Khan, the Governor of the city, at once rode off towards Monghyr to report to the Xawab what had occurred. A large building in the city, called riiehel Shim, used as a hospital for our Europeans, was taken possession of by a party of the Nawab's soldiers, who deemed it safe from attack, as it contained our sick. The Xawab's troops also held the Citadel, the gates of which had been closed on the first alarm, the occupants afterwards refusing to surrender. Captain Peter Carstairs, of the Bengal European Regiment, Commanded all the Company's troops at Patna, but his actions were controlled by the senior Civilian. Carstairs, who had previously done good service, held the reputation of being an able Commander; but on this occasion, and during all the later operations, his actions were neither soldierlike nor judicious; for, as soon as the city had been occupied by the British, he, together with his Officers, returned to the factory to breakfast, leaving his soldiers to create havoc in the town and plunder the shops and houses at their discretion. Mehdie Khan, hurrying on with his report towards Monghyr, reached Futwah, where he met the advanced guard of the June 2:>th, Xawah's relieving troops under Markar, who, hearing of the state of affairs at Patna, and that the Citadel was still holding out, pushed forward so rapidly that his advanced guard reached the caMrrn galrof the city in a few hours. Here the English had placed >me Artillery and '2 field-pieces to protect the gate, which had not been closed, so Markar's men, effecting an entrance almost unopposed, overpowered the Uritish Artillery- men, wlm. spiking their guns, hastily retired. By this time Markar's main Army had arrived, and quickly poured into the city, the English troops scattered in all 140 THE ENGLISH BESIEGED IN THE FACTORY AT PATNA. 1763. directions, eager to loot being only too glad to seek shelter within the walls of the factory outside, where their officers had preceded them immediately after they had occupied the city. Markar possessed considerable military experience, having distinguished himself during the wars in Holland, where he had learnt the importance of following up a victory with vigour. Immediately after he had recaptured the city, Markar reinforced the Nawab's troops holding out at the citadel and hospital, and then pushing on to the English fortified factory outside, sur- rounded it with his European troops and kept up a continuous fire on the buildings occupied by the English. Affairs inside the factory in a few days became desperate : there was no hope of relief, provisions were scanty, and as the English fleet of boats had been detained at Monghyr, there was but a small supply of ammunition. An attempt to effect a retreat on the neighbouring factory at Bankipore had proved futile, and the garrison came to the unwelcome conclusion that their present position was altogether untenable, and that their only chance of escape was by crossing the river Ganges at night in the boats kept close at hand for the use of the factory. The garrison escaped on the evening of the 29th June; and having landed on the left bank of the river, marched hastily in the direction of Chupra, from whence they hoped to reach the territories of the Nawab of Oude, that Prince being at this time on friendly terms with the Company. Immediately the Nawab heard from his Governor, Mehdie Khan, of the capture of Patna by the British, and its subsequent occupation by Markar, he dispatched a second Brigade under Sumru with orders that should the English attempt to escape in a westerly direction he was to cut off their retreat. The position of the English was not improved by their having crossed the river, for they were poorly supplied with ammunition and pro- visions, and the river, swelled by the periodical rains, overflowed its banks, making the country a vast swamp. THK DEFEAT AT M A.N.I I. Sumru, with his llrigade, had pushed along the high road so 1763. rapidly that he had nearly reached Buxar when, hearing of the escape of the English from Patna, he crossed the river Ganges near Arrah : barring the progress of the fugitives in front, whilst Markar. with his Brigade, was pressing on their rear. The English, however, managed on July 1st to reach the village of Manji, where they sighted Sumru's Division. Had Clive been in command, lie might indeed, he would have triumphed; it was just the kind of hopeless position that placed Clive on his mettle, hut ( 1 arstairs was a very different stamp of man, and lately he had dearly demonstrated that he was not to be trusted on a great emergency. Had Carstairs made a bold dash at Sumru's Division in front, he might have forced him back and gained the town of rhupra: or. had he on the previous day turned on his pursuers, he might have beaten them back and retaken the city of Patna, left by Markar poorly protected; but he had hesitated to take either course, and ultimately allowed the enemy, pressing on him in front and rear, to take the initiative. Carstairs seized a position near the village of Manji, where he placed his four Companies of the Bengal Europeans on some rising ground, supported on his flanks and rear by his Sepahi Battalions, who made some gallant charge.-, headed by Carstairs" and seven or eight of his Euro- pean < MHcers all of whom were soon shot down; when several of July 1st, the French soldiers who had taken service in the Bengal European Regiment, looking on the battle as lost, deserted over to their compatriots under Sumru and Markar. Further resistance was now considered hopeless : and the British who had survived the enemy's onslaught were made prisoners. f Many of * Captain Oarstairs was probably severely wounded .-it the Kattle of Manji, MS lie died on the road before the prisoners reached Patna. Miliitinj C.ila, n:.\ 1.1,1 puB S.iooi^Q pouoissiuiuioo-uo\ f; : ~ "ivioj, CC GO CO GO rH ^ ! g z - -' iioiS >O tO CO O ^. R >^ - * k ' ' S rH w^ r^^ . CO i ri , Jj vis rH rH H s ^ *1 ^HQJOJ^IJ CO TfH HH ^ rH ^ 1 s H X O O r; 'S^BpBQ vH rH P3 O _ .'- H snoaSjii^j - i | H H E s 8^8K-^t) : rH rH rH -- f 'IT - 55 ** ^ rr c 's^uu^nfpY rH rH N z 9 1 w O - H s i, giiJ^isu^j EN 99 rH 04 t- gp _. '- r ' c o 'i sjtn:u.~>}U9rj rH rH rH rH ^ S * ~ ^ T 1 S nnn-^dBO I I " r - - 5 sui^dBO rH rH rH rH ^ 3 * : : : *i - . j PI C |l ^- j I 1 fr- 'I 1 r r 1 i s D o g a H / ^3 ^ = o ^ H N fe 22 frfj V "fe O O s- > ~ o ^ o E c , c a c Q 1333 &- & - n r: cs ^) O 144 MIR KASSIM DEPOSED AND MIK J*AFAR RE-APPOINTED. 1763. from the French Army and taken service with the English after the siege of Pondicherry, and, as a precaution, were sent by the Madras Government for service in Bengal. In addition to the Bengal Europeans there were, quartered in Fort William,* H.M. 84th Kegiinent, lately arrived, only about 400 strong, the Company's European Cavalry, and two Companies of European Artillery with 10 field-guns ; making a total of only 850 Europeans available for service in the field, and about 1500 Sepahis. For the protection of Chandernagore and Calcutta, 80 sick Europeans, a few Artillerymen, and a company of Invalids, with a detachment of Native Infantry, were all the Regular troops which could be spared; but the Militia and Volunteers were embodied and placed on garrison duty. Notwithstanding that every exertion was made to prepare the Army quickly for the field, it was not until the 5th July that July 5th Major Adams lately appointed to the chief command of the 1763. Bengal Army crossed the river Hugli. A treaty had been previously concluded between the Calcutta Council and Mir J'afar Khan the Nawab-elect and under the articles of which he was proclaimed a second time Nawab of Bengal, Behar, and Orissa ; all privileges previously granted to the English were confirmed including the obnoxious passnotes; it was agreed that the expenses of the coming war should be borne by the Native Government ; and Mir Kassim Khan was proclaimed a rebel. On the 17th July Mir J'afar Khan joined Major Adams's Army with such of his followers and soldiers as he had been able to collect. The first action of the Campaign was fought by Lieutenant William Glenn, commanding some Sergeants of the Bengal European Battalion, a detail of Artillery with six guns, and the 2nd Burdwan Battalion. He had under escort 20,000 in specie, as well as supplies of cattle and grain for the headquarter Army. * This was the new Fort (also called " Fort Willianr") w r hich was situated on the esplanade to the south-west of Calcutta, just completed. JATTLE This .-lender force reached the river Adji on the 17th July, 1763. when it was attacked by an Army of 17,0()() men, Cavalry and Infantry, hut fortunately without Artillery. Glenn chose his position on some rising ground, intersected by ravines, which he July 17th, rightly conjectured would prove a difficulty to the attacking 1763. Cavalry. His treasure and cattle he placed in his rear. Here Glenn awaited the enemy, who made a determined advance, hoping by sh<-er weight to crush the weaker force, but the English Artillerymen served their guns so effectively that the masses of the enemy, who again and again came to the charge, were successfully repelled; every onset was received with a deadly di.M-harge of grape and musketry; but, as the enemy fell, the gaps in their ranks were repaired by their reserves. Three times the guns* and treasure were captured by the enemy, and as often wrenched from their grasp by the determined charges of our Sepahis, nobly led by the Sergeants of the Bengal Euro- pean Regiment, all of whom were killed whilst assisting in the recapture of their convoy. After four hours' hard fighting, the enemy drew off, leaving in the ravine.- many of their dead and mortally wounded. Glenn, with his gallant little band, was now complete master of the position, having preserved his treasure and commissariat intact. He then followed up his success by marching on the Fort of Kutwah, which he captured the same evening, the enemy showing but slight resistance. Here Glenn found a vast store of grain and a large number of cattle, which he added to his convoy; and, cr.->ing the Bhagirathi river the next day, joined the Head- quarter Army under Major Adams, which was encamped on the left bank, with a strong body of the enemy's Cavalry waiting to oppose his forward march. On the I'.lth Major Adams moved forward with the view of * The two field-^uns which were three times recaptured by the Native Infantry were presented by the East India Company to the -ml Burdwan Battalion, afterwards the tfth Ke-inieiit N.I. llrnnm< . 146 THE BATTLE OF KUTWAH. 1763, giving battle to the troops disputing his advance towards Plassey and Murshedabad. The enemy was commanded by one of the ablest of the ex-Nawab's Generals, Mohamed Taki Khan, who had, on the previous day, been reinforced by the troops defeated by Glenn ; but, whether from jealousy or fear, these held aloof, declining to take part in the coming action. Mohamed Taki July 19th, Khan, renowned in Mir Kassim's Army for his conspicuous 1763. gallantry, now advanced to meet the British without the aid of his allies. He had under his command a body of Cavalry held to be the flower of the ex-Nawab's newly-organized Army, the troopers, Afghans, Rohillas, and Persians, all noted for their horsemanship and skill in the use of their weapons. The English Cavalry on their small horses, unable to hold their ground, were forced back on our main Army by Mohamed Taki Khan; seeing which, the enemy made a general advance as if to follow up their success. Mohamed Taki Khan now rode forward amongst his men, encouraging them to make a grand effort to drive the British, once and for all, from their country; reminding them that the English were not invincible; how they had been de- feated at the battle of Manji by Mir Kassim Khan's troops, and urging them to stake their lives on the issue. Excited and encouraged by the address of their Commander, the troopers rushed forward with cheers and shouts to drive their enemies from the field, but, as they advanced they met with a check ; our Artillery for the first time opening fire and creating much havoc in their ranks. The British Infantry came steadily to the front, under cover of their guns, receiving repeated charges from the Cavalry on the points of their bayonets. The mastery was now desperately contested ; our Cavalry, vastly out-numbered and overmatched, seeming paralysed, when the enemy successively renewed their charges with much vigour. It was an anxious July 19th, moment, for it appeared that the tide had turned against the 1763. British, and that they could not hold their ground; but, just when all seemed lost, Mohamed Taki Khan's horse was BATTLE OF Kl struck by a shot which also grazed tbe rider's foot; but, nothing 1763. daunted, lie mounted a fresh horse and rode to the front, encouraging his men to wheel round and outflank the British line. Seeing the danger, Adams rested his right flank on a rivulet behind the banks of which he had, with judgment, placed a company of Sepahis in ambush, who had been directed to keep close and reserve their fire. Mohamed Taki Khan, still bent on turning our right flank, but baulked in his purpose by Adams' movement, dashed into the -t ream, followed by a chosen band of his Cavalry; but, as they were ascending the bank, a red line rose from the ambuscade and poured a deadly fire right into their faces. Mohamed Taki Khan was the first to fall, with a bullet through his brain; and the leading troopers perished beside their Commander. The whole body of the Cavalry now, disheartened by the loss of the man in whom they placed so much reliance, gave way; but in re-erossing the rivulet they had to run the gauntlet of the fire of our troops, and those who escaped, joining their comrades in rear, galloped off, leaving Adams in command of the road; so at. pursuing, he soon came upon the enemy's camp abandoned in eir flight, containing a large quantity of grain, some Artillery, and cattle. In this action, called the Battle of Kutwah, Lieutenant Smith the Ueiigal Knropcan Ilcgiment was killed. That night the British Army under Adams bivouacked near tin- Xawnb's hunting-box, on the field of Plassey, where Clive. just six years before, had watched Siraju 'd daulah's stupendous Army circling round the langO6 (Jrovo which sheltered the brave little force under his command: and that night, when Adams' sentries \\ere planted round the British camp, they were told that "Clive" was their parole and " IMassey" their coun- tersign. The enemy, still opposing our onward march, took up a position .about "2 miles south of Murshedabad, their front covered by a 148 MIR J'AFAR ASCENDS THE THRONE A SECOND TIME. 1763. large tank called Motijhil; whilst Adams, to secure a base for future operations, improved the defences of the Fort of Kutwah, which he converted into a depot for his wounded men, surplus provisions, and ammunition. Here a detachment of Sepahis was- left for the protection of the Fort. On the 23rd July Adams again attacked the enemy in their Motijhil entrenchments, but they, making only a show of resist- ance, retired on their main defences at Suti, about 37 miles to the north of the city Murshedabad, which was now occupied by our troops. The Governor of the city escaped to Suti, but the July 23rd, inhabitants for the most part welcomed the English. Mir 1763. Kassim's reign had not been popular amongst the Hindus, of whom he had always been suspicious, and towards whom he had shewn great severity ; foremost amongst the sufferers being the wealthy family of Seths the great bankers several of whom he had imprisoned in order that he might confiscate their property. The nobles, Mahomedan as well as Hindus, had been mulcted of their fortunes ; and now that the Capital had been removed to Monghyr the business of Murshedabad was seriously injured ; all these causes tended to make Mir Kassim's reign unpopular with the citizens of the old Capital, who felt that they could hardly change for the worse. Under these circumstances the July 24th, Nawab Mir J'afar's return to power was hailed with every 1763. demonstration of joy, and his triumphal entry into the city on 24th July, 1763, when he was formally placed in the Musnud" by the English Commander, was celebrated with much rejoicing. Although some Divisions of Mir Kassim's Army had been sent in advance to oppose our forward inarch, it was at Suti that the cx-Nawab had instructed his Generals to make a determined stand. For this purpose large reinforcements, including the two Brigades under Sumru and Markar, with ] 6 field-pieces manned by European Artillerymen, and a large body of Northern Cavalry THE BATTLE OF (JERIAH. under Assad' Ullah, had been pushed forward. On the 2'/>' force only. Mir Kassim laid no claim to generalship, lacking every requisite <-ven that of ])ersonal courage. The ex-Nawab was a good legislator, but he was avowedly no soldier. The British force at the battle of Geriah numbered under .">.">()(> men; the enemy, according to Broome, had 40,000 men. Malleson computes the number at 28,000 "of good stamp." Mir Kassim's General had the choice of position, his Cavalry was .as 120 to 1, his Artillery was numerically superior; either Sumru ."> named Aratoon. The Army of defence now amounted to 40,000 1763. men, including three Regular Brigades. Commanded by Sumni, Markar, and Aratoon, as well as a large body of European Artillery. On the llth August the British Army arrived within four August llth, miles of the enemy's position, when the appalling strength of the fortifications was realised; but Adams did not despond, though he felt acutely the responsibility of his position, and the difficulties of the task which he must accomplish. lie pitched his camp on the southern border of the moras3 r parallel to that of the enemy. Our heavy guns were now landed from the boats, fascine- and gabions, E, were constructed along the face of the river, and batteries, E, erected opposite to what was held I to be the best point of attack. As our men, during the con- struction of these works, were constantly harassed by the enemy's Cavalry, entrenchments were thrown up extending along the entire front of the British position. On the 4th September our works had been advanced along the banks of the Gauge.- to within three hundred yards of the Septoinl'tT 4th. enemy's fortifications: but it was found that our siege guns made nnlv small impression on the massive works in their front. The only result of our cannonade, which had now been maintained without intermission for several days, was one very imperfect breach effected near the river-gate, B. The position of affairs in the IJritish camp was anything but promising: for Adams could not advance his batteries any nearer to the fortification.-, ami at the distance at which his guns were placed he could not effect a practicable breach. lie was unable to move his Infantry acros> the mora>s which he believed at this season was tent intending to form some decided plan of action, when one of those unforeseen events occurred which 156 A DESERTER IN THE BRITISH CAMP. 1763. so repeatedly in our early Indian history mark the turning-point in British undertakings. Just at this time, a strange-looking European appeared before Adams' tent, and having forced himself into his presence, stated that he had deserted from the British Service in the hope of obtaining advancement in Mir Kassim's Army, but, his expectations not having being realised, he had left the enemy's camp on the previous evening. Creeping past their guards, he had just succeeded in making his escape, and he now presented himself before the British Commander a suppliant for mercy, but prepared to give valuable information for his absolution. He had ascertained, whilst in the enemy's service, that there was a ford through the morass, by using which a body of soldiers could safely reach the extreme right of the fortifications, where, at a point described, the enemy's outpost, D, could be reached and overpowered by a few determined men. Near this outpost an attack could be made on the rampart, A, capping the hill which overlooked and partially commanded the enemy's main position. As the deserter's pardon depended on his truthfulness and the feasibility of the scheme, his conditions were accepted, he undertaking to successfully pilot a body of our men across the morass up to the enemy's defences; his absolution and return to the ranks of his Regiment being his reward. Little did Adams think, when he retired almost in despair to his tent, that a light would break upon him which would enable him to map out a plan of action promising such glorious results. If he could gain possession of the conical hill, A, and at the same time effect an entry at breach, B, near the water-gate, the enemy, finding themselves unexpectedly assailed on both flanks at once would probably be dismayed ; and in their disorder Adams was con- September 4th, fident that he could gain such an advantage as would place 1763. the enemy at his mercy. So assured was he now of the success of his scheme that he determined to attempt its execution that very night. A code of signals by lights was very carefully arranged to meet every contingency. Should the Commander of UNO WAR NALA Wullab. ^W/S \^ / \V' ^ V V ^ ^ ,,^^V) ^ THE ASSAULT OF UNDWAH NALA. 157 the Btorming-party succeed in gaining the height, A, under cover 1763. of the darkness, a lighted torch was to be raised high in tlie air; on seeing which, a vigorous attaek was to be made on the breach, B, near the water-gate, wliich, even though unsuccessful, would draw the attention of the enemy from the Btorming-party, whilst effecting its entrv. Should the breach be successfully carried, a junction was to be effected between the two storming- parties, in rear of the enemy's foremost batteries; and, this done,, the main difficulties of the attack would be overcome. Captain Irving, of the Bengal European Regiment, was appointed to command the stonning-party fording the morass; under him were the Grenadier Companies of the 84th and Bengal European Regiment, and two complete Battalions of Sepahis. The rest of the attacking force was put under Captain Moran. The reserve was under Major Carnac, and a small force- was left to protect the standing camp. The assaulting parties left the British camp three hours before September 5th, daybreak; Moran, at the same time, with the main force, occupying the trenches, E, near the water-gate. Carnac was in readiness to support any of the attacking force where a.-.-istance might be needed. Irving's ta.-k in crossing the morass was far more difficult than had been anticipated. It was true that the ford was not impracticable, but it was intricate and uncertain. The men had to wade through the water, frequently up to their wai.-i-, ncce.-.-itating t heir having to carry their ammunition and muskets on their head.- : the scaling ladder.- being Carried in like manner by camp follower.-. Strict orders had been i.-.-ucil that the Btorming-party were to move along as silently as possible, and under no circumstances was a shot to be fired during their pas.-agc across the mora.-s. After much labour the \\ading-party succeeded in reaching the rising ground at the foot of the hill, when Irving dispatched some of his men in adxance in the direction which the doerter had indicated as the position of the 158 THE ASSAULT OF UNDWAH NALA. 1763. enemy's outpost, D. The British advanced-party found all as still as death; and, as no sentries had been planted by the enemy, our men cautiously advanced without creating any alarm. They now discovered that the men composing the enemy's outpost- guard were rolled up in their blankets and sound asleep. Our soldiers rushed at them, soon overpowering and bayonetting them, in most instances, before they awoke, and this was accomplished so silently that Irving was not immediately aware of the success which had been gained ; the scaling ladders were quickly placed against the outer ramparts, but during the ascent of the leading files an alarm was raised by the defenders. Adams' anticipation that all with the enemy would be confusion was realised to the full. A dozen brave men, with their wits about them, could have easily thrown back the besiegers before reaching the tops of the ladders ; but the enemy were so unprepared for an attack at this point, and so confused by the darkness, that they ran about hither and thither in the wildest perplexity, looking for orders which no one was at hand to give. Amidst the general confusion the European Grenadiers gained the rampart; and, almost September 5th, unopposed, drove the terrified enemy before them. A 1763. vigorous assault was now made on the stockade at the summit of the hill, which was captured; the Sepahis at the same time streaming into the batteries as they ascended the walls on the scaling ladders, all of which had been successfully placed without difficulty. Whilst these events were taking place, Captain Moran with his Division concealed in the trenches was watching anxiously for the signal from Irving that he had succeeded in attain- ing the summit of the opposite hill, A, and to his satisfaction lie now perceived the burning torch exultingly waved above the stockade. Moran, as ordered by Major Adams, had made a feint with part of his troops in the direction of the breach, B, with the object of ^attracting the enemy's attention and increasing their confusion; THE VICTORY OF UNDWAH NALA. 159 but, on seeing the signal that Irving' s party had succeeded 1763. Moran's delusive attack was at once converted into a vigorous assault. Our advanced batteries, E, now opened a violent fire on the breach, under cover of which Moran advanced to the attack; the ditch was crossed with some difficulty, but our soldiers were so completely concealed by the smoke of the enemy's guns that his advance was unperceived ; and, indeed, from his having retreated to the trendies and silently awaited the signal to attack, the enemy assumed that the storming of the breach had been deemed impracticable and abandoned. Moran's party now boldly pushed on; and although the breach, I>. admitted of but one man passing in at a time, a few soon gained a footing inside the batteiy, before the enemy attempted to oppose them. A detachment was now sent to open the gates from the inside; and the main body of the English Army, flushed with their success, rushed upon the defenders, forcing them along the rampart- in the direction of Irving's party, now, as previously arranged, pushing their way along the ramparts from the right to meet the main stnrming-party advancing from the left. The defenders, thus finding them.-elves between two fires, fled in the direction nf their inner works, hotly pursued by the victors, who drove the terrified masses before them towards the bridge, C, in real- of the enemy's camp. The day broke upon a sickening .-cene. A strong guard had been placed by the enemy in rear of the bridge, with strict orders that >hould any of the defender.- doert their posts and attempt to PC, they were to be .-hot down or driven back to the batteries leptember 6th, ni front. These orders were so sternly carried out, that a ghastlv heap of dead and wounded soon rendered escape by the bridge impoihle, and the fix ing masses were precipitated over the parapets down the deep gorge into the rapid stream below. It i- computed that 1 ."),()()() of the enemy perished during that eventful 160 THE VICTORY OF UNDWAH NALA. 1763. night ; by far the greater proportion having fallen through their disorganized and precipitate flight ; the trained brigades again escaping early in the fight in good order. As soon as victory was assured the British ceased their fire, and all unnecessary slaughter was forbidden ; a vast number of the enemy taken prisoners were simply disarmed and re- leased. The whole of the enemy's camp, a great quantity of ammu- September 5th, nition, a large supply of stores, a vast number of 1763. horses and cattle, as well as upwards of 100 guns, were captured. The fugitives, some of whom escaped by the numerous passes September 6th, and ravines, fled as far as Monghyr without attempting 1763. to rally at the fortified town of Rajmahal, which could easily have been defended. They found Mir Kassim in his palace, and informed him of the disaster which had befallen his Army. The successful assault by the British at Undwah Nalt'i has been justly classed by Colonel Malleson amongst the " Decisive Battles of India." The success of this great undertaking was mainly due to- the military skill of its Commander. The soldiers, European and Native, all had their separate tasks mapped out, and in each instance those tasks were valiantly and faithfully performed. Amongst the defenders were three Brigades, equal in numbers to our whole force, well equipped and in every way formidable,, commanded by Europeans, and disciplined and drilled on the English system; whilst their Artillery, far out-numbering our own,, was principally manned by European gunners. The capture of the Fortress of Undwah Nala was a feat of strength and valour seldom, if ever, surpassed ; and stands on record as a signal proof of what stupendous successes can be attained by troops led by a General who is a master of his profession, commanding the confidence, respect, and love of luV subordinates. Such a man was Major John Adams. GENERAL REFERENCES. General References. Chester VI I. Proceeding! of the Bengal Council. 'The Scir Miitukherin." Calcutta Edition. Founders of the Indian Empire." Malleson. Broome's " Rise and Progress of the Bengal Army." Williams's Bengal Infantry." Thornton's " History of India.." Mill's " British India." Malcolm's " Dispatches and Correspondence of Lord Clive." Military Calendar. &c., tSrc. CHAPTER VIII. Capture of Monghyr Mir Kassim's Threat Murder of the Patna Prisoners by Sumru Capture of Patna Mir Kassim's Escape Death of Major Adams The Triple Alliance II. M. 84th Regiment absorbed into the Bengal European Regiment Mutiny of the Field Army Major Carnac takes Command of the Army in the Field Retreat of the British Army on Patna. EPTEMBElt, 1768. The ex-Nawab Mir Kassim, when information reached him of the capture of his stronghold of Undwah Nala, and the complete defeat and dispersion of his Army by the British under Major Adams, was at first incredulous ; but when the remnant of his vanquished army too demoralised to attempt a rally behind the walls of the fortified city of Rajmahal, too precipitate in their flight to attempt the defence of the nu- merous mountain passes through which they had hurried verified the news of the disaster, Mir Kassim's rage and despair knew no bounds. Appearing to discard the idea that his Fortress had been cap- tured in fair fight, he became suspicious of his Officers, one of whom was mysteriously murdered, it was belieA'ed under Mir Kassim's orders. The ex-Nawab became daily more irascible and cruel, visions of revenge and murder rising before him. He had in his power at Patna some hundreds of English prisoners captured at the battle of Manji ; the sick Europeans left in the hospital at the Chehel Situn ; the Kaja Ram Narian, Governor of Patna, who had shown partiality to, and been protected by, the hated English, and many of the family of the Seths, the wealthy Till: KX-NAWA1J CONTEMPLATES A (MMvVT UKV KN(; K. 1 I),') bankers: making, in all, a fine crop on which to feed his cupidity I7f,n. and revenue. \Yith these thoughts in his mind, he wrote on September ( .th to Major Adams, saving: " Although I have in " " no respect intended any breach of public faith, yet Mr. Kllis, " " regarding not treaties or engagements, in violation of public " k ' faith, proceeded against me with treachery and night assaults. " " All my people then believed that no peace or terms now re- " " maineay it was not your intention to murder Mr. Amyatt why then " " did you not punish the aggre>srs with the utmost scveritv. " " There are three months elapsed and nothing done. We have " " now. by the as>i>tance of Providence brought your afliiirs to a " " very low ebb. It is true you have Mr. Kllis and many other" * gentlemen in vour power: it a hair of their heads is hurt you " " shall have no title t< mercy from the Knglish and you mav " " depend upon the utmost fury of their resentment and that they " "will pur>ue you to the utnm>t extremity of the earth; and" CAPTURE OF MONGHYR. 176o. " should we unfortunately not lay hold of you the vengeance of " " the Almighty cannot fail overtaking you if you perpetrate so " " horrid an act as the murder of the gentlemen in your custody."* Adams halted only one day at Undwah Nala, and on the 6th of September marched to liajmahal, where he established a tem- porary hospital, next day resuming his march towards Monghyr, October 1st, which he reached with the main body of his Army on the 1763. igf. October, having previously sent a Division in advance to throw up entrenchments, erect batteries, and prepare for the siege of the town and Fort. As soon as Major Adams arrived at Monghyr a heavy cannonade October 2nd, was opened from his batteries, a breach effected, and an 1763 - assault ordered ; but the Governor of the Fort, deeming resistance useless, next morning surrendered unconditionally. Two thousand men were made prisoners, and Adams' Army took possession of the Fortress and the town ; immediately after which the breaches were repaired and the defences strengthened. Mir Kassim had left Monghyr as soon as he found that the English were advancing on his capital; and, retiring to Patna, fanned his wrath against the conquerors into a flame. When he found that his Fortress of Monghyr also had fallen, he prepared at once to carry into effect the threats contained in his letter to Major Adams. The wholesale murders which he contemplated were so repulsive in their details that he experienced difficulty in finding anyone to undertake their execution ; but at last Sumru, the Alsatian, volunteered to do the cruel work. The English prisoners mostly soldiers of the Bengal European Regiment had been previously removed from the Chehel Situn to a large house or palace, the residence of one Hadji Ahmed ; and to this place Sumru proceeded on the 5th of October 5th, October with 200 of his trained Brigade whom he had 1763. selected to do his bloody work. There was even a refinement of cruelty in this assassin's method of carrying out; the * " Vansittart's Narrative," vol. III. Till: HA88ACRB AT 1'ATXA. Nawab's inhuman orders; lie informed the prisoners that lie had 17<;: planned an entertainment to enliven their captivity, and that their knives and forks were essential at the feast, " in order to" "entertain them in the English manner." This r/ixe was played to disarm the prisoners so that they could make no resistance. Snmrn then secreted a body of armed men in the outer square of the palace : and, as M>OH as all was ready, he summoned Messrs. Ellis, I lav. and Llishington, into his presence; when, the prisoners, accompanied by five or six of their companions in captivity, appearing before him, were ruthlessly attacked, their bodies hacked to pieces, and thrown into a well. The massacre was now ordered to be carried out wholesale in the larger square; but it is said that Sumru's soldiers were so disgusted with the part they had taken that they told their Captain he might do his murderous work himself; for that they had undertaken to fight as soldiers, and not act as ins. They were, however, soon brought to reason by their Commander, who ordered the ringleaders to be shot on the spot; after which his instructions were obeyed and the slaughter completed. The rest of the prisoners including, it is said, Mrs. Ellis and her child collected in the larger square, were shot down and then hacked to pieces, their bodies being thrown into a large well in the centre of the building. When one of the prisoners named GuktOD was found still alive, the men employed in clearing away the bodies would have saved him, but he declined their p rollers of aistance. and was thrown into the well alive. There still remained a few European soldiers, probably some of the sick in hospital at the Chehel Shim, who were murdered under the Mir Kaseim's orders on October llth. Altogether, between !.")<) and ^(H) prisoners were put to death, most of them soldier^ ,.,. 11,1, of the Bengal Kumpean Regiment. A Native con- temporary tells us that the prisoners, without lo>ing " courage, marched up to the murderers, and with cnipt\ " !()() PR. FULLERTON AND FOUR SERGEANTS ESCAPE. 1763. " bottles, stones, and brickbats, fought them to the last man," " until they were all killed."* Dr. Fullerton and four Sergeants were the only Europeans who escaped. Fullerton had been professionally useful to Mir Kassim, who said he considered him " as an acquaintance and a friend." October 25th, He was therefore allowed to go to a Dutch factory near at 1763. hand, from which he escaped, and on October 25th joined Major Adams' army. The 4 Sergeants, Davis, Douglas, Speedy, and another, name unknown, had been sent to Purneah, to which place the ex-Nawab sent orders that they were to be assassinated ; but the Governor, who entertained a high opinion of the soldiers, delayed compliance, entreating Mir Kassim to recall his mandate; adding that " if he was still determined on it, it would be a " " difficult matter, as the men were beloved by all his people, to " " find one that would undertake the task." The ex-Nawab, on receipt of this letter, flew into a violent passion ; directing a reply to be sent to the Governor to tell him that if he had not spirit himself to put his command in force, he was to send the soldiers immediately to Patna, where ample justice should be done for the crimes which their countrymen had committed. The Governor then sent for the Sergeants and, telling them that he was now compelled to send them under escort to Patna, said that he hoped the Nawab's rage would cool before they arrived. They were sent off next day in a Native boat under charge of a Jemedar and twelve burkendazes ; but, as soon as they reached the river Ganges, two of the Sergeants clambered on to the roof of the boat, where they found the Jemedar and four of his men asleep, with their faces covered. The Sergeants approached stealthily, * Hadji Ahmed's palace was soon afterwards razed to the ground and the site consecrated as a Christian cemetery. " A monument has been erected at Patna near the house where the sanguinary deed was committed. It is surrounded by an enclosure which forms the English burying-ground. The column is in good style, but has neither an inscription or any device explan- atory of the purpose for which it was erected". Military Calendar, vol II., page 81. SERGEANT DAVIS, OF THE 15EXCJAL KfllOI'KAN KKCIMKNT. 107 gathered the tulwars and matchlocks of the guard, and one of the I7(i:>. soldiers, taking hold of the captain of the boat, pushed him o\ cr- board. The two Sergeants were now joined by their comrade.- from below, but the noise had awakened the .lemcdar and his men asleep on deck ; who, seeing the Europeans now armed, fell on their knees and begged for mercy. Pardon was granted on Condition that the guard would submit and deliver up the remaining arms to the Sergeants. The Native Captain, who was found hanging on to the rudder, implored to be taken on board, which was done on his undertaking to pilot the boat safely past Patna and land the fugitives at the British camp, which was known to be between Monghyr and Patna. The Camp was reached in safety the next morning, when the Sergeants reported them- selves to Major Adams, who ordered them to rejoin the Bengal European Regiment. A sketch of the career of these Sergeants, which has been fortunately preserved, will be found full of interest. ^ergeaut Davis, a native of Edinburgh, enlisted in the Company'.- Service in 1701, and served in Captain Sonicrs" Com- pany, Bengal European Regiment, where he was soon selected by his Captain for promotion to Sergeant, lie was present with the force under Carstairs at Manji, returned to Patna after the defeat at that place, and. for some reason unknown, was sent a prisoner by Mir Kassim to Pnrneah. On his rejoining the Regiment after his escape hi' v\a> po.-tcd to one of the (Jrenadier Companies, with which lie served during the whole war. On the Bengal Army being remodelled by Lord ('live in 17i!."i. Sergeant Davis's Regi- ment was attached to the 1st Brigade at Monghyr under ( 'olonel Sir Robert Fletcher, where in \H\(\ the insiibordinat ion and resig- nation of the Officers took place. Sir R. Fletcher >ent for Sergeant Davis and offered him a ( Commission, but he refu-ed it, declaring "that as the OHicers could not live upon their pay" "which wa> the cause of their (piiiting the Ser\ ice. it was" "impossible that he could do so." I le was, however, afterwards 168 SERGEANTS DOUGLAS AND SPEEDY. 17(J3. appointed a Quartermaster, and subsequently obtained an Ensign's Commission, and died a Captain in 1788. Sergeant Douglas having re-joined the Bengal European Regi- ment whilst it was encamped with the Army under Major Adams near Patna, was present at the memorable storm and capture of that fortified position, together with the subsequent operations of the Army, and in 1766 was appointed Sergeant- Major and employed on revenue duty at Morad-bagh. In 1773 he was sent with Captain T. Edwards's Battalion to clear the district round Rungpore of the " Sanassies," a clan of marauding robbers, when the Detachment with which he was serving was overpowered, and Douglas, who rendered valuable service in attempting to reform the broken Sepahi force, was killed. The narrative of Sergeant Speedy's career is specially valuable, as he is the only man whose name has been recorded as having joined the ranks of the Bengal European Regiment when it was raised at Fulta by Clive in December, 1756. Speedy was an Irishman, and in common with so many of his countrymen has reflected honour and credit on the Bengal European Regiment. In 1748* he enlisted in the East India Company's Service, was sent to Madras and took part in several battles against the French. On the 20th July, 1756, Speedy's Company composed part of the Detachment sent to Bengal under Major Kilpatrick to the succour of the fugitives from Calcutta after the capture of Fort William by the Nawab Siraju 'd daulah. Speedy was one of the few soldiers who survived the terrible * During the commencement of the Spanish, or Ten Years 1 War, Speedy enlisted in the 32nd Foot, and was present at the Battles of Dettingen, Fontenay, and Lafeldt, losing in the last engagement two fingers of his left hand. In 1748 he received his discharge from His Majesty's Service, and, fond of adventure, immediately enlisted under the East India Company. Captain Williams, the Author of " The Historical Account of the Bengal Native Infantry," who died in 1805, knew Sergeant Speedy, and obtained from him the above particulars. OFFICKKS KILLKD AT MAN.M, < >K Ml'KI AT PA IN A. malarious fever, which carried off' nearly three-fourths of the men 176:5. of the 1 )etachment : and was, on ( five's arrival at Fulta, transferred to tlie (irenadicr Company of the Bengal P^uropean Regiment, whicli was then in course of formation. Sergeant Speedy served with the Regiment at the Battle of Baj Baj, Recapture of ( 'aleutta, Bat tie of ( liitpore, ( 1 apture of Chandernagore, Capture of Kntwah. Battle of Plassey, Battle of Condore, Capture of Mussulipatam, and Battle of Biderra. In 1760 Sergeant Speedy was appointed Sergeant-Majoi of a Sepahi Battalion, with whicli lie appears to have been present at the disastrous Battle of Manji, when he was made prisoner, conveyed to Patna, and then sent by Mir Kassim to Pnrneah. His escape in the Native boat in which he was being conveyed to his contemplated execution at Patna has been fully detailed, and how he joined Major Adams' advancing Army. Sergeant Speedy was now re-posted to the Bengal European Regiment, with which he served until the year 1767, when he died, after having led as eventful a life as perhaps any recorded in history. The following is a nominal roll of the Officers of the Bengal European Regiment, either killed at the Battle of Manji, or murdered bv the infamous Sumru at Patna. ( 'aptain Peter ( 'arstairs. ( 'harles E. Joeeher. Ambrose Perry. Henry Somers. Lieutenant .John Downie. Richard Holland. Maurice Roach. ( ieorge Alston. Sir William Hope. Knsign John Greentree. Robert Roberts. Duncan Macleod. William Crawford. William Ilinclcs. Isaac Huni])hrie8. .John R. Roach. .lohn Perry. Walter Mackav. Dr. Anderson in Medical charge. Two of these Lieutenants and two Knsigns were attached to Sepahi Regiments. Whilst the Patna ma-saeivs were being perpetrated, Adams 170 PREPARATIONS FOR THE ASSAULT OF PATNA. 1763. was pursuing his onward march towards that city. The ex-Nawab, on the approach of the British Army, retired, October 1st 28th, taking up a position about 20 miles distant ; where 1763. } ie pitched his camp, having with him Sumru's Division and a Brigade of his Northern Horsemen. Mir Kassim had sent his family and a large amount of treasure, which lie had taken with him when he fled from Monghyr, to his stronghold at Rotas ; intending to follow- and make his last stand at that place, should the British succeed in capturing Patna. Patna was a fortified city of considerable strength, the batteries of which formed an irregular parallelogram ; the north face stretching about a mile-and-a-half along the bank of the Ganges, the south being about a mile inland. In the north-east corner, and abutting on the river, was the kella or citadel, protected by fortifications all round. Beyond the north-west corner, and also abutting on the river, was the English factory, protected by defen- sible stone walls. There were three main entrances to the city ; the principal gate being in the centre of the south face, with one on the east side close to the citadel, and another to the west in the direction of the English factory. On the 28th October Adams encamped on the east side of the city. His many anxieties and the calls on his unfailing energy during the campaign had so completely undermined his strength and health that he retained his command with difficulty, but he felt that until Patna should be captured, the murder of the British prisoners avenged, and Mir Kassim made prisoner or driven out of the country, his mission was unfulfilled. The north-east angle of the Fort, w r here the citadel was situated, was selected as the point for the intended assault. Near at hand was a village, the buildings in and about which would afford cover for his working parties. A battery was thrown up opposite this angle of the Fort, which was connected by trenches with the village; the right of the battery resting on the river; so that the besiegers were enabled to land their stores and provi.-ions from 1^ s m l>l^e of employing land carriage. 1(():; - This arrangement was the more necessary Hi Mir Kassinfs Cavalry \vas scouring the- country, with the object of cutting on" our supplies anil thwarting our operations. Opposite the centre of the east face a second battery was thrown up, on which Adams mounted his heaviest guns, thus bringing his diverging fire to bear on the south-east as well as the north-cast angles of the fortifications. On the 31st October the enemy made a determined sally, stealing along under the bunks of the river to the rear of our batteries, and making a vigorous attack on our position. Our Scpahis, taken by surprise whilst working in the trenches, at first gave ground, but, soon rallying, sci/ed their arms and defended their position until Captain Knox arrived with reinforcements; when the enemy were driven back, the English following them up to the eastern gate, and inflicting on them considerable loss: but the sally had so far succeeded that one of our heavy guns was spiked and our expense magazine exploded. During the next few days repeated sallies were made from the city, but our working-parties in the trenches having been Strengthened by two Grenadier ( 'ompanies of the Bengal Euro- pean Kcgimcnt and II. M. \ the .">th November two practicable breaches had been eH'rcted; one near the eastern gate and one towards the south- ea.M. The fortifications, eon-t ructcd of x.lid musonrv. had been protected on the outside by loo>e earth piled uguin.-t the wall- to a height of upward- of twenty feet : flanking towers had been built ut interval.-: and finally a wet ditch, ,">() or '><) feet wide and 7 to 1() in depth, surrounded the \\holc fortifications. On the n'th November Major Adams delhcred his attack in two Column.-: the first under Captain Champion, the second under Major Irving. ipiuin Moran accompanied Champion's Column, in command 172 THE ASSAULT OF PATNA. 1763. ot a small party of the 84th Regiment and one of the Grenadier Companies of the European Regiment ; with 5 Companies of Sepahis attached. Major Irving's Column consisted of two Companies of the Bengal Europeans, and some Sepahi Grenadier Companies. The Reserve was placed under Major Carnac. Captain Champion's attack on the breach near the eastern gate was conducted with good fortune as well as skill; for he managed to ford the ditch unperceived, and, quickly placing his ladders, his party were ascending before an alarm was created ; when a heavy fire of grape was opened, but the enemy's range was laid so high that the escaladers were rather assisted by the smoke than hindered by the shot, and were soon enabled to gain a firm footing on the ramparts. Major Irving's party was not altogether so fortunate ; for, finding that he was unable to ford the ditch without wasting time, Irving changed his tactics, and keeping as close as possible to the walls followed the first Column, which had succeeded in passing through the breach ; and thus both Columns obtained a footing within the fortifications. Irving, with his Grenadiers, now gained possession of the tower on the south face, from which a heavy fire had been brought on the besiegers; Champion at the same time clearing the ramparts towards the west. Major Adams had planned that, when the two Columns should effect an entry by the breaches, they were to seize the eastern gate on the inside, which was to be then thrown open, and the main Column of his Army admitted ; but, as has been shown, this November 6th plan had only partially succeeded, and Irving now turned 1763. his attention to carrying out Adams' orders. Placing a party of his men in the Battery which he had captured, he pro- ceeded with the remainder of his Column to seize the eastern gate. Captain Champion also, as soon as he had cleared the ramparts, made his way towards the eastern gate, where the two Columns met. But here an unforeseen obstacle presented itself; CAPTURE <>i TIIK CITY <>F I-ATNA. the inside of the gate being found to be defended by an en- 1753. trenched masonry wall of great strength, and beyond this a court- yard, which could only be approached by passing through a narrow defile. This court-yard was defended by the enemy in great strength, who poured a concentrated fire on our storming- parties, which mortally wounded Major Irving, whilst Champion also received a severe wound and was placed hors de combat. November 6th, Lieutenant Nicoll of the Native Infantry, the next senior Officer, now assumed command of the Column, ably ai.-ted by Lieutenant Crown of the Bengal European Regiment, who, without a moment's hesitation, charged the wicket which held the narrow defile. There was only room for two men to pass abreast, bur, notwithstanding this difficulty, charge after charge was made, the passage forced, and the storm ing-party entered, obtaining complete possession of the court-yard and the eastern gate, which was now thrown open. Captain Scotland was the tirM to cuter the gate with a portion of the European Grenadiers, by virtue of seniority taking command; but soon afterwards his jawbone was shattered hv a musket-ball, and the command again devolved on Lieutenant Xicoll, who ordered a general advance. The enemy took up their position at a place called the '' Hurra Mulah," where they elected to make a determined stand. Whilst the besiegers were preparing to attack it was reported to Nicoll that they had expended all their ammunition, the enemy bringing at the same time their Artillery Hre to bear with great effect. Nicholl quickly got his men under cover, where they remained until the Sergeants had collected ammunition from the pouches of the dead and wounded. The Hritish detachment was now formed up, and made a very gallant charge on the "Hurrah Mulali:" which, after a severe straggle, was captured at the point of the bayonet, the enemv flying tnwards the southern gateway. The mbcr titli. capture of the city wa> complete: and Major Adano. 1"' ;;; - collecting all his troop- together, iued very stringent ordei> against plundering: guards being told off and the city 174 DEATH OF MAJOR JOHN ADAMS. 1763. garrisoned by the captors. Major Shirlock commanded the Citadel, with orders to imprison all stragglers; and the peaceful inhabitants were invited to return to their several callings, when, they were informed, they would be protected from injury. The British loss was considerable, several men as well as Officers having fallen ; and, Major Irving dying of his wounds on the 10th November, Captain Champion succeeded to the vacant Majority. The enemy also suffered severely ; 300 being found dead within the fortifications. Mir Kassim, hearing of the capture of his last stronghold, and being convinced that further resistance was useless, now placed November December, himself under the protection of Suja' u'd daulah, 1763. the Nawab of Oude, towards whose territories he proceeded, under escort of Sumru's Brigade and a body-guard of Northern Horsemen. A British detachment was sent in pursuit, but having pushed forward as far as the Karamnassa river the boundary of the Bengal Province and failed to overtake the fugitives, it returned to Patna. Major Adams' task fulfilled and his health completely broken he handed over his Command to Major Yorke and proceeded to Calcutta, en route to his Native land; but nature was exhausted, and he died at the Presidency on the l()th January, 1764; universally regretted and specially beloved by all ranks of the Bengal European Regiment, which he had commanded with so much courage, ability, and success. In memory of Major John Adams, it must be said that no more daring, more competent, or more honourable soldier can be found amongst the long list of England's great warriors, who have distinguished themselves in all climes and countries. o Mir Kassim Khan, the ex-Nawab of Bengal, having obtained promises of protection from Shuja u'd daulah, the Nawab Vazir of Oude, crossed the Karamnassa river on the 5th December, 1763, and proceeded to Allahabad, accompanied by his European Mill KASSIM AI'I'KALS TO THK NAWAl; \ A/IK < F ol I>K. 17.5 Artillery, his trained Brigades. Northern (Rivalry, and levies 1768. snl)S(Mjuently enlisted : amounting in all to 30,000 men. The three Brigades under Sninrn, Markar. and Aratoon had c-caped almost unscathed from the battles of Geriah. Suti. and I'lnhvah Xala. It will have been noticed that Suinru had drilled his Brigades, not only in the art of fighting, but in that of retiring in order after defeat, teaching them that security in retreat can only be attained by maintaining strict obedience to orders, and unity of action; he never allowed himself to be tempted into engaging with his enemy, until he had provided for safe retreat in the event of disaster. "Mir Kassim had no occasion to appeal to the Nawab Vazir of Oude for pecuniary assistance his treasure having reached his Fort at Rotas in safety from the pursuit of the British detach- ment : he had therefore sufficient money for his current ex- pense-, and experienced no difficulty in obtaining promises of a resting-place in the Oude territory, where he could mature I his plans for future action. Shah Alain, the Kmperor of Delhi, having failed in obtaining possession of his capital, was also the guest of Shuja u'd daulah, who rejoiced at being the patron and host of so exalted a personage. Shah Alain, although a fugitive and accompanied by only a few tru.-ty followers, was nevertheless acknowledged bv the mass of the people throughout India as representing the authority of the great Mogul, who, though an exile from his capital, was none the leflfl Kmperor of India. The Xawal) Va/ir now found himself placed in a difficult alternative: having promised his patronage to Mir Kassim. the \-Nawah: and also -cut a dress of honour to the Nawab Mir .Tatar congratulating him on his success. The Nawab Ya/ir had intended to watch the cour>e of events before determining whether he would accept the alliance of Mir ,1'afar, or of Mir Ka>sim : and now that the former wa> .-cenrely seated on his throne, he rather inclined toward.- him : but he determined 176 THE TRIPLE ALLIANCE. 1763. to visit Mir Kassim in his camp before deciding on his future conduct. Shah Alam also was interested in these complications, for, though possessing influence, he needed support; and it was therefore arranged that he should accompany the Nawab Vazir on his visit to Allahabad. On arrival at his destination the Nawab Vazir proceeded with an escort of 10,000 Cavalry to pay his guest a complimentary visit. On entering Mir Kassim's camp, he was received by a Guard-of-Honour, composed of such a body of soldiers as he had never seen or conceived, well-armed, uniformly-dressed, equipped and drilled on the English system ; the Artillery for the most part manned by Europeans, and the Cavalry in every way superior to those composing his own escort. Shuja'u'd daulah at once realized that he had found a valuable ally in Mir Kassim, and left his camp resolved to give him the preference over Mir J'afar. The Emperor of Delhie, also, much impressed with the appearance of Mir Kassim and his troops, determined to seek the alliance of the ex-Nawab. Just at this time, and when negotiations for a Triple Alliance were proceeding, the Raja of Bundelkhund, a vassal of the Nawab Vazir of Oude, openly declared his independence ; and, collecting an Army, was extending his conquests into the territories of the Emperor of Delhie, as well as those of the Nawab of Oude. This state of affairs called for immediate action and rendered a campaign in Bengal difficult, if not impossible. Mir Kassim offered the services of a Division of his troops, with which he undertook to bring the rebel Raja to reason and punish him for his audacity ; the condition being that, if he should succeed, both the Emperor and the Nawab Vazir would support his cause against the British. A treaty to the foregoing effect was signed; and Mir Kassim proceeded, accompanied by his trained Brigades, to fulfil his mission. iSum.ru, at the head of his Brigade, gained an easy victory over CHANiJKs IN THi; COMPOSITION oF Tl IF, UK<; IMENT. 177 the Irregular Regiments of the Raja of Bundelkhund, who was 1764. >pecdily reduced to submission, and Mir Kassim returned to Allalialmd, where lie was received with honour both by the Kinperor and the Xawab Va/ir, wlio declared their readiness to assist him in his schemes if he would agree to pay all the expenses of the proposed war. and divide equally all treasure that ini^ht. he captured, either from Mir , I 'afar or the British. These larch, terms having been agreed upon, Mir Kassim further promised 1 ' hl - that when he should be seated on the throne of Bengal he woidd fullv acknowledge Shah Alam as his Suzerain. Whilst the Kmperor, the Xawab Va/ir, and Mir Kassim are Organizing their Armies for the invasion of Bengal, our attention must be directed to events occurring on the other side of the Karamnassa river. Major Knox had been constrained by wounds and ill-health to hand over the Command of the Army to Captain Jennings of the Artillery, as /<>u* for Major Carnac, who was ordered from Burdwan to command the troops in the field. ( rreat changes had taken place in the composit ion of the Bengal Kmopean Regiment >inee its formation in 17")(>. It had taken a leading part in eighteen important Battles and Sieges, in some of which the casualties had been great. In addition. 4 complete Conipanie- and 17 ( )tlicer> had been massacred in \1(\'.\ at or near 1'atna. The>e casualties had during the pa>t seven years been partlv made up by reinforcement.- from II. M. iWth Regiment and the Bombay and Madra> Kuropean Regiments. In October. \1(V.\. orders had been sent to Bengal for II.M. SJth Regiment to return to England, a> it was ordered that its soldiers >honld be paid otl' and di.-eharged : at the same time the Bengal Government wen- informed that both the otlicers and men !' I his Regiment could, if they so desired, take service under the i India Company in preference to returning home. With few ptions the remnant of the Mill Regiment, including the K 1 78 FOREIGN ELEMENT IN THE RANKS. 176-1. following Officers,* volunteered for the Bengal European Regiment : Lieutenant Thomas Goddard. Ensign A. F. Achmuty. ( liarles Fielding. Thomas Roper. ,, John Nelson. Christian Kundson. Douglas Hill. James Skinner. John Cummings. Jacob Carnac. Ensign J. G. Robinson. All these Officers received a step of rank; those previously in the Service also getting promotion. On account of the increase of the Native Army, several Commissions were granted to Sergeants in the Bengal European Regiment and Artillery; amongst these being Sergeant Davis, one of the four who escaped with the boat in which they were being conveyed from Purneah to Patna in the October of the previous year. It would have been far more conducive to the discipline of the Bengal European Regiment had the Council in Calcutta been content to fill vacancies from the above sources only ; but it will be remembered that, after the capture of Chandernagore, many of the French prisoners took service in the Regiment ; and, again, after the Battle of Biderra, a large number of Dutch and other foreign prisoners obtained their freedom on condition of taking Military service under the Company ; and, finally Captain Mar- tine's French Company \vas attached to the Regiment, as well as two other French Companies sent from Madras for service in Bengal. These latter Companies were known to be of doubtful reputation, having manifested bad faith whilst on service with the Madras troops at Manilla. These numerous enlistments resulted in two-thirds of the Bengal European Regiment being composed of foreign mercenaries, many of whom had taken service simply to obtain their release from prison. Such men, not bound to the * The Officers of H.M. 84th who volunteered for service in the Bengal European Regiment were granted half-pay for life. Tin: CALCUTTA COUNCIL ni;i:\K FAITH WITH TIN-: AK.MY. 17'.> Knglish by tics of nationality, were prepared to sei/e any oppor- 1704. tunity to transfer their allegiance, if tlicy thought that by >o doing thev could improve their condition. This was not a happy state of tilings, more especially as it soon hecaine evident that many foreigners in Mil- Kassim's army were in constant communication with their countrymen in the Com- panv's service, to whom they represented themselves as enjoying comparatively higher rank and larger emoluments. Nor were these communications imparted to the foreigners only, but they were translated tor the information of the British soldier.-, some of whom were da/xled l>y the descriptions, and talked freely amongst themselves of the liberal treatment the European soldiers received at the hands of the Native Prince-. At the same time Mir Ka.-sim's emissaries in the British camp were tampering with our Sepahis. and holding out the temptation of increased pay and commands to any who would transfer their allegiance from the P>riti.-h to the Native Annies. In consequence of these intrigues a feeling of discontent, \hich assumed alarming proportion.-. wa.- spreading amongst our 1 roops, and a single spark might at any moment set the whole fabric into a bla/e. Pefore the troops entered on the late campaign againM Mir -im in .lime. 17i'>.'. Mir . Tatar had promised them that if thev .-honld secure to him the throne, and refrain from sacking or injuring the inhabitants of his cities he would pav them a sum of mone\ a> a reward for their serviees, and in lieu of pri/e ; and this promise wa- endorsed by the Calcutta Council: and, under .-auction. Communicated to the men of the Army. ( )n the capture of Mur-hedabad. Monghyr. and Patna, in con>e<|iience of the-.- promises, no pri/e \\as declareil. At Cnduah Nala it i> true that ; lai-ge quantity of hor-o. itorBS, and cattle, which were captured, were sold at Rajmahal, and the proceeds paid to the troops, but Iwah Nala wa> not a town, and treasure captured where there no inhabitant.- to sutler wa.-. under the agreement with Mir 180 CONSEQUENT DISCONTENT IN THE ARMY. 1764. J'afar, allowed to be lawful prize. Mir J'afar's proposals had been accepted by the soldiers of the Army, who had abstained from plunder, and their part of the conditions of the agreement had been thus conscientiously fulfilled. The first payment under the agree- ment was promised to the troops as soon as the campaign against Mir Kassim should be victorious, and our Army reach the boundary of the Company's territories at the Karamnassa river. It was now two months since these conditions had been fulfilled ; but the promised donation in lieu of prize had not been paid. Mir J'afar acknowledged the debt, but the Calcutta Council who had now the sole control of his finances turned a deaf ear to the demands of the soldiers. On the 30th January Captain Jennings ordered a general parade, at which the assembled troops refused to obey the word of command. On the Commander demanding an explanation he was informed by the ringleader, named Straw, that the soldiers had lost all trust in the integrity of the Calcutta Council ; for, though they had faithfully performed their duties throughout a campaign of extraordinary severity, they had been deceived and defrauded ; and they were resolved not to serve the Company until the promises made to them should be redeemed. Captain Jennings knew that although no grievances could justify the insubordination of the troops, yet that undoubtedly they had been defrauded by the Council, which he strongly suspected would still evade payment unless heavy pressure was put upon them. The next day the following General Order was issued by Captain Jennings at Patna. " It is with the utmost concern that the Commanding Officer " " sees any discontent arising amongst the troops he has the honor " " to command he shall always esteem it a happiness in himself " " to see them righted in every respect as far as he can with " " justice allow, or they with prudence demand. As they have " " hitherto shewed themselves brave and good soldiers, he hopes " " that they will not now be guilty of any rash action that may " T1IK msCOXTKNT INfRKASKS. ISl " in any way sully their former good behaviour. In respect to" " the prize-money he gives his word of honour the payment " "shall be made as soon as it arrives; and in case any other" "complaints happen if they were made in a proper manner as" " becumeth a soldier, he will endeavour to give them all the" " satisfaction that lies in his power." This order temporarily pacified the men, who returned to their duty; but the spirit of insubordination was still strong amongst them : and, three days after, Captain Jennings deemed it necessary i-bru in .",rd. to detach the Grenadier Companies, who had taken a lead in the demonstration to the Karamnassa, together with a portion of the Artillery and two Sepahi Battalions. Imme- diately after the demonstration on parade Captain Jennings communicated to the Calcutta ( 1 oimcil the mutinous state of the troops: and urged the necessity of meeting the just demands of the soldiers without delay. I Jut the troops were determined to obtain something more than bare- promises. The minds of the English soldiers had been poisoned by their intercourse with their foreign comrades, who, bru:irv -lrh loth, still outnumbering them in the Bengal European K'egiment,* were bent on mischief. The malcon- tents elected as their leader the man Straw, upon whom they conferred the rank of "Major:" and after a few days, as the promised payments had not been made, the private soldiers and * It is necessary that some further explanation should be given of how it came about that at this time 17H-1 the ranks of tin- Bengal European nn-iit contained so many foreigners. It will be remembered that many French, Dutch, ami (lerinan prisoners, taken at Chandernagore and Biderra, allowed their freedom on their acceptance of Military service under the Company. In addition, the French Fortress of Pondicherry, in Madras, surrendered to the r>rit ish in .January. 17il. In the garrison of Pondicherry when it surrendered there were quartered the French Regiment of Lorraine, Ixilly'- Irish Ile^imeiit. and the French Fast I ndia Company's European Corps called The French Battalion of India." The men of these Regiments offered to serve the British, many of them being sent to Bengal and drauLrhted to the IVn^al Furoj.ean Ke-imeiit . ; ,t this time employed on the Campaign against Mir Kassim Khan. 1S2 THE NAWAB MTU .1 \FAH OFFERS RECONCILIATION. 1764. many of the Sepahis, in oj>cn mutiny, turned out on parade with loaded arms and fixed bayonets, the European Artillery with their () field-pieces being prepared for action on the flanks of the European Regiment. The Officers soon appeared on parade, when Captain Jennings, seizing Straw by the collar, attempted to force him towards the quarter-guard ; but the troops, charging forward, rescued the man whose orders alone were obeyed. Captain Jennings endeavoured to pacify the men ; who declared that, as they saw no prospect of obtaining the promised money by fair means, they were resolved to inarch to Calcutta and force the Council to comply with their just demands ; but in the first instance they should proceed to the Karamnassa river, and join the Grenadier Companies, who, they said, were prepared to support them. The mutineers, including nearly all the privates of the Bengal European Regiment, the European Cavalry, a considerable por- tion of the Bengal Artillery, the Moghul Horse, and many Sepahis, left the British camp. On their march towards the boundary of the Company's territory they were seen by the Nawab Mir J'afar; who, alarmed at their decided action, offered the men 10,000 in part payment, if they would return peaceably to their duty ; but, disdaining all offers of reconciliation, they proceeded on their way. Captain Jennings now .ordered the Officers, with several of the most influential Non-Commissioned Officers, to follow the mutineers, and to persuade them to return to their duty ; whilst February 4th 10th, ne r() de quickly to the Karamnassa and ordered the 17*54. Grenadier Companies and the Sepahi Battalions quartered there to march to the headquarter ramp bv a side road. The Officers, partially successful, brought back to camp about 100 European soldiers and the fi guns which had fallen in rear. Lieutenant Claude Martine did good service on this occasion, as well as Ensign Alien who had been a Sergeant in the 84th, ARMV IN OI'KN Ml TINV. and was now Adjutant of the Bengal European Regiment. i7<;i. Martine, although lie failed to bring hack his men, obtained valuable information which he communicated to .Jennings. ( hu- nt' his Frenchmen had privately told him that it was the French soldiers who were the instigators of the mutiny: their object being not so much to obtain their prize-money as to desert and take service with Mil 1 Kassim's Army, where so many of their com- patriots were serving; they Subsequently intended, in conjunction with Sumru's Brigades, to gain poeioii of the whole country; and they had deputed the informant to offer Martine the supreme command of the proposed rebel Army. This information gave our Officers a handle on which to work on the feelings of the British soldiers, who had been kept in ignorance of the ultimate intentions of the Frenchmen. The English soldiers were now informed that they had been deceived and led ir.to a rebellion, from a participation in which they would find it extremely difficult to extricate them>elve>. Captain Morgan and Ensign Davis went a Frl.-uary ttli H>th, second time to the rebel camp, armed with the information gathered from Martine, and they per- suaded about *O more of the men to return amongst them. Straw, the rebel -Major:" and at the >ame time the Officers of the Srpahi KYgiments collected about IJOO repentant Sepahis, who returned to our camp. The mutineers now elected as their Commander a Sergeant named Dclamaiv, who had formerly been promised a Commission by Major Adams: but, probably on account of misconduct on the Sergeant'.- part, the promise was unfulfilled. Although a Sergeant in the slth, Delamarc was of French extraction and spoke French with fluency. The march of the mutineers was Continued across the Karamnaa river into the Oude territory: but before they left the P>ritish -ide To more of our European Soldiers returned to camp: there remaining now onlv l."7 men of the Piengal European Regiment i,, the rebel camp, and these nearlv all foreigners. 184 MTU .7 'AFAR ADVANCES PUT/E-MONEY. 17G4. Of the Native deserters about 100 men, chiefly belonging to the Moghul Horse, followed the rebels, all of whom proceeded to Allahabad ; and there joining Mir Kassim's Army were drafted either into his Artillery or into one of Sumru's trained Brigades. On the day after the mutinous troops had marched from camp Captain Jennings received 10,000 from the Nawab Mir February 4th 10th, J'afar; and, having borrowed all the money he 1764. could obtain from other sources, issued an order directing a first distribution of prize-money to the troops on the following scale : Rs. Sergeants of Infantry, Corporals and Bom- bardiers of Artillery 80 each. Corporals of Infantry and Gunners of Artillery 60 Private Soldiers and Drummers 40 Havaldars 12 Naiks 9 Sepahis (i But this order, although it put an end to the mutiny amongst the Europeans, had a contrary effect upon the Sepahis; who deemed that their services had not been sufficiently appreciated by the award of less than one-sixth of a European soldier's share. Under these circumstances, the Native Regiments, in a body, refused their prize-money, insisting on a fairer distribution. The next day, February 13th, the Bengal European Regiment and Artillery were ordered under arms to protect the magazine and guns ; and steps were taken to prevent communication between the Europeans and the Sepahis ; but this latter pre- caution was unnecessary, as the English soldiers were only eager to prove that their penitence was sincere. Two of the Sepahi Regiments marched off towards the Karamnassa river; but on a Sepahi's share being increased to Rs. ^0, the deserters, as well as the discontented Sepahi Regiments who had remained in camp, expressed their regret for their misconduct, and were permitted 185 15th i'ith, t(> >'^ lini to tn( ' n> e order- wen- received on the iMrd, and an Officer was at once sent forward to make arrangements for throwing a bridge across the river, ('arnac reported to the Council the measures April ;!rl. which he was adopt ing. and that he was collecting provisions to enable him to advance. Ou the .">rd of April another communication was received from the Council which said: " \Ve ha\e paid due regard to the realms which you urge in" " your letter for having continued to act so long on the defensive;" " but we miiM say that they do not carry the same weight with us." A < 'ouneil of War was now called, at which ( 'arnac presided: and urged that he had been unable to collect sufficient provisions to warrant him in making an advance. This Council decided that without provisions the Army could not act in the field : and that, if there were no provisions to be had at or near Iiuxar. the Army had better be marched hack to 1'atna, where provisions were plentiful. lut at the same time some of the Commanders of Regiments ex- pressed an opinion that a little forethought might have pre\ented the unfortunate position in which they now found themselves. 188 THE RETREAT ON PATNA. 1764. The Army broke camp on the 4th of April and commenced its retreat towards Patna, leaving Buxar unprotected. On the April 4th 13th, 13th Dinapore was reached, when Carnac ordered a 1764. h a lt, and announced his intention of preventing the enemy from crossing the river Soane. Five days were lost in making preparations and issuing orders ; when it was discovered that all was too late, for the enemy had secured the passage of the river by dispatching a strong advanced guard of Cavalry, w r hich, April 13th 20th, doubling round, now held the east bank of the river, and 1764. very nearly succeeded in capturing Carnac, whose head- quarter camp, was as usual, pitched at a distance from the main Army. The European Cavalry under Captain Hay was quickly dispatched to keep the enemy in check, and, having engaged them, to hastily retire towards a grove of trees, amongst which a strong body of Infantry was to be held in ambuscade. The European Cavalry, on reaching the grove, were ordered to file off to the right and left; when the Infantry were to advance from their place of concealment and suddenly open fire on the pursuing enemy, who, it was anticipated, would by the unexpected move- ments be thrown into confusion, when the British Cavalry, having wheeled about, would return to the charge. Hay carried out his part of the programme with precision, the enemy's Cavalry being engaged and decoyed up to the grove ; but in the meantime Major Carnac had countermanded the Infantry ambuscade, without informing Hay, who was in consequence left in the lurch, and only succeeded in getting out of his difficulty with heavy loss. General References. Chapter VIII. Broome's " Rise and Progress of the Bengal Army." Malleson's "Decisive Battles of India." Williams's "Bengal Infantry." The Military Calendar. The Seir Mutakherin. Proceedings of the Bengal Council. Thornton's " History of India." Stuart's " History of Bengal." &c., &c. Al'TER The British Army under .Major Carnae. beleaguered under the walls of Patna, Victorious Defence of Patna The Allied Native Army retreat on the- Fortrex of Buxar Major Carnac removed from the Command of the Bengal Army Major Hector Munro appointed Mutiny of the Sepahi Regiments Tin- retirement and death of Mir Kassim, ex-Xawab of Bengal Advance of the British on the Fortress of Buxar The Battle of Buxar Defeat and Flight of the Allied Native Army under the Nawab Va/ir. HE Xawab Va/ir Shu ja. u'd daulah, who had been nominated to the chief command of the enemy'* |||j$| H^ allied Army, was moving towards Patna with all fifG^Jfifc practicable speed. He had correctly gauged the incapacity of his English rival, and now nuide a hold stroke to nut-general him; which, but for the merest acci- dent, would have placed the British Army completelv in his power. Shuja u'd daulah dispatched two of his Divisions bv rapid marches, and a circuitous route, to sei/c Patna before the April ir.th L':'.rd. retreating Briti>h Army could reach their destina- 17(il - tion: hut this scheme was fru.M rated by a fortunate accident. A Scj)ahi Regiment and a Detachment of Artillery \\itli '.\ guns were 60COltillg a cnnvny of pm\ i>ions from Patna to the British camp: when information reached the Officer Commanding that the enemy were advancing to meet him. He at once occupied a strong position close at hand: a drv tank with mud embankments forming a ready-made entrenchment, and concealing him from view: and here the British Detachment took up it> pn.-itinn. ha.-tily cutting embrasures for the guns. The enemy, in ignorance of what wa.- awaiting them, advanced 190 THE DEFENCE OF PATNA. 1764. along the road ; when they unexpectedly found themselves opposed by a force of unknown strength ; and, believing that they had fallen into an ambuscade, and that their plans for seizing Patna by a surprise had been anticipated, abandoned their project and retreated on their main Army. Carnac was thus, by a stroke of good fortune, enabled to continue his retreat without serious opposition ; but his soldiers, unaccus- tomed to retire before an enemy, had lost heart, and their march was in consequence conducted in an irregular, sulky manner ; the enemy's Cavalry hovering around, and no order of battle having been arranged in the event of their being unexpectedly forced into action. Fortunately, the British Army reached Patna without disaster, and took up its position, previously selected and prepared by Mir J'afar, who had been deputed by Major Carnac to arrange for the defence of the city. The positions were well selected, and serviceable entrenchments made protected by a deep ditch. Mir J'afar placed his own troops along the outside of the east and part of the south faces of the Fort ; his left flank April 2;}rd resting on the river Ganges. Carnac's Army was placed along the west ; its right resting on the river, and its left extending round as far as Mir J'afar's right, which it joined near the centre of the south face. It will be seen that the British and the Murshedabad troops under Mir J'afar thus completely enveloped the fortified city, the walls being in rear of the beleaguered Army, which was covered by the heavy guns on the walls and bastions; the river Ganges extending along the whole of the north face of the city. Our Europeans were encamped outside the west face and south- west angle of the fortress, their left resting on a mound occupied by one of our Sepahi Battalions. The south-west angle was considered the most likely point of attack, and Mir J'afar, therefore, had thoughtfully taken the precaution of clearing away a village and all the trees in front, so that the enemy might find no cover during his advance, TIIK I) HI-TACK <)K I'ATNA. ll'l Iii front of the position held by the Europeans the entrench- 17(il inents were only partially completed, hut the ground occupied \\as coininan field-guns took up a position in front of the right wing of the liritish Army; Mir Kassim with the rest of his force being in reserve near Bankipore, about a mile from Patua. The enemv's allied force was computed at 35,000 men, and in addition a mob of 5000 fanatics, all perfectly naked, armed with tulwars, their bodies besmeared with paint and ashes, and their long hair streaming down their backs. The rival Armies remained inactive for upwards of a week; April iMtli May 2nd. when the enemy having received authentic infor- mation that British reinforcements* were near at hand, the Nawab Ya/ir gave orders for an immediate attack. At this time the 1 liritish force consisted of the Bengal European Regiment, '1 Companies of the Bombay European Regiment,! '2 troops of European Cavalry, and 7 Battalions of Sepahis. besides which there was the Moghul Horse, and Mir tJ'afar's Native Army: amounting in all to about 111,000 men. The Nawab Yazir's plan of attack was to concentrate his ' Thee reinforcements consulted of 2<>ut they were ultimately driven back with heavy loss; when, about three o'clock the Nawab Ya/ir, undismayed by Mir Kassim's cowardice, collected his whole available force, and made a spirited charge along the entire face of the British position. The Kurope:m<. win. received these repeated onslaughts at the point of the bayonet, were n<>w completely e\hau>ted, and for a moment the enemy gained a footing inside the earth-works, where they .-ucrrrded in capturing and carrving away three of the drummer- hoy.- of the Bengal Kun.pean Regiment. This so exasperated the Kuropeans that tliev .-prang from the entrenchments, dashed forwajd, broke through their assailant.-, and re-took the drummer- O 11)4 THE ENEMY REPULSED. 1764. boy*<, whom they brought back in triumph amidst loud shouts and great rejoicing. The enemy, now disheartened, smarting under our fire, and foiled at all points, were compelled to accept their defeat ; but a final and gallant charge was made by a large body of Cavalry under their brave Commander Sheik Din Mahomed, who was killed in the advance, when his Cavalry, disheartened, fled from the field, bearing with them the body of their valiant leader. Never had a Commander a finer opportunity than now presented itself to Carnac of converting a gallant defence into a crowning- victory. One of his Officers made a dash w r ith his Sepahis at one of the enemy's batteries of Artillery, which, being provided with bullock-draught only, might have been captured ; and another Officer was in the act, with a few of his men, of seizing two of the enemy's field-guns, when Carnac commanded both to desist and return under cover of the entrenchments. Thus, by reason of the incapacity of their Commander, our troops were under the necessity of allowing their defeated enemy to retire from before them in full possession of his guns, ammunition, and stores. The Battle of Patna was now over ; and, although a few days after the European reinforcements arrived, Major Carnac still remained inactive. Captain John Nollikins of the Bengal European Regiment who had been transferred from the 39th Regiment was severely wounded in this action. On the 30th May the allied forces of the enemy broke camp and retired on the strong fort of Buxar, the works of which Major ( 'arnac had considerably improved when he contemplated its defence during his occupation in March. It is unnecessary to dwell upon the Calcutta Council's repeated failures to induce Major Carnac to advance against the enemy ; suffice it to say that a welcome order was received from the Court of Directors, announcing the removal of Major Carnac from their M.U< U: HKcroK Ml NRO IN C<>M\IAXI) OF TIIK I'.KNC VI. A KM V. 11'.") Service,* and on the l?Sth 'June he handed over the command to 17'Jl. Major Champion as lorntn teutin*. Although this order of the Court's was iKt issued in consequence of Carnac's blunders whilst in eominand, it was none the less aeeeptable to the Council, who gladly hailed the opportunity of placing a more efficient Officer in command of the Army in the field. Major Hector Mnnro, late of H.M. S ( .)th Regiment, was appointed to succeed Major Carnac. Mnnro was on the eve of his departure from Madras to England early in the year, with the remnant of his Regiment, when intelligence was received of the death of Major Adams. The offer of the command of the Bengal Army was at that time made to Major Munro; in the mean time, however. Carnac had been appointed, but on that Officer's removal the offer was renewed, and accepted by Munro. The remnant of the S ( .th and some of the 90th Regiment, amounting to a little over 100 men, volunteered to accompany Major Munro to Bengal, and, the Bengal Government having accepted their services, they were transferred to the Company's Service, nltimatelv joining the Bengal European Regiment. On the isth August Major Munro assumed command of the field force then at Patna. lie was in every way the verv opposite to his predecessor: brave, almost rash in his daring: a strict disci- plinarian, but though despising unnecessary pomp, rigidlv insisting on Military etiquette and the strictest obedience to orders. One of Munro's early acts was to publish a code of regulations, with which all Officers were instructed to make themselves thoroughly acquainted. This code enjoined strict attention to many essential points of Military duty, which, during Major Carnac's time, had been allowed to fall into disuse. For the tir.-t time a concise system of maiucuvres was introduced, in which Officers commanding Regiments were instructed to exer- * Major Carnac \va> rrinovt'< KYgiment to select 50 of the ringleaders; from whom 24 were 1764. picked out and arraigned before a drum-head court-martial, which sentenced them to be blown away from guns. The proceedings xv ere confirmed at once, and the sentence ordered to be carried into execution on the spot; when four of the condemned prisoners were immediately seized and tied to the guns, but four Native Grenadiers, amongst the prisoners awaiting execution, claimed the right, "as they held the post of honour in the field," to be executed first. The request was granted, the Battalion men being unfastened; and the Grenadiers executed in their stead. The scene which followed was trying in the extreme. The gallantry of the Grenadier prisoners caused a violent reaction in their favour amongst those Native troops w r ho had hitherto been uncontaminated ; and who now told Munro that they would not allow the executions to be proceeded with. It was an anxious moment tor the prisoners, and perhaps more so for the Com- manding Officer; but, without any hesitation, Munro ordered the European Artillery to load xvith grape and prepare for action, the European Infantry being moved round to support the guns. The European Officers xvith the Sepahi Battalions were ordered to stand aside, and the Sepahis commanded to ground their arms. Instinctively they obeyed, and were marched from their arms, xxhich were taken possession of by the Europeans. Sixteen more of the prisoners xvere then bloxvn from the guns, the remaining four being marched to Moniah, where they met their fate in presence of the two Sepahi Battalions at that station. The drill parades xvere re-commenced, and the Sepahis exercised in the nexx maiurux res. Major Munro. by these sex ere though necessary measures, having brought his Native troops into a complete state of obedience, turned his attention to his preparations for the capture of the Fortress of Buxar. noxx the headquarters of the allied enrmv. The force xxhich Munro selected to form his main Army THE ADVANCE ON THE FORTRESS OF BUXAR. 1764. for active service consisted of the 2 Grenadier and IJ Battalion Companies of the Bengal European Regiment ; the 2 Com- panies of the Bombay Europeans ; the Marines ; some details September 18th 30th, f tne King's Regiments who had not volun- 1764 - teered for the Company's Service about 200 men under Captain Wemyss 2 Companies of European Artillery ; and a troop of European Cavalry ; making a total of about 1000 Europeans. In addition to these there were 8 Battalions of Sepahis and 1000 Moghul Horse, lately remodelled. Major Champion, of the Bengal European Regiment, was sent in command of a detachment to cross the river Ganges, and rejoin the main Army as soon as it should arrive at the river Soane. The defence of Behar was provided for by 300 of the Bengal European Regiment, 1 Company of European Artillery ; some Native Cavalry and Infantry being sent to guard the frontier of that province. Munro, with his Army, reached Kalvaghat, on the east bank <>t the Soane, on the 10th October, to find the opposite bank occupied by the enemy. This precaution on the part of the Nawab Vazir might have caused difficulty to the advancing Army, had not Munro provided a counter-move in having sent Champion to make his way on the morning of the 10th along the west bank of the river. Champion had left Chupra on the ()th October, reaching the mouth of the Soane river on the 9th; and next morning had advanced, under cover of a dense fog, close upon the enemy, entrenched with the intention of disputing the ford. Champion formed his detachment in line, and advanced stealthily close up to the entrenchments, when he suddenly opened a brisk fire, which was feebly replied to; and the enemy, surprised by the attack of a force of unknown strength, hastily withdrew in the direction of Arrah. The main force under Munro then crossed the river unopposed, and halted about half-a-mile from its- west bank. The forward march was resumed on the 1 2th October., THF, ADVANCE ( )N THE FOIITIIKSS OF lifNAK. l ( .l ( .l 3D MUOTO formed his Army into three Divisions: the first under jor Champion, the second under Major Pemble, and the third ler Major Sihhert ; Champion's Division forming tlie advance- guard. When Champion readied A mill he found the town deserted: so lie pushed on to the IJonas Xala,on the othei 1 side of which he perceived ahout 1000 or .")()()() of the enemy's Cavalry prepared to dispute his passsage across the bridge. Champion ordered his Cavalry to advance, the European Dragoons leading; when the enemy, after only a slight show of resistance, fled towards a village ahout a mile distant, pursued by the British Cavalry. It, however, soon became apparent that the latter had been led into an ambuscade, for the village was held by a large body of the enemy's troops, who, concealed behind the buildings and trees, received our Cavalry with an unexpected fire. Taken com pletely by surprise, our men wheeled about and in their turn were pursued by the enemy's Cavalry now largely reinforced. Our Moghul Horse broke and fled in confusion, the English Dragoons holding better together: but many were sabred and shot down. As soon as Champion saw the turn which a flairs had taken, he 1 threw forward hi> Infantry toward.- some broken ground, thus giving cover and support to his Cavalry, who, with difficulty found their way aero.-.- the Nala. with a los> of 1 Sergeants, 12 European troopers, and about 40 of the Moghul Horse killed or wounded. In the meantime some important events had occurred in the camp of Slmja'ifd daulah, the 1 Nawab Ya/ir. 'Flic Kmperor Shah Alam still remained under the protection of the Nawab Ya/ir, who continued to exercise the supreme command of the Allied Armies, but the Kmperor fully realised that he was little more than a State prisoner, and was <|iiite prepared, should opportunity oiler, to free himself from a position of dependence and rotraint. Mir Ka^sim had sunk immeasurably in the estimation of his Commander-ill*Ch]ef since his hastv retreat, and refusal to join in the attack on the l>riti>h entrenchments at 1'atna. Kvery one now seemed to raise his hand against Mir Ka-sim. Sumru. when 200 MIR KASSIM'S FLIGHT AND DEATH. 1764. accused of cowardice by the Nawab Vazir, declared that no order had been sent to him by Mir Kassim to re-advance, or he would readily have done so. Now, Mir Kassim felt that, though courage in presence of an enemy was not his strong point, he would have made plausible excuses were he a free agent, but unfortunately he could not afford to quarrel with Sumru. He had no funds with which to meet the arrears due to his troops, who were clamorous for payment ; and, still worse, there was the treaty made with the Nawab Vazir when the triple alliance was entered into under which Mir Kassim had agreed to pay 11,000 a month towards the expenses of the war from the day the Allied Armies should cross the river Ganges. Mir Kassim knew that his ability to pay the large amounts required from him was contingent on his regaining his throne ; his treasure collected at his Fort of Rotas \vas all expended, but he felt secure in the friendship of his Allies, so long as his trained Brigades and European Artillery remained faithful to him. His reliance on all these soon vanished, for he had been outwitted and betrayed ; Sumru, Markar, Aratoon, with their soldiers, and his European Artillery, with their Officers all false had been bought over by his Ally the Nawab Vazir. This was the final blow; disgraced, deserted, insulted, and deceived, Mir Kassim looked around in vain for advice and consolation ; he had no friend but one solitary servant, who was faithful to him in his reverses and dangers as he had participated October 22nd ^ n n ^ s prosperity and triumphs. The Nawab Vazir, 1764. finding that Mir Kassim was powerless and completely at his mercy, ordered him to be robbed of the few valuables that remained to him ; and mounted on a lame elephant, he was ejected, October 22nd, from the camp. Mir Kassim the cx- Nawab of Bengal, Behar, and Orissa eventually died at Delhie in extreme poverty, June 6th, 1777; a Native historian assuring us that his last shawl was sold to pay for his winding-sheet. THE HKITISIl AUKIVK AT BINAK. 201 But now to return to the Hritish Army, which without further mishap arrived before the Fortress of Buxar on the 22nd October, where Munro found the Nawab Vazir occupying an entrenched position on the plain to the east of the Fortress, outside which the enemy's whole Army was drawn up in battle array. The two forces remained watching each other for upwards of an hour: when the enemv retired within his entrenchments. Mnnro now seized and occupied a village about a thousand yards in advance of the left of his line, and threw a strong picket forward to occupy a grove of trees about the same distance in front of his right, his camp lacing that of the enemy ; double .-entries being posted all round, and communication maintained with his two advanced po>t>. These arrangements complete, Munro called a Council of War, () ti I., i I'Jnd, which recommended that the troops should be allowed a rest during the 1 '2',m\, and that an assault should be made on the enemy's entrenchments on the 24th, on the following plan : Lieutenant Xicoll, of the Native Infantry, who had been employed by Major Carnae in the preceding month of March to Mirve\ the ground now occupied by the enemy, was ordered to conduct a detachment proceeding along the bed of the Torah N'ala and endeavour to turn the enemy's right Hank ; the British Army at the same time making a vigorous attack along the whole of the enemy's trout. It was anticipated that bv this inanojiivre the enemy would probably be thrown into confusion, during which it was hoped our troops would be enabled to effect an entrance into their camp. It had also been ordered that, with the view of keeping the enemy in ignorance of our real intentions, sham batteries should be at once commenced opposite the left of their entrenchments : so that the enemv might fall into the error of supposing that we intended to proceed by regular approaches. 202 POSITION OF THE BRITISH ARMY BEFORE BUXAR. 1764. Our heavy baggage was, as a precaution, sent onboard our boats close at hand, by the river's bank. Major Champion commanded the working-party, which, early on the morning of the 23rd October, advanced with a Company of Pioneers and a covering detachment of Sepahis, to throw up the dummy batteries ; but he had hardly reached his ground, when, just as day was breaking, he saw the enemy in great force leaving their entrenchments and forming up for action. It appeared evident to Champion that the Nawab Vazir was prepar- ing to attack the British camp, and no time was to be lost in communicating his suspicions to Major Munro; so Champion rode forward alone to take note of the enemy's movements, having October 23rd previously sent a messenger to warn the British Com- 1764. mander of the probable advance of the enemy. Major Munro, already on the alert, beat to arms, forming up his troops outside his camp to meet the enemy's attack. It is necessary that the exact nature of the ground between the rival armies should be now clearly defined. To the left front of the British camp was the village, to the right front the grove of trees ; both these positions having been occupied by our troops on the previous day. Between the village on our left front and the British camp there was an extensive morass, through which was a ford, difficult to find without the assistance of an experienced guide. To the right of the grove was another village; but between the village on the left and the grove on the right the space was open and clear. About three miles intervened between the rival camps, which faced each other. It has been recorded that when Munro assumed command of the Army he instituted a course of manoeuvres, which he ordered Commanding Officers to practise on parade, so that when their soldiers should be in presence of an enemy they would take up their allotted positions without delay or confusion. When, therefore, the Army took the field on the morning of the 1-nSITIoN OK THK r,KI.I.l<;KKKNT>. 2?m\ Octobei-. everv man knew his appointed position, which he 17IJ4. occupied without confusion. The advanced pickets were now called in; that in the village on our left-front joining the main Army, whilst that which had occupied the grove on our right-front was ordered to join the Moghul Morse, and take up its position in a village in rear of our left wing, charged with the protection of the camp and baggage. The British Army advanced to the front of their camp in two Divisions, one in immediate rear of the other, about a hundred yards apart, and the reserve /// f/ie centre between these two lines. The front line was formed of two Battalion Companies of the Bengal Kuropean Regiment and two Companies of the Bombay Kuropcan Regiment, these being formed into one Battalion, commanded by ('aptain Macphcrson; the detachments of the Royal troops and Marines under Captain \Ycmyss; four Battalions of iV.nl. Sepahis. and the greater portion of the Artillery. The Europeans were in the centre of this line, the Artillery at intervals between the Battalions. The rear line, under Major IVmhle, was formed of the remainder of the Bengal European Regiment, four Battalions of Sepahis, and some Artillery, the same order being observed as in the front line. The reserve, under ('aptain May, was formed of the two (ireuadier Companies of the Bengal Kuropcan Regiment and some ( 'avalrv. The front line was in two Divisions or wings, the right commanded by Major Champion, the left by Major Sibbert. Lieutenant Ycrtuc commanded the detachment guarding the camp and baggage. It is also necessary to say something of the enemy's position. The Nawab Ya/ir, who had proved himself a gallant soldier and an able (Jeiieral. \\a.~ still in chief command of the enemy's Army. The Emperor Shah A lam remained in his tent behind the Torah Nala. The ex-Na\\ab Mir Ka>sim. ejected from the camp, was a wanderer, his trained Brigades being now in the service of the Nawab Ya/ir. 204 THE BATTLE OF BIT X A II. 1764. The ground occupied by the enemy was well selected ; indeed, his position was formidable. His left rested on the river Ganges, where were the town and fortress of Buxar, occupied by several Native Battalions. The Nawab Vazir's Regiments were mostly commanded by European Officers, and supported by numerous bodies of Cavalry. In the centre were the trained Brigades under Sumru, consisting of 8 Battalions, and 8 field-pieces, the latter manned by Europeans; the whole strengthened by a reserve of 6000 men. The Raja of Benares commanded the enemy's right wing, composed principally of Rohilla Horse, supported by 5000 Durani Cavalry, known to be experienced soldiers, who had distinguished themselves in many a hard-fought battle. The enemy's Allied Army numbered in all between 40,000 and 50,000, whereas the British had but 7080 men. The enemy were the first to advance, and their guns of greater calibre than the British took effect before the English field- pieces could reply ; Munro, therefore, ordered a general advance ; but, on nearing the morass, was obliged to detach the left wing in order to take ground to his right. This necessary movement in the face of his enemy might have been attended with serious results, had not his troops been practised on parade in the manosuvres by which in war he was enabled to effect his purpose. Notwithstanding that the fire from the enemy's heavy batteries was trying, the British Army steadily advanced; and, having cleared the morass, the original order of battle was resumed. Our Artillery, from its position in front, was now firing with effect amongst the dense masses of the enemy. A determined charge was at this time made upon the British left by the Durani Horse, who attempted to force a passage between our two advancing lines, and thus crush our reserve in the centre ; but, as soon as their intention became apparent, Munro ordered his reserve to take ground to their left and face outwards, whilst half a Battalion in the front line wheeled back TIIK HATTLK OF I'.l XAK. 205 alt* a Battalion in the rear wheeled forward, so that the whole 1764. interval on the left of our Army was closed up, rapidly formed into three sides of an oblong square, and was thus enabled to prevent the Cavalry from effecting their purpose. The result of this manoeuvre, which Major Munro had caused October L'r'.nl. t() be frequently practised on the line of march and on parade, illustrated the advantages derived from a frequent exercise in the code of movements he had ordered for his troops, hut which the Sepahis had so stubbornly resisted. Foiled in their attempts to break through the British lines, the Dnrani Cavalry beat a retreat, hastened by our fire; but, having passed to our rear, they now charged our rear-guard, consisting of the Moghul Horse and a detachment of Sepahis under Lieu- tenant Yertni'. The Moghul Horse gave way before the Durani Cavalry; when our Infantry, now unsupported, moved towards the main Army in admirable order, and as steadily as if on parade, but all our baggage fell into the enemy's hands, and our cam}) was left unprotected. Flushed with their success, the Durani Cavalry now made a desperate charge on our rear line; which, rapidly facing about. prepared to receive them. Our gnus, however, were so well served, that the enemy's Cavalry >heeivd off: but soon afterwards a second charge was delivered by a squadron of picked men under a distinguished Chieftain. A desperate M niggle ensued, several of the men of the Bengal Kuropean Regiment being sabred in the ranks: but the British line remained firm and unbroken. The charge was again renewed with increased vigour, but the leader, in making a vigorous dash at the Knglish line, was received on the bayonet of one of our Europeans, who at the same moment discharging his musket, the Chief fell a lifeless corpse among.M his gallant followers. This last effort proving a failure, the Durani Cavalry , disappointed and disheartened at the loss of their leader, retreated, leaving a large proportion of their men on the field. 206 THE BATTLE OF BUXAR. 1764. In the meantime the British front line had not been unemployed, A battery of heavy guns had been brought up by the enemy, and posted in the village to our extreme right. This battery, firing obliquely on our advancing Divisions, rendered it impossible to preserve our line, and at the same time Sumru's Brigade kept up a continuous fire ; whilst the enemy's Cavalry made repeated and determined charges on our right wing, where some wavering was now perceptible. Major Munro, observing this unsteadiness, ordered a Sepahi Battalion on the right of our line to storm the battery in the village. After some hesitation the Battalion advanced under Lieutenant Nicoll, and having made a slight detour to the right, suddenly wheeled round, and, gallantly charging the position, drove back the enemy at the point of the bayonet, carried the village, and captured the battery. Supports were immediately sent forward from the rear line, by this time completely relieved from the attacks of the enemy's Cavalry. Nicholl now pushed his success so far as to attempt to gain possession of the enemy's guns posted in the grove of trees to his left; but they were found to be strongly supported, and his efforts failed. In retreating he was hardly pressed; the Native Cavalry charging both his flanks, and dealing destruction amongst his Sepahis. The chief interest was now centred in the fight for the possession of the grove. Major Munro directed Champion, at the head of the remainder of the right wing of the front line, to advance to the support of our retreating Sepahis, who had been October 23rd, foiled in their attempt to seize the grove, and were now 1764. i n f u ll flight. With Major Champion's Detachment were the two Companies of the Bengal European Regiment ; the Royal Company under Captain Wernyss ; two Sepahi Battalions, with a Company of Artillery and 4 field-pieces, forming his support. Orders were issued that our Infantry during the coming charge were to reserve their fire and trust solely to their bayonets. A,? I5ATTLK < >F BtXAU. 207 impion advanced the enemy's Cavalry drew off, and NicoU's 1744. Sepahis, rallying, took their place on the right of the advancing line. Major Champion's advance was watched with breathlc interot as he dashed forward, and, pushing right through the grove, forced the enemy back at the point of the bayonet; and then pouring on them a well-directed volley, sent them flying from the field, leaving their guns. 27, in our possession. But the trial of strength was not yet over, for the Nujeebs, who had been protecting the guns, escaping early in the fight, had taken the direction of Sumru's trained Brigades, which they joined ; when the united force, forming a new alignment, advanced to retrieve the fortunes of the day by retaking the >osition. mch was the aspect of affairs, when Shuja Kuli Khan, one of ie Xawab Ya/ir's Commanders supporting Sumru's Brigades, imagining that Champion's volley, which he had heard, implied the flight of the Knglish from the grove ; and thinking his services were no longer required in support, without communicating his intentions left his position in reserve, and advanced his troops to at- Oct )!>] L'ilnl. tack the British left wing. Leading his ( 'avalry in person, he circled round the moras>, instructing his Infantry to advance by the ford. 1 lis ( 'avalrv made some gallant charges, which were repelled by our square; whilst his Infantry, scattered in its attempt.- t. >t niggle through the morass, suffered severely from oin- grape-fire, which effectually kept them in check. Charge after charge was made by the brave Shuja Kuli Khan, but a grape->hot striking him in the forehead, he fell from his horse mortally wounded. The Cavalry, discouraged at the loss of their leader, were, whilst endeavouring to recover his body, thrown into some confusion: and, abandoning their attempt to break the Kngli.-h >quare, retired toward.- the Fortress. Shuja Kuli Khan fell ignorant of the injury which his want of judgment entailed on his ma>terV cause. Sumru's Brigades, deprived of their support, hesitated, and watched the result of 20(S THE BATTLE OF BUXAR. 1764. Shuja Kuli Khan's bold attack on our left; but as soon as the failure of his Cavalry and the discomfiture of his Infantry was seen, Sumru retired his Brigades in good order, it is true but his retreat was accepted by the enemy as a signal for a general flight. Major Champion's force now held the grove and village to our right; whilst the left wing, relieved from the attacks of Shuja Kuli Khan's Cavalry, were free to act on the offensive. The result of the Battle of Buxar was no longer doubtful; and as Major Munro rode along the front of his victorious Army he was received with hearty cheers and congratulations. The English Army was ordered to be broken into Column, the left wing pursuing the enemy towards the Torah river, whilst the right wing advanced on the enemy's entrenchments. A final effort was still made by the Nawab Vazir ; who, collecting some of his troops, attempted to retrieve the battle. He might have succeeded, at any rate, in checking the precipitate flight of his Army, had not Bene Bahadur, entrusted with the protection of the camp and Fortress in ignorance of Shuja Kali Khan's failure and fate deeming success secured, allowed his troops to dismount and wander about at their ease. Suddenly the right wing of the British Army appeared in their midst, when, taken by surprise, and hurriedly mounting under our musketry fire, they made but a feeble attempt at resistance, and fled in the direction of the troops which the Nawab Vazir was attempting to re-form. Their flying Cavalry effectually frustrated all the enemy's endeavours to rally, and, thoroughly demoralised, they were now in full flight towards the ford over the Torah river. But a strange scene was being enacted in the enemy's camp ; where the Durani Horse notorious plunderers as soon as they found that the battle was decided against them, determined to appropriate to themselves whatever they could lay their hands on. Regardless of personal safety, they fell upon the Nawab Vazir' s baggage, helping themselves to his valuables ; whilst the British troops, deeming the captured camp and baggage to be their THE VICTORY OF UfXAIJ. lawful prize, resented the cupidity of the Dumni Horse ; the 17 210 THE VICTORY OF BUXAR. 1764. 58 wounded; the total loss of the British Army amounting to 9 European Officers and 838 rank and file, killed and wounded. Upwards of 2000 of the enemy lay dead on the field of battle or in the camp, and considerably more than that number were wounded ; these calculations not including the masses who perished in attempting to escape. Amongst the slain were found several of the French deserters; in addition to these three Frenchmen were made prisoners; one of whom purchased his ransom by bringing in with him seven of the enemy's guns, whilst the other two were tried by Drum-head Court Martial, and hanged by the Provost-Sergeant in presence of the whole Regiment. The Battle of Buxar brought to a conclusion a series of im- portant actions, fought, in all instances, against vastly superior numbers, the later engagements against soldiers equally well trained and equipped as our own. British authority had now* been established and maintained throughout the East India Company's territories ; and although there had been instances of crime, mutiny, and desertion, the achievements of the troops must be admitted to form a group of successes unsurpassed in history, and effected by a display of courage and endurance never exceeded by the Army of any nation in the world. The decoration, " Buxar," was ordered to be emblazoned on the Colours of the " Bengal European Regiment ;" a device inherited by the " Royal Minister Fusiliers." General Preferences. Chapter IX. Malleson's " Decisive Battles of India." Broome's " Rise and Progress of the Bengal Army." Williams' s " Bengal Infantry." The Seir Mutakherin. Historical Records, Bombay European Regiment. Proceedings of the Bengal Council. Thornton's " History of India." &c., &c. CHAPTER X. Occupation of Benares by the Army under Major Munro The attempt to Capture the Fortress of Chunar Submission of the Emperor Shah Alam Major Munro n>t ires from the Command of the Army The Battle of Seerpore under Sir 1'obert Fletcher Defeat and Dispersion of the Xawab Vazir's Army Capture of the Fortress of Allahabad Submission of the Fortress of <'hunar Brigadier -General Carnac assumes Command of the Army The Ilattlr of Kaljti Death of the Xawab Mir I 'afar Khan Submission of the Xa\val> Ya/ir of ()ude Reorganization of the Bengal European Regiment The Batta" Question Disaffection amongst the Officers of the Bengal Army. HE night succeeding the Battle of Buxar was passed by the troops on the field; and the three following days were employed in burying the dead and attending to the wounded, many of whom the dliooley bearers having absconded during the fight were left unattended on the ground where they fell; and, worse er L'.~)th, s till, tlie Medical Department was so numerically weak that several days elapsed before requisite operations were, performed, or all the wounds dressed. It is, however, specially recorded that the Officers did all in their power to alleviate the pain and distress of the sufferers, by visiting them constantly and administering " rice and water to the unfortunate-." On the 27th October the Bengal European Regiment accompanied the main Arniv on its advance 1 towards Benares; the Fortress and town of Buxar being left under the protection of the wounded Europeans and 1 Companies of Sepahi>. 212 THE BRITISH ARMY EXCAMP AT BENARES. 1764. Major Munro, fully alive to the importance of securing the goodwill of the inhabitants of the country through which he was October 27th, passing, issued stringent orders against plundering on the 1764. ] mc o f march and firing buildings or villages ; these orders being held by the Native soldiers and camp-followers to be an infringement of their just privileges, much discontent was. openly expressed. On the 5th November a Native Non-commissioned Officer detected in plundering was brought before Major Munro, and November 5th, immediately arraigned before a Drum-head Court 1764. Martial, by which he was sentenced to be hanged in presence of the whole Army. The sentence was carried into execution the same afternoon; after which all insubordination and pilfering ceased, and the country was, for the first time in the history of Bengal, exempted from the terrors and miseries which had invariably accompanied an invading Army in India. The 6th and 7th November were occupied in constructing as bridge across the Goomtee river, and on the 8th the Army encamped under the walls of the city of Benares. The wealth of Benares was said to be equal to that of Delhie itself, and the temptation to pillage was great ; but Munro protected the city from plunder by publicly making it known that any soldier or camp-follower found in the city without November 8th 26th, permission should be severely punished ; and any 1764< person detected in plundering would " be imme- diately hanged," and, to ensure the enforcement of these orders r a strong European guard was constantly quartered in the city. The day after the arrival of the British Army at Benares the inhabitants paid 40,000 to the troops in lieu of booty : the sum being divided as prize in the usual proportions. Whilst the Army was encamped on the plain outside the city the two Grenadier Companies of the Bengal European Regime nt November 8th 25th, formed part of a force under Major Pemble detached from the main Army to lay siege to the THE ASSAULT OF THE FOKTUESS OF CHUXAR. '2\'.\ Fortress of Chuuar. Mahomed Bahadur Khan, the Governor of 1764. Chnnar, notwithstanding that the British occupied the country, -till acknowledged the authority of the Xawab Vazir of Onde ; but, hearing that the Emperor commanded obedience to the British, lie attempted to persuade his garrison to submit to their authority, which so incensed his followers that they turned him out of the Fort and appointed his Lieutenant to the command. The Fort of Chiinar is picturesquely situated on an isolated rock, which forms the termination of the Rajmahal range of mountains where they abut on the river Gauges. The fortre . about ^(M) feet above the river and standing on its right bank, overhangs the town of Cliunarghar, which is to its rear. The defences, naturally as well as artificially formidable, follow the summit of the rocks on which the fortress is built; and, ult hough there were several batteries of considerable strength in which guns of heavy calibre were mounted, the defence of the garrison depended much on the facility for rolling down on the assailants masses of rock and stones, great quantities of which were alway> accumulated within the walls. The main Army at UCIKUV.-. under Major Munro, had lately been reinforced by two Companies of the Bengal European Regiment, one Company of the " Select Picket" and two Battalions of Sepahis : which augmentation had enabled him to detach the two Grenadier Companies of the Bengal Europeans to Chunar, and thcM- he now increased by the Company of Cadets, three Bat- talions of Sepahis, one Company of Pioneers, 50 Artillerymen Avith '.' ii'iins, and a detachment of Lascars. The Cadets forming the u Select Picket" were anxious for an opportunity to di.-tingui>h thcm>elvcs, the Commissioned Officers in the Company'.- Service being chiefly selected from amongst the ( 'adets of the "Select Picket." forcmo>t in di>ciplinc and efficiency. The Division under Major IVmblc crossed the river Ganges on the evening of the iM'.th November, and, passing quietly under the wall> of the Fonro- at night, pitched camp on the morning 214 THE ASSAULT OF THE FORTRESS OF CHUNAli. 1764. of the 27th on the plain to the south-west of the enemy's posi- tion, whilst Major Munro moved the headquarter camp to Sultanpore, a town opposite to the Fortress of Chunar, the river Ganges intervening. Major Pemble threw up two batteries, one opposite to the south-west angle of the Fortress, the other on the east side, but the work of breaching was very slow; and it was not until., on the 2nd of December, a breach at the south-west angle of the Fortress was reported practicable, and orders were issued for an assault early the next morning. The Grenadier Companies of the Bengal European Regiment and the Company of Cadets, with a Sepahi Battalion, formed December 3rd, tne storming-party ; whilst the rest of the force remained 1764. on t h e pl a i n below awaiting orders. Major Pemble, unwilling to unnecessarily expose his Europeans, adopted the unusual course of sending the Sepahis to the front to storm the breach. Before daybreak the Army left camp, the advance party reaching the base of the hill without any obstruction ; but as soon as the Sepahi Battalion commenced the ascent a heavy musketry fire was opened on it from above. The Sepahis at first advanced up the hill with great coolness ; but their progress was soon impeded by large masses of stones hurled down upon them from the walls. These stones, bounding over the rocks in uncertain directions, struck many of the men in their course, some being killed, whilst others, bruised and wounded, were precipitated down the hill. The retreat of the storming party now became general; the Sepahis, rushing headlong down the incline, carried away first the " Select Picket,'* and then the European Grenadier Companies, all being rolled up in a confused mass below, and exposed to much danger by reason of the stones and bullets now falling thickly amongst them. As soon as the disabled troops had been extricated from their December 3rd 4th, perilous position, Major Pemble temporarily with- 1764. drew from the attack, but on the night of Decem- THF. IIIMTISH T HOOPS WITHDRAWN. 215 her 4th the ass-udt was resumed, with the order of advance 17C4. reversed; the European Grenadiers taking the lead, followed by the "Select Picket," and last of all the Sepahis. The Grenadiers, under cover of the darkness, soon reached the crest of the hill, but, on nearing the breach, it was discovered that the enemy had P employed the interval between the assaults in repairing it and building up the face of the rock, now scarped for several feet, so that the bread i \va> no longer practicable. After several unsuccessful attempts to ascend the rock the troops were withdrawn, and. as Major Munro had reason to anticipate an immediate attack from the Xawab Vazir, orders were i>sued for Pemble's Detachment to recross the river immediately and join Army Headquarters at Sultanpore, which orders were Decjmber f>th. carried out next day, December 5th, when the following 11764. General Order was issued by Major Munro : " The " M ( 'ominaii4th, the day after the Battle of Buxar, with 300 recruits. The Headquarter Army had lately been considerably reinforced both from Patna and Calcutta: the Emperor also joining his small force to that of the British. The Nawab Ya/ir, who still had with him the trained Brigades under Sunirn, \\as hovering about in the vicinity of Benares; but, after hi> Buxar experience, he did not seem inclined to hazard another engagement, contenting himself with perpetually harassing the British and intercepting their communications. On the llth January, having obtained information that the Nawab Ya/ir" s camp was at Seerpore, Fletcher ordered a night .January llth Attack, but his information being defective and the guns i< <; ->- hindered l>\~ a river which it was found impossible to I cross without appliances not at hand the night attack was countermanded. Our Army now encamped: but as the enemy's Cavalry caused THE BATTLE OF SEERPORE. 1765. much annoyance Fletcher changed his plan of action. A Light Brigade was formed consisting of 8 Companies of the Bengal European Regiment, made up to a full strength of 100 men each, 60 European Cavalry, 1 Company of Artillery with 6 field-guns,, and 8 Battalions of Sepahis ; 7 days provisions being carried on camels with the Brigade. The rest of the Headquarter Army under Captain Sibbert was ordered to cover the city of Benares,, and keep open communication with the advanced force. The enemy, having failed against the British in open fight, , now fell back upon strategy. Their Commander, realising the in- tended British attack on his camp, ordered only a feeble resistance to be at first offered. It was believed that the assailants, having gained an easy victory, would occupy the Nawab Vazir's camp and then break up for loot ; when the enemy's Cavalry would be held in readiness to swoop down on the plunderers, recapture the camp, and destroy the broken British Army. The English Commander, fully alive to the enemy's stratagem, now caused all the Native Officers of the Sepahi Regiments " to swear, their men on the Alkoran that they would neither " " plunder nor leave their platoons without orders." On the 18th January Fletcher delivered his attack on the enemy's camp, which after a feeble resistance was occupied by our troops, who were quickly embattled to meet the stratagem. A steady Artillery and Musketry fire convinced the enemy that our troops had not fallen into the trap ; so, after a spiritless charge, they retired to consult ; when it was arranged amongst them that a more vigorous attempt to recapture their camp should be made later on ; but Fletcher at once advancing engaged the Nawab Vazir's Army, which now fairly broke and fled, pursued and utterly dispersed by our Cavalry. Two days after the British Army encamped at Joanpore : when it was ascertained that the Nawab Vazir had partially succeeded in re-forming his broken Army, with which he was- retiring towards Karrah, the headquarters of the Marathas. Fletcher, therefore, pushed forward to Allahabad, before which 1765. I Fortress lie arrived early in February. With the view of reducing the Fortress of Allahabad which is of considerable strength and commands the confluence of the .Jumna and Ganges rivers some siege guns had been ordered to be nary 1 Hh. S( ' nt by ' )(>: ' ts from Benares to join the Headquarter Army. Batteries were now erected, and the heavy guns having been placed in position, a vigorous cannonade was commenced; which, after a few hours, destroyed a portion of one of the main walls, and on the llth February, AH Beg Khan, the Governor, deeming resistance useless, surrendered the town and Fortress of Allahabad to the British Commander; stipulating that the Xawab Yazir's troops should retire unmolested, taking with them all private property; but the guns, stores, ammunition, and treasure fell to the captors. The British were now in possession of all the principal strong- holds of the Xawab Va/ir of Oude, who, with the small remnant of his broken Army, was wandering about the district powerless and ignored by his Allies; the whole country submitting to the IJritish as their conquerors, and to the Emperor Shah Alain as their Sovereign. In the meantime Major Sibbert, who, it will be remembered, was left in command of our troops at Benares, finding that the enemy had retired and that he could spare some soldiers from his headquarters, organised a small force to attempt a second time the reduction of the Fortress of ( 'hnnar. IJalteries were again erected, some practicable breaches effected, and the storniing-party formed; but before the attack was nary 8th, delivered the Commander of tlie Fortress, who had on the two previous occasions so successfully defended his position, ottered to capitulate. Having no provisions, without money, his troops mutinous and refusing to fight, the Nawab \ a/ir having fled, there was no one to whom he could apply for aid; and on handing over the keys of the Fortress he said, " I 220 CAPITULATION OF THE GARRISON OF CHUNAU. 1765. "have endeavoured to act like a soldier; but, deserted by my " u Prince, and with a mutinous garrison, what could I do ? " On the 13th February Brigadier-General Carnac assumed command of the Army ; but the Avar was now over, and there February loth 28th, being no enemy in the field he proceeded to annex 1765 - the whole of Oude ; and taking up his head- quarters in the palace of the fugitive Prince, employed himself in arranging the collection of the Revenues and receiving the submission of the Native Chiefs. On March 1st, 1765, the headquarters of the British Army, with which was the Bengal European Regiment, were concentrated at Allahabad. Although there was 110 force in the country of sufficient strength to endanger the supremacy of the British, the whole country between the Granges and the Jumna was exposed to constant raids from the Maratha Armies ; which, unopposed, were carrying on their depredations up to the very walls of the Fortress of Allahabad, and, setting all authority at defiance, burning the villages and collecting the revenue on their own account. On the 3rd of May the British troops had an engagement with the Maratha Army near the village of Karrah, when the enemy were forced back on their headquarter camp at Kalpi. On this occasion the Nawab Vazir was present with the enemy, but 011 their defeat he went off towards the Rohilla country, without having paid a sum of 50,000 promised to the Maratha Chiefs for the services of their troops. Sir Robert Fletcher, who had been appointed by General Carnac to command the troops in the field, being anxious to capture the Nawab Yazir, ordered a light Brigade to pursue him ; but the Nawab Vazir with only a small number of well-mounted followers eluded the grasp of the British ; .so our troops returned to their camp on the banks of the Jumna. On the 15th of May Fletcher again took the field against the Marathas, intending to .attack the enemy in his stronghold at Kalpi, and drive him to a TIN: MARATIIA AIIMV DEFEATED AT KAIJM. m l'l\ May L'lst. distance from what had now become British territory, and 17<;r,. thus put an end to the annoyance caused to our peaceful subjects by the incursions of these marauders. On the '2 1st "of May the British Army, with which was still the Bengal European Regiment, attacked the enemy's outposts, which May 21st. were carried : their main body retiring on their fortified 17(55. position at Kalpi. .V further forward movement was made by our Army, when the Marathas appeared on the plain in great force, offering battle. By a judicious manoeuvre, our Cavalry and Infantry encircled the enemy, whilst otvr Artillery concentrated its- fire on hi- position with such effect that, with their front and both flanks threatened, they were forced back into a morass and ground intersected by deep ravines, which completely crippled the movement- of the Maratha Army, formed mostly of Cavalry. Still circling round, our Infantrv and Artillerv advanced; our grape and musketry lire doing terrible execution, and preventing" the enemy from massing his troops, which in their scattered condition were charged by the Bengal European Regiment with such effect that they were driven at the point of the bayonet from every position they attempted to hold. For ><>nie hours the action, which was of a desultory nature, \\a> hotly contested: when at length the enemy gave ground, and their retreat soon became a disorderly flight. All the objects for May L'lst. which the expedition had been undertaken having been 1 ''' fullv accomplished, and the Doab completely cleared of the Maratha>. who retreated towards (Jwalior, our Army next day commenced its return march to Allahabad; ^^ of the Bengal Europeans with s field-guns forming the advance. The approaching rainy season now rendered it neces>ar\ that the troops should move under cover: and on arrival at July, Allahabad the Army was divided into three Columns; one 17ti:>. I, ,-Jng <|iiartered at that Fortress, one sent to .loanpore, and one to Benares. The Bengal European Battalion had suffered severe casualti '222 DEATH OF MIR j'AFAR KHAN. 17G5. in the field and from continued exposure during this, the hottest, season of the year ; a great number of the rank and file as well as July August the Officers having succumbed ; amongst the latter being 1705. Captains Henry Spelman, Thomas Bonaker and Ross. Two subjects of interest must now be noticed, viz., the death of the Nawab Mir J'afar Khan and the submission of the Nawab Vazir Shuja u'd daulah. Mir J'afar Khan had accompanied Major Carnac to Calcutta in June, 1764, when he handed over command of the Army in the field to Major Hector Munro. The Council desired the presence of the Nawab at Calcutta to assist them out of their financial difficulties ; their treasury being exhausted, and their main hope of relief depending on the power of the Nawab to pay the large amounts due under the treaty which had placed him a second time on his throne. Amongst these amounts in arrears was 50,000 a month payable for the British Army during the war. In the mean time Mir J'afar's revenues had been considerably reduced by three of his richest provinces Burdwan, Midnapore, and Chittagong having been ceded to the English. Iniquitous treaties and illicit trade had impoverished the revenues of the Council, and the Nawab's territories were again well-nigh reduced to the same exhausted condition as when Mir J'afar resigned the Subadarie. The Nawab, harassed by the demands of the Council, supplanted in his authority, worn out in his constitution, and sick at heart, retired to his Capital in December, 1764; and in the following January he died. Under the Nawab Mir J'afar's will 50,000 was bequeathed to Lord Clive for his own use ; but Clive, feeling that the new covenants precluded him from accepting the legacy, instituted a Fund for the relief of Officers and men of the Bengal Army who might be forced to retire from the Service, either on account of wounds or disease, before they were entitled to pensions or relief from the Government. SriiMISSlON OF THE NAWAI5 VA/IU. This bee. Snmru the arch traitor had transferred his allegiance and that of his trained Brigades to the Jaths ; and the Emperor had, as already stated, placed himself under the protection of the British, The Nawab Ya/.ir. docrted by his allies, alone, and powerlc . determined to follow the example of the Emperor and submit unconditional!} to the English Commander. On -1th May he wrote to General Carnac, informing him that M: v 4th, :1 U the disturbances which had taken place were "contrary " 1 '''' "to his inclinations." lie " now saw things in their proper " " light." and was desirous of delivering himself into the hands of the British. In reply, General Carnac informed him that he might with 224 17( - 5 perfect confidence come to the British Camp " as to his own ' r " house," and if he should prove that his attachment to the English was sincere he would receive every consideration at their hands. The Nawab Vazir entered our Camp on the 26th May, when May 26th, he was received with much ceremony, and informed under 1765> instructions from the Council that there was every prospect of his dominions being restored to him on easy terms. Lord Clive's second Administration commenced on May 3rd,, 1765. His previous services in India had been acknowledged by his Sovereign and Parliament ; and he had been promoted to the rank of Major-General, nominated a Companion of the Bath, and created a Peer of Ireland under the title of Baron Clive of Plassey. The Court of Directors, not placing implicit confidence in the- judgment of their Council at Calcuttta, had appointed a " Select Committee," with almost unlimited power, to supervise its pro- ceedings. Of this Committee Lord Clive, as Governor and Commander-in-Chief, was nominated President. His duties included the remodelling the Army, and correcting the abuses existing both in the Civil and Military services. Clive had in former years largely benefited from the very system which he had now undertaken to expose and eradicate. The vast responsi- bility and the certainty of the universal dissatisfaction which his proceedings must entail would have made most men hesitate before accepting a trust which must transform his friends into* enemies, and evoke results, the effects of which would probably involve him in life-long disputes and difficulties. Clive's responsibilities at this crisis were of a nature to call forth all the energies and forethought of that great Commander ; the Emperor of Hindustan, Shah Alam, stood a suppliant before him ; Shuja u'd daulah, the ex-Nawab Vazir of Oude, w;is seeking mercy ; and beside him stood Bulwant Sing, the ex-Raja of the rich province of Benares, who had been deposed by our Commander after the Battle of Buxar. I. OKI) OLIVE'S SKCOM) AI>.MIM>TK. \TION. Lord ('live determined to adopt ;i lenient policy towards his 1765. suppliants, thinking that our later conquests however glorious from a Military point had increased the responsibilities of the ( 1 ouncil beyond all reason, and weakened their power to govern or control. Tinier these circumstances he resolved that the territories of the East India Company should be confined strictly within its own limits; beyond which Native Princes should be placed in authority, they signing treaties with us and each other, offensive and defensive; thus converting our late enemies into friends and allies. The Select Committee ordered that the Nawab Vazir should be forthwith restored to his Government in Oude.* The Government of the East India Company consented to acknowledge Shah Alain as "Emperor of Hindustan," and for the maintenance of his dignity ceded to him the rich provinces known as the Donah, situated between the rivers Ganges and .Jumna : and, further, they agreed that, until he should be enabled to po>se.-s himself of his throne at Delhie, they would protect these provinces by retaining a garrison of Company's troops at the Fortress of Allahabad. In consideration of these conditions the Emperor, on his part, confirmed the British in their possession of Bengal, Behar, and Orissa, with authority to collect and apply all the revenues. Lord ('live restored Uulwant Sing, the ex-Raja of Benares, to his former po>ition: and treaties offensive and defensive were concluded between all partio. Although the Fortress of Chimar was within the province of Benares it was ordered to be garrisoned by Company's troops. We must now treat of the reform.- which ('live introduced into the Army. It had always, since the earliest days of the East India Company, been a recognised privilege that, if the ( )fh'cci> of the Army * In 1M!> the title of X;t\val>. as applied to the ruler of ()ule. tell into 'lire, and that of Kin^ \\a.>. under treaty with the Hast India Company, substituted THE " BATTA " QUESTION. 1765. should render special services to Native Princes, they should be allowed to receive presents in proportion. Further although not perhaps strictly recognised it was well known by the authorities, that the Officers in the Service participated in profits accruing from trading transactions. The net Military pay of the Officers of the Army was insignificantly small; for, even admitting that the actual necessaries of life were inexpensive, all articles of European manufacture were proportionately the reverse. The privilege of being allowed to accept presents from Native Chiefs, and to participate in profits from trade, was occasionally abused, and by none more so than those highest in power; but, rightly or wrongly, these privileges were viewed by the Officers of the Army in the light of compensation for insufficient pay ; and any interference with these established usages was likely to produce ill-feeling and resentment. Now the pay proper per month, half batta, full batta, and double batta, of the Officers of the European Infantry of different grades, calculated in English money had been as follows : ^ .5 cS >l S %^ -S ^ o s V O ^ ^-"^ ^- r* o rt CD % .3 _cg ! -^ ee o S g Q, *h ce s 1? RANK. M o fl'g 1 i 1 ^ T3 ^ |.g h 1 1 II ll l 51 ; al S "^ IS rO Qf IS s. d. S. d. s. d. s. d. Colonel - 31 38 15 77 10 155 Lieut.-Colonel- 24 16 31 62 124 Major 18 12 23 5 46 10 93 Captain - 12 8 9 6 18 12 37 4 C apt. -Lieut. 6 4 9 6 18 12 37 4 Lieutenant 6 4 6 4 12 8 24 16 Ensign - 5 4 13 9 6 18 12 Cadet ... 3 2 6 4 12 8 f f LIVK*> - TIJ \DT\i; ASSOCIATION." '2'2~ Surgeons were paid as ( 'aptains. AjMlrtant-Surgeone as Lieu- 171;:,. tenants. In addition to these sums Colonels commanding Brigades were entitled to 4 ]>('! diem on account of "table allowances." Officers were supplied with tents according to rank these being carried on the line of inarch free of cost. It is now necessary that some explanation should he given regarding " batta," which formed so large an item in the Officers' allowance.'. " Batta " was originally granted as a donation intended to compensate Officers for extra expenses when at a distance from the Presidency town. "Field and double batta'' had been granted to Officers of the I-engal Army under special conditions and circumstances a lni which had not been tjrauted in the other Presidencies and ('live was. under orders from the Court of Directors, about to place all the Annies on an equal footing as regards "batta." There wen- these two reforms to be introduced, both trenching on what was held by the Officers to be their rightful privileges, and both materially effecting their emoluments: and it was dive's aim, as far as possible, in carrying out the orders of the Court, to provide against unnecessary loss of emoluments, and to secure, as far as possible, the goodwill, at any rate, of the senior ( )fficers. With this view (live established what now-a-days would be called A Joint Stock Trading Association." As all private trade by the Company's Servants was to be prohibited, he intended that the proposed " Association," superintended by the (Jovernment, should supply funds to compensate the -enior Officers of the Army and others for the loss of privileges hitherto enjoyed. The nominal capital of dive's "Trading Association" was fixed at 320,000, upon which, says its proposer "the most" "moderate may expect to make ~)0 per cent, clear of all charges," "others 7.") per cent, and the nut sanguine 100 per cent." The meaning of this was that, at the uost moderate computation 228 OLIVE'S 1765. there would be a net profit on the transactions of the Association of at least 160,000 per annum ; this profit to be divided amongst the shareholders in lieu of the profits hitherto derived from their private trade. Reference has previously been made to the ''permits" or " distues " which led to the war against Mir Kassim ; and which brought the largest profits, specially in trading in salt ; and as under the new regulations all "permits" would be withdrawn from private hands, it was from a tax on salt, principally, that Clive intended to pay his dividends ; and by the new arrangement the Natives of the country would be supplied with the commodity some fifteen per cent cheaper than heretofore. The Capital of the "Association" was divided into 35 full shares, corresponding with the interests of the holders, and it was estimated that each share would yield a profit of 5000 per annum. The shares were allotted as follows : Shares. The Governor 5 Second in Council and Commander-in-Chief, each.. 3 10 other Members of Council and Colonels of Brigades, each , 2 1 Chaplain, 14 Senior Merchants, and 3 Lieutenant- Colonels, each Oi 13 Factors, 4 Majors, 6 Surgeons, 1 Secretary to Government, 1 Sub-Accountant, 1 Assis- tant, each 0^ Having thus assured the interests of the senior Officers of the Army, Clive, on the 3rd August, 1765, issued the following Order: " A General Court of Proprietors having resolved that certain " " covenants should be executed by all Officers in their Service," " the Governor and Council having received the strictest in- ' " junctions from the Court of Directors to put the resolution of ' f " the said General Court in execution immediately in obedience " RE-ORGANISATION OF THE BENGAL ARMY. 229 "to these commands, it is hereby ordered that the said " 1705. " covenants l>e immediately executed." No serious opposition was at first raised to the terms of the new covenants; copies were sent to the different stations, which were duly executed, and returned to headquarters without comment. In August Clive turned his attention to the re-organisation of the Bengal Army. The Bengal European Battalion at this August 5th time upwards of 1600 strong was ordered to be formed into three Regiments : or, as it would now be designated, the Regiment was ordered to be broken into three Battalions. To enable Clive to carry out this change effectively, several Officers, specially selected for commands, and a large number of recruits, had been sent by the Court of Directors for service in Bengal The command of the 1st European Regiment was conferred on Brigadier-General Carnac; the second on Lieutenant-Colonel Knox:* the third on Lieutenant-Colonel Sir Robert Barker. Majors Sir Robert Fletcher, Peach, and Chapman were pro- moted to Lieutenant-Colonelcies; and Majors Chapman and Sibbert, and Captain Hugh (irant, were appointed to the three Regimental Majorities. Kacli Regiment of' Kuropean Infantry was Officered as follows: 1 ( 'olonel, 18 Ensigns, 1 Lieutenant-Colonel. 1 Surgeon, 1 Major, ."> Surgeon-Mates, ' ( 'aptains. 1 Adjutant, 1 Captain-Lieutenant, 1 Quartermaster, ( .> Lieutenant-. and consisted ()<) European recruits annually. But the time had now arrived for Clive to carry out the orders of the Court of Directors and cancel the payment of the " double batta" to the troops. It has been already explained that " double batta" was originally intended to cover extra expenses entailed on Officers of the Army, whilst on service, or stationed, at a distance from the Presidency town. It was after the Battle of " Plassey " that the newly-appointed Nawab, Mir I 'afar Khan, in the fulness of his gratitude to the Army which had so materially assisted him to his throne, promised them "double batta" as long as they might be em- ployed in his service. \\ hen Mir Kassim had succeeded Mir .Tatar in the Soubadarie, he provided for the continuance of the " double batta ;" and to ensure its regular payment by the Company, Mir Kassim assigned to them the rich provinces of Midnapore, Burdwan, and Chitta- gng. Tims the "double batta" had been regularly paid to the Army lor seven consecutive years, and was considered by the Officer- as property in which they had a vested interest, the more so as the funds from which payment was made had been provided lor in perpetuity out of the revenues of the above ceded districts. Now, the Court of Directors had turned their seriu> attention to the Mibject of curtailing expense under this head, and on Several occasions had >ent peremptory orders to the Council for the discontinuance of "double batta" payments. On the last occasion on which the orders of the Court on this subject had been received the troops had just gained an important victory at Buxar: and the Council rightly judging that it would be an T1IK " 1JATTA " QUESTION. 1756. impolitic measure., just at that time, to deprive the troops of the greater part of their allowances, the consideration of the "batta" question had heen again deferred. Clive had now arrived in Bengal with reiterated orders on the subject, and although he had informed the Court that he disapproved of their order, he felt that the execution of their positive instructions could not be longer delayed. In September a Government notification was published, stating that on January 1st, 1766, the issue of double batta to the troops would be discontinued, an exception being made in the September, case of the 2nd Brigade, stationed at Allahabad, " on " 1765. <( account of the high price of provisions at that station, " " and the expenses of procuring the necessary European articles " " at so great a distance from the Presidency." No opposition to Olive's orders was apparent for some weeks ; but a feeling of discontent had pervaded the minds of a large proportion of the junior Officers of the Army. The Field Officers who had been promised shares in the " Trading Association " felt themselves compensated for any loss of allowances, and they for the most part discouraged discontent amongst their juniors ; but as the effects of the Order began to tell on the monthly pay, and as communications between the malcontents became more frequent, feelings of a sense of their wrongs were openly expressed. Committees were secretly appointed in the several Brigades to ascertain the feelings of individual sufferers, and it soon became apparent that the dissatisfaction was general ; it being universally felt that the order was a cruel attempt to rob the juniors of their just rights, and that the seniors had been bought over by the Governor with shares in his " Joint Stock Association," in order that they might assist the Government in depriving the juniors of the "batta" to which they deemed themselves justly entitled. The malcontents determined in the first instance that an appeal should be made to the Council for redress ; but, should THE " BATTA QUESTION. 233 this not 1)0 accorded, that a 'Minion" of the Captains and 1765. Subalterns should be organised, all binding themselves to resign their Commissions on a given day. Funds were largely subscribed, and an oath administered ; the confederates swearing that they would protect " at the sacrifice of " "their lives" any of the members who might be condemned to death for mutiny. It was arranged that the general resin-nation of Commissions was to take place on June 1st, 1766; after which it was considered that, as those who had resigned the Service would no longer be bound by the Army regulations, they would be at liberty to lawfully render assistance to any of the confederates under arrest or sentence of a Court Martial. A portion of the 2nd Brigade, with which was the 2nd Kuropean Regiment, at first quartered at Allahabad, had lately been sent to Karrah to take the field against a Maratha Army aembling near that place with the intention of disturbing the provinces lately ceded to the Emperor. Under these circum- stances the Officers of this Brigade, being on Active Service, felt that they could not with honour join the defection, but thev said that after the campaign "they would not continue" k> to hold their Commissions to the prejudice of those Officers " " who should resign." Having thus justified themselves to their comrades for taking independent action, they sent a petition to Lord Clive at this time at Murshedabad pointing out their grievances in respectful language, and praying for redress; this petition being signed by (\ Captains, 3 Lieutenant-Captains, 12 Lieutenants, and 20 En- signs. ('live replied t hat, as the memorial had not been sent through the authorised channel, it could not be acknowledged officially, but he told the petitioners that, as the order of the Court of Directors was peremptory, the Council had no power t< grant their petition. me other memorials of a like nature had been received bv 234 THE " BATTA " QUESTION. 1760. the Government, but still no suspicion existed of the extent to which disaffection had spread. On the 25th April Colonel Sir Robert Fletcher informed Lord Olive that the Officers of the 1st Brigade were bent on making a supreme effort to recover their batta ; and that they had forwarded to him their Commissions, and refused to draw their pay for the month of May : at the same time expressing; their willino;- April, 1766. J ness to serve as volunteers until the decision of the Govern- ment should be made known. It soon became apparent that the movement was universal. A letter found its way into Lord Clive's possession, which was written by an Officer at Karrah, signed " Full batta," from which it appeared that 150 Officers had entered into an agreement to resign their Commissions on a given day. Just as these alarming reports of the mutinous feelings amongst the Officers of the Army reached Clive he became aware that the Marathas were not only threatening the districts under the government of the Emperor, but had also avowed their intention of invading the Company's territories in Bengal. Under the recent Army re-organisation one of the newly-formed Brigades would have been sufficient to protect the country against any such invasions ; but should the Army be deprived of its Officers the case would be serious, the more so, as it was not impossible that in the height of their resentment they might even attempt to suborn their men. Clive, quite aware of the gravity of the situation, ordered a Special Committee, composed of himself as Chairman, and General Carnac and Mr. Sykes as members, to advise on the question of what was called " the Mutiny of the Officers of the Bengal " " Army." The Committee resolved to make no concessions, but to repress the disorder with a strong hand ; to discover the ringleaders of the mutiny, and punish them severely, but to deal out mercy to the penitents judiciously. Clive fully admitted that the aspect of affairs was something more than serious ; with an enemy day by TIIK M II VITA day approaching nearer, and looking with an hungry eye on the 1766 fertile provinces of Bengal ; and the Officers of the Armv, who should be guarding these provinces, unreliable. ruder orders of the Special Committee the following measures were adopted. A dispatch was sent to the Madras Government requesting that they would at once send as many Captains and Subalterns as could be spared; the urgency of the case being explained, and every encouragement held out to Officers who would volunteer for service in Bengal. A resolution was also passed that any Officer resigning his Commission should be debarred from ever again holding any appointment whatever in the Company's Service; and copies of these resolutions were sent to Commanding Officers with instructions to communicate them to their subordinates. It has been stated that Clive was at this time at Murshedabad taking measures with N 11)111 u'd daulah, the young Xawab, for the government of his provinces under the new arrangements con- cluded with the Kmperor. Now, as there was a large force at Murshedabad. Clive rightly supposed that the Officers quartered there had joined the defection. With these men Clive undertook to deal personally, and sending for the Officers singly, he placed before them the enormity of their offence, urging them to pause before committing the serious crime of Mutiny. After some * he.-itation the two Senior Captains declared their intention of cancelling their resignations, their example being followed by all the juniors except two Lieutenants.* This course which had succeeded so well at Murshedabad was tried with equal success at the Presidency: most of the malcon- tents returning to their dnt v. dive's hands now strengthened, he proceeded to Monghyr, where the disaffection was at its height. The troops at this station were commanded by Sir Robert Fletcher, who had pursued a course * These twi < Mlieers afterwards expressed contrition, and were restored to the s'.-rviee with h^s of rank. 236 THE " BATTA " QUESTION. of deception which tended to mislead and embarrass the Government ; for, whilst openly condemning the conduct of the Officers under his command, he had secretly encouraged them in their disaffection. Previous to his departure from Murshedabad to Monghyr, Clive had wisely deputed Major Champion of the 1st Bengal European Regiment to endeavour to bring the Officers at Monghyr to reason ; but his attempts had not been attended with much success. It was discovered that the Officers at Monghyr had communicated with their comrades at Madras, explaining the nature of their grievances, and attempting to dissuade them from taking service in Bengal. Immediate measures were now adopted by the Committee to prevent any letters of a seditious nature leaving Calcutta. In the meantime several Officers of the Madras Army had accepted the offers of the Bengal Government, and some of these had already arrived in Calcutta and proceeded to stations up country. Instructions were now sent to Officers commanding Brigades to accept all resignations tendered, and to dispatch those so resigning to Calcutta. But affairs at Allahabad had taken a more serious turn. As soon as Major Smith, commanding, discovered that his Officers were implicated, he placed several under arrest ; and, turning out his Sepahis, ordered them to shoot any of the prisoners who might attempt to escape ; and by this bold measure he brought the dis- affected Officers to reason ; Major Smith sending the six ringleaders to Patna to be tried by Court Martial, and releasing the rest on their making promises of good behaviour. On the 15th May Lord Clive arrived at Monghyr; the disaffected Offices not being present, as Fletcher had on the previous day ordered them out of cantonments. A detachment of Sepahis under a trustworthy Officer was now sent to the Officers' encampment with orders for them to proceed THE " HATTY 176C. to Calcutta. The effect of this order was startling; 1766 for there was no time allowed for preparations of any kind; and those not provided with the means of transit were obliged to proceed on foot, sad and disgraced. On the 20th May Lord Clive reached Bankipore, where was quartered the 2nd Brigade under Sir Robert Barker, who, when his Officers handed him their Commissions, had simply declined to receive them ; the Officers still maintaining a determined attitude ; but continued performing their duties with regularity. Simultaneously with dive's arrival at Bankipore, came the intelligence of the fate of the malcontents at Monghyr, can sing symptoms of hesitation on the part of the Bankipore Officers, which terminated in absolute submission. It only remains for us to state the measures adopted by Lord Clive to punish the offenders. Repentance was now the order of the day : and the majority of those who had been sent in disgrace to Calcutta petitioned to be allowed to cancel their resignations, and return to the Service. These petitions were ultimately granted; but not until the offenders had waited in uncertain! v and anxiety for several months, during which time those Officers who had taken service in Bengal from Bombay and Madras had lieen promoted over their heads: dive being thus enabled to mete out punishment according to the dements in eacli case. Several of the ringleadera were (dtimately dismissed the Service by .-eiitence of Court Martial; amongst them Colonel Sir Robert Fletcher." found -guilty of mutiny" "and having excited" " -edition, and after coming to the knowledge of a mutiny having " "delayed to give information thereof to his Commanding ( )fficer." He wa> cashiered. ( )n the L^nd September a (leiieral Order was published \>\ the authority of the Court of Directors, granting an Amnesty to all * Sir Robert Fletcher was ultimately restored to the Service by the Court of Directors, by whom he \\ as appointed ( 'oiiiiiiaiider-in-( 'hief of Madras, where lie took a leading part in the opposition to Lord Pigot. 238 LIEUTENANT GEORGE FRANCOIS GRAND. concerned in the mutiny, and to prevent the possibility of a September 27th, recurrence every Officer was required to sign a 1766. <( Covenant,"* under which he engaged to serve the Company for a period of three years, undertaking that he would not "then or at any other time quit the said Service without" " giving twelve months' previous notice in writing of such inten-" " tion." The means which Olive adopted to suppress the mutiny in the Bengal Army, proved him to be pre-eminently a leader of men ; whilst the Officers were guilty of defection and insubordination he was fearless, uncompromising, and even severe ; but as soon as signs of contrition were perceptible tempering justice with mercy, and throwing to the winds all feelings of revenge he again stood forward as the soldiers' champion and friend. The Bengal European Regiment had now served the East India Company for ten years ; and it will be interesting at this period to refer to a work published at the Cape of Good Hope in 1814, by Mr. George Francois Grand, called "Narrative of the Life of a Gentleman long resident in India." Mr. Grand joined the Bengal European Regiment as a Cadet immediately after the events just recorded, and his experiences can hardly fail to be of interest to those serving in the Regiment in after years. He says: "After bearing a soldier's musket on the line of " " march, constantly attending the mock sieges and battles which " " took place in our fixed encampment on the borders of the " river, the Colonel was pleased to accede to the wishes " " expressed to him on my behalf by Lord Clive, and I suddenly " " found myself rewarded for the activity and diligence which I " " had displayed in unremitting attention to my duty, by being " " nominated to act as Ensign. We returned soon after to " O " cantonments, where I had the gratification of seeing myself " *' confirmed by a Commission of Ensign, signed by his Lordship * This " Covenant" was to be signed by Civil as well as Military Employes, hence the term " Covenanted Servants,'' in contradiction to local servants, who were not required to sign. LIEUTENANT FRANCOIS (J1IAM). 239 lie 1th September (17(>6). Tins early act of approbation mated my zeal, and for three years that I served in the uropean Regiment under the celebrated martinet, the late Colonel Gilbert Ironside, I can equally voneli my constant per.-cverance in the readiest observance to my superiors acquired me new friends and the esteem of the Commanding Officer of the Brigade Colonel diaries Chapman in whose family I lived, and acted as Assistant-Secretary to his Staff establishment. The Army, at my entrance into the Service, consisted of three Brigades. Each Brigade consisted of one European Regiment, <> Battalions of Sepoys, and a proportion of Artillery, with 100 Black Horse; and the highest rank enjoved for such a command was that of Colonel. Besides these, there were in different cities of the three Provinces Militia Sepoys, under the name of Pergunnah. These served for the purpose of guarding the treasuries. " In the month of September, 1766, I was on orders to proceed up the country with a detachment of recruits for the 3 Brigades under the command of the late Colonel James Ilannav (then Captain Ilannay), who as well as myself had recently arrived from Europe. Arrived at Bankiporc. then the canton- ment of the L'nd Brigade. I was introduced by him to the late (icncral Richard Smith, then the Colonel thereof. This Brigade took the field soon after repairing to the banks of the CarumnassMh. and was there stationed at hand to assist our Ally, the Xawab Vi/ier Shujah ul Dowlah, had the Afghan Prince Abdulah Khan put his tin-eats into execution of invading the former's dominions. Our cantonments in 17(17 took fire, and such was the rapidity with which the thatched bungalows burnt that scarcely an Officer had one moment to save anything of his equipment. 'Hie ( MIX eminent , with that liberality consistent to men vested to such a tru.-K required upon honour a statement from each Officer of his los.-. and eYery one wa> reimbur.-ed accordingly to the stated amount. 1766. 240 LIEUTENANT GEORGE FRANCOIS GRAND. 1766. " This accident gave rise to the question of barracks both at " " Dinapore and Berhampore, and the grand scale on which " " these were formed entailed such an expense on the Honourable " " Company and sunk such a capital as to have caused them to " regret that the double full batta had been struck off by Lord " " Clive instead of being continued in the field, and the full " " batta preserved in the Company's provinces conditionally that " " each Officer found his own quarters."* * It will add to the interest attached to these extracts to state that Mr. George Francois Grand subsequently married at Chandernagore the beautiful Mdlle. Noel Catherine Werlee, the daughter of M. Werlee, Capitaine du Port and Chevalier de Saint Louis. This lady, the victim of a heartless trick which compromised her beyond all redress, was in consequence divorced from her husband in 1779 ; two of the judges entering a protest against the verdict. After an eventful and not altogether reputable life, she married on the 10th September, 1802, the Prince Talleyrand de Perigord, Foreign Minister of France, and for good or evil exercised considerable influence at the Emperor Napoleon's Court. General References. Chapter X. Broorne's " Rise and Progress of the Bengal Army." Proceedings of the " Select " Committee. Royal Military Calendar. Williams's " Bengal Infantry." The Seir Mutakherin. Proceedings of the Bengal Council. " Founders of the Indian Empire." Malleson. Thornton's "History of India," &c., &c. CHAPTER XI. 'I he Kmperor Shah Alain possesses himself of his Throne at Delhie - I'ndertakesa War against the Rohillas The Rohillas seek the Protection of the Xawab of Oude The Nawab of Oude seeks British assistance to exterminate tin- Rohillas A Treaty with this object entered into by the Governor- (u'lieral Colonel Champion defeats the Rohilla Troops under Hafiz Kehnmt The British attack Fyzulla Khan Dissatisfaction of the British Troops Terms of Peace with Fyzulla Khan Death of Shuja u'd daulah, the Nawab of Oude, and Succession of A soff u'd daulah The Raja of Benares threatened with Expulsion Defeat of the Raja by Major Popham Capture of the Fort of Bridge-ghur The Bengal European Battalion sent against Haidar AH to Madras Capture of the Fort of Karungalli Relief of Wandiwash Attack on Chilam brain Battle of Porto Novo Capture of the Fort of Tripassore Battle of Pollilore Battle of Veracundalore Death of (ieneral Sir Kyiv ( 'oote Battle of Cuddalore Peace proclaimed with F rimer Return of the Bengal European Battalion to Bengal. <>K'1> CMYK'S estimate of the profits likely to be derived from the working of his fct Trading Associa- tion " \v:is found not to be over- sanguine, and the scheme had proved so remunerative that the senior Officers of the Army were satisfied, and Clive was enabled to carry out the orders of the Directors for the reduction of the "hatta:" but when the Court had before them the details of the "Trading AsM.ciation" they condemned it absolutely, and iusi.Med on its abolition. This order placed Clive in a serious dilemma, from which he mi^ht have extricated himself by abandon- ing the scheme: but he had entered with the Field Officers of the Rental Armv and others into certain obligation^ which he felt bound to fulfil. Under these circumstances, he sanctioned the K 242 THE EMPEROR GAINS POSSESSION OF HIS THRONE. 1767. continuance of the Trading Association for another year, when he hoped the Directors would have consented to a general increase of Military pay. The amelioration of the distress caused to the junior Officers by the loss of their " batta " allowance now engaged Olive's attention, and he arranged that the stringent rules regarding private trade should in their case be temporarily modified. On the 29th January, 1767, Lord Olive left India for the last time, accompanied by his friend General Carnac; Mr. Verelst succeeding as Governor of Bengal. At this time Delhie, the capital of Hindustan, was in the hands of the Afghans; but, the puppet-king having lately died, the Emperor Shah Alam again showed a natural anxiety to gain possession of his throne. With this view he dispatched one of his ministers to Calcutta, in the hope of inducing the Council to assist him in his schemes. Though the Emperor's proposals did not altogether find favour in Calcutta, the British Govern- ment did not oppose his wishes ; and Shah Alam therefore determined, with the assistance promised by the Marathas and other powerful Chiefs, to attempt to possess himself of his capital and throne ; the King of Oude, for purposes of his own, encouraging him and advancing him large sums of money. In the month of May, 1771, the Emperor marched from Allahabad with an Army of 16,000 men, and on the 25th of the December, following December made his public entry into his 1771. Capital. Hardly had he occupied his throne when his Maratha Allies obliged him to take the field against the Kohillas ; their object being plunder, whilst the Emperor hoped to annex the Kohilla country. The Kohillas were a warlike tribe of Northmen, who originally migrated from Koh, a district situated amongst the Afghan mountains. The Kohillas were constantly employed on Military services in India, and composed for many years the chief part of the Moghul Armies. In reward for their services they hud cu >i> wm< ii IJ;D TO TIN-: FIRST KOHILLA WAR. *2-\.\ obtained large and valuable poe. ions in the rich country lying 1772. between the Upper Ganges and the Himalayan mountains. The Rohillas, being unable to compete with the Army of the Emperor and the Marathas combined, their chief Zabita Khan was defeated ; and. flying across the Ganges, was pursued, his troops dispersed, and Rohilkund, in conxMmcnce. placed in peril. The Rohillas had possessed an Army of *(),<)()() men; but their Chiefs of the different tribes refusing to amalgamate, their united strength was never available. Their rich country extended on the east as far as the confines of Oude, and had always been watched by the king of that conntrv with a covetous eye. The Marathas held all the country to their south, the Rohillas had just been driven from their western provinces; and, with a disjointed and crippled Army, they found themselves powerless against the forces by which they were surrounded. It was under the.-c circumstances that the Rohillas sought the protection of the Nawab Ya/ir of Oude; and, knowing his dread of the incursions of the Marathas, proposed to enter into a tn-atv with him, offensive and defensive: and after several months of deliberations a treaty on these lines was signed on May 17th, 1772. Under its articles Shuja u'd daulah, the Nawab of Oude. engaged to expel the Marathas from the Rohilla country, for which accommodation the Rohillas agreed to pay I'lo.nno. Notwithstanding thi> treaty the Marathas continued, unopposed, to devastate the Kohilla country : whilst the Xawab of Oude had 1 1 .ember, returned to his ( 'apital so terrified at the encroachments of the Marathas that he wrote to the Calcutta Council urging them to send Kuropean troops tor his protection, as he was tearful that the Rohillas and the Maratha.- combining \\ould invade the ( hide provinces. I nder the treaty between Lord Clive and the Xawab of Oude when the latter was restored to his throne \li\rt it was stipu- lated that the British should aid the Xawab with troops if his 244 CAUSES WHICH LED TO THE FIRST KOHILLA WAR. 1773 country should be seriously threatened ; and the Council now feeling bound to comply with the Nawab's request, Sir Robert Barker, with a portion of his Brigade, including the Second Bengal European Regiment, some Sepahi Battalions, and Artil- lery, was ordered to take the field and prevent the Marathas from menacing the kingdom of Oude. The combined Armies of the Nawab and the East India Company entered Rohilkund, taking up a position which acted as a check to the incursions of the Marathas ; but, notwithstanding these precautions, a Maratha Army crossed the Ganges, over-ran the Rohilla country, and destroyed the cities of Moradabad and Sumbul. Sir Robert Barker's orders were to protect the provinces of Oude, but on no account to act on the offensive. The Marathas, finding themselves unopposed by the British, laid waste the Rohilla country; but fortunately in May, 1773, they were recalled by their Government for the protection of their own provinces, threatened from without. The departure of the Marathas was a source of joy both to the Nawab of Oude and the Rohillas; but no sooner was the former relieved from fear of invasion than he applied to the Council to assist him to exterminate the Rohillas. Mr. Warren Hastings had been appointed Governor-General early in the previous year ; and had lately received peremptory instructions from the Court of Directors to reduce his Military expenditure. The Nawab of Oude offered high terms for the services of the British soldiers, and to accept his offer appeared to the Governor-General a simple way of complying with the orders of the Court. To use Warren Hastings' own words " A saving " " of near one-third of our Military expenses would be effected " " during the period of such service the stipulation of 40 lacks " " (400,000) would afford an ample supply to our treasury ; the " " Vizir would be freed from a troublesome neighbourhood and ;> " his dominions be much more defensible." The offer of the Nawab of Oude was accepted by Mr. Warren CAUSES WHICH LED TO THE FIltST IIOHILLA WAU. Hastings, on the part of the Council, at a meeting arranged 177:5 hot ween both parties at Benares. ( )n this occasion another subject of vast importance occupied the attention of the contracting parties. After the Maratha Army had placed Shah Alam on his throne at Delhie, they com- pelled the Emperor to give them in reward for their services the districts of Korrah and Allahabad. It will be remembered that ('live had handed over these districts to the Emperor, when resettling the country in 1765. This transfer to the Marathas did not meet with the approval of the Council; they ruling that, as the Emperor had permanently absented himself from the provinces, he had forfeited his claim to the Government, as well as to the L ; ii lacs (260,000) annually, which under treaty he had received from the Council. The Governor-General did not desire to retain possession of the Korrah and Allahabad districts, but the Nawab of Oude had always coveted t lioe possessions and now offered to pay 50 lacs r;,< M ),()<)() for them. This bargain was struck by the Governor- (Jeneral at the P>enarcs conference : and. having obtained a treaty signed by the Xawab officially recording these transactions, Hastings returned to Calcutta, and Shuja u'd danlah visited his newly-ac<|uired provinces. In doing so he took the opportunity in the absence of the Maratha Army to possess himself of some forts and strongholds still held by small detachments of the Maratha-. It W9& not until November that the Nawab was prepared to foTember, <''UTy into effect the plans which he had arranged with Hastings for the reduction of the IJohillas : and he now applied to the Council fur the use- of the Companv's troops to (fleet his pui'j The Nawab' s application caused some embarrassment, for Warren Hastings had not given his colleague.- to understand very clearly what had been arranged at the Benares conference; but in .January Culunel Champion, the ( 1 ommander-in-Chief. received 24 (> THE FIRST KOHILLA WAR. January, orders to advance with a Brigade, including the 2nd Bengal 1774 - European Regiment, form a junction with the Nawab's troops, and place himself under the orders of that Prince. On the 24th February Colonel Champion's force arrived February 24th April 17th, within the Oude territories, and on the 17th 177it - April crossed the border into the Rohilla country. There was no doubt as to the Nawab's intentions ; for when the Rohilla Chief Hafiz Rahmat expressed an earnest desire to come to terms, Shuja u'd daulah put forward a claim of no less than two crores of rupees 2,000,000 and declared that unless that amount were at once paid, the Allied Armies would proceed to war. Hafiz Rahmat was admitted by all to be a brave, dauntless Commander ; and had been appointed Chief of his tribe after the death of Nujeeb u'd daulah, and judiciously governed the provinces nearest to Oude. The demand of the Nawab for so large an amount was rejected with scorn, the Rohilla Chief feeling that the terms of the treaty under which the money was demanded had not been fulfilled by the Nawab; and that, under any circumstances, the amount claimed was vastly in excess of what could be justly due. The Rohilla Army, under Hafiz Rahmat, took up a strong position at Kutra, near the Babul river ; and determined to main- tain their ground to the last extremity. The English troops pushed forward, but Champion soon found that he would receive no support from the Nawab's troops, which were rather a source of danger than succour to the English ; for having arrived at Gurrah the ground which had been occupied by the British the previous day the Nawab declined to combine. His scheme was now evident; to leave the English soldiers to do the fighting ; and, should they succeed in overpowering the enemy, his troops would then advance and appropriate the plunder. The Nawab even declined to assist Champion with the loan of some particular camion, which he thought might prove of 1>K I-'!-:. \T OF THE ROHILLAS AT KUTRA. 247 service, :mrd April : " Ilah'z and his Army consisting of about 40,000 men " " showed great bravery and resolution, Annoying us with their" " Artillery and rockets. They made repeated attempts to charge, " "but our guns being so much better served than theirs, kept so " "constant and galling a fire, that they could not advance, and" ' where they were closest was the greatest slaughter. They " * gave proof of a good share of Military knowledge, by showing '' " inclinations to force both our flank* at the sum time, and " " endeavouring to call off our attentions by a brisk fire on our " centre. It is impossible to describe a more obstinate firmness" " of resolution than the enemy displayed. Numerous were " '* their gallant men who advanced and often pitched their colours " * between both Armies in order to encourage their men to follow" " them : and it was not until they saw our whole Army ad- " vanciug briskly to charge them after a severe cannonade of" '' two hours and twenty minutes and a smart fire of musketry" "tor >ome minutes ou both flanks that they fairly turned their" -backs. Of the enemy above 1>(MM) fell in the Held, and" "amongst them many Sirdars. But what renders the victory" " most decisive is the death of Hafiz Kahmat, who was killed " "whilst bravely rallying his people to battle. One of his sons" " was also killed, one taken prisoner, and a third returned from " "flight to-day and is in the hands of Su ja-cd-dowla.''* The battle decided and the enemy put to flight. Champion i-sued >trict orders that his troops were not to plunder or fire the villages: but the Xawab's Army pus-bed forward, and, under sanction * Srr-vaiit LitU'llns IJnnvll. who had formerly served in Captain Kaw- sti'in-s Company. liniLral Kiirop-an He^mit-nt. greatly distinguished hiinsu'lf in this action. Tins Non-Commissioned Ollicer was promoted to an Knsigncy in 177'.'. and ultimately attained th<- rank of Major-( ieneral : of tin- most di-tinunislicd Otli^cfs in tin- Company's Army. ' FYZULLA ATTACKED IN HIS FORT PATIR-GHUR. 1774. of their Generals, plundered and laid waste the country, " while " " the Company's troops in regular order of their ranks most " "justly observed we have the honor of the day and these" " banditti the profit." * Rohilkund now lay at the mercy of the Nawab of Oude ; and M a y j une " never were the rights of conquest more savagely abused." 1774. Most of the Chiefs who survived the Battle surrendered at discretion; those few still resisting were, together with their families, subjected to imprisonment and brutal treatment. The plunder of the country which passed into the hands of the Nawab was estimated at a million-and-a-half sterling. One of the Rohilla Chiefs, named Fyzulla Khan, escaped to his Fort at Patir-Ghur, with many of his followers ; but his towns were sacked, and his encampment burnt. In July the Company's and the Nawab's troops approached Fyzulla Khan's Fortress, but this Chief was so confident of his strength that he set the Allied Armies at defiance. The Nawab of Oude now evinced a strong disposition to come to terms with the Chief and end the war. lie proposed to make Fyzulla Khan the head Zamindar of the whole Rohilla country, and to allow him 60,000 per annum for his expenses ; but these, even as well as more favourable terms, were rejected by the Rohilla Chieftain. By this time the Oude troops were aiding the British, and under instructions from the Nawab, the Armies prepared to advance by regular approaches; but the Company's soldiers Europeans as well as Sepahis were disgusted with their Oude allies, and signs of discontent were openly expressed. 10,000, promised by the Nawab to the Company's troops in July and August, li eu of plunder, were not forthcoming ; and the troops 1774 - had not received their monthly pay, provided for in the treaty. Under these circumstances Shuja u'd daulah was more than ever anxious to come to terms with Fyzulla Khan ; to whom he offered * Colonel Champion's letter to Warren Hastings, 24th April, 1774. ; KM) OF TIIK FIKsT RoHILLA WAU. a
  • ti-ict with an annual revenue of 147, .")()() if he would on his 1771. part surrender to the Xawah one-half of his effects; which terms were accepted : and the first Kohilla War came to an end.* The difficulties which Colonel Champion had to contend with re feelingly set forth in his correspondence with the Govemor- ieneral: and all credit is due for the masterly moderation dis- played in the discharge of duties which, if mismanaged, would have been as ruinous to his Military reputation as they were adver.-e to his feelings as an Officer. ( 'olouel Champion's services had been entirely with the Hen^al European Regiment, of which for many years he had been Adjutant : he was always held by his comrades in spect and affect ion, and few men have done more to maintain he honour of the l>enpil Kuropean Regiment. In the early part of 111"} Shuja u'd daulah, the Nawab Vazir 177;-,. f ( )ude died, and was succeeded by his son Asoff'u'd daulah. F<>r some unexplained reason the Calcutta Council ruled that y the death of the Nawab of Oude all former treaties became extinct : a fresh treaty heinu; arranged with Asoff' u'd daulah on the lM>t May, under the provisions of which his succession to the hrone was -auctioned, and his possession of the districts of Korrah and Allahabad confirmed : he, on his part, aoTeeino-, in addition to some heavy money payment.-, to make over to the Company the /amindary of the Ivaja Chete Sinth April. 177."). William Dibbens and Mathew Stevens of the _.d Kuropean lle^iment " had been sentenced to death by Court- Mart ial. The preparations for the execution completed, the prisoners were informed that they were to east lots on the drum-head with dice, --and" "that lie upon whom the favourable lot fell would he remanded bark to his " -quarters, and the punishment remitted, but that the other would be" edited on the sp subjects at a village close by, the Raja at once led orders tor the assembling of his troops, his people flocking hi- >tandard by thousands : the \\hole country was in a commo- n. and the entire population in arms. In the meantime the building in which the Governor-General d taken up his . with an escort of some Sepahis, was beleaguered, but the Raja,stiU frightened, refrained from making Governor-General prisoner 5 indeed, he sent humble apologies hi> conduct, and liberal otters if the Governor-General would Store him to favour. But atliiirs had assumed too serious an a>peet to be arranged by compromi.-e : I Ia>t ings- calm, dignified and firm -did not deign to ( i K-( illUR. itish force, quickly followed the Raja; but the latter, well- 1781. tinted and lightly escorted, pressed on, eluding the grasp of his rsuers. The Ilritish troops, following, soon arrived at Bridge-ghur, completely surrounded the Fort, which, standing on a 1, possessed great natural strength. Popham intended to pture Chete - s ing in his stronghold; but the Raja had, the interval, escaped, and taken the direction of Bundlekand, here he had placed himself under the protection of some iendly Chiefs. The wife and mother of the Raja, left in the ort which contained a considerable amount of specie I their intention of holding out; but after a few days' ge they offered to capitulate on condition of being allowed to ain their treasure. The orders of the Governor-General were lied tor: when he refused sanction to the proposed terms, 1 Popham was ordered to continue the siege and capture Fort. At this time the Governor-General wrote to Major iege ; and after 1 1 days, the garrison nil-rendering unconditionally, the large amount of treasure cap- tured wa> declared lawful pri/e. and immediately divided accord- ing to '-nstom "on the drum-head." The Governor-General, however, subsequently denied that his ter. ijunted above, convrved his sanction to the division of the y amongst the troops, threatening to force the Army to disgorge, warning them that if they rcfu.-ed he would *' propose whether" 254 THE BENARES DISTRICT UNDER BRITISH RULE. 1781. "the law may not compel them."* It does not appear, however, that any means were taken to enforce the repayment of the prize. In whatever light we may view the conduct of the Governor- General in having deposed the Raja of Benares, the ultimate benefits, both to the inhabitants and the Government of India, must be admitted. A. Police Force which Warren Hastings says " was after his own heart " was established, and security of property ensured ; and in a letter dated January 21st, 17S2, he says, " I lost the Zamendaiy with a rent of 22 lacs, I re- " " covered it with a rent of 40. The Company possessed only " " its stipulated rent from Chet Sing. It is now as much a " " member of the Government as the Zemendarry of Burdwan." In August, 1778, two European Battalions of Artillery were ordered to be raised, the gunners to be selected by lot from the Bengal European Regiments : at the same time the Grenadier Companies were reduced to half their strength, the Light Com- panies being increased in proportion, and on the 26th September, 1779, the three Regiments of Bengal Europeans were each formed into two Battalions ; the total strength of European Infantry in Bengal being at this time about oOOO. WAR AGAINST HAIDAR ALI IN THE CARNATIC. 1780. O ur attention must now revert to the state of affairs in the Madras Presidency. In September, 1780, a fast-sailing vessel arrived at Calcutta from Madras with dispatches from Mr. Whitehill, the Governor of that Presidency, setting forth the painful position in which the Madras Council were placed, and inploring that succour might be sent from Bengal. The Presidency Town of Madras indeed the whole of * Letter from Mr, Warren Hastings, 21st February, 1782. The following is an extract from General Orders, 1st October, 1779, publishing a complete List of the re organized Regiments of Bengal European Infantry. FIRST REGIMENT OF INFANTRY. BRIGADIER- GENERAL GILES STIBBERT. 1st LlEUTENANT-CoLONEL. Fred. Upton MAJOR. Alexander Haimay CAPTAINS. (ii-or.Lje Renny Edward Curfey Thomas Harding .lames Moore Charles White John Grant Richard French Robert P.aillie John Worship Edward Keard Lll.I TKNANTS. John Collins Robert McMurdnck Alexander Thomson Thomas Pirrell Charles Stewart David Ochterlony John Reid John \Vliite tinier ( irant Edward Swit't Brooghton Philip Colebrooke John Stewart Henry Monk Robert \Yeatherstone John Gearie William Carden Lewis Morley Fred]-, havey .. McCaskell Fredk. Elwood 2nd Battalion. LIEUTENANT- COLONEL. William Blair MAJOR. John Webber CAPTAINS. Silvester Ramsay James Dunn Robert Davis Thomas Bolton Samuel Farmer Henry Harvey Solomon Earle William Hyde James Denhy LIEUTENANTS. Ralph Brooine William Kilpatrick James Collins Archibald Ferguson Cozens Framlingham Andrew Smith William McCullock Edward Summers James Erskine Randolph Ransford Robert Colebrooke Thomas Hawkins Edward Clayton John Patterson John Smith John Ralph Sutton Doncllan FIEST EEGIMENT OF INFANTRY continued. 1st Battalion. ENSIGNS. John Arnott Kobert Burrows T. W. Payne John Mougah 2nd Battalion. ENSIGNS. Villiers Henry Wye John Jarratt John Abercrombie J. Walter SECOND EEGIMENT OF INFANTKY. COLONEL JAMES MORGAN. 1st Battalion. LIEUTENANT- COLONEL. Thomas Goddard MAJOR. John Stainforth CAPTAINS. John Erskine George Wright James Buchanan Charles Maitland Lewis Smith Turner Carnac Kobert Dennis Samuel Hunt John Cowe LIEUTENANTS. William Alston Thomas Gladwin. Fredk. Winwood Samuel Jones Archibald Scott Thomas Phipps Henry Chalcroft Henry Saunders John Gowen Thomas Williamson David Birrell J. Dubois Thomas Bateman 2nd Battalion. LIEUTENANT- COLONEL John Tottingham MAJOR. Jacob Carnac CAPTAINS. Henry Wray Christopher Gough William Lane Stephen Downes Patrick Hay Eobert Limond Sir Patrick Balfour Charles Forbes LIEUTENANTS. Thomas Edwards Eobert Gillespie Henry White Eichard Forbes William Moore Whitwell Butler James Gold Jeremiah Symes Eobert Harrison Michael Hefternan Patrick Fallen Thomas McFie Francis Eudledge SECOND REGIMENT OF 1st LIEUTENANTS continued. William Moore William Addie James Powell James McCleod John Home : ENSIGNS. ames McKenzie .lames Hutclrinson William Hastings INFANTRY coating. Battalion. LIEUTENA Edward Jackson Edward Burnett FrancisKinlock Francis Britzcke Philip D'Auvergne ENSIGNS. James Hutchinsoii James Hamond John Malcolm John Crow John Wilson THIRD REGIMENT OF INFANTRY. COLONEL GILBERT IRONSIDE. 1st Li F. IT F. N \ N r - COLONEL. Fredk. Nevill Parker MAJOR. Christopher Kundson CAPTAINS. folm Cockerell Edward Clarke .lames Pickson John J>atnnan 1 Ilolu-rt Maxwell Charles Livingston William Black John Dodds rgu Mai-tine LlF.lTF.N' (nult'ivy P.aker Thomas Hofrgjin .lames (iolcllVap Ili-nry de Castro derwood -John Norf 2nd- Battalion. LIEUTENANT- COLONEL. Arthur Ahmuty MAJOR. Charles Ironside CAPTAINS. Thomas Nicholls Robert Roberts Walter Bourke James Smith Thomas Hall John Campbell Richard Scott William Ogilvir John Stacey LIEUTENANTS. Samuel Watson Patrick Douglass John Mambey George W 7 ood James Sinclair Colin Monteath John Darby THIRD REGIMENT OF INFANTRY continued. 1st Battalion. LIEUTENANTS continued. Charles Hamilton Gabriel Martindall William Davis Lewis Mordaunt William McNamara Joseph Edgar William Keasburry James Edwards S. Bridgemari George Balfour H. Foster Thomas Creightoii ENSIGNS. George Shaw Thomas Smith Robert Bowie Alexander Fotherington George Robertson 2nd Battalion. LIEUTENANTS continued. Frederick Griffiths William Lally George Lally Thomas Shaw John Dickinson Thomas Williamson John Jackson James Barker Henry Reid Lewis Thomas Henry Mercer ENSIGNS. George Adams J. Dring Edward Hall Joseph Eaiiey THI-: \v.\ii A<;AINST HAIDAK ALI IN THE CAUNATIC. 255 Sniitheru India was at the merry of their old enemv Ilaidar Ali, 1780 who with the assistance of his French Allies had out-generalled the British troops; the resources of the country were well-nigh xliau>ted. provisions scarce, and the treasury empty. Before detailing the measures which were adopted in Bengal ( relieve the pressing necessities of the sister Presidency, we just give a hurried glance at the circumstances which led to is state of affairs. Ilaidar Ali, on the death of the Raja of Mysore in 1766, being hereditary Prime Minister, or Peshwar, assumed the reins of ( JON -eminent. From that time there had followed a succession of wars with the British, plainly manifesting that, although Haidar Ali had been induced to sign treaties of peace with the East India Company, he had proved himself of a very different calibre from the class (}\' Native Generals against whom the British had hitherto contended. It is true that Haidar Ali had sometimes met with reverses at the hands of his enemy; yet, in May, 1768, at the Battle of Maugalore, he had compelled the British force of iMo European -soldiers and 1200 Sepahis to hurriedly escape in their boat-, leaving their sick and wounded prisoners in Haidar* s hands ; then hi; had, in the following November, surprised Colonel Wond.iu chief command of the British Army in the Held, capturing fmm him his heavy guns and baggage. Again Ilaidar Ali had completely out-generalled Sir Hector Munro the em <>f Buxar and having induced him. by a clever manoeuvre, to divide his hirers, attacked the weaker portion under Colonel Baillie, and, after a desperate light, in which the British Army IOM nearly half their numbers, compelled the remainder to lax- down their arms. T\\ ice Ilaidar had the Proideney town of Madras at his mercy ; on the second occasion when it was completely denuded ; but he unaccountably declined > make a decisive da.-h. A rent had fallen into his hands; mbore with its garri>ou had Mil-rendered to him: and although true the Forts of Velore, Parmakol, and Wandiwash. still 256 THE WAR AGAINST HAIDAR ALI IN THE CARNATIC. 1780. held out, they were all, as well as other of our Garrisons, vigorously besieged by Divisions of Haidar's Army ; whilst the Madras Government had no troops with which to raise the sieges. Haidar still unaccountably abstained from attacking Madras; and, whilst he hesitated, he heard that General Sir Eyre Coote had arrived from Calcutta with the first Division of the Bengal troops. When the news of the alarming position of affairs in Madras had reached Bengal, Warren Hastings strained every nerve to supply the entreated succour. Money had to be raised, for the Government was much embarrassed by the heavy expenses incurred by the war against the Marathas ; but he determined that the defence of the British possessions in Madras should be undertaken in no half-hearted spirit; and that every available soldier should be sent on this duty. September, I* 1 the early part of September the Calcutta Council 1780. passed a resolution that : "2 Companies of European Artillery, with o Battalions of" " Lascars, and 4 field-pieces, and 1 Battalion of European " " Infantry from the 1st Brigade," were to embark immediately for Madras. The European Battalion selected for this service was the 2nd Battalion of the 1st Bengal European Regiment. Reinforcements, consisting of one Company of European Artil- lery with 16 field-pieces, six Battalions of Sepahis, and the Corps of " Foreign Rangers," were ordered to march by the coast route to Madras. Haidar Ali's Army, commanded by him in person, consisted at this time of S0,0()0 men, including his best Cavalry: and amongst his Infantry were numbers of those men whose descendants may be seen to this day in the Mysore and Madras districts, running without any apparent effort their ten miles an hour for many hours consecutively. He had also a complete Corps of French- WAR .UiAINST IIAIDAK A LI IN THK CAKNATIC. men, ably commanded; whilst his Artillery was second to none in 1781. India. The Governor-General appointed General Sir Eyre Coote to tin- independent command of all Military operations; and to avoid any misunderstanding on the part of the Madras Authorities, he suspended Mr. Whitehill, the Governor of Madras. General (\n>te, with 350 of the Bengal European Regiment, l,T;>th. landed in Madras on the 5th November, and they were immediately posted to the 1st or Right Division of the Army under Major-General Hector Munro. Coote found the Presidency of Madras in so exhausted a condition that he could not take the field until after an unwel- come delay of more than two months; and it was not until the January 17th. middle of January, 1781, that the British Army marched from Madras. General Stewart being left with a small force in command of Fort St. George and the Mount. ( )n the iMst Karumgalli was taken by storm, with a British loss of 17(>: the enemy, however, sufleriiur much more severely. The Commander-in-Ghief, Sir Eyre Coote, in thanking the Army for its cool, determined bearing, says that it now has "an " "ample and opportune supply of provisions, a post of the first " M Consequence, and \vill prove of essential advantage to our future" " operations." Next day the Siege of \Vandiwash* was raised. This Fort re. had been closely beleaguered by llaidar Ali's Army since the beginning of 1 )ecember. 17*0. Coote now hastened in a southern direction towards Pondi- clierrv. encamping on the .">tli on the "lied Hills." where he 1 The (iarrix'ii >t \Yandi\va.-h emiH>ted n\' Natives only, commanded Ity Lieutenant Flint, with whom was Fusion Moore. These Ollieers with their handful >t' ti-nups had gallantly rejiiil.- e<| every assault of the enemy, niaile al >. /-//Vx, sj.iked Mum- i.f the eneniv's u'Uiis ;inl partly h-stmyt-il theif works. The sie^-e having l>een raised l.y ('....te's force, the Hritish Army eiieanij.ed mi the saint- ground where twenty \cars pn-vioiisly the Sje-v o f had been raised and a niein.ralK' Battle fought. 258 WAR AGAINST HAIDAK ALI IX THE CARNATIC. February 5th, destroyed large quantities of provisions and Military 1781. stores which were being landed from the French Squadron, under Chevalier d'Ornes, anchored off the coast. Haiti ar had previously entered into an alliance with the French at Pondicherry, and told them that he would follow Coote by forced inarches and bring reinforcements before the English General could deliver his attack ; and he, as good as his word, at once massed his troops, and pushed in the direction of that town, but in doing so he had been obliged to raise the siege of Vellore. D'Ornes' squadron of French war-vessels was unopposed ; for Admiral Hughes, commanding the British ships at Madras, had only a few light vessels, too weak to engage the French fleet. Haidar Ali, as soon as he heard of the arrival of D'Ornes' squadron, at once decided to separate Coote from his base ; whilst the French ships would blockade the coast, and thus starve out i;he British Army. But, to enable him to execute his plans he must seize and hold a strong position near the village of Chilambram ; and, succeeding in this, he could effectually sever Coote from Madras, and prevent his collecting supplies from the interior. Haidar, marching with great rapidity, made as if he would seize Cuddalore from Coote's grasp ; and Coote fell into the trap, February 8th, moving his Army further to the south to cover Cud- 1781 - dalore ; Haidar thus gaining his coveted position without firing a shot. Coote had been completely outwitted, and seemed now at his enemy's mercy ; severed from his base and with but a scanty supply of provisions, and he saw that, these exhausted, he must either attack Haidar in his advantageous position or starve. But, by a stroke of great good fortune for Coote, the Chevalier d'Ornes determined to act independently of the land forces ; he would neither be dictated to by the French Commander at Cuddalore, nor listen to the advice of Haidar Ali. D'Ornes THi: ATTACK ON CII I LAM KIIA.M. 259 positively refused to land any of his troops: and, disregarding the 1781, carne-t entreaties of the French ( 'ommander and his allies, he, on the l.")th of February, weighed anchor and bore away, leaving the I coast clear. Supplies were immediately dispatched from Madras by sea, tc being thu> .sived by their timely arrival from a great .disaster. Although Coote was n<>w secured from actual want, he was still March May, unable to attack his enemy's stronghold, from which Illaidar watched the British camp. Five months passed and still there were no signs of any movement. At last, on the lth dune, Coote suddenly crossed the river Yellore. Ilaidar Ali was absent from his headquarters at this time, having gone with a flying Brigade to plunder some neigh- houring towns. ( )n the llth of June the ( 'ommander-in-Chief, having received information that Ilaidar had converted a mosque at Chilambram into ;i store tor provisions and ammunition, determined to take it by a>e to the outer gateway, which was quickly blown in and captured: but, on arriving at the main itreel which led to the mn>que, it wa> found that the houses on both sides were loopholed and filled with troops, who poured on the assailants such a continuous tire that tliev retired under cover, when our Artillery at once bravely pushed forward their two 1^-pounders, forcing the enemy to call for quarter. It -o(n, however, became apparent that the Kngli>h troops had expended all their ammunition : on which the enemy, having been opportunely reinforced, made a >ucccssful onslaught on their !:mt>. who were ultimately driven back, but not before they had inflicted terrible lo on their enemy and carried away a large quantity of grain captured from their maga/iue. Haidar*> sold'n-rs, during the tight , .-ucceeded in capturing one of tin- I>riti>h gnn>. but not before all the gunner.- had fallen. 260 THE BATTLE OF POUTO NOVO. 1781. General Coote, now recrossing the Vellore river, encamped close to the village Porto Novo, on the sea-coast, and here he was making arrangements to renew the attack on the mosque, and retrieve lost prestige, when Haidar, hearing of the repulse of the British, hastily returned to his headquarters, to exterminate his enemy before he could recover from his recent defeat. Haidar accordingly broke camp, and, making a rapid movement towards the north-east, placed himself between the English and Cuddalore. Coote was completely taken by surprise ; indeed, he was unaware that Haidar had changed his position until he found he was fortifying himself within three miles of the British camp. On July 1st Coote moved from Porto Novo nearer to July 1st Haidar' s position, which now completely barred the Cuddalore 1781. road, and was immensely strong; his left resting on sand- hills near the sea shore, his front and right spreading far inland, and occupying three villages; the ground being intersected by deep ravines, amongst which his Artillery was placed, embrasures having been cut in the rising banks. Haidar was still a formidable enemy, but he had led a hard life, the latter years of which had been spent in combating a foe, who had strained his energies to the utmost; and now, prematurely old and unable to lead his troops in person, he was constrained to sit crosslegged on a raised platform erected in the centre of his camp, from which, surrounded by his Officers, he directed the movements of his troops. He had in his camp at this time 25 Battalions of Regular Infantry, between 40,000 and 50,000 Horse, above 100,000 Match- lockmen, Peons, Polygons, and 47 guns, besides a corps of 400 Frenchmen. The British force, on the other hand, consisted only of 2070 Europeans and 6400 Sepahis, with 55 field-pieces. On the morning of July 1st Sir Eyre Coote, under the advice of a Council of War, moved out of camp to engage his enemy. His baggage he placed for its better protection on the beach, TIIK I5ATTI.K <>F I'< >UT(> NOVo. 26] into which Admiral Hughes had anchored his ships, so as to 1781, aflord the land troops his co-operation and support: and it is pro- bable that had the British Army been forced to retreat ( 'oote would ha\e .-ought shelter under co\er of the guns of the British fleet. I'p to 7 a.m. Sir Eyre ('oote does not appear to have fixed on July 1st. tne ' details of his attack : but preparatory to issuing orders for 176-1. l n ' s advance he separated his Army into two "lines" or Divisions. The first consisted of H.M. 73rd (71st), the Bengal and Madras European Regiments, 1 troop of European Cavalry, '2 Regiments of Sepahis and oO guns under General Sir Hector Munro. The second "line" or Division was commanded by ( leneral .lames Stuart.* Sir Eyre ('oote and his Start' having carefully reconnoitred the enemy's position, found that Ilaidar's left was the most assailable point, by a road which intersected the sand-hills. He at once dispatched General Stuart, with the 2nd Division, instructing him to move under cover of the sand-hills along the sea-shore to the enemy's extreme left: and, having seized the road, to push forward by it and turn the enemy'.- left flank. The fir.-t Division under Munro would at the same time emplov 1st, the enemy in front: and should Stuart succeed in turning the enemy's left the as>ault in front would be carried into the very heart of the enemy'.- camp. ( 'oote had judged correctly : for Ilaidar hud devoted his principal attention to strengthening his front and right, deeming that the sand-hill- and the >ca on his left would form a natural protection again-t attack. Till 1(1 o'clock the enemy'.- Artillery had kept up a continuous fire which had not been replied to. a.- ('oote was anxiou> ton-serve his ammunition for his a.--ault in front : but now. as he advanced, hi- gun> for the fir-t time opened their lire. The plain in front was covered with hordes of the enemy's Eyre Coote's dispatch to the Calcutta Council. .lulv :'.nl. 17M. 1781. 262 THE BATTLE OF PORTO NOVO. 1781. Cavalry , who made repeated and desperate charges on the first Division as it slowly advanced in line. After a lapse of a couple of hours intelligence was received by the Commander-in-Chief that the second Division was gaining ground satisfactorily on the enemy's left, and thereupon Coote pushed the first Division forward with all his strength. General Stuart had marched his Division, under cover of the sand-hills on his left and the English ships on his right, so that he succeeded in gaining the neck of the road which passed between the sand-hills before his movement was perceived by the enemy. Haidar Ali now dispatched a strong body of his Cavalry under a chosen leader to assist his Infantry in opposing Stuart's advance. Twice the second Division was hurled back towards the sea-shore returning to the attack with renewed vigour, and the third time its efforts were crowned with success. Mir Sahib, the able General whom Haidar had chosen to command his Cavalry opposed to Stuart, was struck by a round shot from one of our ships, and not only was he killed, but his troops suffered severely from our naval guns. A panic now ensued amongst the enemy, and Stuart, taking advantage of their confusion, threw himself forward with such decision that the left wing of Haidar's Army was turned and forced back on his centre and right. As soon as the English General found that Stuart had succeeded he charged to his front, and although obstinately opposed by the enemy's Infantry, their Cavalry on each flank, as well as their Artillery on the heights above, he succeeded in driving back several Battalions of the enemy's Infantry, who now sought cover behind their entrenchments. Munro's Division, following up their success, captured the entrenchments; and before midnight the two Divisions of the British Army united, and the enemy were; in full flight. Haidar Ali could not be brought to believe that his strong [K VICTORY OF PORTO XOVO. July -Jii'l. p<>>itiin had been captured, and lie consequently refused to 1781. l - quit his post; until at last, crying aloud that if he only had the strength to lead his troops in person he would yet retrieve the dav, he was seized hy his attendants who l>ore him from the 1 field. The enemv's strong entrenchments at Porto Xovo were taken; and the British troops pursued I laidar All's broken Army until two o'clock the next morning. The enemy's camp, stores, ami equipage were also captured, but they succeeded in carrying off their guns ami standards. The loss of the British in the Battle of Porto Novo was 5*7 killed and wounded: of whom 17 were Officers and 50 European rank and file. " The lowest estimate of Haidar Ali's loss was '" k> 1 (),()()() men, the dense masses of Cavalry and Infantry and the" " immense extent of Irregulars scattered in all directions causing" " an almost certain effect at every shot." After the Battle Sir Eyre Coote returned thanks to the troops for their gallantrv. using the following words in his dispatch " every individual of this little Army seemed to feel the critical " ">ituation of our national concerns; our falling interests'" "required uncommon exertions for their support; and to the" "honour of this Army every nerve WM exerted to the very" \tent of possibility." Two day- niter the Battle of Porto Xovo Sir Eyre Coote uly Ith. moved \\\> Army to the north-west, to the relief of 1torm, retired before the British force, which on the L'Oth of July encamped on the plain of \Vandiwa.-h; Coote immediately reporting to the ( government , " \Vandiwash " " i.- -afe. being the third time in my life 1 have had the honor " " to relie\e it." After the relief of Wandiwash Coote advanced to Punaiiialli, N\here he prepared for an attack on the strong Fort re-- <.i Tripa--oiv. :;<) miles to the we.-t of Madras; a position considered 2l)4 CAPTURE OF TUIPASSOUE AND POLLILOHE. 1781. to be the keystone of the adjoining country, in which grain and other supplies could be obtained. The Fortress of Tripassore had lately been much strengthened, both in its defences and its garrison, which now numbered 1500 men. The British Army encamped before the Fortress on the 19th of August, when batteries were erected, and on the 22nd, a practicable breach having been effected, and orders were given to storm, the garrison surrendered at discretion. Haidar's Army having retired from Tripassore, encamped at Pollilore, on the ground rendered memorable by Baillie's defeat September l()th, 1780 when the British detachment was almost annihilated. On August 26th Coote arrived at Parambacum ; and on the morning of the 27th found the enemy drawn up in front of their encampment at Pollilore. Coote immediately prepared for action, sending forward his first Munro's Division, with which was the Bengal European Battalion under Major MacGowan ; the second Division, under General Stuart, forming at right angles to the leading Division. Munro charged the enemy's batteries in front, but a heavy cannonade on both flanks forced Coote to bring up his whole right, and form line on the leading Division. It was now ,?een for the first time that the enemy was strongly entrenched, and the broken ground rendered an advance in line extremely difficult ; but as the British approached, Haidar's Army withdrew, taking with them their guns and equipage. The British Army immediately occupied the entrenchments, and before night the enemy fell back still further; but this success had not been gained without severe loss; GOO of the English force being either killed or wounded, amongst them the gallant General Stuart, who lost his leg. A camp was formed at Pollilore with the object of providing cover and provisions during the remainder of the monsoon ; but on the 29th August it was found necessary to again change T1IK BATTLK <>F SH<)IJN<;t I!. Lutfiist 2'.uli to gi'<>und, and on the 21st September the small Fort of 1781, pti'iuhi'v 21st. Paloor was captured, containing sufficient grain for a few days' consumption. The British Army now moved rapidly in the direction of Vellore, Haidar barring the road at the Pass of Sholingur.* The pteiul.er 27th. British arrived in front of the enemy's position on the 27th September, the latter opening fire from 70 guns; but the Pass, notwithstanding the rocky and broken nature of the ground, was successfully carried at the point of the bayonet. During the action a specially-gallant charge was made by the 1st Division against the enemy's Cavalry, who attacked them simultaneously in front and rear; the British rear rank, facing about, forced the Cavalry to retire with heavy loss. Again Haidar contrived to retire with his guns ; but 3 Cavalry standards were captured and 1 gun retaken, our loss being only 100 killed and wounded. The British Army now continued its advance to the relief of Vellore, where our troop> in that darrison were beleaguered, and short of provisions. ('..otf personally led a flying Brigade, with the flank Com- panies of the Bengal Kuropean Regiment, 5 Battalions of Sepahis. -" gim>. and a Squadron of Cavalry, to collect supplies for the relief of Vellore: and after a rapid march of SO miles he Surprised a large Detachment of the enemy's Army," Capt uring from them their camp, provisions, and baggage. On the '2'.m\ October the flying Brigade encamped near the Pa of Veraenndalore. where it was unexpectedly attacked in the early morning by nearly the whole of Maidar's Army, under his personal command* The Brigade, unable to hold its ground in the face of so powerful an Army, was forced to retreat, and whilst entering the Pas> one of the British guns was taken by a -trong bod\ of the enemy's Horse from a Battalion of Sepahis * 'The decoration Sholingur " was worn on the Colours <>f the Madras Regiment. 266 THE BATTLE OF VETIACUNDALORE. 1781. under Colonel Walker, the attacked Sepahis being routed. " The flank companies of the Bengal European Regiment under " " Captain Moore, at this critical moment 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 " October 23rd, " m triumph, rushed forward, recovered the gun, and " 1781. u 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 advancing " " boldly to the support of the Europeans the entry to the Pass " " was kept."* During this action the English detachment lost 317 men ; but the enemy admitted a loss of upwards of 3000. The following Order was issued by Sir Eyre Coote immediately after the affair: "The brave and seasonable exertion of the" " Company of Bengal Grenadiers, under the command of Captain " " Moore is worthy of the highest applause and should be ever " " held in remembrance as a proof of the merit of the Company in " " particular and honourable to the corps they belong to." Although this affair at Yeracundalore deprived the flying Brigade of its camp and baggage, it had the effect of causing Haidar All to raise the siege of Vellore just as its garrison was reduced to one day's supply. On the 3rd of November Coote, having collected a supply of grain to relieve the distress of the garrison, advanced by rapid marches on Vellore, but on his approach Haidar's beleaguering Army struck camp and retired across the river, when the much-needed provisions were safely delivered to the starving garrison. Next day Coote, having relieved Vellore, commenced his march November 4th, towards Madras, but, as he was crossing a morass, he was 1781. attacked by Haidar's Army, one Column pressing on his rear, and one in front. The advanced-guard of our Army, com- posed of the Grenadiers of H.M. 73rd and the Bengal and Madras * Historic Records, Madras European Regiment. unc TIIK I'.ATTLK OF AKNKK. '2i\l uropeans. charged the enemy in front, and then afforded cover 17*1'. to the main body of our troops, who. extricating themselves from the swamp, formed up on firm ground, and drove the enemy before them, on whom they inflicted considerable loss, darkness alone preventing us from following up our success. In March, 1 7S^. a French fleet arrived off Pondicherry with :')(H)() French soldiers; these troops, disembarking at Porto Novo, marched, under M. de Hussy, to Cuddalore, at this time garrisoned by a small body of our Sepahis, who surrendered to the French. A junction was now formed between the French and Ilaidar All's forces, who held a strong position covering Pondicherry. Supplies for the united Armies of the enemy being obtained from the Amee district. Sir Kyre ( 'oote made a rapid advance towards the Fortress of that imme.arriving under its walls on June 1st; and on the fol- lat, jiul. lowing day Ilaidar's whole Army suddenly appeared^ having made a forced march of 43 miles. A battle ensued? during which the Grenadiers of II. M. 7;>rd and the Bengal and Madras Europeans, engaged Lally's French Corps, capturing from them one gun and eleven tumbrils. The enemy was repulsed with considerable loss, and Sir Kyre ( 1 oote, the next day, issued the following (Jeneral Order: 'The Commander-in-chief returns his most sincere thanks to" "the Army fur their animated and steady conduct yesterday." " >ueh was the eminently spirited behaviour of the whole, that" "he has it not in his power to point out the superior merit of" k> any one corps." The war against Ilaidar Ali was now continued with van ing BUCC688. The enemy's Irregular Cavalry had so scoured the country that all the crops \\ere destroyed and the villages burnt; our tioops being unable, in consequence, to produce proper pro- \i>ious r even the bare necearies of life. Tin- Mate of the Madras Presidency in 17S^-S;5 is de-scribed by an eye-witues> as ha\ ing been appalling. The country bereft of the control of the Hritish. lawless marauders carrying on their 268 DEATH OF SIR EYRE COOTE. 1782. depredations without check, the finances at the lowest ebb, and the pay of the Madras Army many months in arrears all were waiting for money and supplies from Bengal; whilst a terrible famine made dreadful havoc amongst the people, depopulating a large part of the Carnatic. The streets of Madras were covered with starved k ' wretches, many of whom were dead, and others " '* were dying ; the vultures, the pariah dogs, jackalls, and crows " " often seen eating the bodies before life was extinct." About this time a fleet arrived from Bengal, laden with grain, so urgently required by the starving inhabitants ; but it was, unfortunately, wrecked on the Madras coast, the ships being caught at night in a monsoon gale, and dashed upon the shore. It is estimated that upwards of 10,000 of the inhabitants of the town of Madras perished from starvation. On the 1st of July Sir Eyre Coote moved to Wandiwash, where he met Haidar Ali ; and terms of peace were in course of July 1st arrangement, when Haidar suddenly broke off negotiations 1782. anc j withdrew his vakeels the British Army returning to Madras. Soon afterwards Sir Eyre Coote was forced, by ill-health, to hand over command of the Army to General James Stuart who had resumed his Military duties Coote proceeding to Bengal to arrange with the Governor-General for the means of continuing December 7th, the war.* During his absence Haidar Ali died ; his son, 1782. Tippoo Sahib, succeeding to the command of his Army, now in full march to the eastward. During the early part of 1783 the British Army, under Stuart, February, marched towards Wandiwash, and offered battle to Tippoo's 1783. Army, but they refused to fight, when the following General Order was published to the Army : * Sir Eyre Coote returned to Madras in 1783, but the General died two days after landing. His body was conveyed to England and interred on the 14th September, 1784, at the church of Rockburne, in Hampshire loss caused unfeigned sorrow to the whole Army, especially to tiie European Battalion. Till-: UATTLK <>F ri'DDALOKK. i> MippoH-d that tlic (Miciny, who would not stand to fight, " 1783. l.nurv l.'ith, " will endeavour in a cowardly manner to annoy the " Army in the next inarch; 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." On the 21st April Stuart commenced his march towards , r jl Cuddalore, opposite which June 4th he took up a strong position his right resting on the sea and his left on the adjoining hills. HI,,. ith_7th A few days afterwards the Marquis de Eussy took up a position to the south, facing the British. The French Army consisted of 3000 European Infantry, ;;:><><> Catl'ivs and Sepahis, with 2000 Cavalry and 3000 Infantry of Tippoo's Army. The English Army had l(j(>0 Europeans. SOOO Sepahis, and 1000 Native Cavalry. The first assault on the enemy's position was delivered on the 12th . I une. on which occasion a strong detachment of our Army was x nt to drive the French from a fortified hill commanding our left flank : and if this attack should succeed, its Commander tin- l:;th. was to hoist a Mack Hag. on seeing which Colonel (after- wards Lord) Catheart with a Battalion formed of the (irenadier Companies of all the European Infantry Regiments* \\a> to advance and carry the grand batten* held by the French. The advanced party Hicceeded and the flag was shewn; when the (irenadier Battalion advanced, but the ditch was found to be full of water and strongly >tockaded.so that it was impossible to carry the battery, and the (irenadiers were repulsed with heavv loss, (ieneral Stuart now ordered them to attempt to turn the enemy's flank by getting to the rear of the French entrenchments: Imt the whole ground being laid under water, they, after wading some II. M. 7:')i-(l. 7*th, lolst. llaiiovrriun Corps. Urn^al ami Ma at an end. Against Tippoo Saliih the war languished, and ultimately he sued for peace, which was obtained on the sacrifice of half the dominions which Ilaidar Ali had gained, and a payment of upwards of 3,000,000 sterling. In 17S4 the 1st Bengal European Battalion returned to its own I 're-idem- v, having left more than half its Officers and men in gravr> on the many battle-fields where it had been engaged 1>\ the Governor-General, Mr. Warren Hastings, who spoke feelingly of the " small remains " returned from the war, and he exprosed his mixed sentiments of gratitude for their valuable cervices and regret for their heavy losses. In a General Order of that >ame date Ili> Excellency affirms that to "the aid" " rendered by the Bengal Troops, the Company's possessions and " "inteivMs under the Presidency of Fort St. George owe their" ' present exigence." (lold, >ilver. and bnm/e Medals* were granted to all the Tin- late <'<>l<>nrl IJ. S. Wilson gives the following description of the Medal ^ranted under the orders of the ( iovern or- General in Council 22nd January. !7< v .~, -t'oi ser\ ire during the Carnat ie \\'ar. 14 On one side is an inscription in Persian of which the following is" ranslation : " The murage ami exertions of those valiant men by whom the name of" Jishinen has been celebrated and exalted from Hindustan to th can, having been established throughout the world, this has been " ' granted by the (ioverninent of Calcutta in commemoration of the excellent" ' vices of the brave." 11 In the year ,.f the He-ira 1 199 ; year of Christ 1784." On the obverse, the figure of Kritannia seated apparently on .Military " trophu s and extending her right hand holding a wreath of laurel towards " :> which the P.ritish Coh.ni> are flying." 272 REWARDS FOR SERVICE IN THE CARNATIC. 1785. Officers and men who served during the Carnatic war; and the pay of all the Non-Commissioned Officers and men was, as a special mark of appreciation of their services, permanently raised two rupees a day. General References. Chapter XL Malleson's " Decisive Battles of India." Historical Kecords, Madras European Regiment. East India Military Calendar. Wilks's "Sketches of the South of India." Proceedings of the Bengal Council. Broome's " Rise and Progress of the Bengal Army." Williams's " Bengal Infantry." Army Dispatches. &c., &c. CM APT Ell XII. Death of Fyzulla Khan, Nawab of Rampore His Sons fight for the Succession British undertake the Pacification of the Country Battle of Bitowra Changes in the Bengal European Regiment War declared against the Marathas and their French Allies Capture of the Fortress of Gwalior The Campaign in (iu/erat The Battle of Deig Assault and Capture of the Fortress of Dcig Futile attempts to Capture the Fortress of Bhurtpore Holkar leaves the Fortress and the Raja seeks Terms of Peace Lord Lake pursues Holkar to the Pimjaub Sir George Barlow reverses the policy of Marquis U'ellesley Holkar restored to Power Death of Lord Lake. N the year 17'.4, whilst the Commander-in-Chief, Sir Robert Abercrombie, K.C.B. who in the previous year had succeeded Lord Cornwallis in the Command of the Bengal Army was on his tour of inspection, disturbances occurred in Kohilkund which rendered necessary the interference of the Calcutta Council, who instructed Sir Robert Abercrombie to prepare for action. It will be remembered that, at the conclusion of the first Rohilla War in 1771 the British troops, under Colonel Champion, were withdrawn from before the Fort of Patirghur, which had been successfully defended against the united forces of the Company and the King of (hide, by Fy/ulla Khan, who forced Shuja u'd daulah to conclude a treaty with him, under the pro- d-inn.- of which Fy/ulla Khan obtained the valuable district of Rampore with a revenue of lOOJKM) per annum, and gained his independence. Thus the first Rohilla War came to an end: and for ten years the territory of Rampore was governed with so much judgment T 274 DEATH OF FYZULLA KHAN AND ITS CONSEQUENCES. 1794. and " paternal solicitude that the inhabitants led a life of peace," " prosperity, and security to which they had previously been but " " little accustomed." In 1793 the Nawab Fyzulla Khan died; when a dispute arose amongst his children as to which should succeed to the Zamin- dary. The rivals raised large Armies, and the fertile country of Kampore, which had prospered under years of good rule, was dis- organized and laid waste. The King of Oude, Asoff u'd daulah, under his treaty with the British, called for their co-operation and assistance; for although the district of Kampore under its late ruler had maintained its independence of Oude, the present disturbed state of the country called for the interference of its legitimate suzerain. Sir Robert Abercrombic, fortunately near at hand on his tour of inspection, hastily collected a force of about 10,000 men, amongst which was the 2nd Bengal European Regiment ; and at the head of this Army he entered the Rampore district, proceeding in the direction of the city of Bareilly. When the rival Armies in the Rohilla Country found that the British Government had undertaken to settle their disputes, they made common cause together. Their different Armies were amalgamated, and placed under the command of their most experienced General, Gulam Muhamed, their forces mustering in all 25,000 men, amongst whom were some 4,000 Cavalry, second to none in India. On the 26th of October the rival Armies sighted each other near the village of Bitowra* on the plains of Kohilkund, not far October 26th, distant from Kutra, where the celebrated battle against 1794. the Rohillas had been fought on St. George's Day, 1774, when the 2nd Bengal European Regiment were engaged. General Abercrombie, with his Staff, in the early morning rode some miles in advance of his Army to reconnoitre the enemy's position. He found them already in battle array, and preparing * Bitowra was subsequently called " Fatehganj," or the Town of the Victory. tor action. Hastily returning to his headquarters, he changed 1704. tin 1 arrangement of his Army, which lie now formed into one line, his reserves being placed on the right. Notwithstanding the extent of ground covered by the British line it was out-flanked on the right by the enemy, who threatened the 2nd Bengal European Regiment, now under Major John Macdoimld,* and the two Sepahi Battalions on its flanks. The engagement opened with a heavy cannonade from both irmies: hut the enemy's Cavalry, in overpowering numbers, threatened our Cavalry Brigade, now formed on our extreme right. .Just at this time, from some misunderstanding which has r been accounted for the Officer commanding our Cavalry gave the word " Wheel inwards by quarter ranks;" when, obeying jtober L'lJth. tac order, the utmost confusion was occasioned, increased by a determined charge of the enemy's Cavalry, who taking advantage of the disorder, attempted to turn the British right Hank. t Our Cavalry broke headlong amongst the Native Battalion on the right of the British line, and. penetrating clean through them, p poured upon the '2\u\ Bengal European Regiment. The ( Mfieers commanding the Infantry Regiments had no choice other than to protect their men: and treating our Cavalry J enemies vigorously defended themselves against this unlooked- f r aault. At the same time the enemy's Cavalry became inter- mixed with our own, and such a scene of confusion ensued as has s.-ldom. if ever, been witnessed on any field of battle. f The Cavalry. Briti>h as well a> Ruhilla. were ultimately beaten off, but not until a great number of the Officers and men of the 2nd Bengal ' Afterwards Lieiitenant-( inn-nil Sir John Macdonald, K.C.B f Tin- Officer commanding the British Cavalry on this occasion, when he \ered the fatal error which In- hal committed, fled from the field during tl action, and succeeded in crossing tin- ( laiigrs before his absence was dis- !!. He ultimately effected hi> escape, entered the Fn-nch Service, and aftn-\\arls oniphtycd in the Commissariat of Nap. .Icon's Army. Eatt Military Calendar, Vol. III., p. Md". fnliu M 276 THE VICTORY OF BITOWKA. 1794. European Regiment, as well as of the Native Battalions, had been killed or wounded. In the meantime, seeing the confusion which this contretemps had occasioned, the enemy made a most gallant and daring charge ; " it is utterly impossible it could have been surpassed." Gulam Muhamed had formed his regiments into a succession of massive wedges, about 50 deep ; and thus they moved forwards October 26th, until they were within 500 yards of the British, when they 1794. spread out, vastly out-flanking our line. The enemy appeared to despise our musketry fire, but upon every discharge of Artillery they threw themselves forward on their faces, rising immediately afterwards, and continuing their advance until they neared the British line ; when they made a desperate rush, so that all the troops were completely intermingled. The Rohillas were armed with spears, matchlocks, and tulwars ; the last of which they used so effectually that for many years afterwards the attack of the enemy on this occasion was talked of as " The Highland Charge." It now became a hand-to-hand fight the bayonet versus the tulwar the Rohillas were experienced swordsmen and the British were taken at a disadvantage by October 26th, reason of their Cavalry having so seriously disturbed the 1794. equanimity of the men and created such havoc in their ranks. At length, however, the bayonet prevailed ; the Rohillas gradually gave ground and ultimately took to flight, when they were hotly pursued by the British and driven across the Dugura river. Thus ended the Battle of Bitowra : the enemy, having displayed marked bravery, felt the superiority of our disciplined Armies, and sued for peace. The loss on both sides was very great. Lieutenants Jollie and Robertson of the Bengal European Regiment were both severely wounded ; but a monument on the right of the road from Rampore to Bareilly marks where the action of Bitowra was fought, recordi ng the names of fourteen British Officers who fell there. TIIK VICTORY (>F IJITOWKA. 277 This Monument is ;i large obelisk of red sandstone slabs ; it " 1794. >t:mds in a small, but shady enclosure which is entered by a " u Roman archway. At its base on the side facing the road is " " engraved the following inscription : Erected IJy order of the Governor-General in Council, In Memory of COLONEL GEORGE BURRINGTON, CAPTAIN NORMAN MACLEOD, ,, JOHN MORDAUNT, LIEUTENANT EDMUND WELLS, JOSEPH RICHARDSON, Y. Q. M. BIRCH, EDWARD BAKER, LIEUTENANT-FIREWORKER JAMES TELFER, and the European and Native Non-commissioned Officers and Privates who fell, near this spot, in action against the Rohillas, OCTOBER 26ra, A.D. 1794. MA.FOI: THOMAS HOLTON, CAPTAIN JOHN MAMBEY, Ln. i TLXANT ANDREW CUMMINCS, ,, JOHN PLI-MLI:. WILLIAM HINKSMAN, WILLIAM ODELL, imed Ali, the grandson of Fyzulla Khan, being direct suc- cessor, was granted an estate which produced a revenue of l'l(K>,()()(); Imt the rest of the rich provinces of Kohilkund passed into the possession of the Kast India Company, and have always since been under the rule of the liritish. The following is an extract from General ( )rders, dated Head- quarters, Hanks of JJedmirah river. L'tJth October, 17H4 : "The" "Coinmander-m-Chief has much pleasure in expressing his" ' sati>factiin at the good conduct of the ( )tficers, and the bravery n "of the troups in the action of yesterdav against an enemy of " " sncli determined courage and of such superior force. The" 'gallantry which the whole line displayed does not leave the" M Commander-in-Chief mom t<> distinguish any particular corps " "or individuals, and he only laments the great loss which was" f * experienced in excellent Officers and brave soldiers. The" 278 RETROSPECT OF CHANGES 1V94. " Commander-in-chief requests that the Army at large, will " " accept his acknowledgments and thanks and to rest satisfied " " that he shall represent their important services to the Governor- " " General in Council." In 1797 the 1st Bengal European Regiment, then under com- mand of Lieutenant-Colonel Edward Clarke, and stationed at Cawnpore, formed part of the force under Sir John Shore which dethroned Yazir Ali and placed Sydaat Ali on the throne of Oude; and the following year, 1798, the Regiment again took the field under Sir J. Craig against Zeeman Shah who had threatened an invasion of our provinces from Lahore.* Since the Bengal European Regiment had been raised by Clive at Fulta in 1756, it had been so frequently remodelled and its constitution altered, that a review of the different changes becomes necessary. On August 5th, 1765, the Bengal European Regiment was formed into three Battalions or Regiments, as they were then called, numbered the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Bengal European Regiments. Each Regiment was constituted of the following strength : 1 Colonel, commanding the Brigade. 1 Lieutenant-Colonel, commanding the Regiment. 1 Major, 36 Sergeants, 6 Captains, 36 Corporals, 1 Captain-Lieutenant, 27 Drummers, 9 Lieutenants, 630 Privates, 18 Ensigns, and consisted of 9 Companies 2 of which were Grenadiers. Each Company had 1 Field-Officer or Captain, 1 Lieutenant, 2 Ensigns, 4 Sergeants, 4 Corporals, 3 Drummers, and 70 Privates. All the Field-Officers commanded Companies except the Colonel commanding the Brigade. * East India Calendar. IN Tin: I',I:N<;AL KIKOPKAN KK<;IMENT. 279 The Stuff of a Regiment consisted of: 1794. 1 Drill-Sergeant, 1 Drain-Major, 1 Fife-Major, 9 Pay-Sergeants, 9 Canip-Colourmen. 1 Adjutant, 1 Quartermaster, 1 Surgeon 3 .'> Surgeon's Mate>. 1 Sergeant -Major, I Quartermaster-Sergeant, On September 26th, 1779, the following General Order, mate- rially effecting the organization of the European Regiments, was issued : " Resolved, that the 3 Regiments of European Infantry under" "this Presidency be re-formed, and the following establishment " and regulations do take place in lieu of those now in force. The" " European Infantry to be formed into 3 Regiments, each " " Regiment to be formed into two Battalions, and each Battalion " " into 9 companies " " 1 of Grenadiers," " 1 of Light Infantry," " 7 Battalion Companies," The ( Irenadier and Light Companies each to consist of" "1 Captain. 4 Corporals," "3 Lieutenants. 2 Drummers," "4 Sergeants. ^ Privates," The Hattalion ( 'oinpanies of " 1 ( 'aptain, "2 Lieutenants. " 1 Knsign, " 3 Sergeants, "The Stall' of each HattMion to be as follows" " 1 Adjutant, 1 Surgeon," "1 Quartermaster '2 Assistant-Surgeons." The P>attalions numbered .".")() rank and file and the total strength of the Company's Kurnpeau Infantry in licn^al \va- .'J.300. 3 Corporals," 1 Drummer." 1 Fifer," 50 Privates." 280 RETROSPECT OF CHANGES " 1 Battalion Company to " consist of 179-1. On the 26th December, 1780, it was ordered that : " The three Regiments of Europeans be formed immediately " " each into one Battalion, consisting of 10 Companies, viz., " " 1 Grenadier, 1 Light Infantry, and 8 Battalion Companies, " " to be composed as follows," " 1 Grenadier Company to ( 1 Captain, '2 Drummers," " consist of ... ... ... J 3 Lieutenants, 2 Fifers," " 1 Light Infantry Company ] 5 Sergeants, 80 Privates." " to be of the same strength . . V 5 Corporals, 1 Captain, 4 Corporals," 1 Lieutenant, 1 Drummer," 2 Ensigns, 1 Fifer," 4 Sergeants, 70 Privates." And in January, 1781, the two Battalions of the 2nd and 3rd European Regiments were doubled up, but the 1st Bengal Euro- pean Regiment temporarily retained its two Battalions ; the 1st Battalion, then quartered at Fort William, was formed into five Companies; and the 2nd Battalion, on service in the Carnatic under Sir Eyre Coote, formed the remaining five Companies of the Regiment. During the early part of 1785 the composition of the European Regiments was completely changed. The word " Battalion " was substituted for " Regiment," and the Bengal European Infantry was formed into six Battalions, called 1st European Battalion. 2nd European Battalion," &c. On May 4th, 1796. the following General Order was issued : " The Battalions on the present establishment to be formed " " into 3 Regiments of 10 Companies each the 1st and 5th v " Battalions to form the 1st Regiment the 2nd and 6th the " " 2nd Regiment the 3rd and 4th the 3rd Regiment." " The Regiments to consist of 1 Grenadier, 1 Light and " " 8 Battalion Companies." IN THK HKMJAL KIKOPKAN REGIMENT. 281 [From the Official Directory, 1796.] FIRST I5EXCJAL EUROPEAN REGIMENT, Stationed at CAWNPORE. BANK. NAMES. RANK. NAMES. Colonel T IGlltdlRTlt Lieut. -Colonel Edward Clarke. William Prior. James M. Vibert. ,, L. B. Morris. Major Richard Grueber. ,, Gregory Hickman. n John Billiard. T. H. Welsh. ( 'aittain . . John Gillanders. William Richards. Richard Walker. 15 William M. Watson. George Hardy man. John Morse. John Darby. Thomas Whittaker. n James Collins. John Sheepland. George Ball. Ensign C. Baldock. p James La\vtie. James Dalrymple. C'aptain-Lieut. Peter HillTOWS. E. P. Wilson. Lieutenant Henjaniin Cuthbrrt. ,, John Robertson. M Thomas Long. |f Edward Clarke. ,, Alexander Morrison. 1-M ward Cartwright. M .lames Hodgson. ( . M. Roberts. ?j Thomas Hickman. George Maxwell. M H L. Grenier. ,, 1). V. Kevin. Surgeon Thomas Phillips. n John Leslie. Asst. -Surgeon M I'M ward Allison. ,, Joseph Fletcher. Lieut. (J. Hieknian. John Carig. Lieut. A. Morrison. Parings. Huff. Lace. Silver. 282 RETROSPECT OF CHANGES SECOND REGIMENT EUROPEAN INFANTRY, Stationed at FORT WILLIAM. RANK. NAMES. BANK. NAMES. Colonel ... Edward Kawstorne. Lieutenant Charles Greio 1 . Lieut. -Colonel . R. E. Roberts. 55 John Gillespie. 55 George Mence. J) S. Denny. Major Henry Vincent. K d Wcii* cl _P irr v 55 5 i Thomas Edwards. 5? M. Macnamara. Captain VV. Kirkpatrick. . , _ 55 Andrew r raser. 55 J. Hutchinson. 55 W. E. Leadbeater. 55 John Wood. 55 J. Carruthers. 55 Joseph Channing. 55 Anthony Greene. 55 W. B. Davies. 55 W. H. Hough. 55 A. Grant. 55 John Slessor. 55 Robert Haldane. 55 Robert Swinton. Captain -Lieut. . Joseph Wade. Ensign C. Sinison. L Lieutenant A. Davis. 55 T. Wilson. 55 C. Gladwin. 55 T. S. Knox. G. Robinson. Surgeon Adam Freer 5 5 55 T. Whinyates. Asst.- Surgeon . James Robertson. J. O. Rock. Adjutant Lieut. IVI. JVIacnamam 55 55 John Barrow. Quartermaster . Lieut. Leadbeater. J5 P. Baldwin. Facings, White. Lace, Silver. IN TIIK BENGAL KfKoi'KAN RKCIMKNT. 283 THIRD REGIMENT EUROPEAN INFANTRY, Stationed at BERIIAMPORK. RANK. NAMES. KAXK. NAMES. ( 'ololiel Edward Ellerker. Lieutenant Ulysses Brown. Lieut. -Colonel Thomas Nicholls. Patrick Scott. ,, NY. Duncan. 5> Thomas Cowley. Major E. Sandford. John Barnes. Sir Jno. Murray, Bt. John McGrath. Captain William Scott. A. Saumarez. Peter Murray. ,, D. Robinson. Thomas Clayton. J. P. Auberry. H John Clarkson. J. W. Pleydell. William Preston. 5? H. Griffiths. Hi chard Forbes. Kn^i \ THI-: FOKTKKSS OF <;WALIOII. Colonel White, feeling that if he could succeed in capturing (iwalior all subordinate Forts would speedily surrender, deter- mined to concentrate his whole strength on this his first point of attack. From spies it was ascertained that the enemy defending the Fortre.-s believed that, should the British attempt to enter the town of (Jwalior, the guns from the upper fortifications over- hanging the lower works would render the assault of no avail. This was also the opinion of the Commander-in-Chief, who had instructed Colonel White to commence operations by securing the upper works of the Fortress, and thus make his way down to the town, which, deprived of its covering batteries, must succumb ; but Colonel White, having previously made several successful sieges against hill Forts, elected to act on his own responsibility, and to make a night assault on the town before securing the Fortre.-s above. The main fortifications, which surround the citadel, stand on a very steep hill, about a mile-and-a-half in length by about 300 yards ncrosfl in the broadest part : and its greatest height towards the north is about .">"><) feet. The night assault on the town was made on the 3rd of February, the walls were scaled, and a firm hold of the town obtained. ( 'olonel White immediately reported his success to the Commander- in-Cliief, and asked for reinforcements, which were immediately dispatched. White in the meantime had erected breaching bat- teries within the town, and a practicable breach in the upper fortifications was effected ; but before the main assault was made the Fortress surrendered, and was occupied by our troops on the 1th February. White's siirmi>e that all the smaller strongholds would now try Uli, fui-n-iider ^ :IS fully justified; for the important Forts, (iohud and I )ondpore, soon tendering their submission, the Maratha Army retreated from every part of the conquered province*, 288 THE CAPTURE OF THE FORTRESS OF GWALIOR. 1804. The following copy of a General Order, issued on the 10th of February, 1804, will prove how fully the Commander-in-Chief appreciated these important services : " The Commander-in- " " Chief has great satisfaction in publishing his high sense of " " the distinguished services of the detachment employed in the " " reduction of the Fortress of Gwalior. under Lieutenant-Colonel " " White, throughout the whole of this arduous and important " " service, which claims his Excellency's best thanks and warmest " " approbation. The Commander-in-Chief derives great pleasure " " from Lieutenant-Colonel White's report of the spirited and " " meritorious conduct of Major McLeod and the whole of the " " Officers and men under his command. His Excellency desires " " Lieutenant-Colonel White to signify to Major McLeod and " " Officers and men of the European Flank Companies, his " " Excellency's cordial thanks and approbation of the spirit and " *' zeal which they manifested on the occasion, and of the cheer- " " fulness and alacrity with which they submitted to severe labour " " and fatigue." BATTLE OF DEIG. During the early months of 1804 several actions were fought by the British troops against Scindia and his Allies. In October a field-force, consisting of H.M. 76th Regiment the Bengal European Regiment under Lieutenant-Colonel Burnet together with 6 Native Battalions and some Irregular Horse, under command of Major-General Fraser, marched to subdue the strong Fortress of Deig, defended by Holkar's power- ful Army. On the 12th of November General Eraser's force encamped at the village of Goverdown, C, about a mile-and-a-half from the Fortress of Deig, and separated from it by a deep, unfordable morass. Early on the morning of the 13th it was seen that the enemy in strong force was preparing for action, having selected a D E I G. C iftriluJi Camp. 7tov? D &e*.n. 7/lorftsS E F J&'Ci jiosihe, with four light guns, to watch and keep in check l.Hli. the enemy's Cavalry, whilst he brought his Infantry ]S(lt - round the southern end of the morass, D; when, emerging on the plain to the south of the Fort, he found himself confronted by large ma.-ses of the enemy's Artillery and Infantry, opposing his advance. Behind and under cover of a village, G, Fraser placed his Infantry in two lines, one immediately in rear of the other, H.M. 76th occupying t lie centre of the first line, with a Sepahi Battalion on each flank, and the Bengal European Regiment the centre of the second line, also supported by a Sepahi Battalion in the same manner. The action commenced with a heavy cannonade from the enemy, their field-guns being ranged in lines immediately in front of their Infantry Divisions. It was now found that the village, G, in front of our two Infantry lines was strongly held by the enemy; whose Infantry, eourealed amongst the loop-holed houses, were causing us much annoyance. II.M. Tilth with the Sepahi Battalions in our front line advanced, and soon succeeded in driving the enemy from their cover on to their main Army on the plain beyond. The Bengal European Battalion having joined the Tiith made a gallant charge on the enemy's Artillery, which had been supporting their Infantry in the village. G. and was at this time pouring its grape- >hot and shell on our advancing troops. To our right at the head of the morass. 1 ). and under cover of a mound. II, a large body of the hostile troops had taken their position, intending to attack our right think, whilst their Cavalry at th<_ head of the tank would attack our left. 290 THE BATTLE OF DEIG. 1804. Two Sepahi Battalions with four guns were sent to keep the enemy occupying the head of the morass in check whilst the Bengal European Regiment and H.M. 76th attacked the enemy's leading Batteries, which they carried, capturing their guns, and driving their supporting Infantry back on their second line. November 13th General Fraser now advanced, and, re-forming his Infantry, headed a charge on the enemy's second line of guns and Infantry ; but our troops had only advanced a few paces when he was struck by a round shot which carried off his right leg. Our Army was thus at this critical moment deprived of the example and skill of this distinguished General, in whom his soldiers placed such well-deserved confidence.* Colonel Monson now assumed command of the Army. The second line of the enemy's guns was also captured after a severe fight ; their Infantry being driven from line to line for a distance of nearly two miles under the walls of their Fortress behind which they took refuge. Our Infantry now having no enemy within its grasp, and being severely handled by the heavy guns on the walls of the Fortress, retired to support our Sepahi Battalions employed in keeping the enemy in check at the head of the morass, D, and support was sorely needed ; for it was seen that a squadron of the enemy's Horse, having escaped the vigilance of our Irregular Cavalry, had recaptured the first range of the enemy's guns taken by the 76th and the Bengal European Regiment during their advance from the village, G. The British Regiments now took the guns a second time, driving the Cavalry back on their base ; but this success was not achieved without loss ; the gallant British Commander being cut down as he headed the charge. The Bengal European Regiment now arrived to the succour of our- Sepahi Battalions at the head of the morass, who had * General Fraser survived only a few days, he dying in the British camp before Peig. I UK BATTLi: <>F DKKi. j?'.l gallantly maintained their position, keeping in check vastly Lsu-i. superior numbers of the enemy who brought their 12- and 18- pounders against our light field-guns. On tin- arrival of the British reinforcements the Sepahis, hard pressed by the enemy, re-formed, and with the aid of their Euro- pean comrades charged forward, capturing the mound, H, and driving the enemy into the morass, D,with such precipitancy that his guns were abandoned, and secured by our victorious troops. ( i n-at numbers of the enemy, including two of the leading Generals of Ilolkar's army, perished in the morass, the remnant seeking rover iii the Fortress. November Mth. Our third Brigade, which had been left in camp to protect our equipage and baggage, seeing that the enemy were retiring within the walls of their Fortress, had inarched round the morass and now joined our troops in the field; and our Irregular Cavalry also, having been relieved from their duty of keeping the enemy's Horse in check, joined our Infantry, assisting them in clearing the field and villages of stragglers, and collecting the captured guns, which were sent under escort to our camp. Our Army now bivouacked on the field of battle, strong pickets being placed on the several mounds on the plain to the south of the Fort Although the Battle of Deig lasted but a few hours, the loss of the enemy is Mated to have been I'OOO killed, including those drowned in the morass. Kighty-seven guns were captured by the British. a> \\vll as a large amount of ammunition found in tumbrils abandoned on the field. ( 'oiisiderinrr the numbers of the small British force our loss was great, t'..") 1 Otlicer> and men being killed or wounded; amongst lMT l.">tli, tn<> letter the following Officers of the Bengal European K.-gimeut, Lieutenants A. Maxton, J. Chatfield, T. Bryant and T. Merriman. In LTmng an account of the Battle of Deig, Thorn, in his ' Memoir of Lord Lake's Campaigns in India," remarks, 4t The" 292 THE BATTLE OF DEIG. 1804. * conduct of the First European Regiment under Lieutenant- " " Colonel Burnet was in every way worthy of British troops. " " Their example had the happiest effect and was emulated by all" " the Native troops." GUZERAT. The decoration, "Guzerat," was in 1830 placed on the Colours of the Bengal European Regiment as a reward for its services in the Province of Guzerat Bombay Presidency in 1803-4; but neither history, the General Orders, nor the records show that the Regiment took any part in that campaign.* * See Appendix A, Decorations. )F Till: FORTRESS <>!' DI'.IC. SIEGE OF THE FORTRESS OF DEIG. ig the last days of November and the early part of 1804. December the British were encamped on the plain to the south of the Fortress of Deig, until the camp was moved to the west, J, in close proximity to the Fortress. ( )n the 1st December General Lake, having received the orders of the Supreme Government to reduce the Fortresses within the Bhurtpore territory, moved his headquarters towards 1 >eig : instructions having been sent to Colonel Don to march from Agra with a battering-train and a large convoy of stores, and join the British camp before Deig with all practicable speed. On the 15th December General Lake, having assumed com- mand of the British force before Deig, and Colonel Don having arrived with the heavy siege-train, preparations were made for the attack ; Colonel Don, with his Division, taking possession of a grove of trees, I, in front of our camp, J, which had been chosen as a position from which to commence our approaches. ( )ur Pioneers worked with such industry that a trench 300 yards long, with batteries at intervals, had been completed before sunrise on the lUth: and on the 17th the foremost breaching- l)c- (inl.,1- ]i;th. 17th. battery, within 750 yards of the main or "King's Redoubt," A (Shah-bourj) was in a forward >tate; this redoubt being considered the most assailable point. >outh of the "Shah-bourj," and at a distance of about half-a- mile. was a mud Fort. B, of considerable strength, called Gopal . (Jhur, which was occupied by the enemy's Matchlockmen, causing considerable annoyance and injury to our working parties. Our advanced battery mounted six 1 S-pounders and four 12- pomidcrs: but although a constant fire had been poured on the k * Shah-bourj " for several days only a slight impression had been made, and the breaches eilected during the day were usually repaired by the enemy during the night. Another battery, L. now erected nearer to the redoubt, was 294 SIKGK OF THE FOHTHKSS OF DEIG. December 20th, completed during the night of the 20th, when three of our 18-pounders opened an enfilading fire on the " Shah-bourj." The enemy in the meantime had erected counter-batteries, K, judiciously placed under close cover of some rising ground near the walls of the Fortress ; a position which could not be reached by our guns. A cross fire from the enemy's batteries, K, necessitated our erecting additional earthworks on the plain, M, from which our guns soon told with effect. On the 23rd December a practicable breach had been effected December 23rd, m tne " Shah-bourj " redoubt, A, and the Commander- in-Chief ordered an attack at half -past 11 o'clock on that night. Three Columns were ordered to be formed. The centre or main storming-party, under Lieutenant Colonel Macrae, consisted of the flank Companies of the Bengal European Regiment, H.M. 22nd and 76th, with one complete Battalion of Sepahis. The right supporting Column, under Captain Kelly, was formed of 4 Battalion Companies of the Bengal European Regiment and 5 Companies of Sepahis. This Column was ordered to storm the enemy's outworks to the north and west of the " Shah-bourj," and, having carried them, to follow the main storming-party through the breach. The left Column, composed of 4 Battalion Companies of the Bengal European Regiment and 5 Companies of Sepahis, com- manded by Major Radcliffe, was ordered to assault the enemy's outworks to the south and east, and, having carried them, to follow the centre storming-party. The remainder of the British force formed a reserve, and was stationed on the plain. The three Columns, in position before -midnight, advanced simultaneously soon afterwards. The centre of Macrae's Column found the plain under the December 24th breach so covered with the debris of the broken walls that their progress in the darkness was seriouslv im- SIK<;K or TIIK KOIITIIKSS <>F DEIG. 295 peded. their movements also being hampered by the continued 1804. random fire from the batteries above and all around them. The right <>r Kelly's and the left or Kadcliflfe's Columns, diverging, first came into action, springing into the enemy's outworks which they soon succeeded in capturing, forcing the enemy to seek cover within the Fortress, and securing the guns, which they spiked. In the meantime Macrae's Column having with great difficulty crossed the plain formed up for the attack under cover of the walls of the Fortress; and the order to storm the breach having been given by Macrae a rush was made up the incline and the leading file-, scrambling over the masses of broken masonry, gained the breach, when a desperate fight for its possession ensued. The fir.-t few men who forced their way through the breach were sabred by the enemy, but the rest of the Column quickly following and favoured by the darkness flocked through the breach, and charging forward carried the south-west bastion of the ' Shah-bourj." The enemy's Artillerymen showed great courage and determination, fighting with their tulwars against the bayo- net.- of our soldiers: until at last, overpowered, they lay in mangled heaps around their guns. Kelly's and Radclitle's Columns now joined Macrae in the captured ba>tion : and, having re-formed, the main walls of the Fortros. south and west, were attacked, most of the bastions being carried at the point of the bayonet. The liritish Columns now formed up inside the walls and Mcadily advanced towards the Citadel; but under cover of the darkness some of llolkar's troops got round the liritish line, making a hold attempt to recapture their guns and turn them round on their enemy; but fortunately just at this time the clouds broke and the moon shone out with great brilliancy, enabling the I.ritish line to return to the captured bastions which \\en- ;; ><<-. >nd time wrenched from the grasp of the enemy, and the guns spiked. The reserve was now employed in remming from the enemy's outworks and the ki Shah-bourj " the 291) THE BENGAL EUROPEAN REGIMENT. THE BENGAL EUROPEAN REGIMENT. " CLARK KA GORA." RANK. NAMES. Rank in the REMARKS. Regiment. Army. Colonel Robt Rayne 8 Jan., '01 On Furlo. Lieut-Colonel William Scott ... 21 April, '00 1 June, '98 55 Major... Law Rawstone . . . 10 Aug., '01 5? George Wilton . . . . .. Invalid, Tannah Establishment. Captain . ... J. Cunningham... 29 May, '00 7 Jan., '96 55 Samuel Kelly ... do. do. 55 T. H. Waguelen 10 Aug., '01 do. 55 W. G. Palmer ... 22 Aug., '01 do. 55 55 George Do wnie... Peter Littlejohn 22 Oct., '01 da 8 Jan., '98 5 5 John Anderson... do. Cap tain- Lieut. Thos. Ramsay ... ... Captn., do. Lieutenant ... H. Blankenhagen 23 April, '97| 55 T. D. Broughton 30 Oct. ... 55 James Smith 9 Aug., '98 55 Geo. Hammond 55 John Stewart . 28 Oct., '99 55 George Moore . do. 55 Anth. Maxtone. do. 55 John Chatfield. do. 5 5 Edrn. Morris.... do. 55 John R. Smith . 8 Feb., '00 55 Wm. Hy. Wood 29 May ... 55 Jem Bryant .... do. 55 Alex. Hamilton. do. 55 55 Richd. Higgott James Merriman 4 Sept 13 Jan., '01 ... Ramglmr Battn. 5 5 William Home ... 10 Aug. ... 55 Edm. B. Higgins 8 April, '02 55 James Auroil . . . 22 Oct. ... >5 Foster Walker ... 55 Saml. Corbett ... 55 Alex. Brown Ensign Thomas Watson 10 Aug., '02 Doino" duty. Chance .... Joined imme- " diately after publication. Adjutant Thomas Ramsay. Quarter Master John Chatfield. Surgeon John Lamb. Assist. -Surgeon : OF THK FoiiTiiKss OF DFIC. captured guns, which were placed in safety on the plain outside; whilst the storming-Columns again advanced towards the gates of the citadel ; which they were preparing to assault, when it was found that, under the apprehension of capture, Holkar's troops had 1>. rrmiHT iMtli. been escaping from the Fortress by the outer gates on the north and east, and having gained the open country were hurrying off in the direction of Bhurtpore. When day broke on the morning of the 24th of December, Isoi. the British were in full possession of the town and Fortress of I )eig. Our loss amounted to 4i> killed and 184 wounded: amongst the latter being Lieutenant Merriman of the Bengal European Regiment, who, although wounded in the action of the 13th Xo\ ember, was in command of a Company during this siege, and was thus again placed Itor* df coinlxit. The British captured KM) guns, large quantities of ammunition and grain, and 20,000 in >pecie. The Fortress of Deig, now garrisoned by our troops, was re- paired, the guns remounted, and the fortifications and outworks improved and strengthened ; and on the L'Sth December General J)-c -inlifi L'stli. Lake commenced his advance on the Fortress of ls()1 - Bhurtpore. ASSAULT OF The Raja of P>hurtporc. lately our sworn Ally, had been guilty of every kind of double-dealing. After the Battle of Delhie a treaty had been arranged between the liritish and the Kaja granting to the latter the possession of territorv with the view of confirming him in his supposed attachment to the Company; but notwithstanding the obligations into which lie had entered, it wa- BOOB discovered that he was carrying <>n a clandestine Correspondence with our enemy Ilolkar, with the object of arranging an alliance to extinguish the British power in that part of India. 298 FIRST ASSAULT OF BHURTPORE. 1805. At the Battle of Deig the Raja of Bhurtpore had assisted Holkar with his troops ; indeed the garrison of that Fortress had been composed principally of Bhurtpore troops. From this time all duplicity was abandoned, and the Raja and Holkar were avowedly Allies. Under these circumstances the siege of the Fortress of Bhurt- pore was a necessity, it being the only means by which the remnant of Holkar's power could be effectually extinguished. January 1st, ^ n ^ew Year's Day, 1805, the British Army neared 1805. Bhurtpore, having been augmented by H.M. 75th Regi- ment. On the 2nd January our camp was pitched within a couple of miles to the west of the Fortress. Trenches were at once commenced, to facilitate the construction of which a grove of trees was occupied, about half-way between our camp and the Fortress. In front of this grove were two breaching batteries, on one of which six 18-pounders, and on the other four 8-in. and four 5j-in. mortars were placed.* These batteries, both completed on January 7th, tne 7th, constantly threw shells into the town with great 1805. effect, causing the enemy to reply from the whole line of their ramparts. On the 9th of January, a practical breach having been effected, an attack was ordered for that night, and three storming-Columns were formed ; the left consisting of 150 of the Bengal European Regiment under Lieutenant-Colonel Ryan ; the right of two Companies of H.M. 75th under Major Hawkes ; and the centre or main Column of the flank Companies of the Bengal European Regiment, H.M. 22nd, 75th, and 76th Regiments under Colonel January 9th, Maitland about 500 European soldiers; a Sepahi Battalion 1805. accompanying each Column. The left or Ryan's Column had orders to force the main gateway of the Fortress, followed by the right or Ilawkc's * During the construction of these batteries, Captain-Lieutenant Thomas Ramsay was wounded in the trenches and incapacitated from resuming his duties until the 20th of the following month. OF niirirn-oiM-:. -2W Column, both to push on to the town in the heart of the Fortress, 1805. whilst the main Column under Maitland should attack the breach. At S p.m. the three Columns advanced under a random fire of shot and grape from the Fortress and outworks, which, although it was quite dark, did great execution. The ground was much broken by water-courses and ravines, causing the Columns to be intermixed, and resulting in great confusion. The General had anticipated that the enemy, in the darkness, would be taken by surprise; but, remembering Deig, they were on the alert. The flank Companies of the 22nd crossed the wet ditch successfully, although the water in some parts was breast- high, and some of their men, led by Lieutenant Manser, ascended close under the breach; they were, however, unable to complete the ascent without support. The remainder of the storming- Column had become separated in the darkness, and, though heavy firing was heard right and left in the entrenchments below, it was January !uh. found impossible' to attract their attention. The Officer commanding the small party at the breach placed two of his Officers and some of his men amongst the dtbri* underneath, and descended the counterscarp, intending to collect his men below and pilot them to the breach: but he found the Columns so intermixed that, although they had succeeded in clearing the outworks of the enemy and taking the guns, he was unable to collect his men. The left Column in the meantime' had made its wav up to the main gate, capturing the works and guns outside; but they could not follow up the advantage gained, as the ditch in their front was uniordablc. The small party concealed at the breach was soon discovered by the enemy, who attacked them in overwhelming numbers, killing both the Commi.-Honi'd Officers and many of the men; when, no supports arriving, the >urvi\or> were forced to retire. Colonel Maitland now arrived at the breach, followed by a number of his men, mid the assault was again attempted; but bv this time the FIRST ASSAULT OF BHURTPORE. enemy, expecting that an attempt would be made to storm the January 9th, breach, had retired three of their guns, with which they enfiladed the breach on the inside. Colonel Maitland charged at the head of his men, and succeeded in gaining a footing inside, when he and his men were killed by the enfilading fire. Several of the Officers and men fell in attempting to carry the breach, but ultimately the storming-party was ordered to descend the walls. Had Colonel Maitland collected together sufficient of his Column before he made the first ascent it is probable that he would have carried the breach; but he discovered his mistake when it was too late, and gave his life in palliation of his error. The three Columns were now ordered back to camp ; our loss on the occasion amounting to 43 Europeans and 42 Sepahis killed, 206 Europeans and 165 Sepahis wounded; amongst these latter being Lieutenants Wood, Hamilton, and Brown, of the Bengal European Regiment. The distress of this mortifying failure was increased by the melancholy fate of many of our wounded men ; who, being un- avoidably left behind, were barbarously mutilated by the enemy. On the following day, the defenders having repaired the January 10th, breaches, it was determined to direct our fire on the 1805. right bastions of the Fortress ; and for this purpose General Lake ordered additional batteries to be constructed, on which 2 24-pounders, 10 18-pounders, and 8 mortars were mounted. On the 16th January all of these guns opened a furious January 16th, cannonade with good effect, our mortars specially doing 1805. great execution, and dismounting several of the enemy's guns ; but although our siege Artillery fired incessantly from all January 21st, our wor ks it was not until the 21st January that a 1805. practicable breach had been effected. As the enemy, on account of our day and night fire, had not been able to repair or stockade the breach, they withdrew their SECOND ASSAULT <>]' 301 gim> from the embrasures, placing them in such a position right 1805. and left of the breach that should our storming-parties reach the summit a heavy enfilading fire would be brought upon them before they could gain a footing. It was this plan that had MT\ed their purpose so well during the first assault. But (u'neral Lake determined that the second attack should not be delivered until our Engineers had ascertained which part of the ditch could be most easily forded. This information three troopers of our Native Cavalry volunteered to obtain from the enemy themselves; so, discarding their uniforms and donning the ordinary dress of the Natives of the district, they mounted their horses and galloped across the plain in the direction of the Fortress. It had been previously arranged that a detachment of our Sepahis should give colour to the artifice by chasing and firing blank cartridges at the supposed fugitives, to give the enemy the impression that they were dr.-erters making their escape from the British camp. Arrived under the Avails of the Fortress they surveyed the breach and ascertained the best means of ascent; then, calling to January iM st. the soldiers on the walls of the Fortress to point out where the ditch was most easily fordable, they said they were seeking the protection of Ilolkar's Army, which thev wished to join : when, having obtained the required information they put spurs to their horses and returned to our camp. To enable the storming-parties to cross the ditch without wading through the mud and water, three broad ladders were constructed, covered with strong laths, and fitted with elevatini:- XTCWS and levers, BO that they could be raised or depressed at will. All being now ready, the storming-party, under Colonel Macrae, vrafl .-elected as follows K>0 men of the 7.")th, 150 men of the Tilth, KM) of the Piengal Kuropean KYgiment. and .">() flankers nf the L'-Jnd : this Column was entrusted with storming the biva'-h. and ,-hould it succeed, the remaining Kuropean.- and three 302 SECOND ASSAULT OF BHUKTPORE. 1805. Sepahi Battalions were to follow their comrades and support the escaladers. At night on the 21st the storming-party moved into the advanced trenches; and our Cavalry with two batteries of field- Artillery were sent in rear of our camp to keep the enemy's Horse in check. At 3 p.m., 22nd, the storming-party moved out of the trenches under cover of our guns. The portable bridges were carried by picked men, who had been previously exercised in the mode of using them; the 75th and 76th keeping up the fire upon the batteries above, whilst the Bengal Europeans and the 22nd fixed the bridges. The advanced-party, reaching the ditch, were mortified to find that they had been outwitted; for the enemy, having rightly conjectured the object of the trick which had been put upon them, had so dammed up the ditch below the ford that a quantity of water was collected in it, so that the portable bridges were too short for the span, and were in consequence quite useless. One of the tallest of the Grenadiers, who sprang into the water, proved that it was upwards of 8 feet deep ; and some parties were then told off to swim the ditch ; and Lieutenant Morris of the Bengal European Regiment, accompanied by Lieutenant Brown with 12 of the Grenadiers of the Regiment, volunteered to lead the swimming-party. The gallantry of Sergeant Allan, of the Grena- dier Company, on this occasion, should ever be remembered by the Regiment with pride. The swimmers all plunged into the water, and, led by their gallant Commander, Morris, reached the further bank of the ditch ; and they even succeeded in mounting up to the breach, but here Lieutenant Morris and several of his men were wounded, and the enemy having made a rush upon January 22nd, them before they had gained a firm footing inside the 1805. walls, they were all hurled down the ascent. To carry the breach on this occasion being now found impos- sible, the storming-party was ordered to return to the trenches IN T1IH TKKNCIIKS UKFOKK BHUBTPORE. 303 disappointed l>ut not disheartened. Our loss on this the second assanlt was again very severe; for. during the unavoidable delay on the brink of the ditch, and during the retreat, the enemy poured a grape and musketry fire with such murderous effect on fur troops that ls Officers and .")7.'> rank and file were either killed r wounded; amongst the latter being Lieutenant Morris and In-inn Watson of the Bengal European Regiment. On the 15th February the British camp was moved opposite to ry 6th. tne north-east face of the Fortress, and preparations made for the next assault. Our troops were at this time employed day and night in constructing vastly-extended outworks, with fascines and gabions, and additional batteries connected by chain-posts and trenches round our new ground, extending to our foremost batteries. The Officers and men of the Bengal European Regiment were conspicuous for their exertions in the trenches ; the Commander- in-Chicf. who personally supervised the siege-works, frequently expressing his warm thanks for the unremitting activity of the men in the performance of their arduous duties; and it was on one of tlu-e occasions that some of the men of the Regiment, apologi- sing to their Chief for their dirty appearance, and urging as an excuse that they had not found time to change their shirts for several weeks, (ieneral Lake remarked approvingly that their dirty shirts were an honour to the wearers, showing that they had willingly sierifiecd comfort to their duty ; and his Excellency u>ed frequently to address the Regiment as his own "Dirty Shirts" a name which has been cherished with pride by the Bengal Regi- ment ever >iuce tho.-e day- in the trenches before Bhurtpore; and to this day >ome of the handsome plate on the mess-table of the K'oyal Mun-ter Fu>ilier> will be seen to have been presented by k - an old Dirty Shirt." On the K>th of February the British Army was reinforced by a Column from the Bombay IVoidency. consisting of 1I.M. ',:>th, and about MM) Cavalry. 1805. 304 THIRD ASSAULT OF BHURTPORE. 1805. The Engineers were employed in constructing a number of wicker boats, covered with leather, and a portable raft, about 100 feet long, and 1 6 broad, placed on casks to serve as pontoons ; and trenches had been made reaching to within a short distance of the ditch under the walls of the Fortress. Our new batteries mounted 16 additional heavy guns, and a large mine had been dug with which it was intended to blow up the counterscarp ; the debri* of which it was hoped would form a sloping bank up to a new breach which had been made immediately above it. On the night of the 20th of February, 1805, all was ready for the third assault. The main-storming party, under Colonel Don, being formed by the Bengal European Regiment, H.M. 22nd, 75th, and 76th Foot, supported by 3 Battalions of Sepahis. The left Column, consisting of H.M. 86th and 1 Sepahi Battalion, was appointed to storm the enemy's trenches outside the Batteries, and the right Column, consisting of 300 men of H.M. 65th and two Battalions of Bombay Sepahis, was told off to attack and force the main entrance gate. During the evening, taking advantage of the absence of our working-parties from the neck of our approach, which abutted on the ditch, the enemy made a sally and demolished a part of our works. The storming-party, at 5 a.m. first reached the approach, when, finding the enemy iii possession, a fight ensued, which resulted in our regaining our trenches, but in doing so several of our men were killed and wounded. A detach- ment of H.M. 22nd Regiment was then sent forward, who assisted the Bengal European Regiment in driving off the assailants, many of whom were bayoneted, and the rest fled. The storming-party proceeded on their way through the approach, but as they neared the ditch an alarm was raised that the enemy had placed a slow match in the mine ; thus causing a check in the advance. The flank Companies of H.M. 22nd and a Sepahi Regiment with two 6-pounders kept up a fire of grape on the walls and bastions, whilst the storming-party now attempted the assault, The ditch was found to be impassable on THE THIRD ASSAILT ON liHUKTPOKK. 305 . and in the darkness and confusion consequent on the alarm the 1805. pontoons could not be found, but notwithstanding this a number of the Btorming-party managed to cross, and seeing that the bas- tion on tin- right presented a rough appearance on its face they at once made an attempt to ascend it. The Grenadiers of H.M. I'l'iid and the Sepahis of the 12th Regiment Native Infantry behaved with conspicuous gallantry on this occasion ; the colours L'oth. of the Native Regiment having been planted on the bastion ; hut there was not sufficient support to hold the position, and Lieutenant Moore of the Bengal European Regiment was mortally wounded. At this time some of the enemy's mines which they had constructed close to the breach with the intention of blowing up the Ix-siciivrs should they succeed in entering, were accidentally sprung, and the aperture was considerably enlarged, so there was still hope of the assault succeeding ; but the loss of the British had been very severe, the ramparts above and the whole count er-searj) below being strewn with our killed and wounded. ( 'olonel Don, commanding the storming-party, judging that further attempts would result in irredeemable loss, retired with his whole [tarty to the trenches : leaving 4 ( .) Europeans and 113 Sej.ahis dead, and having 1 7(> Europeans and 556 Sepahis wounded during this, the third, assault. The next morning a general parade was ordered, at which the ( 'ommander-iu-( 'hief pointed out that the failure on the previous iMst. iHRTi'oi;F ri;oi>osF> TFKM> OF PFACF. stances the siege was temporarily converted into a blockade, and 180f detachments were sent off to collect supplies. The absolute necessity of carrying the Fortress by storm was still felt by all; and convoys arrived daily at camp with provisions, guns, ammunition, fascines, etc., and preparations were made for ary L> 1st March loth, erecting fresh batteries; the old guns as soon ls " ;> as they were repaired being placed in position. The garrison, although it had resisted four of our determined. a>saults. was by no means confident of ultimate success, and indeed trustworthy information had reached our camp that the Raja's troops were deserting in large numbers, whilst others clamoured for peace. At this time intelligence having reached their camp that General Lake had been raised to the Peerage, the Bhurtpore Raja availed himself of the circumstance to send his congratulations to his Lordship, saying that as he was now desirous of arranging terms of peace he was prepared to visit our camp in person. Negotiations for peace were opened on March 10th; but as r( .j, io r t, April stli, delays and prevarications ensued, Lord Lake on the 8th of April changed ground to the south- : of the Formv-s, and made preparations for a renewal of hostilities. Holkar, the ally of the lihurtpore Raja, had previously deserted the Fortress with his followers; who, in attempting to escape, irere roughly handled by our detachments of Cavalry sent in pursuit. On April '.>th the Raja >ent his Vakeel saying he was at last prepared tO conclude terms of peace; and, negotiations having been re-op.-M.-d, the preliminaries were signed on April 10th; the son of the Raja being sent to the llritish camp as a hostage for the due performance of the terms of the treaty. It was arranged that the Fortress ,,f J) e ig should remain in nti>h possession until our (Jovernment should be assured of the 308 A FLYING COLUMN PURSUES HOLKAK. 1805. Raja's fidelity ; when it would be returned to the Native Govern- ment. The Raja agreed, on his part, never to enter into alliance with any of the enemies of the British, nor to entertain any European in his service ; also to pay twenty lacs 200,000 for the expenses of the war ; and, finally, that his son should remain as a hostage until the terms of the treaty should be fulfilled. The British camp before Bhurtpore was, in consequence of this treaty, broken up on the 21st April, 1805 ; and " The Bengal European Regiment " went into quarters at Futty Ghur. Holkar, after his retreat from Bhurtpore, had succeeded in collecting some troops, and marched in a northerly direction in search of plunder or conquest ; and, the country being well stocked with adventurers, he soon found himself at the head of a numerous rabble of untrained troops, with 60 pieces of cannon, with which he marched towards the Punjab. Lord Lake, fearing that the Seiks might be induced to join " the Maratha Chieftain," October 16th, assembled a flying Column, consisting of H.M. 8th and 1805. 25th Dragoons, two Regiments of Native Cavalry, H.M. 22nd Foot, and the Bengal European Regiment, with two Sepahi Battalions ; and, on the 25th October, started in pursuit. About midway between the rivers Sutlej and Bias a portion of our Cavalry sighted Holkar's rearguard, pressing forward through the very heart of the Punjab, where they were closely pursued by Lord Lake's flying Column. Arrived at Umritzur Holkar found that the Seik Chiefs in Council unanimously determined to deny him all aid and countenance ; and with the object of getting rid of both the Armies Run jit Sing the Maharaja of the Punjab offered to interpose in the character of a mediator. In the meantime Lord Cornwallis, the Governor- General who had during his tenure of power endeavoured to bring the turbulent tribes of Central India into subjection, and thus bestow the blessings of security of property on all peace-loving in- habitants had died in Bengal and was replaced by Sir George A TIJKATV AI;RA\<;KI> WITH IIOLKAR. 309 Barlow, who, to Lord Lake's mortification, directed him to 1806. restore to Holkar the territories which had at such a sacrifice of life and money been wrenched from his grasp ; thus practically destroying all hopes of permanent peace, and instituting a reign of terror and disorder.* A treaty was arranged in accordance with Sir George Barlow's orders, under the terms of which Holkar was reinstated in his dominions; and on the 9th of January, 1806, the flying Brigade commenced its return march to Delhie, which it reached on the loth of February. In February, 1807, Lord Lake embarked for England ; dying on the 21st of February in the following year. He was beloved by the Bengal European Regiment. The anniversary of his death was tor many years observed with solemnity, and his memory was at all times held dear by those Officers who had had the glorious privilege of serving under him in the field. * Thornton, in his " British Empire in India" Vol. IV., p. 172, says "What \\ ha\v gained liy our arms we have lost by our diplomacy, otir soldiers " lv and seamen having poured out their blood in the purchase of conquests, " " to be calmly yielded up by the liberality or incompetence of our statesmen." History of the Bengal Army ( leneral < )rders and Di.-patd, Williams's ''Bengal Infantry." India Military Calendar. Mills'* British India." Thorn's M niories of Lord I,:ikr. The Seir Mutakherin. &C.. i^' 1 . -. Chapter XII. Broome. Campaigns in India." CHAPTER XIII. Expedition to Macao under Major Weguelen War against the Dutch in Java Major Kelly, with a detachment of the Bengal European Regiment, occupy Fort Victoria, Amboyna Captain Blankenhagen's expedition to the island of Ceram His failure and death Headquarters of the Bengal Euro- pean Regiment, under Colonel Eales, embark for Amboyna Return of the Bengal European Regiment to Dinapore The Nepaul War Expedition against the Pindarics " The Grand Army " of 1817 Change in the organi- sation of the Bengal European Regiment Siege and Capture of Bhurtpore, 1826 The 1st and 2nd Bengal European Regiments are amalgamated and become as heretofore " the Bengal European Regiment." SERVICE IN THE ISLAND OF MACAO. N June, 1808, Lord Minto, then Governor-General of India, ordered an Expedition to be prepared for the defence of the Portuguese Settlement at Macao, in order to meet any attack that might be made by the French, with whom England and Portugal were at war in Europe. Major Thomas M. Weguelen, of the Bengal European Regiment, was promoted to the local rank of Colonel, and placed in command of the Expedition, which consisted of 200 men of the Bengal European Regiment, a like number of the 30th Foot, 100 European Artillery, with eight 18- and four 12-pounder guns, two 8-inch mortars, and two field-pieces, as well as 650 Sepahis. The Expedition above detailed sailed from Bengal in August, 1808, and anchored in the Macao Roads on the 20th October. The duties which now devolved on Colonel Weguelen were of a Political as well as a Military character, and required the utmost tact and delicacy. The alarm of the Chinese Government at the THE EXPEDITION TO MACAO. 311 close proximity of a British force created complications which 1809. culminated in feelings of enmity on the part of the Chinese inhabitants, manifesting itself in repented affrays and assaults; so that it became necessary to strictly confine all the troops to their (jiiarters. Trade was brought to a standstill, and every endeavour at explanation was rejected, the only reply being, "Put your" " troops on board ship and then we will hear you." To watch the proceedings of the British Expedition and to guard against surprise, a Chinese force disembarked at the extremity of the Island, occupying a joss-house, where they ulti- mately made preparations for war. It now became necessary for Weguelen to determine on some decided course of action, the adoption of which would prevent hostilities, re-open trade, restore confidence, and re-establish our commercial relations with China. Cnder these threatening circumstances Colonel Weguelen judiciously determined to re-embark his troops, carefully avoiding any can.-e for alarm to the peaceable inhabitants of Macao: and this measure having been successful Iv accomplished ;uv the Expedition returned to Bengal, where it landed in the middle of February, ISO'. I. The soldier-like demeanour of the men who formed this ex- pedition i> beyond all praise: confined to their quarters, on short pn>\ i>ii.ii>, and surrounded by a hostile- population, they main- tained that >triet dix-ipline which is B < eiitial in peace as in war. The Governor-General in Council as well as the Commander-in- Chief expressed the highest sati>faction, and tendered the thanks of the Government for "the great prudence, discretion, vigilance." "and activity manifested" by Culnnel Weguelen and the soldiers under his command. The I )etachment of the Bengal Kuropean Regiment returned to their headquarters at Dinaporc, when Major Weguelen was appointed to the command of the B icnt. 312 EXPEDITION TO JAVA. 1810. EXPEDITION TO JAVA, 1810 17. In the year 1810 events in Europe had placed the Colonial possessions of the Dutch in Java, and in the Molucca Islands, in the hands of the French at this time England's most inveterate foes. Lord Minto, the Governor-General of India, accordingly inaugurated a vigorous policy, under which he directed the complete conquest of these Settlements. This proposition had been submitted for the approval of the English Cabinet ; but, pending the receipt of instructions from home, Lord Minto ordered that a small force should be organized at Madras to seize on the Island of Amboyna one of the group of the Molucca Islands and thus at once secure a position which, if necessary, would form a basis for the future operations of an invading Army. The troops employed on this service consisted of 404 men only, 130 of whom were selected from the Madras European Regi- ment, together with a detachment of Madras Artillery and three of His Majesty's ships of war. A landing was effected without opposition, and after only a slight resistance the enemy believing that he was opposed by an overwhelming British force capitu- February 19th, lated, and Fort Victoria was surrendered on the 19th of 1810. February, 1810, to the British. Immediately after the conquest of Amboyna the Dutch Settlements depending on this Island were taken possession of by His Majesty's ship " Cornwallis," and thus the British obtained a firm footing in close proximity to the enemy's possessions. The objects for which the Madras detachment had been organized having been obtained, Lord Minto ordered that it should be relieved by Bengal troops, who, it was intended, should permanently garrison the Islands. It was under these circumstances that in September, 1810 September orders were issued for a strong detachment of the Bengal European Regiment then quartered at Dinapore to hold itself in readiness to embark for Amboyna. i Tin: I'.FACAL KIKOPKAN KI:<;IMKNT. 313 Kxtract from "The Kast India Regtaer," August li'th, 1812. THE BENGAL EUROPEAN REGIMENT. UANK. NAMKS. Regl. Rank. Army Rank. REMARKS. Colonel John Havnes ... 22 May, 1810 4 June, 1811 On Furlo' Lieut.-Col.... Robert Haldane 27 Jan., 1804 M Samuel Kelly ... 4 Sept., 1811 Major Tli. M.Weguelen 5 Nov., 1808 1 ) v. Cnrna. Gfinp.rn.1 Peter Littlejohn 4 Sept., 1811 25 July, 1810 Comg. Hill Rangers ( 'aittain Sir Thos. Ram- say, Bart 27 Mar., 1804 M. do. Amboyna. ii H.Blankenhagen 21 Sept., 1804 27 Mar., 1804 Comg. Ambovna T. D. Broughton 20 Oct., IKO.I j Corps 29 Dec., 1804 j On Furlough John Stuart :* Mar., l*(is 20 Oct., IHO/i i Edm. Morris ... 15 Dec., 1808 20 April, 1808 Amboyna > W. H. Wood ... \ Sept.. isn 15 Dec., 1808 Lieut. James Bryant ... Richard Eliggott 22 June, 18 12 do. 4 Sept., 1811 ;Brig. Maj.Dinapore Ramghur Battn. Lieutenant William Home 10 Aug., 1800 .. James Annoe ... 22 Oct., 1802 ,. Foster Walker... 13 July, 1803 ... Amboyna Alex. Brown ... do. ... Act. Maj. Brigade, Dinapore T. Kirchoffner... 30 May, 1804 Thos. Watson ... 30 June, 1804 Chas. C. Smith 30 Sept., 1804 Charles Smith... do. ... Isle of Banda eBolton... do. I'.S. Y;m S -\vinden 30 Sept., 1804 ... Ma j. Brig. Amboyna ,, Sand. Watson... 21 Oct., ls(M Kd\v. Fit/herald 20 Nov., INI M ... Amboyna H Robt. McKerrell 8 May, 1805 ... Isle of Banda Robt. Ledlie 18 Au^.. l^n:, Amboyna .. .John Fulton ... 12 Sept., 1805 Adjt. Amboyna Corns Wm. Burroughs 22 Nov.,lsn:, ... Ambo'yna LI Sept, 1807 lActg. Adj. 1 and 2 M. Presdcy.Divn. ,, Joseph Orchard 8 Mar., 1s .John I r win 15 Dec., Isnv rlton Francis Crisl.-y 26 Dec., isd- 4 Sept.. isil Fort Adj., Amboyna John Cockhurn -'_' Jan., 1812 ... Amboyna Ensign Harrison Aug., 1807 ... Amboyna IV ... 30Oct..l ... Amboyna David Uuddell... BlMar.,lfi ... EUmghur Battn. H lien. Ashe do. ., Al-\. Irvine 1 Sept., 1808 Tims. .Miodnev 21 Bp4 lames Marshall 10 Nov.. 1806 Win. I>avison ... 15 Feb., 1809 Adjutant ... Walker... Jf, Fel... IHJ'.I Quartermstr lames Annoe ... !i akin Ambovna .lit do. I'atk.Halkit ... do". do. .John Fckford ... ii.' '.'.'. do. Facings. Buff; Emby.. Silver. 314 THE BENGAL EUROPEAN HEGIMENT AT AMBOYNA. 1811. The detachment consisted of one flank Company and three Battalion Companies, making in all 368 Officers and men; the whole under the command of Major Kelly. The detachment sailed for its destination in October, 1810 ; very severe storms being encountered during the voyage, and the transports sustaining considerable injuries. On its arrival Major Kelly, who had been promoted to a Lieutenant-Colonelcy, assumed command of all the forces on the Island by virtue of his seniority. The headquarters of the Regiment and six Companies had been ordered to remain at Dinapore. A second detachment of the Regiment, under Captain Sir January, Thomas Ramsay, Bart., sailed in the Company's ship 1811. "Mentor," for Amboyna in January, 1811. This detachment suffered greatly from malarious fever, which was raging throughout the Islands ; Lieutenant-Colonel Kelly December, being amongst the Officers who succumbed to the disease (December, 1811), when the command devolved upon Captain Sir Thomas Ramsay. Although the climate of Amboyna was anything but salubrious the scenery is described as being very beautiful, exhibiting moun- tains thickly wooded, and valleys teeming with luxuriant verdure ; numerous villages and hamlets being dotted about, surrounded with an abundance of rich cultivation. The bay is entered between two high hills, which diminish in height as they approach the town. This bay stretches about seven leagues into the Island, separating it nearly into two parts ; and on the north shore Fort Victoria is situated. Whilst quartered at Fort Victoria the duties which devolved on the Officers of the Regiment required much tact, judgment, courage, and vigilance ; the elements of discord amongst the Native population of the Islands causing frequent disturbances. The Malays, who formed a large proportion of the inhabitants, were universally noted for their perfidy and cruelty ; whilst the Chinese were distinguished liKNUAL Kt KOPKAN IJKiJIMKNT AT AMUOYNA. 315 for their dishonesty and lack of principle. Finally the slaves, the 1811. number of whom was enormous, had been subjected to a con- stant system of cruelty: so that, maddened by their wrongs and sufferings, they were always anxiously watching for some oppor- tunity to free themselves from the bondage and hardships to which they had been subjected. Under these circumstances, and taking into consideration that young Officers of the Regiment were unavoidably placed in command of detachments on the different islands and outposts, where they were unable to hold frequent communication with their superiors, it argues well for the discipline of the Regiment and the intelligence of the Officers hat there is not any instance on record of the conduct of any of he Officers or men whilst on these detached commands having ailed for anything but approbation from tlieir superiors. It was whilst on one of these detached commands that Captain Blankenhagen, of the Bengal European Kegiment, lost his life. This OHicer had been appointed to the command of the "Am- boyna Corps." \\hich had been raised by him from amongst the Malays and other inhabitants of the island. Captain Blanken- hairen had proceeded with >ome of his men to the island of Ceram with the view of bringing into submission one of the refractory Chiefs. An attack on the enemy's Stronghold was unsuccessful, and this gallant Officer wa- killed at the head of his Regiment. The principal Posies-inns still remaining to the Dutch were situated in the Island of Java; and a qualified approval of Lord Minto's policy for the subjugation of these Possessions having been received from Kngland. the ( Jovernor-Gencral ga \ e orders for the dispatch of a force to capture Batavia and the principal fortifications on the Island of .lava. The Armv was placed under the command of Sir Samuel Auchmiity. and consisted of ILMKM) men. of which number nearly one-half were Europeans. On the 1th of August. 1M1, the Expedition, with which was Lord Minto in person, arrived in the Mata\ia l{oad< : and after a Series of Successes, attended unfortunately with much sacrifice of 31 fi THE BENGAL EUROPEAN REGIMENT AT AMBOYXA. 1814. life, the conquest of the Settlement was achieved. The views of the home authorities extended no further than the expulsion of the Dutch and the capture of their fortifications,, after which it was ordered that we should vacate the island ; but Lord Minto was of opinion that such a termination to the Expedition would be ill-judged and mischievous. The captured Forts were therefore garrisoned by British troops, and order was maintained by a properly-organized Government. It was under these circumstances that on the 27th of February, 1812, the headquarters of the Bengal European Regiment, under command of Lieutenant-Colonel Eales, embarked at Calcutta in the transports " Indiana," " Good Hope," and " Mussafer," to join their comrades at Amboyna. The Regiment remained in the Molucca Islands and at Macassar in the Isle of Celebes until early in April, 1817, when the Spice Islands were delivered over to the Dutch Authorities,* and the Regiment returned to Bengal, when it was again quartered at Dinapore. THE NEPAUL WAR AND EXPEDITION AGAINST THE FIND ARIES, 18141818. The Earl of Moira, who succeeded Lord Minto as Governor- General, having landed in Calcutta in October, 1814, commenced his Government by instituting a wise and high-minded policy. His predecessor had represented in strong terms the necessity of curbing the aggressive policy of the Ghoorkas ; and a treaty had been concluded with the authorities at Nepaul, under the * Thornton, in his "History of the British Empire in India," Vol. IV., p. 348, remarks "the blood and treasure expended in the capture of the Dutch Settlements were ultimately thrown away. By the arrangements consequent ? ' on the general pacification of Europe these Settlements were restored" an additional illustration of that levity and disregard to consequences " which seem to be inherent in British diplomacy. The maintenance of" Java and its Dependencies was necessary to the safety and integrity of our " Eastern Empire, and they ought never to have been surrendered." THK KM) <>F THi: M.I'Al I. WAK. 317 ipulations of which they were bound to respect the rights of the 1814. unpany ; but the conduct of the Nepaulese had compelled our >vernment to declare the treaty dissolved. The encroachments of the Ghoorkas extended into almost all it- ( Company's territories which abutted on those of Nepaul ; and ins nrrcssitau-d the institution of active measures, not only for repression of these aggressions, but for the protection of 1006 Native rulers who owed allegiance to the British Govern- nt. Lord Minto, with the view of avoiding a war which the Govern- n t could ill atford, had made more than reasonable concessions. it hunt seeking any atonement for the insults which had been flirted on the ( 1 ompany he had simply demanded that the hoorka Government should withdraw from the territories they wrongfully appropriated; but his just demands were rejected th scorn, and the enemy prepared for war. Lord Moira now assembled a considerable force to maintain the thorn Y of the Company, the chief command being assigned to lonel David ( )chterlon\ : whilst a force under Major-General . Sullivan Word penetrated into the Ghoorka country, by the (ute of Rutswild. t<> prevent the transfer of the war to the west- rd.* A detachment < reverted in the future, and the territories which had been wrongfully annexed were restored to the British. But a war of far greater importance than that which had to be aintained against the (llnnn-kas threatened the early Administra- on of Lord Moira who had since his assumption of office been ateol Mar<|ui> of IIa.-ting>. A war of extermination against id In.li;i \. S. .Jiuini;il ! - t Hast India Military ( 'alcn-lai'. V.il. I.. ]>. 318 THE PINDARIE WAR. 1816. the Pindarics formed one important feature in Lord Moira's Administration, and at an early period of his government he had directed the attention of the Court of Directors to this subject, and solicited their instructions. The Pindarics had now become the pest of society ; and it was necessary not only to punish and destroy them, but to overawe those powerful Native States under whose protection they carried on their depredations. The Pindarics were a clan of freebooters ; but, although their condition was one of constant war against their neighbours, they did not claim to be soldiers. They supported themselves by plunder and murder; their victims in most cases being the unoffending cul- tivators of the soil. They congregated in the Native States, where they formed themselves into different bands, composed of the outcasts of society, perpetrators of crimes, and escaped felons; any ruffian who could possess himself of a horse and sword being welcomed into their ranks. Their means of existence depended upon the amount of their spoliation ; and whenever their treasury was exhausted an excursion against a wealthy village or group of villages was planned ; their councils being held in secret, their movements were rapid both in attack and retreat, and their sole object being plunder, they obtained it in the most expeditious manner, darting on their victims with velocity, and where they met with determined opposition, flying with precipitancy. The cruelties to which the unoffending villagers were thus subjected by these marauders were unsurpassed in their disregard for suffering. The banditti on their appearance in a village demanded instant information of the position of treasure supposed to be concealed, and any hesitation ensured the immediate application of some horrible torture ; the soles of the feet being seared with red-hot irons, or a bag of hot ashes tied over the face of the victim, who was then severely beaten on the back, forcing him to inhale the heated ashes ; time was not allowed to the women and children to remove their bangles from their arms and feet, their limbs being frequently chopped off. Nor was the , F v I THI: I'iNDAini: WAR. ininittal of these atrocities by the Pindarics confined to the men 1816. I\ : for in their excursions they were usually accompanied by eir women, who are said to have surpassed the men in rapacity d crime. A few hours sufficed for the work of murder and theft, when e villages were fired and the robbers retired with their spoil to cir homes. This accomplished, the Native Government most invariably Maratha under whose protection the Pindarics vcd, had first to be satisfied; in some instances one-fourth of e booty being surrendered to them, in others a heavy heriot ing demanded. All external claims having been discharged, the spoil was livided according to an acknowledged scale. The women then held a fair which was conducted with dancing, singing, and banchery; attracting purchasers to their mart from far and near. Not satisfied with plundering the villages in the Native . the Pindarics had now grown more reckless, and had made cursions within the territories of the Company. Under these rcumstances it became incumbent on the Indian Government to adopt decided measures of reprisal and punishment. It was not to be disguised that this undertaking was one of nsiderahle magnitude, seeing that, although the Pindarics were themselves despicable and in every way unworthy to be classified a- iocs, they were openly encouraged by many of the influential Native rulers, who mil Gushingly derived a considerable portion of their revenues from their plunder. Ilolkar had bestowed upon (lurdi Khan one of the Pindaric hie!'- a golden tlag, the possession of which entitled the bearer high rank amongst the Marathas. Kurreem Khan, at this me the Chief of the Pindarics, on the occasion of receiving a isit of ceremony from Scindia. prepared a throne for his guest rectrd on a pedotal composed of I\s. 1 L'/i.OOO, which he tendered to his natron as a gift of honor. A campaign, t hen-fore, against the Pind-iri; 1 .- ncee-.-itated a -cries of concomitant wars against manv 320 THE PIXDARIE WAR. 1817. of the powerful Maratha States, and it was accordingly ordered by the Calcutta Council that they should be undertaken on a scale of magnitude and efficiency commensurate with the important services on which it was intended that our forces should be employed. The " Grand Army," for the complete subjection of the Pindarics and their patrons, was assembled immediately after the rainy season in 1817, and was divided into two commands, that of "Bengal" and "The Deccan;" the former Army consisting of 12, and the latter of 24 Brigades, numbering in all close on 100,000 men. The Grenadiers and Light Companies of the Bengal European Regiment again formed part of the " European Flank Battalion/' with six Companies of H.M. 17th, 24th, and 5Dth. This Battalion, formed entirely of flankers, was said by an eye-w r itness to have been "a magnificent Corps;" and as it was composed of picked men from the different British Regiments serving in Bengal the emulation was very great. "The Flank Battalion " of the "Army of Bengal " was in the 2nd Infantry Brigade, commanded by Colonel George Dick ; and this Brigade marched in October, 1817, to Secundra, October, 1817. and in November was joined by the Marquis of Hastings, who assumed the chief command. The Army of the Peishwar showed open hostility to the British ; but a treaty was entered into with Scindia and some other influential Maratha Chiefs, under which their active co-operation against the Pindarics was promised. Although the British Govern- ment were well aware that these treaties were entered into by the Chiefs only to be violated should the occasion arise, yet, in the face of the powerful Army which we had assembled, it was calculated that in all probability their fulfilment would be a matter not of choice but of necessity. This so-called "Pindaric War" was in reality the assertion of the Company's Government to paramount superiority over all 321 BENGAL EUROPEAN REGIMENT. February, 1821. Rank in the KANK. NAMES. Refiiinent. Army. REMABKS. (Colonel . . John Hayes 28 May 1810 M. G. 4 June, '11 . . On Furlough Lieut. -Col.... Major".... Udny Yule, C.B. Edw. P. Wilson T D Broughton ! 4 April, 1814 4 June, 1818 1 4 Mar 1816 4 June 1814 Ca.pto.in JohnLewisStuar Win H Wood ;} 1 June, 1818 8 Sept 1811 15 Dec '808 Agent for building public boats Benares Levy Jeremiah Bryant lames Auriol ... Foster Walker... Alex. Brown ... Thos Kirchoffer 22 Jan., '12 : 6 March, '14 13 Aug., '15 -M March, '16 : 8 July 5 Sept., '11... 1 31 Aug., 13... 6 March, '14 13 Aug., '15 8 Jan., '16 .. Judge Adv.-Genl. units Thos. Watson ... Chas. C. Smith George Bol ton ... Robt. Ledlie ... Win. Burroughs Metcalfe S.Hogg Joseph Orchard John Irwin ; 1 June, '18 ... 1 August 1 Jan., '19 ... i 18 Aug., '05 '22Nov 11 April, '07 I 3 March, '08 15 Dec do. 8 Jan., '17 .. 1 do., '18 Capt., do. .. do. do. Barrack Master 6th or Allahabad Div. Hen P Carleton ; do Francis Crossley James Harrison George Wray ... David Ruddell... o Sept., '11 ... 10 March, '12 2 July, '13 ... 31 August ... ', March '1 1 ... On Furlougl i Asst. Hindu Stanni Prof. Coll. Fort William A D C to Gen Ashe I dodin" 1 .lulv 1 Ensign Vdjntant ... rmstr. Assistant do. Marshall ... Win. Davisou ... 1 1 IMI. W. Bennett Thos. H. Coles Win. H. Howard I. A. Thompson \\ .(',. I'x-arhanip Chat. T. Foster . I'.irrell ... (ieoix-e Warren H. P. Carl M. C. Ho^' .John Step! Win. Duff.... ember do. l: 1 , An I March. 'Hi 2 July 1 August. 'Is do. 10 October ... 20 October ... :w April, "jo On Furlo'. Facings, Pompadour. Lace, Silver. ,' The Regimentals of the Infantry, Red. 322 CONCLUSION OF THE PINDAKIE WAR. 1818 others in India. Up to this period the powerful Maratha Chiefs had controlled the destinies of Central India, but a change was now effected ; for after a few months, during which several im- portant victories had been gained, the Peishwar was our prisoner ; Scindia was, of necessity, our Ally ; the Raja of Nagpore who had opposed us was a fugitive; and the Pindarics, who were not even worthy to be called our enemies, were driven from their possessions ; and those who declined to follow an honest mode of life were forced into the jungles, where they met with a miserable termination to their worthless and baneful existence. The Pin- daric War not only cleared the country of what was a disgrace to all civilized governments, but, more than this, it firmly established the supremacy of the Government of the East India Company throughout India. Although " The Flank Battalion," of which the Grenadiers and the Light Companies of the Bengal European Regiment formed a part, were not called on to engage in more than guerilla warfare, the services rendered were important and formed a link in the chain of conquests resulting in a term of peace, security, and prosperity in India, which remained unbroken for many years. At the conclusion of the war in 1 Sergeants, 7 Corporals, and 100 private soldiers. FIKST EUROPEAN i:i:< . I .M KVl. FIRST EUROPEAN REGIMENT. "PtissEY," > ROHIUTXD," " MYSORE," " DEIG. January 1st, RANK NAMKS. Bank in the Kegiment. Army. REMARKS. -( 'olonrl < 'omniandant Kl\v. P. Wilson... . -<'<>lmirl Thos. (iarner ... ijor Jeremiah Bryant 'aptain ieutenanl Adjutant ( v >n.irtTi 0|| AK-x. Hrown ('has. ('. Smith... Ilobt. Lcdlio Joseph Orcliard II' n. P. Carleton Davi.I \\'m. Dnvison .. \\'. II. Howard.. \\'an-rn ( 'hailcs Wilson.. IU KOPKAN KKcil.MKNT UK-FollMED. 325 Uoth Regiments wore the same facings and lace, viz., " sky- 1823. )lue " and " silver." The Bengal European Regiment was quartered at Ghazeepore hen the orders for its re-organization were effected; and the Ind Regiment was, on its re-formation, ordered to Dinapore, hen- it remained until 1825, when it proceeded to Arracan to uard our new Frontiers, as defined after the Burmese War of 8*4 Sii:<;i; AND CAPTURE OF BHURTPORE. The Maratha, or, as it was called, the " Pindaric" War had the desired effect t' firmly establishing the supremacy of the East India Company over the whole of the country south of the Sutlej. Peace and prosperity, such as had not hitherto been known, had been ensured to the inhabitants of Hindustan; and millions of subjects were praising the just and decided policy if Lord Hastings, which had ensured to them the previously- unknown blessings of security in land, home, and person. Uudher >ing. the Raja of Uhurtpore, died in 1823, leaving no direct ISMIC. He was succeeded by his brother, Buldeo Sing, who acknowledged his allegiance to the Company by soliciting from them the Khelat of Investure. At this time (Jeneral Sir David Ochterlony whose name has e\. T been associated with all that is honourable and just the British Roident at Malwa and Rajpontana, represented to Lord mherst, the ( !m crimr-l ieneral. that one Durjun Sal had claimed the throne of Uhurtpnre. but that on impartial inquiry the man had failed to vindicate his claim, which rested solely on his bare 'tion that the late Raja had acknowledged him as his heir and nominated him as hi> successor 1 . Unldeo Sing was. therefore, formally placed on the Musnud, under the authority of the Kast India Company: and, at hi, reque>t, hi> infant son was acknowledged by our Government heir to the throne. 326 THE SECOND BHURTPORE WAR. 1825. On the 20th January, 1825, Bulcleo Sing died, and this infant son, in accordance with the ruling of the Calcutta Council, succeeded his father. Durjun Sal again claimed the throne, and, although his letters were couched in specious language, he by his acts set at defiance the authority of his suzerain, the East India Company ; and, having gained over a large number of the Bhurtpore troops by promises of reward, attacked and seized the feebly-defended Fortress of Bhurtpore, murdered the uncle of the young Raja, took the boy prisoner, and occupied the throne in defiance of all remonstrances. As soon as it came to the knowledge of Sir David Ochterlony that the authority of the British had been outraged, he at once ordered all available troops to move towards Bhurtpore, and issuing a proclamation to the inhabitants of the country, called upon them in the name of his Government to rise and vindicate the rights of their youthful Sovereign, assuring them that in so doing they should have the support of the Calcutta Council. Lord Amherst declined to sanction or maintain the Resident's February March, policy ; it was in vain that Ochterlony urged that if 1825. decisive measures were not adopted to uphold British authority the rebellion of Durjun Sal would probably be pro- ductive of an extensive and costly war; he was instructed to immediately countermand the march of our troops and reverse his policy, allowing the people of Bhurtpore to fight for the succession and settle the dispute amongst themselves. Never was an official placed in a more perplexing or humiliating position, but General Ochterlony acted with promptitude on the instructions received from the Governor-General, and, in his letter of the 15th April, 1825, he said, "I lose no time in" " communicating his Lordship's sentiments as freely as I should " " if they had conveyed an approbation of my measures ;" but, at the same time, he forewarned the Government in strong terms what must be the inevitable result of their weak, shortsighted THE SECOND BHtTBTPOBX WAT?. policy, urging upon them that " every moment's delay was "1825. submission to disgrace," and, witli this caution, he tendered his resignation: IMII saying, at the same time, that he should be guilty of falsehood if he acknowledged any conviction of the incorrectness or impropriety of his actions, for he was fully convinced that his policy, had it been followed, would have speedily brought matters to an amicable and an honourable i>s IK-.' Sir 1 );i\ id Ochterlony died at Meerut shortly after his i-( .-lunation : when the Government of India paid tribute to his memory by issuing a notification in which it was set forth that "the "diplomatic qualification! of Sir David Ochterlony were not less" conspicuous than his Military talents." In the month of . I une following it became apparent that the time had arrived when the Government of India must of neces- >it\ interfere in Hhurtpore affairs, or lose the little respect which remained to it. Large bodies of mercenary troops, many of whom came from our own districts, crowds of Marathas, and descen- dants of the Pindarics, attracted bv the cry of war and the hope of plunder, had collected together. Madhoo Sing, the brother of the iiMirpcr. had >ei/ed the Fortress of Deig and attempted to possess hinix'lfoi' Blmrtpore. The troops, who depended solely on plunder tor their sustenance, were not only devastating the Hhurt- pore and neighbouring district.-, hut threatening to carry their depredations into the territory of theCompanv itself. The danger of a general war now heeame apparent, for there was everv proba- bility that those turbulent Princes who had been brought to subjection by Lord Hastings in 1*17 would take advantage of the apathy of the present (Government, and attempt to regain their former possessions. >till the Calcutta Council were undecided, whilst the Governor-* irn.-ral stood timidly aloof. A man was wanted to lead, and fortunately such a man was at hand. Sir Charles * Lrttri rernment, I'.'.th April. 328 THE SECOND BHURTPORE WAR. 1825. Metcalfe penned an able Minute on the state of affairs at Bhurtpore, which turned the scale and reversed Lord Amhurst's non-inter- ference policy. The Governor-General having the fairness to acknowledge that his opinions " had undergone some change " and that " a system of non-interference " " would be exposed to " " signal failure." Thus it was that the boasted impregnability of the Fortress of Bhurtpore was to be again tested, and our Army to be allowed an j u ly September, opportunity of completing the task which it had failed to accomplish in 1804. A proclamation was now issued, denouncing the pretensions of the usurper Durjun Sal, and setting forth that the infant Raja, whose succession had been sanctioned by the Company, should by their authority and under their protection be firmly seated on his throne. Sir Charles Metcalfe was appointed by the Government to carry into effect the purport of this proclamation, and should it be necessary he was empowered " to resort to the " " measures of force." Lord Combermere, the Commander-in-Chief, assumed the Command of the Field force; and the Bengal European Regiment was ordered to be immediately held in readiness to march towards Bhurtpore. The order for the Regiment to proceed on active service was hailed by the men with delight, not only on account of a natural desire to complete the reduction of the Fortress of Bhurtpore, which had withstood our four successive assaults in 1805, but cholera* and a virulent malarious fever had within the past few * In the burial ground at Ghazeepore may still be seen sad mementos of this visitation of cholera, in the long rows of graves of the men of the Bengal European Regiment. On one of these the following epitaph to the memory of a deceased soldier may be seen : "I'm billeted here by death, And here I must remain ; When the last trumpet sounds, I'll rise and march again." " Erected by his Comra<1 TIIK SKCOND luirirri'oRK WAK. 329 months reduced the Regiment in strength and spirits, making I,SL>;,. v -drome the prospect of a change to a more healthy climate and vigorous life. There still remained with the 1st Bengal European Eegiment some of the Officers and rank and file who had been present during the unsuccessful attempts to capture Bhurtpore in 1805. There had been no lack of courage on that memorable occasion, but there had been failure : kt Deig " was inscribed on the Regimental ( 'olour. but "Bhurtpore" was remembered by its absence. Major Alexander lirown was one of those who swam the ditch with the (irenadiers on '2'2i\(\ January, !*<>.">: this ( )fficer was still with the Regiment a tall, handsome man, of courage unsurpassed ; to the \oung Officers he was specially kind, ever ready to help them in their difficulties and assist them with his advice. There was also ] recent with the Regiment a man named Allan, known as -'Tinker Allan." Private Allan was a regimental character; he was up- v/ards of six feet high, and always took the right of the Grenadier Company, and no feat was too daring for him to attempt. Cap- tain Morris, who had commanded the ( Jrenadiers at the siege of Bhurtpore, had been shot in the neck and his leg broken whilst 1 'aling the escaladers across the ditch : it was Allan who rescued his wounded Officer, and it may fairly be said that he saved his life. Allan was not a drunkard, but he was a wild, reckless fellow, frequentlv in trouble, but ever ready to make atonement for his errors. On one occasion he had been tried by a Court-martial and sentenced to be flogged. The proceedings of the Court were as usual read on parade, and Allan began t<> strip to receive the l:i>h. when Colonel Roberts,* then commanding the Regiment, called him to the front and thus addressed him : " Private Allan," "you have proved yourself on many occasions to be a brave and '' "gallant soldier, and your deed- an- well known in the Regiment." "I will not submit you to the disgrace of the lash. I will remit' 1 thr ti.tlirr if Liruii'ii:iiit- cK-hrity : now ('oiniimndi-r-iii-Cliief, Madras. 330 THE MARCH TO BHURTPORE. 1826. "your punishment, and I hope that the mercy which I have now" " shown you, will induce you to be as good a soldier in quarters " " as you have been in the field." Allan was ordered to take his place in the ranks, and his release was hailed with joy by his comrades. It was with a full measure of applause that the order to join the Army before Bhurtpore was received by the 1st Bengal European Regiment, and five days sufficed for collecting the necessary carriage, when amidst hearty cheers the Regiment commenced its march. On arrival at Shekoabad orders from the Commander-in-Chief were received directing that the Regiment should push on as quickly as possible, for the day of attack was at hand. January, 1826. J J The march was resumed immediately and a distance of 14 additional miles was accomplished, the Regiment reaching Etimadpore before daybreak the next morning. A halt was then ordered for breakfast, and without pitching camp the Regiment continued its march a further distance of 15 miles, when of necessity it halted a few hours to obtain service ammunition and exchange condemned arms. At 4 p.m. the same day, January 6th, January 6th, the men were drawn up on parade in heavy marching order, and the word of command having been given, the Regi- ment commenced its final march of 36 miles, which was to bring our soldiers face to face with their old enemy, who, just 20 years previously, had foiled and defeated them. Before dawn the signs of exhaustion were apparent and it seemed as if the men would be unable to complete their task ; a halt appeared inevitable, when a deep boom was heard in the distance, the roar of the cannon becoming louder and louder, and the flight of the shells becoming visible as the men with a hearty cheer and refreshed vigour pushed along the road. Extra liquor was served, and at daylight on the morning of the 7th the "Dirty January 7th, Shirts," having again proved their title to their sobriquet, arrived on the plain before Bhurtpore. The Regiment had in 18 hours marched 60 miles, during the Till: ARRIVAL BEFORE BUTRTRORK. lasr M <>f which the men had carried (>0 rounds of hall ainmu- nition in poueli. In consideration of these extraordinary exertions and the fatigue which the Regiment had undergone, the Commander-ii>- Chief ordered that it should be allowed three days' entire rest, during which time it was excused from all duties. After tliis repose, the Bengal European Regiment was appointed loth, t() tne ~ n( l Division of Infantry, commanded by Major- General Nicolls ; the position of their cam]) being to the west of the town of Bhurtpore. Preparations for the grand assault were now nearly completed. Lord Combeimere had transmitted to Durjun Sal a proposal for the withdrawal of the women and children from the Fortress, and a safe conduct was promised through the British camp, but the proposal was treated with contempt : notwithstanding which, it was humanely repeated : a second time it was rejected. The iSth of January was fixed as the day for the grand assault. The ( 'ommandcr-in-( 'hiefs plan of action was to drive a mine, capable of containing an unusually heavy charge, right under the " Futteh Bourj," the name by which the main battery of the Fortress was known. Previous to the attack a strong party of ('avalry had been sent round to pi-event the enemv from cutting the " dam'' of the lake (Motee Jheel), and it may be remembered that it was owing to the enemy having succeeded in cutting this "dam" during the iir>t >icge of Bhurtpnre. that so many difficul- tir- were encountered, and so many lives sacrificed in endea\ ourin^ to cro>s the ditch. 1 hiring the early part of January two or three mines had been pushed toward* the Fortro-: >ome of which had been counter- mined by the enemy, and some had been exploded with the view of distracting the enemy'.- attention from the main work. Tin- British had now I.'IO heavy guns in position. The Bengal European Etegimehl had been told oil' to work in the trenches which were connected with the "right batterv." 332 THE ASSAULT ON BHURTPOItE. On the 17th January orders were issued by the Commander- in- January 18th, Chief for the grand assault ; and on the following morning, the preparations having been completed, the troops commenced to occupy the trenches, so as to be in readiness for the contemplated attack ; the springing of the mine under the " Futteh Bourj " being the signal for a general advance. H.M. 14th Regiment were appointed to lead the centre storming-party against the main breach ; four Companies of the Bengal European Regiment leading the right attack, and H.M. 59th the left. One Company of the Bengal European Regiment, under Lieu- tenant-Colonel Cartwright, joined the reserve in the trenches. The morning of the 18th June, 1826, was bright and clear. The enemy having learnt that the British troops had all taken position during the night, and finding that our trenches were packed with our soldiers, anticipated an immediate attack ; the " Futteh Bourj " was crowded with the enemy's Artillery and Infantry, who by signs and gestures were seen to bid defiance to the besiegers, who were silently awaiting the signal. Exactly at 8 o'clock a low rumbling sound was heard ; there was no smoke yet, but the large Bastion was noticed to silently disconnect itself right and left from the Fortress, and for a few seconds it seemed to oscillate with its human load ; who now for the first time suspected they were over a gigantic mine. The rumbling sound was soon succeeded by a roar ; when, in the midst of flames and blinding smoke, the huge mass of the " Futteh Bourj " rose for a second towards the cloudless sky, and then split and crumbled into a million fragments, which were scattered far and wide. It was now seen that the mine had been very much overcharged, and the destruction dealt around had not been confined to tin enemy only, for several of our main assaulting-party were kille< and three of the Officers wounded. The stunning effect of the explosion of this surcharged mil caused a temporary check in the British advance ; but, as the () men; the number of wounded uas not known. The following Fort-, .some of great .strength, surrendered on the approach of the British Army: Brana, Weir, Kombeir, and Kama: and the expeditions against these garris, m s having returned to Bhurt pore, the British Army remained encamped tor about six weeks, during which time the terms of a treaty were being arranged under the stipulations of which the young Raja was now reinstated on his throne. The Army before Bhurtpore broke up early in April, when the 1st Bengal Knropean Regiment proceeded to Agra : the 2nd Regiment joining them on their return from Cheduba, Vrracan. before the close of the year. < >n the 1st January. l*;iu. the two Regiments were again v. joined into one. which wa> de>ignated as heretofore "The Bengal Kuropean Regjm,, nt :" but the Officers continued in two M-parate cadres for promotion. 336 RE-ORGANIZATION OF THE BENGAL EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 18-31. In 1831 the Regiment moved from Agra to Dinapore, and in 1835 it proceeded to Meerat. On September 1st, 1838, the organisation of the Regiment was again altered, the following establishment being sanctioned : 1 Colonel, 1 Schoolmaster-Sergeant, 2 Lieutenant-Colonels, 1 Drum-Major, 2 Majors, 1 Fife-Major, 10 Captains, 1 Drill-Sergeant, 16 Lieutenants, 1 Brill-Corporal, 8 Ensigns, 40 Sergeants, 2 Surgeons, 40 Corporals, 2 Assistant-Surgeons, 20 Drummers, 1 Sergeant-Major, 650 Privates. 1 Quartermaster-Sergeant, General References. Chaptir XI I L Major W. Thorn's " Conquest of Java." Thornton's " British Empire in India." Raffles' " History of Java." Crawford's " Indian Archipelago." East India Military Calendar, 1820. Broome's " Bengal Army." Historical Records, Madras European Regiment. Creighton's ' ' Narrative of the Siege and Capture of Bhurtpore, 1825-26." General Orders and Dispatches. &c., &c. CHAPTER XIV. Origin <>f the Afghan \Var, 1838 Formation of the "Army of the Indus" Advanee of tin- Army The Bolan Pass Arrival at Quetta March between i>t tin- attempts of any Foreign Power to pa-s through any portion of the Afghan territory with hostile utions towards the Ka>t India Company. After the ratification of this treaty, dis>en>5ons arose in liani.-tan. terminating in the dethronement and flight of Shall Shnja-nl-Mnlk, who sought and obtained the protection of the Indian ( Jovernmeiit . I>.)M Moliamed ultimately niece. ded to the Afghan throne: but under this Prince'.- nile the al>ove-referre-i:m intrigue was >o rife in Persia and Afghanistan that Lo.-d Auckland then (lo\ ernor-(u i neral of India followin 338 RUSSIAN INTRIGUE IN AFGHANISTAN. 1837. Lord Minto's policy, dispatched September, 1837 Captain Alexander Burnes on a Mission to Cabul to report on the relations existing between the Amir and the Russian and Afghan Courts. Captain Burnes, on his arrival at Cabul, soon satisfied himself that the Amir, Dost Mahomed, was completely under Russian influence ; he further discovered that a Russian Agent, named Vickovich, had been deputed to Cabul by his Government witli promises of a large annual subsidy in exchange for Dost Mohamed's interest and services on Russian behalf. These overtures had been accepted by the Amir, who, dazzled by the prospect of such substantial assistance, had thrown himself com- pletely into the arms of Russia. Under these circumstances Captain Burnes returned to India, and, in his report December 23rd, 1837 to the Governor- General, he says, " I am satisfied that much more vigorous " " proceedings than the Government might wish to contemplate " " are necessary to counteract Russian or Persian intrigue in this ; ' " quarter than have been hitherto exhibited." It now became apparent to Lord Auckland's Government that Russia was endeavouring to work her way stealthily and surely towards the frontier of India ; and that if active measures should not be adopted to check her progress the result must inevitably be dangerous and disturbing to the peace of India ; the interests of Russia in Afghanistan appearing to be rising in the same propor- tion as those of England appeared to be declining. The primary question to be decided by Lord Auckland's Government was, whether they should allow the country on their north-west frontier to be governed by an intriguing enemy, or whether they should restore Shah Shuja-ul-Mulk, who had sought the protection of the British, to his throne, and thus secure the goodwill of a powerful Ally. The Government of India elected to support the interests of Shah Shuja-ul-Mulk; and for this purpose a triple alliance was formed between the East India Company of the first part ; the 330 Maharaja Uunjit Sing of the second; and Shah Slnija-ul-Mulk 1838. ,()<)<) men, on the condition tliat Sliah Shuja-ul-Mulk would agree to acknowledge the right of Rim jit Sing to the Afghan territory which he had ai nexcd: and lastly Shah Shuja agreeing to protect the intercMs of tin- Ka>t India Company, and strengthen the advancing Army, by employing such Afghan troops as should desire to further the can>e of their dethroned lYince. This treat v was confirmed and ratified at Lahore in June, 1838; and on the 1st of October following a proclamation, -citing forth the views of the Indian Government, was promulgated, in which it was stated that: " II5> Majesty Shah Shuja-ul-Mulk will enter Afghanistan' 1 k * -Mii-roundcd hy his own troops, and will he supported against " 'i interference, and factious imposition by a British" "Army. The ( Jo\ernor-( Jeneral confidently hopes that the" " >hah will he speedily replaced mi his throne by his own" "subjects and adherents and when once he shall be >ecurcd in" "power and the independence and integrity of Afghanistan" ibli.-lu-d the P>riti>h Army will he withdrawn." The Army of the Indn>" \\a- formed on a scale commensurate with the important uhjerts which it was rei>ted of a Siege Train, European Hor.-e and Font Artillery. I>riti>h and Native Li^ht C;i\alry, and five lirigadc- of Infantry : the fourth liri^ade heinn Composed of the Bengal Kuropcan liegimcnt ( under connnand of Ltenant-Colonel Joseph Orchard. (Mi.) and two Native liomhay Mipplicd an Army con>i.-t ing of Artillcrv, Cavalry, and Infantry, and the " Pomia Auxiliary Force." Shah Shnja-ul-Mulk'.- contingent \\a> composed of a troop of Naiixc HOI-M- Artillery, two Kegimeiits of Cavalrv, and fi\e of Infantry 340 1838. Tn addition to the above the Maharaja Runjit Sing supplied an "Army of Observation" of 15,000 Seiks and a moveable contingent of 6000 under General Ventura, a French Officer in the Punjaub service. The following is a numerical summary of the troops employed in the " Army of the Indus " : Men. The Bengal portion of the Army consisted of ... 9500 The Bengal Reserve Division 4250 The Bombay portion of the Army consisted of... 5600 The Scind Force, which formed the Reserve to the Bombay portion of the Army 3000 Shah Shuja-ul-Mulk's Contingent 6000 The Shazada's Division, commanded by Timiir, the son of Shah Shuja-ul-Mulk 4800 The Seik Contingent 6000 The Seik Army of Observation 15,000 Total 54,150 The advance towards Afghanistan was made in five Columns, separated from each other by one day's march ; the 4th Brigade, commanded by Major-General Duncan, in which was the Bengal European Regiment, being the last to leave Ferozpore. On the 29th of December, 1838, the Army reached Bahawalpore,. I December 29th, 229 miles from Ferozpore and just half-way between that station and Bhakkar ; which town is situated close to the river Indus, and was reached on the 24th of January, 1839. Much difficulty had been experienced en route by reason of the January 24th, mortality amongst the camels and draft cattle ; no less than 28,000 camels accompanying the force. Shah Shuja's Army had in the meantime reached Bhakkar, and had crossed the Indus in boats about seven miles higher up- the stream. 341 Affairs at Ilaidarabad in Scinde, being found in an nnsatis- 1839. fietory condition, the Oommander-in-Chief in India, General Sir II. Faiu', ordered a detachment of r>()00 men of the Bengal (Army to join that of Bombay, which was under the command, of ( M-ncral Sir .1. Keane. The 1th Infantry Brigade, together with some Cavalry, Artillery, :nid Sappers, was ordered to remain at Bhakkar; and this Brigade in which was the Bengal European Regiment was employed in the construction of the bridge of boats by which the invading Army was to cross the river Indus: and further, the Brigade was instructed to take po>session of t lie small Fortress of Bhakkar, -tatcd to have been originally built by Alexander the Great when lie invaded India in B.( \ :\'21. Though in a very dilapidated condition the Fortress of Bhakkar would, if repaired and garrisoned, have possessed con- -idcrahle strength. The castellated building is picturesquely Mtuaicd on an island in the middle of the river Indus, and was at this time within the territory of the Amir of Khyrpore; who consented, under treaty i:\rd January. 1 *;',<.!, to hand it over to the ISritish Commander. The Fort was accordingly taken Ion of on the L'Dth of January, and the English flag raised upon its ranipa' The Cnmmand-in-Chief of the " Army of the Indus" W*fl now assumed by Lieutcnant-Gencral Sir John Keane, and the Infantry of the Bengal Column was denominated the 1st In- fautrv Dix Mo,,, and placed under Major-General Sir \V. Cotton. On the i;,th of February the headquarters of the 1st Infantry bruary. Division were established on the right bank of the Indus, and on the l!th it reached Shikarpore. At Hiikarpore the l>t Infantry Division joined Shah Shuja's ntingent: the advanced force numbering o\ -r 1 ",()()() men. The invading Army was now Hearing the enemy's country; nd Dadur. a >mall town in the gorge of the Bolan Pass, 1 li miles diMant from Shikarpore. WU ivached on the 342 THE BOLAN PASS. JSo9. 10th March; but this progress had been made with difficulty, for a desert 26^ miles in extent had to be crossed, and the troops' and cattle had suffered terribly from want of drinkable water.. The suffering from the heat was very great, the thermometer reaching 98 in the shade. Provisions also were scarce, and non- combatants were placed on half rations. The Column entered the Bolan Pass on the 16th of March. 1839; but notwithstanding that the temperature was now con- siderably lower, and good water plentiful, the passage through the Pass is described by an Officer* of the Bengal European Regiment, who was present during the march, as having the appearance of an Army " retreating under every disaster; public ' r " stores and private property lying about scattered and aban- "" " doned in every direction." The mountains on either side of the Pass are irregular and barren, occasional green patches of cultivation which surround the villages affording an agreeable contrast to the rugged and desolate appearance of the rocks. The distance between the hills which enclose the Pass vario considerably; in some places the valley being three to March, 1889. , -, 1 tour miles broad, but in others constricted to less than a hundred feet; the huge rocks rising perpendicularly on either side, Fortunately the passage of the troops was unopposed, and the Force on the 26th of March reached Quetta, where the tem- perature was now very considerably reduced; causing as mud) suffering amongst the troops from the cold as they had previously sustained from the excessive heat. Much of the baggage., amongst which were the blankets, had been abandoned in the Pass, so that the men's night-covering was insufficient. The ' O O thermometer now ranged from 30 at 4 a.m., to 60 at 3 p.m. Fruit-trees were in full blossom around, and the snow covered the mountain peaks on either side of Quetta, which is 5637 feet above the level of the sea. * General George Warren. FKOM (H'KTTA TO KANDAHAR. 343 On the tith (f April General Sir John Kcsinc established his 1839. liejulqiwrters at (juetta, and immediately iued orders for a general advance to Kandahar. The march l)et\veen (^uettaand Kandahar \vasone of privations and terrible suffering: insufficient food and the absence of water caii>iug much sacrifice of life, and the miseries endured by the tronps and cattle passes all description. The horses, numbers of which fell exhaioted on the road, were goaded with lances from behind in the hope that they might be enabled to struggle on to Ei longed-for stream ahead. Captain Ilavelock in his narrative nays : " HOI-M-S. already half-starved for want of grain and good" "grass, were throughout the day panting in all the agonies of" "thirst, and in the evening a few drops of water could not be " "obtained even to mix with the medicines of the sick in our" "hospital." I'lidcr thoe circumstances the greatest difficulties were ex- perienced in transporting the heavy guns: the draft-cattle, being >tarved and exhausted, were quite unequal to the task; and indeed the nature of the ground was such, that through a large portion of the defile tin- >iege-train had to be dragged up and lowered down by manual labour. The road over the Kojuck Height-; ri-es steadily for a distance nf upward- of a mile: and it wa> there that the Bengal Kuropean Regiment was employed in transporting the hea\ y guns and ammunition: the Officers of the Regiment working with their men for tour cnu-ecutive da\ - at the drag rope-, from suuri.-c to sunset, The headquarters of the Armv reached Kandahar on the iJlJth \pril. I*:'/.!; but the 1th IJrigadc and heavy guns did nol irrive until the oOth, when a halt. BO much needed to recruit the of the Army, wa- ordered. The Bengal ('olumn had marched W)~> miles, under circum- of the -ivate>t difficulty and privation: the troop> liaving 1839. 344 FROM KANDAHAR TO GHUZNEE. 1839. endured tortures from the scarcity of water ; * and on the arrival of the Army at Kandahar they had all been on half rations for 28 days. The sufferings to which the troops had been exposed are but inadequately recorded. Nature was well-nigh exhausted ; there " was no time for the luxurious ablutions which, under the sun " " of Central Asia, preserve the health and restore strength, no " " time to waste a single drop of the precious fluid on any bodily " "comfort, or for any purpose but for preparing food or slaking"" " a raging thirst." f The draft-cattle, as well as the horses, had perished in great numbers, and food both for man and beast was still insufficient. On the 8th of May Shah Shuja-ul-Mulk was installed at Kandahar by Lieutenant-General Keane, as Amir of Afghanistan ; J and consequently Dost Mahomed was to be treated in the light of an usurper. On May 10th, 1839, the Army commenced its march towards Ghuznee, but the draft-cattle were so deficient in numbers and strength that it was found impossible under the circumstances to carry sufficient provisions, or to advance the siege-train. To meet these difficulties the troops were again placed on half rations, and the heavy guns were ordered to remain at Kandahar. The march towards Ghuznee did not commence under propitious * Major Hough (Campaign in Afghanistan) gives the following graphic description of the Army reaching a river on the line of inarch. " The moment " ' the horses saw the water they made a sudden rush into the river as if mad ; " ' both men and horses drank till they nearly burst themselves. Officers declare " ' that their tongues cleaved to the roofs of their mouths ; 'the water was very " ' brackish, which induced them to drink the more. The river was three feet " ' deep and more in some places, and was five or six miles off the proper road. " ' Many dogs and other animals died. No Officer present ever witnessed such " ' a scene of distress." t Thornton's "Hist. British Empire." Vol. VI., p. 174. J Shah Shuja-ul-Mulk was about 60 years of age when he was re-seated on his throne. He had lived under the protection of the East India Company for 24 years. Till: 1IKNCAL K( IIOI'KAX IIKCIMKNT. 'M~> Hast India Register," January, 1840. THE BENGAL EUROPEAN REGIMENT. (Right Wing.) BASSET," u P.IXAR," " GUZEUETT," " DEIG," " BHURTPORE." Station Arrived BANK. NAMES. Bank in the REM Regiment. Army. ( < ilolld Win. Dunlop ... J. Orchard, C.B. George Warren Francis Beaty ... 11 Feb., '39 27 July, '36 25 Feb., '37 2 July, '33 U t! . 1OX 22 Jan., '34 L.-C. 23 July, '39 Qrmr. ol Major .. :il| James Matt hie ... diaries Jorden... Thos. Box A. Win. Taylor... d.arles dark ... John (I. (Irrranl Win. Broadfoot Win. Jas. 1'arker Jno. W. Bennett II. T. Combe ...j K 8, Maeniullen F. Shuttlrworth If.W.II.Fan.shawr James Pattnllo... Robt II. IIi,-ks... !:. W. Salusbury j 16 Dec., ? 36 27 July, '36 25 Feb., '37 15 Jan.. '2! Lfi Dec., "80 2 July, '33 * Sept, '86 16 Dec., '35 27 July, '36 1 Dec., '37 2Uuly, '38 12 July. '.'IN 1 Sept. K. J. Boileaii . W. ( inrdoii Asst.G.G. Agent N.W. Frontier On Furlo. Sylhet Light Infantry. 12 June, '57 21 ', July, '37 11 Dec., '37 14 Jan., '38 * With Sli;ili Shuja's Army. Sky- Blue. 346 THE BENGAL EUROPEAN REGIMENT. THE BENGAL EUKOPEAN KEGIMENT. (Left Wing.) "PLASSEY," "BlJXAR," " GuZERATT," " DEIG." Station Arrived BANK. NAMES. Bank in the REMARKS. Begiment. Army. Philip Le Fevre 18 Dec., '34 18 June, '31 On Furlo 1 Lieut. -Colon el Ab. Roberts, C.B. 28 Sept., '3-4 Major .... J. A. Thompson 27 Sept., '37 Captain David Birrell ... 26 April, '27 5? John P. Ripley... 19 June, '31 >l Wm. Shortreed... 15 Nov., '36 14 Feb., '35 Tlios. Lysart 27 Sept., '37 3 June Hydrabad 5 ? Alister Stewart... 5 Mar., '38 Lieutenant Wm. Edm. Hay 9 May, '25 Captain, 19 July, '37 Brig. Major,. Agra > Jas. Rath. Pond 11 May, '32 >> Fran. Harrison ... 2 May, '33 Bernd. Kendall... 13 Mar., '35 Douglas Seaton... 29 July, 35 ?> Edward Magnay 15 Nov., '36 ?? John Fagan 3 Mar., '38 ?> W. K. Haslewood 10 Aug., '38 Adjutant to the Regiment, Intr. & Qr. Mr. do. J. G. GERRARD. Surgeon do. H. GUTHRIE, M.D. Asst. do. do. ALEX. GIBBON. Facings, Sky-Blue. .">47 circumstances, hut there was now no deficiency in water, the men 1839. cheerful under their privations, and though the Columns were surrounded hy pilferers, which kept the troops Constantly on the alert, nothing worthy of notice occurred until the Army, on the iM.-t July, ls;>9, arrived in the vicinity of ( ihu/nec. distant 290 miles from Kandahar, and 90 from CabuL A careful rt'f()iiu"t**inn-f' showed that the Fortress of Ghuznce- had heen much under-rated, and it was ascertained hy inspecting the work.- that they possessed irreat strength. Captain Thompson,. the Chief-Engineer with the Arm\, ui\es the following descrip- tion of the Fortre.-- of (Ihu/nee: -We were \ cry much surprised to find a lii^h rampart in" - irood repair huilt on a .-carped mound ahout thirty-five feet " hi;-h, flanked hy numerous towers and surrounded hy a /nn*** " //iderahle .-trench, is .-ituated at the t<*p of the hill upon which the citv and it.- fortifications are huilt. The Tn-iti-h loree fit for duty amounted to ahout S(l()() men, in addition to \\hieh \\a- Shah Shuja*> Contingent of ahout -l(MM): and our Artillery con-i-ted of K) -1111-. .f which IS were li^ht field-pie To a\\ait the arrival of our -ie-v-t rain wa- out of the i|ue>tioiu a- it was known that one of 1 )o.-t Mahomed'- (ieiieral.- had been >ent fi-M-.n ('ahnl with a cou.-iderahle force to act against the- 348 THE ASSAULT ON THE FORTRESS OF GHUZNEE. 1839. besiegers, in concert with the Commander of the Ghuznee garrison. This hostile force could not now be more than one or two marches distant ; and it was a matter of importance that action should be taken before reinforcements could arrive. It was under these circumstances that the Commander-in-Chief made up his mind to carry the Fortress by a "coup-de-main" and for this purpose he determined on the following plan of action. A double charge of powder would be placed by an " explosion party" against the Cabul Gate of the city, and this charge was to be fired at a given signal ; the attention of the defenders having been previously diverted in the opposite direction by a false attack. On the explosion taking place the storming-party were to enter and possess themselves of the Fortress ; this plan being elaborated in a General Order dated Ghuznee, 22nd July, 1839. The " storming-party " was placed under the command of Brigadier-General Sale, C.B., and "the advance" was ordered to ^consist of the Light Companies of H.M. 2nd, 17th, and the Bengal European Regiments, and a Flank Company of H.M. 13th Light Infantry. The main Column consisted of the Bengal European Regiment under Colonel Orchard, H.M. 2nd and the remainder of the 13th Light Infantry formed as skirmishers on the Hanks. H.M. 17th Regiment was ordered to form "the support and to " follow the storming party into the works." Finally a detachment of Native Infantry was directed to "quit " "" camp and move round the gardens on the south of the town " "" where they will establish themselves; and about 3 a.m. open " * 4 a fire upon the place for the purpose of distracting the " *' attention of the garrison." Immediately after the explosion at the Cabul Gate "the Chief- ' " Engineer finding the opening practicable will have c the " -" Advance ' sounded for the Column to rush on. When the " " head of the Column has passed the gateway a signal must be " TIIK AU-LT OX THE FORTRESS OF <; HI/NEK. * made for the Artillery to turn their fire from the walls of the " 1839.. " town OH the Citadel." At midnight 2:>rd July, IKiW the British Army was astir, 1 ut their allotted portions were taken up in absolute silence. The night was stormy, and the wind so boisterous that the move- ment- of the troops were not discovered by the enemy; and within the Fortress no sound was heard, all being so still that it pW tor .-nine time Mi>pected that the place had been evacuated. The detachment of Native Infantry which had taken up it.- position in the gardens to the south of the town were heard to- open lire in the distance, but they failed to attract much notice troin the garri.-on. The Knginecrs. who formed the "explosion-party," had .-ileiitly advanced, carrying with them bags containing 300 Ibs. (.f powder.* Tin- "explosion-party" had not advanced more than a few hundred yards when their movements were observed by the enemy'.- sentries, who immediately gave the alarm, and in a few minute- a -reat number of blue-lights were burned on the tops of the walls of the l' ( .rtre. It now became apparent to the .plosion-party'* that the enemy did not suspect that they had any de-ign on the gate, for the hlue-lights, instead of beini: thrown into the >ortie pas.-ages below, were held high in the air: HO thai while lighting up the country around they afforded no guidance to the hoieged, who appeared to be in ignorance that an immediate attack on their Kortre ATM contemplated. The enemy \\ere not kept long in doubt, for the '-explosion- party" ha-tened forward under a severe lire from t he rampart >. and placing the bags of powder in portion, and laying the hose, i hey n -tired under whatever cover they could iiud. A moment's n ] silence followed: when the chain of fire, taking its serpent- like eour-e, \\a~ -een to run along the ground, and on * A char m MI tn 120 Ibs. of powder is said to be usually ample for Mov ate, but tlu- Commander-in-chief rave special onl- ra i^r a full ied 350 THE ASSAULT ON THE FORTRESS OF GHUZNEE. 1839. reaching the charge an explosion followed which blew the gate and some of the surrounding buildings to atoms. There was no longer any doubt as to the intentions of the besiegers, and the silence which had been enjoined on the troops was now broken by a succession of hearty cheers; our Artillery at the same time opening fire, and the Afghans hastening to their allotted positions on the ramparts. The Commander-in-Chief now gave the order for the party forming the advance to push forward and secure the entrance to the Fortress. The Light Companies made a dash for the ruins of the gate, but their progress was opposed by a strong force of the enemy, who advanced outside the sortie and contested the passage. A galling musketry and grape-fire was poured on the " advance party " as they charged, and their ranks were thinned before they reached the outer works; but after a desperate resis- tance the enemy were driven back amongst the ruins of the gate. But the passage was still hotly contested ; the Light Companies again and again charging the masses, and at each charge obtaining some slight advantage ; until the enemy fairly gave way, .and the " advance-party " with a cheer and a rush, was scrambling over the ruins. The enemy were driven back but not dismayed; and now rapidly forming into two parties they made a desperate onslaught on both 'flanks of the Advance, so that it appeared for some minutes doubtful if any of the men composing the Light Companies would be left to hold the ground. But at this Critical moment our storming-party arrived in support, and the enemy were bayoneted in such numbers that our troops was much impeded by the heaps of dead and debris round the ruined gate. But this advantage had not been secured without terrible loss on our side ; the wounded of the Light Company of the Bengal European Regiment, including its three Officers, Lieutenants Broadfoot, Magnay, and Haslewood, as well as thirty of the rank INSIDE THE F<>irn;i>s OF cm /M:K. .-.rul file. It was lien- that Brigadier-General Sale, who coin- manded tlic " storming-party '' received a severe cut in t lie face ; after which lie had a desperate hand-to-hand encounter with his enemy as thev rolled together on the ground, both fighting for their lives : until the General, although much exhausted from lo- ot' blood, succeeded in wrenching his enemy'.- sword from his gra-p. and with it cleft the Afghan's head in two. The main opposition at the gatewav having been now overcome, the bugles sounded the advance; and, as had been previously ordered, II. M. l.'Jth and 17th .Regiments took the road to their right which led round to the Citadel. Our guns had for some hours been directed on the walls c t' the Citadel, which was at the top of the hill on which the ,,] Fortress of Ghu/nee was built: and it was hoped, by the time an entrance into the Fortress had been effected, a practicable breach would have been made on the walls of the Citadel. >o that the i:5th and 17th Regiments might carry it by .-torm. In>ide the Cabul gate was a large Mpiare about l.'iO yards across and commanded by houses on three sides, whilst on the fourth >ide was the Citadel, which was immediately opposite to the captured gateway. A> BOOB M the u storming-party " had ivached this square some of the enemy rushed towards the. <'itadel, whilst other- took possession of the hou>es : from which they continued to pour a galling tire on our advancing troops. The route taken by the Bengal European Regiment was through narrou Streets, the hou.-es on each >ide a> \\ell afl those in the xpiare being filled with the Afghans, who sent a raking fire on the Regiment aa it advanced : and. in addition to this iire, the ffaeett were o.-mpied by the enemy, who stoutly contested the ' of our troop.-. Two hours were occupied in thus fighting our way through the Streets of the t.wn towards '.lie Kandahar -ate; on eaeh >Jde of which wett outworks ,nly approachable through a narrow pa^age. from above which a fire \\a> kept up by the enemy. In t ln-r outworks there 352 THE CAPTURE OF THE FORTRESS OF GHUZNEE. 1839. was an expense magazine, which fortunately had exploded, and made the capture of the position comparatively easy. The Bengal European Regiment now turned off to the left, passing along a street which led back towards the ruins of the Cabul gate; when suddenly the Colours of the 13th and 17th Eegiments were seen flying on the walls of the Citadel above, and the enemy rushing down the slope only eager to effect their escape. The Bengal European Regiment was still employed in forcing its passage along the street, when Major Warren, the second in command of the Regiment, was struck in three places and fell to the ground severely wounded. The scene in the centre square at this time is described as July 23rd, having been one of horror and confusion " Horses, many " 1839. " wounded, were running about in all directions, fighting " " with each other, kicking and biting, and running quite furious " " at anyone they saw ; so dangerous had these animals become " " that the men were obliged to be ordered to shoot the horses " " in self-defence as they endangered the lives of all, and par- "" " ticularly of the wounded men while being carried out in " " dhoolies." The Afghans became thoroughly demoralised, and abandoning their guns fled in all directions ; throwing themselves from the walls into the depth below where many of them perished ; many others refusing quarter and rushing on the bayonets of our soldiers, eager to die whilst fighting the battle of the faith, rather than crave for mercy at the hand of the Infidel. Hyder Khan, the Governor of Ghuznee, received a bayonet- thrust through the waistband of his dress, and would have lost his life had he not surrendered to Captain A. W. Taylor of the Bengal European Regiment, who happened to be near at hand in the melee. The loss of the enemy will never be known ; but the bodies of upwards of 500 Afghans were found within the walls of the- Fortress, and 1500 were taken prisoners. 353 The Bengal European Ivegimeiit suffered very severely in 1839. wounded; hut it is remarkable that throughout the British Army the number of killed in the siege was very small in proportion to the wounded. The Bengal European Regiment had only 1 rank and file killed ; whilst amongst the wounded there were Lieu- tenant ( 'olonel Joseph Orchard, C.B., commanding the Regiment, Major Warren, Captains Hay and Tayler, Lieutenants Broadfoot, it-wood, and Fagan, and Magnay, and Ensign Jacob; with 51 rank and file. Of these Officers, Major Warren and Lieutenant I la.-lewood were in considerable danger. Major Warren was wounded in three places; the upper part of hi> let't wrist being carried away by a shot, a second striking his 1 t't hrca-t and passing round the surface of his chest, and a third entering the upper part of his right arm, in which he had received a severe wound at the capture of Bhurtpore, 1826.* Lieutenant Mask-wood was cut down soon after the "Advance- party" had gut into the Fortress; and, although he succeeded in .-hooting the first man who attacked him, he was immediately afterward- .-urrounded by the enemy, who inflicted five sabre wound- ut' -ivat severity, the first on the head which felled him to the ground: and whilst in a halt'-ronsrious state the Afghans hacked him with their tulwars, cutting through his right scapula, another wound crossing this, and in addition his right thigh wa- red at the joint; at this critical moment a private soldier in Lieutenant Efalewood'fl Company, named Kelly, coming up jn.-t a.- tin- At'ghan was about giving Mash-wood his coup-de-grace, rushed to hi.- Officer's re.-cue and ran his assailant completely through the body with his bayonet. From the serious nature of Lieutenant I la.-kwood's injuries, the surgeons did not think that he would recover the use of hi.- arm or leg; but he was more fortunate than was anticipated, and under the skilful treatment * M.-ij. \\a> anr-nvards appointed by Lord Auckland, To\vn- ; <>\ t'c.rt William. -pi-rial n-ward for his services on this occasion. 2 A 354 FROM GHUZNEE TO CABUL. 1839. which he received he was, after a long convalescence, again fit for duty.* And now is a fitting time to refer to the valuable services rendered to the Bengal European Regiment by their inde- fatigable Surgeon, Dr. G. Paton ; who, though suffering from a painful illness, was ever at his post, rendering, by his scientific experiments, inestimable benefits to both the Officers and men, who suffered as much from diseases peculiar to the country as from the ravages of war. After the storm was over, and quiet had been in some degree July 24th, restored, the General Commanding-in-Chief conducted his Majesty Shah Shuja round the Fortress and Citadel; and the Amir expressed his astonishment at our having captured in a few hours the Fortress which had heretofore held the reputation of being impregnable. The Governor, Hyder Khan, was brought before His Majesty, who, at the intercession of the English Commander, spared his life; he being ordered to be kept a prisoner of war, for which purpose he was sent to the headquarter camp and placed under the charge of Sir Alexander Burnes. A few days' rest was now allowed to the troops ; the wounded being placed in the depot hospital at Ghuznee, and the con- valescents, with such of the sick and wounded as could be moved without risk, being ordered to accompany the Army on its forward march. On the 30th of July, 1839, the British force continued its j u ly August, march towards Cabul; Dost Mahomed f flying from that city on the approach of the Army, and on the 7th August the Amir Shall Shuja made his public entry into his capital. * Lieutenant Haslewood was rewarded for his services by Lord Auckland, who placed him on his personal Staff. Lieutenant Haslewood was, however, afterwards invalided on account of his wounds. f It having been ascertained that the ex- Amir Dost Mahomed had fled in the direction of Bameen, a force was dispatched in pursuit under the direction of Hajee Khan Kakur ; Captain Arthur William Tayler and Lieutenant William Broadfoot, both of the Bengal European Regiment, serving with this THE REWARDS FOR SERVICE. 355 The inhabitants of Cabul seemed marvellously indifferent to 1839. the changes which had taken place. The city was filled with immense crowds, but they made no demonstration; there was no shouting or sounds of joy; the nobles rose as the king appeared and made their salaam, but as -soon as His Majesty had passed they resented themselves, and the crowds dispersed to their usual avocations. On the 3rd September, 1839, the Shahzada Timiir marched into Cabul with his Army. On the 17th of September, H.M. Shah Sluija held a grand durbar at the Bala Hissar, for the purpose of conferring upon certain Officers of the British Army, who had been selected to receive the distinction, the Order of the Durance Empire. The following Officers of the Bengal European Regiment received the Order. Brigadier-General Roberts, C.B., who had commanded the Amir's force during the campaign, was created a Member of the L'nd ( ilaas, Lieutenant-Colonel Joseph Orchard, C.B., and Major Warren were created Members of the 3rd Class. A Brevet Lieutenant-Colonelcy was also conferred on Major Warren. \V. ()., l:;th December, 1839. A Medal was ordered to be struck and presented to all those Officers and soldiers who had been engaged at the capture of Gliii/nee. Subsequently the names " Afghanistan " and - (ihu/nee " were ordered to be inscribed on the Colours of all the Regiments who had served during the Campaign ; these being inherited by the Royal M mister Fusilier.-. Orders were now issued by U.K. the Commander-in-Chief, 9th ( October, 1.^)'.', for the breaking up of "the Army of the Indus," the purposes for which it had been assembled having been fully detachment Ilajrr Khan Kakor, who had received many favours from Dost JNIahoini'd. now d.-tratrd the object for which the expedition had been .T-aiiisrd :u,l connived at the Dost's escape ; tin- d.-ta.-hmeiit returning to Cabul without the ex-Amir: who, however, subsequently surrendered himself >ner ..f war. and claim, -,1 tlu- protection of the British after the Battle of Pur wan, ;;rl XovL-mli.-r, I 356 1839 attained. The ex- Amir, Dost Mahomed, had been dethroned and was a fugitive ; and our Ally, Shah Shuja, had been replaced upon his throne, after an absence from his capital of thirty years. The Army had marched 1527 miles, under circumstances of great hardship and privation ; it had occupied Kandahar, stormed and captured the strong Fortress of Ghuznee, and it was now in undisputed possession of the capital city of the Afghan Kingdom. The death of the Maharaja Runjit Sing on the 27th June, 18;> ( ,) ? was not generally known in the Army at the time of its occurrence, as fears had been entertained that in the event of the Maharaja's demise his successor might withdraw his "Army of Observation'" from Peshawar; the consequences of which would have been very serious and probably might have imperilled the safety of our Army on its return to India. Satisfactory arrangements were however made with the Punjab Government, and the policy of the late Maharaja was adopted by his successor. On the breaking-up of the "Army of the Indus " three of its Brigades remained in Afghanistan; one at Kandahar; one at Cabul ; and the third at Jellalabad. The fourth Brigade of the "Army of the Indus," in which was the Bengal European Regi- ment, was directed to form part of the " Army of Occupation," and proceed to Jellalabad; but, as a General Order had been published 29th July, 1839 ordering the embodiment of tlie 2nd European Regiment, volunteers from the 1st European Regi- ment were called for to form the nucleus of 2nd Regiment- Eighty-two men were selected and proceeded to Hazarebagh with the invalids and time-expired men of the Regiment, under command of Lieutenant-Colonel Warren, who by this time had sufficiently recovered from his wounds to undertake the duty. Although many of the Officers of the old 2nd European Regi- mentwhich had been joined with the 1st in 1830 were still serving with the latter Regiment all the Officers of the newly- * White facings were prescribed for this Regiment on its re -organisation,. as worn by the old 2nd European Regiment in the last century (p. 282). THE AKMY OF OCCUPATION." 357 formed Regiment were taken from the general list of the Army. 1839, The promotion of the Officers of the Right and Left Wings of the European Regiment, which had continued since the amalga- mation of the 1st and 2nd Regiments, was so involved that it was found impossible to separate them without causing great injustice. 1 nder the orders regulating the promotion of the Officers of the two Wings, no Wing Officer could receive sub- stantive promotion until his parallel Officer in the other Wing had been promoted. Under the working of this order a Captain lias commanded the Regiment whilst a Major has been present and on duty.* The detachment of the Bengal European Regiment under October, Colonel Warren marched from Cabul on the 15th October 39- with the second Column of the returning Army, under command of Major-General Thackwell. Subsequent political and military events proved that it would have been well had Lord Auckland elected to withdraw his Army from Afghanistan immediately after the occupation of Cabul, whilst the British Army was crow r ned with all the honours of victory : but such was not the policy of the Government of India, who. though bound by the terms of the Governor-General's November December, "' Proclamation," were unwilling to relinquish the power obtained over the Afghan country. In vain His Majesty Shah Shuja urged the withdrawal of the British troops: his reriti>h ( iovermnent : they hinted at a violation of faith, and pointed to the Governor-General*! " Proclamation," promising tljem independence; the hostile feeling increased; powerful Chief * It was said that no one outside the Regiment understood the working of this (JovenniK-nt l)rd-r, and very few of those affected by it could rxj.lain its effects, 358 COLONEL ORCHARD'S ADVANCE ON POOSHUT. 1840. assembled armies and assumed a threatening attitude, claiming their independence and openly taunting the King with being the puppet of a foreign power. The Bengal European Regiment had scarcely taken up its quarters in the garrison of Jellalabad when one of these discon- tented Afghan Chiefs named Syad Husain, at the head of a considerable force, took up his position in the Fort of Pooshut,, about fifty miles from Jellalabad, and assumed a defiant attitude. Lieutenant-Colonel Orchard, C.B., commanding the Bengal anuary, European Regiment, was ordered to proceed with a Company 1840. O f hj s Regiment under the command of Captain Thomas Box,, and a small Native force with three guns, to dislodge the rebel Chief. On the 18th January, 1840, the British detachment arrived in the vicinity of the Fort. The march to Pooshut had been per- formed under very trying and harassing circumstances, a constant downpour of rain saturating the roads and drenching the troops ; the cold being intense, and violent storms rendering progress difficult. On taking up position our field-guns opened fire on the walls of the Fort, no difficulty being anticipated in reducing its inmates to subjection. A practicable breach Avas soon effected and Captain Box, with his Company of the Bengal European Regiment, together with some Sepahis, forming the storming- party, effected an entrance ; but it soon became apparent that the breach had been made in the outer works only, and that the inner fortifications could not be carried without scaling ladders or blasting operations. At this time, by some mistake, one of our Buglers sounded the " Advance," which indicated to the outer force that we had suc- ceeded in making our way into the Fort. On hearing the signal the rest of the besiegers pushed forward, and thus the outer works became dangerously crowded, and our troops exposed to a heavy fire from the walls of the Fort. An attempt was now January 18th, niade to blow in the inner gate, but the powder was damp 1840. an( j refused to ignite ; but still, notwithstanding that the THE I5KN. of the Bengal European Regiment, being mortally wounded; ID men were killed and 48 wounded. It is, however, satisfactory to be able to record that the determination and valour of the troops engaged convinced the enemy that prolonged resistance would be useless; and they evacuated the Fort during the night of the lUth January, taking with them all their valuable.-: and, with the exception of a small store of grain and gunpowder, the Fort had been completely cleared. Colonel Orchard occupied the Fort, and remained with his troops at Poo-hut until the Kith of February, when they returned to Jellalabad. In November, 1840, the 1st Bengal European Regiment returned to India, and during its homeward march it learned with sitisfaetinn that, under instructions received from the Court of Directors, it had been rewarded by being formed into Light Infantry, and was henceforth to be designated the " 1st Bengal European Light Infantrv." On its arrival in India the Regiment went into quarters at Kuruaul, a new station built on a scale of grandeur hitherto unknown in India. Kurnaul had been selected as a suitable site for* cantonment, and barracks had been erected for the accommo- dation of a strong front ier force, but the situation of the station was >oon found to be unhealthy, on account of its close proximity to the irrigation canals, which, from their having been constructed 360 THE DISASTERS AT CABUL. 1841. at a higher level than that of the cantonment, produced a de- structive epidemic of fever amongst the troops. The station was in consequence abandoned, and most of the Regiments were removed to Umballa, which henceforth was the principal frontier station. Notwithstanding that some compensation was granted by the Government, sad losses fell upon the Officers of the Regiments stationed at Kurnaul, as they all had expended very large sums on the erection of houses, &c. It is beyond our province to more than glance at the horrors and misfortunes which befel so many Officers and soldiers of the "Army of Occupation" soon after the 1st European Light In- fantry returned to India. The cold-blooded murder of the Amir Shah Shuja, assassinated near the Bala Hissar by order of the usurper Z email Khan, was perpetrated in the following manner. Shah Shuja had started in his palanquin to join his Army, encamped near at hand, when the son of Zeman Khan accompanied by his followers fired a volley into the palanquin, which killed its occupant as well as several of the bearers. The body of the Amir was thrown into a ditch and hacked by the murderers with their tulwars. On the 2nd of November Sir Alexander Burnes and his Staff' November 2nd, were attacked and murdered in the Residency at Cabul;* these atrocities being followed by the assas- sination of the British Resident, Sir William McNaughten, and * Amongst the Staff Officers who fell on this occasion was Lieutenant William Broadfoot of the Bengal European Regiment. Thornton, in his History of the British Empire, Vol. VI., p. 253, says that Lieutenant Broad- foot was "an Officer whom all reports unite in eulogizing, and whose life " " was clearly paid for by his assailants, six of whom met destruction from " " his hand before it was paralysed by death." Two days afterwards near Char-ee-kar fell another promising young Officer of the Bengal European Regiment, Ensign Ed. W. Salusbury, who had been specially selected for service with the Amir Shah Shuja's Contingent. Ensign Salusbury, who was desperately wounded at Lughman whilst fighting bravely against overwhelming numbers near the military post of Char-ee-kar, died of his wounds the same night. aei his assistant, Captain Trevor; by the imprisonment of Lady Sale 1842. and all those who accompanied the British in their disastrous retreat from Cabal. The city of Cabal and the Fortress of Ghuz- nee were wrenched from the hands of the British : and finally the British Brigade under General Elphinstone was annihilated in attempting to force its way from Cabul to Jellalabad. But ultimately the honour of our arms was fully vindicated, and the death of so many of our countrymen avenged, by the gallant and victorious march of General Pollock from Jellalabad,* and of General Nott from Kandahar. Ghuznee was recaptured, Cabul was re-occupied, Lady Sale and all the English prisoners were released, and the British "Army of Occupation" vacated Afghan- istan with honour. In June, 1842, an "Army of Reserve" was ordered to be formed at Ferozpore, under the immediate command of His Excellency the Commander-in-Chief in India; with orders, in case of need, to act as a relieving force to the "Army of Occu- pation" on its return march from Afghanistan. Lieutenant- Colonel Orchard, C.B., was appointed a Brigadier to command the 1st or Light Brigade of the " Army of Reserve," in which was his Regiment, the 1st Bengal European Light Infantry; and, after the arrival of General Pollock's victorious Army within British territory, the "Army of Reserve" was broken up, and the 1st European Light Infantry was ordered to Subathoo, a station situated on the summit of the range of hills between the plain.- of India and the sanatorium of Simla. Subathoo will ever be remembered as one of the most beautiful spots in the Himalayas. It may fairly be said that after nearly a hundred years of almost constant warfare, constant exposure to extremes of climate, constant scenes of bloodshed and privation here was a haven of rest and peace, sin-rounded by God's most glorious * Captain John (;. Crn-nrd of the Bengal European Regiment served in the ilcfcm-i' of .Mlalalwd against Akbar Khan, 7th April, 1842 (severely wounded); lie also served with (ieneral Pollock's force on its victorious inarch. 362 SUBATHOO. 1845. and most pleasing works ; the valleys teeming with verdure, the hills covered with evergreen pines and silver oaks, and the old half-ruined Fort, that had in former years stood many a siege,, with its background of eternal snow. Early in February, 1845, the author of this work, a boy just eighteen years of age, toiled up the Subathoo hill to join his Regiment ; the scene above, but faintly described, suddenly burst upon him as he emerged from the gorge overhanging the grassy plateau which forms the Regimental Parade, forcibly striking his imagination by its glorious aspect, the vision of which can never be erased from his memory. CHAPTER XV. 1st Bengal European Li<-ht Infantry at Subathoo Origin, Development and Tenets of the Klialsa Faith Influence of the Seik Religion on the Khalsa Anny Kunjit Sing's Plans of Reorganization Disturbances in the Punjab after Kunjit Sing's Death Ultimate Accession of Dulip Sing to the Throne The Khalsa Army (let-lares its right to direct the Punjab Government, and Invades the Territories of the East India Company The Governor-General Declares War Orders for the 1st European Light Infantry to proceed on Service reat-h Subathoo Rapid Preparations and March to Mudki The Battle of Mudki Attack on and Capture of the Enemy's entrenched position at Ferozshah The British unable to retain their position evacuate the ( 'amp Recapture of the Entrenchments General Action against Tej Sing's Army Retreat of the Khalsa Army, and the British bivouac on the Field of Battle. X the early part of the year 1845 the 1st Bengal 1345, European Regiment (Light Infantry) was, in point of physique, discipline and smartness, second to none in the Uritish service. Amongst its rank and file there were many ser\ ice-scarred, gray-haired soldiers, who had passed twenty years in its ranks: men whose lead the younger soldiers wen 1 prepared to follow, and whose example they would emulate. An Officer,* whose opinion commands respect, speaks of the appearance of the Regiment at this time as glorious ! " He says, "I saw it stand on parade at Suhathoo kk in ls4."> close on a thousand strong, and after the battles of " " the Sutlej Campaign it mustered on parade at Lahore two " " hundred and fifty. The rest were killed and wounded." At this time the Regiment was commanded by that grand old Officer, Lieut. -Col. .Joseph Orchard, C.B., a rigid disciplinarian, * Field Marshal Lord Napier of Magdala, G.C.B., G.C.S.I. 364 THE BENGAL EUROPEAN REGIMENT AT SUBATHOO. 1845. but a kind-hearted, just man ; essentially the young soldiers' friend, whom he was ever ready to assist with his advice and kindly aid. Colonel Orchard had joined the Bengal European Regiment early in the century; his experience and services extending back to some of the greatest victories in Indian history. It was during the middle of 1845 that Colonel Orchard took leave of absence to England, and was succeeded in the command of the Regiment by Major David Birrell. There was at this time another Officer present with the Bengal European Light Infantry of whom notice cannot be omitted Lieutenant Herbert Benjamin Edwardes a man who commanded the respect of his brother Officers, and whose genial, kindly nature endeared him to all : in education and talents he was superior to most of his comrades, and in sound, clear judgment, and common sense was far beyond his years. In 1845 this young unknown subaltern published, under the pseudonym of " Brahmine Bull," a series of political papers, which immediately attracted the attention not only of the Indian Government officials, but of those in power in England. These letters were believed to be from the pen of a man of high standing and much Indian experience, but when it was surmised that the author was a young subaltern doing duty with his Regiment at Subathoo all officials were sceptical. The Commander-in-Chief, Sir Hugh Gough, called the young man into his presence, and the Governor- General, Sir Henry Hardinge, interviewed him ; when it became known that young Edwardes was, both as a writer and as a soldier, the rising man of the day. As a temporary measure Edwardes was appointed an extra aide-de-camp to the Commander-in-Chief ; and a few years afterwards his exploits of coolness, courage, and sound judgment caused all England to ring with respect, admiration, and praise. But though all seemed in the early months of 1845 so like a February May, permanent peace in India, there was a storm gathering 1845. no t far distant which was shortly to burst upon u s HIE RELIGION OF THE KHALSA. 365 with :i furv unparalleled in our Indian history; but before 1845 recording the events connected with the coming Seik War, it will be necessary to glance at the circumstances that brought about an invasion, to encounter and repel which called forth all our energies and resources. It may be fairly stated that the Sutlej War was quite unprovoked on the part of the Indian Government; the invasion was made by the Seiks in defiance of treaties and at a time of profound repose, and it was incumbent on the British in their own self-defence to exert all their influence and strength to drive the invaders from their soil. The Seik Campaign, although in no way a religious war, was brought about by reason of the Punjaubees having so* inter- mixed their religious spirit and tenets with their Military >v>tem that their Army became the usurper of their civil government ; and it was to free themselves from a Military despotism that the Government of the Punjaub encouraged the Seik Army to confront the British, in the hope that it might in some way be relieved from the intolerable bondage in which it was held, and against which it found itself by any other mean- unable to combat. The Seik religion varies materially from all other forms of worship in India. Its founder was one Nanuk, a Guru,* born in the year A.D. 14(jS. At the early age of eleven he became a teacher of men, and soon afterwards had several disciples, to whom lie taught his doctrines. Nanuk had studied the writings of the Mahomrdaii and Hindu tat hers, but they had failed to convey his concept inn of the Deity. He loathed the sensual symbolism of the Hindus, and the ostentatious worship of the Mahomedans was p-pelleut to him. He was desirous of finding a (rod of simplicity and truth,jdl-mereit'ul. abhorring war. and a lover of goodwill and peace. 1I<- wrote many holy effusions on the unity and attributes of^ God, and these poems are still held in supreme ' i rUTU >i-nitics High Priest. 366 THE KELIGION OF THE KHALSA. 1845. reverence by the Punjaubees. Nanuk was believed by his follow- ers to have seen God, who had nominated him to be His teacher, and enjoined on him the three simple lessons of (1) the worship of the name of God, (2) of charity to all men, and lastly of ablution. Notwithstanding his great mission and the favours which were supposed to have been conferred on him, Nanuk returned to his home, a disappointed man, and died 1539 feeling that human nature could never aspire to a realization of :the knowledge of God, which he sought in vain to obtain. Nanuk's successors compiled from the writings and traditional sayings of the Guru's the Khalsa Bible, called the "Grunth;" under the authority of which they gained temporal as well as spiritual power, and even aspired to the throne. The Guru who forms the connecting link between the past history of the Punjab and the invasion by the Seiks of our Indian Possessions was named Govind 1675 under whom the religion of the Seiks was constantly employed as an adjunct to Military power. At the head of his troops Govind defeated those of the Emperor of Hindustan; thus gaining prestige and power otherwise unattainable. He placed his military organization strictly on a religious basis; and, taking advantage of his priestly office, taught his followers that bravery in battle was an incomparable virtue, whereas cowardice carried with it condemnation and spiritual death. But Govind, finding in time that superstition gained ground amongst his people, sim- plified the dogmas of his faith, forbidding all effigies whatever of the Deity, and all caste differences; "for," said he, "God is one," " and in his presence all men are equal." Such was the religious organization which was engrafted into the Seik Military system, with the object of creating an Army capable of reducing to subjection any force against which it might be pitted, and during his reign of upwards of 30 years Govind succeeded in spreading his tenets amongst the whole Seik nation, who gladly accepted the faith, by embracing which its votaries ORGANISATION OF THE KHALSA ARMY. 367 became " Khalsas," or the saved ones ; and thus lie inaugurated 1845. a powerful Military system, and imbued its soldiers with a religious enthusiasm inspiring them with the belief that they were the chosen people of God, and that they must invariably be invincible in war. Although during the following century the Government of the Punjaub was subdivided into independent districts the Military training and enthusiasm of the Khalsas progressed, and in the vein- 17*0 a Prince was born to them, named Runjit Sing, called tin- Lion of the Punjab, who by his tact and skill tranquillized conflicting interests and amalgamated the feudal clans, so that when he was seated on the Khalsa throne he ruled over a kingdom more powerful than the Marathas, and more influential than that of the Emperor of Delhie. It will be in the memory of our readers how, in 1805, Lord Lake, at the head of his flying Column with which was the Bengal European Regiment pursued his enemy Jeswant Rao Ilolkar to the very gates of Lahore, when the Maharaja Runjit Sing mediated between the British and the Marathas, and, re- fusing to give Ilolkar an asylum, forced him to put his seal on the compact acknowledging the supremacy of the British over the whole of the Maratha empire. Tin- Maharaja Runjit Sing, holding the memory and actions of his predecessor Govind, Guru, in supreme veneration, determined to perfect the great work which he had inaugurated, The Seiks had by this time become essentially a Military nation, their religion and education prepared them for the arts of war; they were men of magnificent physique, obedient, enduring, brave, and unlettered by caste prejudices; but they, in common with all the Eastern nations, tailed in the great requisite of capable Com- manders. To supply this deficiency Runjit Sing sought and obtained the services of Generals Allard, Avitabile, Court, and \cntura; all men of established ability, who had gained their reputation under the great Napoleon. These Generals, on the 368 SUCCESSION OF DULIP SING TO THE THRONE. 1845. downfall of the Empire being unemployed accepted Runjit Sing's offer of service, and were appointed to high Military commands in the Khalsa Army ; and by them the French system of drill was introduced, the Seik Regiments completely re- modelled, and exercised in Military movements on the European system. It has been stated in the last chapter that the Maharaja Runjit Sing died 27th June, 1839 during the time that the British were employed in the Afghan War. Runjit's death was followed by rapid changes in the Government of the Punjab ; withini a very few years several successors to the throne having been murdered, the Fort and City of Lahore besieged and captured with all the horrors of rapine, pillage, and murder, terminating in the boy Dulip Sing the son of Runjit Sing by his favourite wife, the Rani Jinda Kaur being proclaimed by the Khalsa Maharaja of the Punjab. Scenes of murder, intrigue, and bloodshed were still rife ; the boy Dulip Sing was closely guarded, and the Rani appointed Regent ; with her brother, Jowahir Sing, and her paramour, Lai Sing, forming a triumvirate of which Jowahir Sing was Prime Minister ; but a rebellion soon following, Jowahir Sing was arraigned before an Army Council and ordered to be shot, the sentence being carried into effect in the compulsory presence of the Regent and the young Maharaja. There was no longer any doubt that the Khalsas intended to assert their power to control their Sovereign and their Govern- ment ; and it was now fully realized that the Gurus had created a Military despotism which paralysed and eclipsed all the functions of their Government. Lai Sing, who was in constant communication with the Rani- Regent, admitted into their confidence Tej Sing, the Chief of the Khalsa Army, which was the actual ruler of the country. But matters were rapidly approaching to a crisis ; the treasi was exhausted and the Army clamorous for their arrears of pay I HK SEIK INVASION. to supply which the thought of conquest arose before the minds 1845. of the soldiers. Why should they not demonstrate their power and replenish their treasure-chest by the invasion of British India, capturing the rich cities of Delhie and Calcutta, and bringing all Hindustan under their sway ? In vain the Rani and many of the influential Sirdars pointed out to the Khalsa troops the perilous nature of their undertaking. But the Seik Army sought excitement, pillage, and conquest. The edict was sent forth; war was proclaimed against the East India Company ; and the Khalsa Army, 70,000 strong, with upwards of 100 guns, marched to invade India. The knowledge that this violent proceeding must ultimately end in defeat and disaster, induced the French Generals in the Seik Service to obtain leave of absence to Europe before the invasion of India had been finally determined on. These Officers had, by their influence, and in the general confusion, amassed larue fortunes, which they had from time to time transmitted to France through British agencies; and now, crossing the frontier into the Company's territories, their retreat was secured. There remained still with the Seiks several European Officers of inferior rank; but when the Army was deprived of the services of such men as Avitabile and Ventura, insubordination quickly appeared in its ranks, and it soon retrograded into the state from which it had been raised by Runjit Sing, at such great expense and with so much judgment. Tej Sing and Lai Sing were now on the horns of a dilemma. rhey had both xcretly encouraged the Seik Army to make war on the British, as this course appeared to them the easiest way of ridding the country of what had become a source of so much danger; but now the whole Army called on these Sirdars to join the troops and lead them to victory. Lai Sing was no >oldier: lie loved the society of the Rani far more than joining in what lie felt must ultimately prove a hopeless struggle. Tej Sing, on the contrary, every inch a soldier, readily consented to lead the 2 B 370 THE SEIK INVASION. 1845. Khalsa troops ; they looking to him with confidence and reliance to subdue the British in open fight. One other personage here claims special notice. Golab Sing, the Raja of Jamu, had been solicited to accept the Prime Ministership of the Punjaub Government, but he preferred the comparative peace of his own country. He however possessed considerable power at the Lahore Court, and he now demanded of them their reasons for ignoring the treaties of friendship which had existed between their Government and the East India Company ; and asked what cause of offence the latter had given. No reply was made to his demand ; and Golab Sing, for his own safety, dissembled by promising to raise an Army of 40,000 men, and declaring his readiness to assist the Khalsa ; but at the same time he made specious excuses for delay, determining to cautiously await the course of events before committing himself to action. Lord Ellenborough, before his recall 1844 had foreseen the gathering storm in the direction of our north-west frontier, and intended to form a vast entrenched camp ; for which purpose he had already massed troops at Umballa, and increased the British force at Ferozpore ; but on his sudden recall this policy was aban- doned. Sir Henry Hardinge, his successor, did not anticipate that the Seiks would prove dangerous neighbours ; he accordingly substituted a policy of peace, and no step was taken or contem- plated which could give umbrage to the Seiks. On December llth, the Khalsa Army crossed the Sutlej, and December llth, invaded the British territory ; the suddenness of their 1845. movements causing something approaching to conster- nation ; the more so as, under the Governor-General's orders, preparations for defence had been abandoned, and we were in 110 way ready to repel an invasion, although Sir Hugh Gough, the Commander-in-Chief, had warned his troops to be on the look-out for a sudden move ; but his actions had been so hampered by Government orders that he could not make any active pre- parations until the Seik thunderbolt had been launched. SUTLEJ MAP I BENGAL ROU EURO (LIGHT JLiiliianet. CAMPAIGN E ^ OPERATIONS EAN REGIMENT FANTRY) v-> si: IKS. 371 The Seik Army crossed the river Sutlej, and having made 1845. two marches, strongly entrenched itself around the village of Fero/shah before reliable information reached the Government of the unprovoked invasion. Fortunately the Governor-General was at this time in the North- Western Provinces. The crisis demanded the full energy and power of all departments. The Commander-in-Chief could issue orders to mass his troops, but this was not all the troops must be fed, and enormous quantities of carriage must be instantly forthcoming. As soon as it became known that the Khalsa Army had crossed the Sutlej and taken up its position, as above indicated, within British territory, the Governor-General no longer placed any rotrictions on the actions of the Commander-in-Chief; but published a manifesto, declaring that the responsibility of the war 1 with the Seiks alone; that their unprovoked aggression should be severely punished ; and British authority preserved over all the countries which had been living under its protection : and, further, that as the Seiks had, by their unwarrantable proceedings, broken the treaties which had existed between the two nations since 1 *<>'.>. the Seik possessions on the left bank of the Sutlej should le confiscated and annexed to those of the East India Company. At Subathoo the excitement was intense. Although no in- >t met ions had been received, it was felt that a sudden move might at any moment lie ordered, the Officers therefore had been t :l moment was to be lost. The Officers proceeded forthwith to the barracks, aroused their men, and 372 THE MARCH TO MUDKI. 1845, ordered them to prepare for their march at once ; and at 10 o'clock the next morning the Regiment was in full march to Kalka, a distance of 19 miles across the hills. Lieutenant Williamson of the Regiment was left in charge of the station and depot, and Ensign Hamilton, who was on the sick list, was also left at Subathoo with the Regimental hospital, which contained about 60 men. The soldiers of the Regiment were full of excitement and in the highest spirits at the prospect of the coming campaign. On our arrival at Kussowlie a Military Station about ten miles from Subathoo, where was quartered H.M. 29th we learnt that that Regiment had also marched on the same morning, and it was understood that the two Regiments were to serve in the same Division in the coming campaign. We found the commissariat arrangements perfect ; for on our arrival at the foot of the hills our camp was already pitched,, food abundant, and every reasonable comfort prepared for the men. On the 12th December H.M. 29th Regiment, which had been, ordered to halt for our arrival at Munnymarjera, was joined by the 1st European Light Infantry ; and the two Regiments then, advanced together towards Mudki in charge of some heavy Artillery for the Army. Our Regiments made double marches daily ; leaving ground at about 2 a.m., halting for breakfast at about 7 a.m., and after a rest of some two or three hours marching to the new ground, which was usually reached about 2 p.m. ; thus covering from 25 to 40 miles daily. On approaching Wudni, a fortified town of some importance, much excitement was caused by the receipt of an order from the Commander-in-Chief to the effect that, as the inhabitants of that place had refused provisions to the British force on its forward march a few days previous, H.M. 29th and the 1st European Light Infantry were to reduce the Fort to submission. But when we arrived near Wudni a countermanding dispatch arrived,, FIRST EUROPEAN REGIMENT. 373 " East India Register," May 24th, 1845. FIRST I : I' ROPE AN REGIMENT (LIGHT INFANTRY). (Rujht Winy.) PLASSEY," "BuxAK," " GUZERAT," " DEIG," " BHURTPORE," "AFGHANISTAN," "GHUZNEE." Station, Subathoo. Arrived, April, 1844. RANK AND NAMI:S. Rank in the REMARKS. Regiment. Army. 1798 1805 1818 1820 ] 822 L826 1828 1888 1840 1841 IM-J 11 1843 COLONEL. Sir J. Bryant, Knt., C.B ..". 27 June, 1835 27 July, '36 ... 6 Aug., '43 ... 8 Sept., '35 ... 27 July, '36 ... 10 Nov., '43 ... 22 Nov., '43 ... 16 Dec., '35 ... 27 July, '36 ... 20 July, '38 ... 3 Oct., '40 ... do. 2 Nov., '41 ... If, .Inly, '42 ... do. 1 Nov M. G. 23 Nov., 1841 23 July, '39 ... M. 22 Nov., '43 13 Feb., 41 ... 1 July On Furlough Town Major Presi- dency Depy. Commy. Assam Sub. Asst. Commy. General LIEUT. -COLONEL. J. Orchard, C. B. ... George \Varren MAJOR. CAPTAINS. James Matthie Thomas Box . . Charles Clark John G. Gerrard ... LIEUTENANTS. Jno. W. Bennett ... H. T Combe C. 25 Dec., '43 C. 23 July, '44 26 Autf., '41 ... 6 July, '42 ... 9 June, '43 ... do. do. do. 30 Dec., '43 ... 30 Dec., '43 ... 1 Jan., '44 ... 29 Dec i uttleworth R.W. H. Fansluiwe James Pattullo Robt H Hicks . Geo. O. Jacob John Ijiiiiibert Geo G Dennis l''
  • victory of Mudki had been gained by our troops; and later on we were assured that our exertions to reach headquarter.- were, notwithstanding the excitement of the battle, fully recognised both by the (Jovernor-General and the Commander-in-Chief ; elephants being >ent twenty-seven miles on the road to bring in the foot-ore men ; and a string of camels laden with fresh water for the relief of the thirstv troops on their arid march. Towards dusk the day after the battle of Mudki had been U-r Hull. f'Might, we neared the British camp, the (iovernor- (ieneral sending our hi.- band to welcome us and play n- into camp : but it was late at night before we reached our ground. The baggage ami tents of the Kegiment were far behind, and the <^uarterm:ister-( ieneral had not yet marked out the portion where the newly-arrived Regiments were to pitch tl"'ir tents. The men were much fatigued with their forced inarches but were all excitement to learn the details of the 376 DESCRIPTION OF THE BATTLE OF MUDKI. 1845 . battle fought on the previous day ; and they were therefore allowed to visit their friends who had been engaged in the action, and from whom they learnt the details of the " Battle of Mudki." The Commander of the Khalsa Army, entrenched around the village of Ferozshah, about ten miles distant from our camp, rightly calculating that the British soldiers would be exhausted by their severe marches, concluded also that they would be easily overwhelmed by a small determined body of chosen Seik troops, and had therefore detached only one Division of his Army, con- sisting of 10,000 Cavalry, 2000 Infantry, and 22 guns, to attack December 19th tne British force ; and the report that the enemy was 1845. close upon him reached Gough on the 18th of December. Sir Henry Hardinge, the Governor-General, had in the meantime placed his services at the disposal of the Commander-in-Chief, and had been appointed second in Command of the Army of the Sutlej. Our soldiers were preparing their dinners when the alarm of the advancing enemy was given, and the bugles and trumpets at once sounded the "Assembly," the troops hastening to the front as the enemy's videttes appeared in sight. Our Regiments quickly deployed into line ; our field Artillery taking post in the centre, and the Cavalry on either flank. The main body of our Army was formed hastily in rear of the above advance, and again in rear of them was a small reserve. The enemy's Artillery commenced the action with a heavy fire, and their numerous Cavalry at once visibly out-flanked our line. Gough did not hesitate he never did but he gave the order to our Dragoons to speedily advance ; and, diverting the attention of the enemy by their brilliant charge, he brought the main body of his Infantry into line, and threw them at the Seiks. After some severe fighting, the Khalsa Army retired in order, foiled in their expectation to take the British at disadvantage and disperse them with their Cavalry ; and their plan of action having thus failed they retired regularly, disputing every inch of ground ; and, resisting doggedly, they readied their camp at 1845. Fero/shah under cover of the darkness. The British troops had gained a victory ; but they discovered that they had no mean enemy to contend with. The English nfantry was numerically superior to that of the enemy in this tattle; but the 3rd Dragoons and our Native Cavalry had been pitted against the Khalsa Horsemen, outnumbering us as twenty to one; notwithstanding which odds, the British Dragoons had ridden through and through the enemy, the superior weight of our men and horses carrying everything before them; whilst, on the other hand, the Khalsa Artillery and Infantry had fought bravely and well. We had still to try our strength against the whole Scik Army, having only as yet had a brush with one of their Divisions. On the night of battle it was found that we had indeed captured 17 out of the enemy's 22 guns, but the field of Mudki was covered with the dead and wounded, amongst them being S72 of our soldiers: so that the results of the battle could not be considered altogether satisfactory. Some of our best Officers had fallen : killed or wounded. Amongst the former was General >ir Robert Sale, whose name is so honourably connected with the Afghan War; and amongst the latter Lieutenant Herbert Fdwardes, <>f the Bengal European Regiment, who was x-rving on the ( 'onimander-in-Chief s Staff. This \\a- the news that awaited the 1st European Light Infan- try as we reached <>nr ground on the night of the lUth December. The portion for our camp was now marked out; and the baggage having arrived the tents were soon pitched, and the men, worn out by loon reminded that we were in the proence of an enemy a patrol coming round with orders that we were to remain under arms all night. 1 he next day. L'Oth December, was one of comparative rest, but in the morning we changed our ground, taking post with the 29th Foot, in the Second Division of the Annv. 378 THE ADVANCE ON FEROZSHAH. 1845. In the evening, at dinner, private written orders were placed in December 20th, tne hands of Captains commanding Companies, instruct- ing them to proceed silently with their Officers to the tents of their men at 1 a.m. the next day, as the whole Regiment was to be on parade an hour after the time named. An attack \\ as to be made on the enemy's position. As soon as the servants had left the mess-tent, the Officers talked freely amongst them- selves of the engagement which was to be fought on the following morning; one of them only, Captain Thomas Box " Jerry " Box, as he was familiarly called showing a total absence of any excitement or emotion. Box had proved himself in many a fight a fearless soldier, and was beloved by his men ; but on this night he was in low spirits, and being questioned as to the cause he simply said, " I feel I shall get a shot right slap in the face." This remark caused some merriment; for all knew Captain Box to be constitutionally brave, and none of us believed in presentiment. We separated for the night, and after a few hours' sleep, the Officers who were forbidden to give any order to their servants to wake them were seen moving noiselessly amongst their men,, and enjoining silence as they accoutred and prepared for parade. Each man was instructed to fill his can with water, and a piece of bread and ready- cooked meat were served out to be carried in the haversacks ; and sixty rounds of ball ammunition were issued to- every man. At 2 a.m. on the 21st December the Regiment was on parade,, and before 3 o'clock the whole Army was in position. The inarch commenced over the field of Mudki, which was still strewn with the dead ; many of ours having been frightfully mutilated since the battle. The sun, although it was the cold season, was in the middle of the day intensely hot. It being the object of the Commander-in- Chief that a junction of his Army with the Ferozpore Division,, under Sir John Littler, should if possible be effected, the two Till; I5ATTU-: <>F FKKO/SHAH. 379 forces met at '2 p.m., about five miles to the south-west of the 1845. enemy's position at Fero/shah, after much marching and counter- marching through tlie thick jhow jungle and over rough ground, very fatiguing to the soldiers. The troops now took up their re>pcctive positions; l>ut for some unaccountable reason the prinei{)al attack was ordered to he made on the west face of the Seik entrenchments fronting towards Ferozpore ; although it December iMst, u ~ nt " to have been known that this was the strongot part of their defences. The entrenchments were in the form of a parallelogram, including within its enceinte the village of Fcroxshah : and being about a mile in length and half-a-milc in width, the ea>t side facing the open country. The force of the enemy within the entrenchments has never been accurately ascertained ; it having been given by different authorities at numbers varying from 30,000 to 70,000 men. Our force in the field consisted of Infantry: seven British Regiments (1I.M. ( ->th, <>th. ttfnd, *0th, and the 1st Bengal European Light Infantry); Cavalry: H.M. 3rd Light Dragoons f,ur Regiments of Native and two of Irregular Cavalry: Artillery: seven Troops of Horse and four Companies of Foot, with 4~2 li-pounders, '24 'J-pounders, and 2 siege-guns; in all r>s guns and about 17,000 men. Major-General Sir Harry Smith commanded the 1st Infantry, or "Beserve Division:" Major-General W. K. Gilbert the >(<(, nd: Mrigadier Wallace the third; and Major-General Sir .lohn Littler the fourth or " Feroxpore Division." The 1st IJengal Kuropean Light Infantry. I I.M. '2\^\\ and SOth Regiments being in the >eeond or (Jeneral Gilbert's Division. At 3 p.m. the troop- were in position for attack : General Littler' s Division on the extreme 1,-ft. Irigadi'r Wallace's in the centre, and General Gilbert's on the right. Sir Harry Smith's Division and the C:i\alry in reserve forming a ><. nd line. Sir Hugh Gough aumed the command (f the Left and Sir Henry Ilardinge of the Right Wing of the Army. 380 THE BATTLE OF FEROZSHAH. 1845. The left of the British line, being ordered to lead the attack, first advanced, whilst the centre and right awaited their turn. At this time videttes of the enemy's Cavalry coming sometimes within fifty yards of our line, the Eifle Company of the 1st Bengal European Regiment was sent to the front to skirmish and drive them back, which they did in good style. Our Field Artillery now opened fire from some batteries on the right, and some on the left, of General Gilbert's Division; the enemy at once replying from all their batteries on the west and south faces of their entrenchment. The sound of a sharp musketry -fire to our left soon told us that December 21st, Littler' s Division were nearing the enemy ; when our 1845. Division (Gilbert's) formed up to advance. At this time an Officer arrived from the direction of Littler's Division reporting that the left attack had failed, and that our troops were retiring. The enemy were naturally triumphant, and their shouts could be heard above the roar of the Artillery ; when the order was given for Gilbert's Division to advance rapidly. Major Birrell warned our men to reserve their fire until they sighted the enemy ; a wise precaution. Birrell, who commanded the 1st European Light Infantry, rode in the centre ; Captain Box, the second in com- mand, on the right ; and Captain Douglas Seaton on the left ; Ensigns F. O. Salusbury and P. Moxon carrying the Colours. As our line approached the enemy's entrenchments, the fire from their batteries increased in violence, the round-shot and grape tearing through our ranks and leaving considerable gaps ; and such was the violence of the fire that branches from the trees fell upon us as we advanced, the splintered trunks being scattered around us. Here the fated Captain Thomas Box received the shot he had foretold, which struck him " right slap in the face ; " a bullet passed through his head, and he fell from his horse a lifeless corpse. During this advance Captain Kendall, commanding No. (), and Captain Clark, commanding No. 1 Company, both fell mortally wounded ; and Ensign Salus- THE I'.ATTU: OF FF.Uo/MI All. 381 bury, his right arm deeply lacerated by a grape-shot, denuding 1845. the bone throughout its length, fell under the Queen's Colour, which was immediately taken by Ensign P. II. Innes, just as the orders were given to bring down our bayonets and charge home. \Ve were in a few minutes right under the enemy's batteries ; but the air was so filled with fire and smoke that it seemed to be as dark as night. The Seiks had thrown along the edge of their dry ditch stumps and branches of trees, over which our men fell in multi- tudinous confusion, and as they struggled to regain their footing at the bottom of the ditch their language was anything but choice. The sloping bunk below the plateau upon which the Seik batteries were mounted was about ten feet high, measuring from the bottom of the ditch. Surmounting this in a few seconds our men were amongst the guns, and a desperate hand-to-hand fight ensued for their possession, in which the Seik Artillerymen were bayoneted to a man: revealing immediately behind the plateau, and about six feet below, the Khalsa Infantry drawn up in line,. and behind them their tents formed into camp-streets. During the light for the mastery of the guns the Seik Infantry had reserved their fin-, the British soldiers and the Khalsa Artillerymen being so completely intermingled that the Seik Infantry fire would have been as fatal to their friends as to their foes ; but now that their gunners were laid low the British Infantry stood under a galling fire for a few seconds, while they formed in line on the brink of the eminence, and prepared to dash down on the Seik Infantry below. Most of the front rank of the enemy now dropped on one knee as if preparing to receive Cavalry; and no charge of Cavalry could have been more effective than that, of our Eegiment, as with a cheer they ru.-hcd down the incline upon the Khalsa Infantry below : who first fired a volley, then, either throwing down their muskets or using them as shield.-, drew their tulwars and rushed 382 THE BATTLE OF FEROZSIIAII. 1845. forward to engage in a hand-to-hand fight with our men. The battle now raged witli fury along the whole line ; compact bands of the enemy again and again dashing at our Colours, and more than once grasping the staves ; but the Colour-Sergeants, closing up around them, formed an impenetrable wall, through which even the valour and number of the Seiks could not break. Soon the space below the plateau contained a mingled heap of dead and wounded men ; but the Khalsa Infantry had given way, and seek- ing cover amongst their tents, kept up a severe dropping fire upon our troops in front. But hard work still remained, most of the batteries along the face of the western entrenchments being still held by the Seiks ; so wheeling round on its left, the Bengal European Regiment joined H.M. 9th Foot, already inside the entrenchments, attacked the Seik batteries in flank, and rushing transversely along the defences forced the enemy back in broken masses, whilst their guns on the ramparts were captured and spiked.* Orders were now issued for our Regiment to charge along the centre camp-street of the Seiks, and secure the village of Feroz- shah. The soldiers, encouraged by their success, gallantly carried out these orders ; but they had not proceeded more than two hundred yards when there was heard beneath their feet a frightful roar ; the ground heaved and the men in the vicinity were blown away amongst the tents, the air being filled with fire, and a dense smoke arising, which, as it cleared away, exposed to view a horrible and appalling scene, numbers of our men having fallen frightfully burnt and mutilated, and in some instances their pouches ignited, causing terrible wounds, agony, and loss of life. The Regiment was now scattered in every direction, about 150 men only joining the Colours after the explosion, which was followed by that of smaller mines, adding to the confusion, but comparatively harmless. Our line was at length re-formed, and * Before the troops left Mudki, every fifth man of the Bengal European Light Infantry had been supplied with a bundle of spikes and a small hammer a very necessary precaution. TIIK J1ATTLK OF FK1IO/>HAII. 383 advanced towards the village, Imt we returned to the central 1845. -treet <>n finding tliat it was already in the possession of our troops. General Sir Harry Smith, having brought up his Reserve Division, had carried .-nine of the butteries on the south face of her 21st, the entrenchments and penetrated into the very heart of the enemy's eamp. After the great explosion numbers of the men of our Kegiment, detached and scattered by the convulsion and disorder, were collected by Captain D. Seaton; forming a party which fell in with Sir Harry Smith's Division just after it had entered the camp, and accompanied it into the village. Our men now parched with thirst sought water from a well near at hand, but under a galling fire from the enemy concealed amongst the tents. Across a camp-street facing this well a bar- ricade had been formed of half-burnt tents and dtbri^ and behind this barricade a group of Seiks brought their fire to bear direct upon the well, where several of our men had fallen ; others, never- theless, pressing forward and seizing the tin pots from their wounded comrades, preferring the immediate prospect of death to tin 1 fearful torture of thirst. Lieutenant Grevillc was now the senior Officer present with the Colours, and therefore assumed command; forming his men into two Divisions, and placing the Colours in the ( utre, he gallantly led the charge against the barricade. During our advance the enemy's fire had almost ceased, but as we approached the barricade a volley was suddenly poured ll l )on lls * w ich forced our whole party back upon the well. There was but a moment's pause; the men were re-forming for a >ecnnd charge, when it was realised that the Regimental Colour had disappeared. Without waiting for orders Ensign P. 1\. limes returned alone to the barricade, in front of which lay Ensign Philip Moxon's body, quite dead; he having fallen upon the Colour, which was saturated with his blood.* The * On the Colour, which now lian-s on tin- walls of Winchester Cathedral, the blood-stains of this gallant young Officer may still be seeu. 384 THE BATTLE OF FEKOZSHAH. 1845. Colour was hastily recovered and brought back in safety ; the soldiers of the Regiment hailing its restoration with shouts of joy. " The recovery of the Colour by Ensign Innes was most "" " important, as otherwise it must have fallen into the hands of " " the Seiks."* Greville now, having formed his men, gallantly led them to a second charge, clearing the street, and this time capturing the barricade. Amidst the excitement which had prevailed during these operations, it had not been perceived that it had suddenly become almost dark; but our men still charged on, clearing the burning tents of every lurking enemy ; but the darkness increasing December 21st, the " Assembly " was sounded, and our men collected together, when it was discovered, to our dismay, that the Queen's Colour which after Moxon's death had been handed to Colour-Sergeant Higgens was nowhere to be seen. Just then an aide-de-camp came up with orders from the General for all the scattered detachments in the enemy's camp to collect on the plain outside. Every bugler, both in and outside the entrenchments, sounded his Regimental call, making the previous confusion worse confounded. Lieutenant Greville, still commanding, now ordered his men to- recross the entrenchments which had been captured a few hours previous with so much sacrifice of life; and in the darkness the party groped their way towards the direction in which they thought they could distinguish their Regimental call frequently repeated ; and, after a full hour's search, the main portion of December 21st, the 1st European Light Infantry was found rapidly collecting its scattered men, and forming up for further action. It was now discovered, to the satisfaction of all, that the Queen's Colour which had been entrusted to Colour-Sergeant Higgens was at the Quarter Guard ; he, having heard his Regimental call, had, accompanied by some stragglers, reached the Regiment and deposited his charge in safety. * Extract from a letter from the Officer Commanding. THE BATTLE OF FEROZSHAH. 385 The Scik entrenchments on the east side were still held by the 1845. Khalsa Army; who, as soon as they discovered that the British had evacuated the conquered position, reoccupied their entire camp, with the exception of the village, which was still partially held by our troops. The night was bitterly cold, a keen wind blowing <>ver the plain, and the field being strewn with the wounded, who lay upon the damp sand. Piteous were their cries for water, warmth, and help. But there was no water, no warmth ; and what help could their comrades afford who needed so much themselves? Some covering had, however, been secured in the enemy's camp, and this was gladly made over for the wounded men. Gilbert's Division, which was at this time somewhat separated from the rest of the Army, bivouacked to the south of the enemy's December inl. <'!unp. Between two and three o'clock on the morning of the 22nd, it was found that Sir Harry Smith's Re-erve Division, who had been forced from the entrenchments, had retreated to a village Misree Khan Walla some two miles to the south-east of Ferozshah. IJnth Sir Hugh Gough and Sir Henry Hardinge, who were now with (iilbert's Division, were indefatigable in their attentions to the wants of the wounded soldiers, going about with a cheering word tor all. But they were not so confident as they appeared to I.e. for they mu>t have felt that the prospect just then was gloomy indeed. The enemy, under cover of the darkness, had recaptured hi> entire pt fruit It !<>> of life on our side. In the early morning, the Seiks brought one of their heaviest guna to bear on Gilbert's Division; the enemy serving this gun with Mich deadly HK-rt that the x.ldiers were ordered to lie down, the shot and -rape sweeping over them, but still doing fearful damage to the cattle and horses, and passing into the Divisions of oui Army on the plain bcvmid. 2 c 386 THE BATTLE OF FEROZSHAH. 1845. Sir Henry Hardinge, who commanded our Wing of the British force, called upon the Bengal European Light Infantry and H.M. 80th Foot, at this time close at hand, to "go and stop that gun " These Regiments were anxious to be on the move, having been painfully cramped by the cold sand ; and now, eagerly springing to their feet, were rapidly formed in line, and advanced at the double, H.M. 80th Foot leading, and the 1st Bengal Light December 21st, Infantry in support. The big gun, said to be an 80- pounder, was protected by a strong force of Khalsa Infantry, who, finding themselves attacked by a force of unknown strength, threw forward their supports, who at once opened a sharp musketry fire. It was exciting to watch the two lines of fire steadily approach each other in the dark ; whilst the monster gun in front poured forth double charges of grape and shot. As the British Infantry neared their enemy, there was a forward rush, a hand-to-hand struggle, and the big gun was spiked.* There was, of course, no attempt made to remove the gun, or those which had been captured at the same time in a battery close by ; but they were all spiked, and our troops returned to their former position. Soon afterwards the day began to dawn, and there was now no doubt how seriously our strength had been reduced. At day- break, the European portion of the British force was assembled opposite to the southern face of the enemy's camp, and in the December 22nd, bright clear morning it was visible that, although the guns on the enemy's works had been captured, and many of them spiked, on the previous evening, the Khalsa Infantry had again occupied the entrenchments, bidding defiance to our troops as they formed in line preparatory to making their final charge; the Commander-in-Chief leading the right, and Hardinge the left Wing of our Army. The "Advance" was now sounded, and the charge was delivered with a gallantry never * "The gun was captured by as brave a charge as there is on record.''- Commander-in-Chiefs Dispatch. THE BATTLE OF FEROZSHAH. 387 surpassed on any field ; the Seik entrenchments being again 1845, apturcd at the point of the bayonet, and the enemy driven Completely through his camp into the jungles to the north. The ! -face of the entrenchments, which had been obstinately held by the enemy on the previous day, was now also captured, as \\cll as the village, from which the Reserve Division had been forced to retire during the night. The British troops were now drawn up in line to the north of the captured camp; and as the Commanders rode along the front of their victorious Army, they were loudly cheered. Many of the Officers and soldiers had rejoined the ranks, tattered, torn, exhausted, and more or less bleeding, but in the best of spirits, and joining in many a joke at their own dishevelled plight. Scarcely, however, had this cheering ceased, when our Cavalry December 22nd, videttcs, who had been sent in front to watch the enemy's retreat, hastily returned, reporting that they had been confronted and driven back by a Reserve Seik Army, coming from the direction of Ferozpore to the succour of the KhaUa troops. The statements of the videttcs were soon verified; for a dense cloud nf dn>t. which showed the position of the approaching enemy, rose from amongst the jungle towards the direction indicated by our scouts. Nearer and nearer it came; and we soon found ourselves in the presence of a new Army, who were taking up position in our front, cither with the intention of covering the retreat of Lai Sing's defeated force, or, probably, to attempt to regain ] 'ii of the Seik camp. This second Army, which mil-numbered the l>ritish force then onf routing it in the field, was under the command of Tej Sing, who had been watching the Ferozpore Garrison with the in- tention of preventing it from forming a junction with the >imander-in-('hiefs force marching from Mudki to Feroz- shah. Tej Sing had allowed Littler's Division to escape him, 388 THE BATTLE OF FEROZSHAH. 1845 anc ^ P ass along the road unopposed, and he now hastened apparently to retrieve his error, and bring assistance to Lai Sing's retreating Army. Eapidly the position of the British Army was changed ; but it soon became evident that our Artillery as well as our Infantry ammunition was nearly expended. The centre of our force, in which was Gilbert's Division, now faced to the west, in front of our fresh enemy ; the right and left Divisions, being at the same time thrown back, faced north and south ; so that our Army was formed into a large hollow square, with the view of preventing the recapture of the Seik camp. The Khalsa Artillery now, unlimbering, opened a heavy fire on our square, our light field- guns being completely overmatched ; and indeed, after we had fired a few rounds only, our ammunition was found to be completely exhausted. At this time a Staff-Officer rode up to the Regiment, reporting that our Artillery had no more ammunition. Lieutenant J. Lambert, moving forward, called out, " We don't want Artillery ;"' " we'll take those guns directly, if they will let us at them." In response there was a hearty cheer, but the Regiment was not permitted to advance. The enemy's fire was now doing terrible execution amongst our December 22nd, troops, and the men were consequently ordered to lie down on their faces, in order to avoid the storm of round-shot ; but the enemy had got our range, and in some instances whole sections of our men were riven by the hostile Artillery. Nos. 4 and 5 Companies of the 1st European Light Infantry suffered at this time most severely, some shots killing several men in No. 6, whilst three men in No. 5 Company, lying next each other, were killed ; two of them by the concussion of an 18-pound shot which fell amongst them, scattering to atoms the centre man. The position was well-nigh unbearable. The troops, inactive, were simply waiting death, and an order was now issued for our Army Till] BATTLE OF FEBOZ8HAH. 389 to retire to the plain beyond; whilst some of the Infantry, sup- 1845 ported by Cavalry and Horse Artillery the latter having left their guns under charge of Infantry attempted to keep the enemy in check. The Khalsa troops were of course fresh, whilst the British were sinking from sheer exhaustion; having had no food except the scanty supply which they had brought with them in their haversacks from Mudki. The Khalsa Artillery was well provided with ammunition, the British guns were silent. No wonder, then, that the force which Gough had sent to keep Tej Sing's Army in check was driven back with heavy loss. The European Infantry were now threatened on their right Hank by hordes of Cavalry, who emerged from the jungles -kirting the plain. Orders were again given by the Commander-in-Chief to change front ; and the movements, performed in presence of the enemy's Cavalry, were executed with creditable steadiness. We. by this last movement, faced to the north in echelon of Ri-irimcnts, formed into squares four dee}), and prepared to receive Cavalry, though without any ammunition in pouch. It was about '2 p.m., and the enemy's Cavalrv were not more than a hundred yards to our front, moving forward as if preparing to December 22nd, Charge: but, whilst they hesitated, a rush of horsemen was suddenly heard to our rear. The 3rd Dragoons, terribly reduced in numbers but not in courage, were coming to our succour at full gallop, supported by two Kegiments of Native Cavalry. Colonel White, commanding the Dragoons, was joined by (u-neral Gilbert as they dashed past us into the midst of the enemy, when a hand-to-hand fight ensued. Hut the Seik Cavalry did not recover the first >hockof the charge ; they being stationary, whilst our Dragoon- came down upon them with their full force and weight. The enemy made a M niggle to maintain his ground, but gradually gave way; when the strange spectacle presented itself of hundreds of dismounted men fighting single 390 THE VICTORY OF FEROZSHAH. 1845. combats on the ground, whilst their riderless horses were- manoeuvring in front of our squares. No sooner had the enemy's Cavalry been broken and forced December 22nd, back into the jungle, than we learnt, to our surprise, that Tej Sing, with his whole force, was in full retreat ; leaving us complete masters of the field. Thus ended the two days' Battle of Ferozshah ; in which we had captured and retained the enemy's fortified camp, with 73 of their guns. But our victory had been dearly purchased. Indeed, one- seventh of the British Army had fallen, 2415 being the aggregate of our killed and wounded ; amongst the former being 37 Officers and 694 men. The loss of the enemy will never be known ; but the entrenchments, indeed the whole field of battle, was strewn with their dead. The Bengal European Light Infantry lost 51 killed and 164 wounded, including the following 8 Officers : Captain Thomas Box (killed). Ensign Philip Moxon (killed). Captain Charles Clark (mortally wounded). Lieutenant Bernard Kendall (mortally wounded). Lieutenant E. W. H. Fanshawe (slightly wounded). Lieutenant Beatson Interpreter and Quartermaster (severely wounded). Ensign Frederick O. Salusbury (severely wounded). Ensign C. R. Wriford (slightly wounded). The suddenness of Sirdar Tej Sing's unexpected retreat filled the British with conjecture and surprise ; for they reflected that he could hardly have been ignorant that his enemies were well- nigh exhausted, their ammunition expended, and the captured camp within his grasp. Tej Sing's hasty retirement from the field may have been the result of an honest desire to cover Lai Sing's retreat ; or he may have wished to leave the British masters of the field in order that they might, later on, inflict a heavier blow AFTKR THE BATTLE OF FEROZSHAH. 391 on the unruly Khalsa. Be this as it may, the Seik Army had 1845. been driven from its strongly-entrenched position at Ferozshah, and it had lost 92* of its guns; but it had not been finally vanquished. The Khalsa Army was now in full retreat to a position on the river Sutlej ; from which all additional strength, all the strategy and skill of the British Commanders, would be required to dis- lodge them. During the afternoon of the 22nd of December, the men of our Regiment were employed in collecting our wounded, who were temporarily housed in the village of Ferozshah, where large quantities of bedding had been found. But up to this time these wounded had been sadly neglected ; and Dr. W. L. McGregor, the Surgeon of the 1st Bengal European Light Infantry, is loud in his condemnation of the medical arrangements. He says, "During " " the night of the 21st many a poor wounded European soldier " " found his way to the rear in search of medical aid; but the " " arrangements for affording it were very incomplete excepting " " through the efforts of the Regimental Surgeons who did " k> everything in their power with the means at their command. " A- tor the field hospital it had no existence, so confidently " ' had the opinion been entertained that the Seiks would not " k - offer resistance, that it was deemed unnecessary to make any " * arrangements for a field hospital. There were no medical " ' stores Of nirgical instruments on the field, except those attached " u to Regiment hospitals and the hurry of the movements pre- " k> vented any sufficient supply from being obtained without " M great delay." f From the severity of Ensign F. ( ). Salisbury's wound, before described, combined with exposure and exhaustion, the acute sufferings of that Officer may be easily conceived. But a graver danger awaited him, for his life was saved during the night of the 21st by one of the men of his Regiment, who ran to his * Xiiiftn-n ifiins urn- captured at the liattle of Mudki, and 73 at Ferozshah. t McGregor's ' History of the Seiks," Vol. II, p. 115. 392 AFTER THE BATTLE OF FEROZSHAH. 1845. assistance just as one of the enemy, close at hand, was in the act of shooting him ; and the soldier, drawing the Ensign's pistol from his belt, shot the assailant dead before he could effect his murderous purpose. Lieutenant Beatson was found to have been shot in the abdomen, the ball having carried a portion of his woollen clothing deep into the wound ; and these Officers, with as many of our wounded soldiers as could be collected, were tended during the night by Surgeon McGregor and his assistants, who w T ere con- spicuous by their zeal and careful attention. But there were two Captain Box and Ensign Moxon beyond the reach of our Surgeon's skill. The happy, genial Thomas Box the life of the mess-table, the man who had no enemy, \vlio never spoke an unkind word was gone from us, causing to all unfeigned sorrow, even during those scenes of excitement and privation ; and Ensign Philip Moxon, whose death we have described, carrying the symbol of his Regiment's honour, which he so well sustained, leaving the impress of his heart's blood on his trust as lasting testimony of his brave and dauntless spirit. They both died the death which a soldier may justly prize. They both deserve to have their deeds emblazoned in gold on the Annals of their Regiment, that their successors may honour and revere the names of Captain Thomas Box and Ensign Philip Moxon. It was now quite dark. The wants of the wounded were sup- December 22nd plied ; ample provisions and covering brought from the 1845. captured camp ; fires were soon blazing round ; and cattle, rudely slaughtered and cooked, were eagerly devoured by the half- starved groups. At this time the camels, laden with our canteen stores, arrived ; and as we sat at night around the blazing fires, talking over the adventures of the previous days, it would hardly be supposed by a strange visitor that we had so lately been engaged in the bloody work of war. CHAPTER XVI. (lolab Sing's doubtful policy The Seik defences at Sobraon Advance of tin British Army towards the Sutlej Alarm at the Depot Stations Battle of Aliwal Assault and Capture of the Enemy's Fortifications at Sobraon After the Battle Retivat of the remnant of the Khalsa Army The British Advance on Lahore Terms of Peace The 1st European Light Infantry nominated the 1st European Bengal Fusiliers Return of the Regiment to Subathoo Death of Colonel Orchard, C.B. The 1st European Bengal Fusiliers ordered to Cawnpore Threatened Disturbances in the Punjab Lieutenant Herbert Kdwardes fights the Battle of Kineri and besieges Multan War declared a ad time M_U-:U nst the Khalsa The 2nd Bengal European Regiment to the Front The Battle of Chillianwallah Defeat of the Khalsa Army at Goozerat Demoralisation and flight of the Khalsa The 2nd Europeans in pursuit Annexation of the Punjab The 2nd Europeans nominated the 2nd European Bengal Fusiliers. M MEDIATELY after his defeat at Ferozshah, Lai Sing hastened to Lahore with the news of the disaster: and during his absence Tej Sing assumed the sole command of the Seik Army in the field, lie at once applied to the Lahore Durbar for additional troops, having in view the promises of assistance which had been ullered by (iolab Sing, the Ixaja of Jamu. But, after the defeats which had been sustained by the Khalsa Army, Golab Sing was more than ever doubtful of the advisability of espousing the Seik cause: moreover, he shrewdly suspected that the Com- manders of the Seik Army had been playing a double game, and he was unwilling t<> expose his soldiers to the risk of being sacrificed in order to further the interests of the Lahore Durbar. Under these circumstances, Golab Sing determined to watch the course of events, and not at present commit himself to any decided cour>e of action. 394 THE SEIK DEFENCES AT SOBRAON. 1846. Under Tej Sing's orders, the Khalsa Army hastily recrossed the Sutlej, near the village of Sobraon, and encamped within the territories of the Punjab, on the right bank of the river below its junction with the Bias. The enemy's plan of defence, suggested by their European Engineer Officers, was well designed, although in its execution the details were somewhat defective, from the works having been apportioned for execution amongst the different Commanders of Seik Regiments ; this arrangement naturally resulting in a want of uniformity, and in some instances in weak construction. An admirably-designed pontoon-bridge was thrown across the river; the end on the left or south bank being defended by earthworks, which the enemy intended to strengthen and extend day by day, as time and opportunity might be afforded. The Seik Commander had constructed another bridge of boats about twenty miles further down the river, which was guarded by a strong force of Cavalry. The British Commander-in-Chief, as we need hardly state, felt himself unable to immediately follow up the advantages which he had gained at Mudki and Ferozshah ; and, consequently, he deter- mined to await the arrival of the Meerut force ordered to the front under Sir John Gray, and of our heavy guns, escorted by the 9th and 16th Lancers, and H.M. 10th and 53rd Foot; for,, although this delay enabled the enemy to strengthen their December 28th, 1845 January entrenchments on the Sutlej, it was 12th, 1846. deemed prudent not to risk another general engagement until these reinforcements should have arrived. On the 28th of December the British Camp was advanced about ten miles nearer to the enemy's position, Sobraon ; the left of our Army now resting on the village of Altari, and circling round from that point in an easterly direction ; and on the 12th of January, 1846, a further forward movement of about eight miles- was made. ALARM AT THE DEPOT STATIONS. 395 The British Army was now gradually closing on its enemy; 1846', but it must be borne in mind that the Seik bridge of boats constructed across the river always afforded them a means of escape, During the time that Sir Hugh Goughwas awaiting the arrival of his reinforcements under Sir John Grey, he dispatched the 1st Division of the Army, under Sir Harry Smith, with orders to reduce the Fort of Dhurrumkote ; to cover the march of the Meerut force; and afford relief to our Station of Lodiana; which was threatened by a Seik Army of considerable Strength, advancing from Phillour, under the command of a well-known Seik General, Runjour Sing. The alarm occasioned in the neighbouring Hill, and other British Stations, when it became known that Lodiana was threatened, amounted to a panic. The object of the enemy's General was, not only to possess himself of Lodiana, but to January, 18th, swoop down by a rapid movement upon one of our Native detachments, which was escorting some of our .'-guns along the high road to his south; and had Runjour Sing succeeded in his purpose, nothing would have been easier than for him to detach small parties of his troops to plunder our Stations, which had been almost denuded of Military pro- tection the sick in hospital, and a small guard of soldiers only r having been left to protect the wives and families of those employed in the field. At Subathoo where was the depot of the 1st European Light Infantry as well as at Simla,, Kussuwlie, and Tmbala, the greatest consternation prevailed. Lieutenant Williamson, who it will be remembered was left in charge of the depot at Subathoo, with the women, children, and sick of our Regiment, having but scanty means of defence at hi* disposal, sought and obtained the advice of Genenvl Tapp y residing in retirement near Subathoo, who had served with the Bengal iMiropean Regiment as far back as 1X03; and under this> experienced Officer's advice, wise precautions were adopted 396 SIR HARRY SMITH'S VICTORY AT ALIWAL. 1846. for the safety of the Station and troops. Fortunately, the success of Sir Harry Smith's Division at Aliwal, where he gained a signal victory over Runjour Sing's Army on the 28th of January, dissipated the fears of the unprotected Stations, and confidence was again restored. On the 18th January a further forward move was made by the British Army in the direction of Sobraon, which was now completely invested, both the right and the left of our Army resting near the banks of the Sutlej ; so that the enemy's position, which w r as at the bend of the river, was, so to speak, within the grip of the British Army. The news of Sir Harry Smith's victory at Aliwal reached the Headquarter camp on the same day on which it was fought (28th January, 1846). No difficulty had been experienced in reducing the Fort of Dhurrumkote; and although the enemy had captured Smith's camp equipage and baggage at Budiwal, he, by the rapidity of his movements, had saved the Station of Lodiana, and then completely defeated his enemy in open fight at Aliwal. The news of this victory was hailed by the Headquarter Army with great joy, for it relieved the anxiety of those Officers and soldiers whose families were left at their Regimental depots. A Royal salute was fired on the early morning of the 29th, announcing the victory of Aliwal ; but the Seiks, now entrenched only a short distance in front of our camp, either in defiance or possibly because they wished to keep their troops in ignorance of our having gained a victory over Runjour Sing imitated our example, not only by firing a Royal salute, but by their bands turning out in front of their entrenchments, and playing our "National Anthem." During the time that we had been awaiting the arrival of our January 29th-February 9th, Heavy guns, the enemy had been daily 1846. strengthening his position, until it now formed an extensive semi-circle around the tete-du-pont on the south bank of the river. Their entrenchments had been gradually THE ENEMY'S POSITION AT SOBRAON. 397 extended : now forming a succession of earthworks enveloped in 1846. outer batteries of enormous strength. Those on the left and cciitrc- faces of their position were the strongest and most massive : but, though those on the right face were not constructed in so scientific a manner, they were strengthened by masked batteries on the right bank of the river. The Commander-in-Chief gives the following description of the enemy's position at Sobraon. He says, " The enemy's works "" " had been repeatedly reconnoitred during the time of my " " Headquarters at Xihalkee (Akhberwala) by myself, my depart- " " mental staff and my Engineers and Artillery Officers. Our " "observations, coupled with the reports of spies, convinced us "" " that there had devolved on us the arduous task of attacking in "" " a position covered with formidable entrenchments no fewer than "" fc - :><).< mo men the best of the Khalsa troops with 70 pieces of" "cannon united by a good bridge to a reserve on the opposite ' r u bank on which the enemy had a considerable camp and some " "Artillery commanding and flanking the field works on our" u side." In the early days of February, the Division of the Army which had been detached, under Sir Harry Smith, to operate against the' Seik force under Runjour Sing, had rejoined the headquarter camp: and the siege guns, with the Meerut force under Sir John (iivy, had arrived: so that, on the !>th of Februarv, Sir Hugh (nuigli was enabled to form his plan for the attack of the enemy's position. A- has already been stated, the right face of the enemy's works- wa- con>idered the most vulnerable: because, although it was flanked bv a battery on the north bank of the river, there were but few guns on this face of the entrenchments: and consequently it was determined to make their right the first point of our attack. The Commander-in-Chief in his despatch thus describes his disposition of the l>riti>h force: ( )n the margin <>f the Sut ledge on our left two Brigades of" 398 THE BATTLE OF SOBRAON. 1846* " Major-General Dick's Division under his personal command " " stood ready to commence the assault against the enemy's " " extreme right. The 7th Brigade, in which was the 10th Foot " " reinforced by the 53rd Foot and led by Brigadier Stacey was " '" to head the attack supported at 200 yards distance by the 6th " '" Brigade under Brigadier the Hon. T. Ashburnham which " '" was to move forward from the entrenched village of Rhodawala, " '" leaving if necessary a Regiment for its defence. In the centre " " Major-General Gilbert's Division was deployed for support or " " attack, its right resting on the village of Little Sobraon." This plan of operations having been arranged, it was decided that the attack on the enemy's entrenchments should take place on the following morning (10th February, 1846) ; and secret orders were accordingly issued to commanding Officers. During the 9th of February three Officers joined the 1st European Light Infantry, viz : Lieutenant-Colonel Orchard, C.B., and Ensigns Hamilton : and G. C. Lambert. Colonel Orchard had cancelled his leave of .absence to take command of the Regiment in the field, but, to the universal regret of our Officers and men, an unforeseen difficulty presented itself : Colonel Orchard, being senior to some of the Brigadiers in command, and the arrangements for all the Brigades for the next day's attack having been completed, Orchard was promoted to the rank of Brigadier, and appointed to act as second in command of the 7th Brigade. Ensign Hamilton, who had been left with the depot, had now so far recovered, that his earnest request to be allowed to join his Regiment in the field was granted, and he had hastened, at considerable risk, to join headquarters. Ensign George C. Lambert, a young Officer who had just been gazetted to the Regi- ment, had hastened up the country, eager to take his share in the campaign ; his brother, Lieutenant J. Lambert, was one of the most gallant Officers in the Regiment, and the young Ensign met witli a hearty reception for his brother's sake. Experience had taught most of us that we had no light work THE BATTLE OF SOBRAON. 399 before us on the morrow. When we separated after our mess- 1846. dinner, before the battle of Ferozsliah on the 20th of December, 1845, many of the Officers were strangers to the realities of war; but before we separated after mess, on the 9th of February, 1846, a ceremony was performed, at the Commanding Officer's request, which savoured more of serious reality than it would have done on the previous occasion, when all, witli the exception of Captain Thomas Box, were light-hearted and merry. Addressing the ( )fh'cers of the Regiment, Colonel Birrel reminded them of the manv absentees who had fallen since the commencement of the Campaign : and he enjoined on all Officers present to shake hands, >o that, should there have been ill-feeling on the part of any, it might end for ever. He reminded us that we had a perilous I undertaking before us on the next day ; and that, to a certainty, we should not all meet again at the next mess-dinner. There was a solemnity in Colonel Birrell's address, and the ceremony enjoined had the effect of cementing old friendships, and in some cases healing ill-feeling which might otherwise have existed for years, perhaps till death. All the Officers present solemnly shook hands February 9th, smd retired to their tents, but not to sleep; for there were letters to be written home, many of them the last. It I was not till past midnight that all the lights in the camp were extinguished: and two hours afterwards we were forming on parade, and taking up po>itioii with our separate Brigades and Divisions. The enemy was evidently not aware of our intended attack. There was dead silence in his camp as we noiselesslv approached under cover of a dense fog, which prevented our seeing more ;ir y loth, than a few yards ahead, and rendered the taking up our allotted po>itiou> a matter of some difficult v. Gilbert's Division in which were the 1st European Light Infantry faced the north, right opposite to the centre, the -trouge.-t part of the enemy's entrenchment-. The ri>ing sun rapidly dispelled the fog which suddenly rose in a dense cloud when a magnificent picture presented itself. 400 THE BATTLE OF SOBRAON. 1846 O UF Artillery was now seen in position awaiting orders to- open fire, and the plain was covered with our troops ; the fortified village of Bhodawala on our left being filled with our Infantry. As the fog cleared, our mortars and siege-guns opened a simul- taneous fire, and the enemy appeared now for the first time to realize their danger. The Seik drums beat the alarm; their bugles and trumpets sounded to arms ; and in a few minutes the whole of the enemy's batteries were manned, and their guns pouring shot and shell in the direction of our troops. Gilbert's Division was ensconced under cover of the banks of the dry bed of a small river, which partially encircled the outer works of the enemy's position. The action was commenced by an Artillery duel, which lasted about two hours; when Gougk was informed that our ammunition was nearly expended. Imme- diate orders were now given for the two Brigades on our extreme left* to carry the right entrenchments of the enemy. From the dry bed of the river we had a splendid view of the advance, and the effect of the attack. The Bengal Horse Artillery than which there were no finer or more efficient Artillery in the world came forward at full gallop; and, suddenly halting and unlimbering their guns at a distance of only three hundred yards from the enemy, opened a regular and rapid fire. As the Infantry advanced to the attack this fire was slackened, and as the final charge was made it ceased. The Infantry charge was at first decided and effective ; the entrenchments being carried at the point of the bayonet without a musket-shot having been fired,. and the enemy forced back on its inner works. Now, for the first time, our Commander's plan of action seemed to dawn upon the Seiks, and they hastened to redeem their want of foresight; rapidly concentrating their whole strength in their weaker right February 10th, defences ; and, utterly disregarding feints which had been made towards their centre and left, their troops- * Under Major-General Dick. THK BATTLE OF SOB1IAOX. 401 rushed towards their right, bringing with them many of their 1846. field-guns, which they rapidly placed in position to cover their advancing Infantry. They apparently felt that if they could regain possession of their entrenchments on their right, we could not with our whole strength carry the more formidable fortifications on their centre and left. The first British Division wavered, under the overwhelming force which was bearing down upon it: and amidst the shouts of the enemy, now redoubling their efforts, Dick's Division began gradually to lose ground, nobly disputing every inch, but evidently unable to hold the batteries which they had captured, and which were quickly wrenched from their grasp and re-occupied by the enemy. The '2nd Brigade of our left Division now charged forward in support, and Ashburnham's Reserves pushed gallantly to the front; but it was of no avail; our 1st Division, as well as ilu Reserve, vastly outnumbered and overmatched, being all forced back. The first part of Sir Hugh Gough's programme having failed, there was but one course left; the feint attacks of our centre February 10th, all( l ''ight must at once be converted into real assaults. The demonstration which Gilbert's Division had made on the enemy's centre had the effect of drawing the fire from his strongest batteries on it; this being part of Gough's plan. He wanted t he attention of the enemy to be diverted from their right ; so he arranged that Gilbert's (the centre) Division should be protected from the fire which it must necessarily attract, by taking advantage of the cover afforded by the dry bed of the nulla : but now it was called upon to make a real attack upon the batterie-> t'rom which it had just attracted the enemy's heaviest fire. Relieved tnnn the pressure on their right, the enemy had swarmed to their centre and left batteries just as the order arrived for Gilbert's Division to assault, and Sir Hugh Gough, who was \\ateliing the movement, was heard to exclaim: "Good" " God ! they will be annihilated." 2 D 402 THE BATTLE OF SOBRAON. 1846. The fire from the enemy's heavy guns in their centre batteries, their zainburucks,* and musketry, was terrific ; and the air, charged with sulphur, was stifling, and so heated that it was almost un- bearable. Now on rushed the Bengal European Regiment, with a determination which promised to carry everything before it ; soon reaching the ditch which formed the outer defence, and springing into it, they found themselves confronted by the massive walls which in the distance had appeared less formidable, for they now found these works too high to escalade without ladders. To retire was again to encounter the storm of fire through which they had just passed, to remain in their present position was annihila- tion; therefore, the Regiment, mortified and chagrined, was forced again to seek shelter under cover of the bank of the dry river which it had left but a short time before. During our advance several Officers and men had fallen ; Captain Shuttle- worth being shot dead, and Ensigns Hamilton, Davidson, and Innes struck down, as well as many of our soldiers killed and wounded. As our Regiment was retiring the enemy sent out their dis- mounted Cavalry to cut up those who had fallen ; and these men barbarously murdered many of our wounded who might otherwise have found their way to our camp in safety. On reaching the dry bed of the river it was found that February 10th Brigadier McLaren, commanding our Brigade, was mortally wounded, and Colonel Birrell, the next in seniority, assumed command of the Brigade ; the command of the 1st European Light Infantry devolving on our Adjutant, Brevet- Captain Douglas Seaton, who, rapidly forming up the Regiment and instructing his Officers to rush at the embrasures and spike the enemy's guns, led them to their second charge. Having taken ground to its left the line now boldly advanced ; but it was a second time hurled back. A third time the Bengal Europeans, having inclined further to the left, charged with a hearty cheer * 1-lb. swivel guns. und a determination which no fire could check; dashing forward 1846. without halt or hesitation this time, notwithstanding that the ranks were thinned at every step. The embrasures were now readied, tin 1 foremost men having been propped up on the shoulders of their comrades: shouts of joy rang through the ranks as the little parries who had gained a footing found their numbers inside the batteries increasing; and a rush was made at the enemy's heavy guns, which were now captured and spiked. The glad news soon reached us that, as the mass of the Seik Army had been withdrawn from the weaker entrenchments on the right to enable them to repel our repeated attacks on centre and on left, the 1st Division and its reserves under Ashburnham had succes -fully renewed their attack on the enemy's right, driven them from their entrenchments and recaptured their guns. try 10th, From our right also came the welcome intelligence that the enemy's batteries had at last been carried at the point of the bayonet: so that now the whole semicircle of the enemy's outer batteries was in our possession. The Bengal European Light Infantry, as we'll as our other troops, now faced the inside of the enemy's works, which were found to be a succession of entrenchments concentrating on their tcte-d n-pont. From our right-centre and left our troops pushed forward, dis- lodging the enemy step by step towards their bridge. "No" ik oflercd to submit, no disciple of Govind asked for" " ([iiarier. Kvery where they showed a front to the victors and" ilked slowly and sullenly away, whilst many rushed singly" " forth to meet assured death."* This was no time for mercy or clemency; the soldiers of the British Army had jti>t passed over the dead bodies of their comrades, many of whom had been ruthlessly and barbarously backed to pieces by the Seiks: our men thirsted for revenge, and a terrible revenge they wreaked upon their enemy. Step by step the Khalsa Army was forced back in the direction * Cunningham's " History of the Seiks,'' p. 328. 404 THE VICTORY OF SOBRAOX. 1846. of their bridge, the pressure on which became so great that the sides broke away. Nature also seemed to conspire against the Seiks, for since the morning the river Sutlej had suddenly and un- expectedly risen some seven feet, so that the ford was not now pass- able ; and, worse than all, the centre boat of the bridge which it was said had been loaded with powder, so that it might if neces- sary be exploded to prevent pursuit had been removed.* There was now nothing but death both before and behind the enemy; their mounted Officers, grey-bearded old chieftains, waved their swords high in the air, calling upon their men with shouts and gestures to drive the British from their camp, and thus vindicate their honour and maintain their faith. These brave Officers scorned to attempt to save themselves ; Sirdars Sham Sing Attariwalla who had frequently fought under Kunjit Sing Kishen Sing, Gulab Sing Kupti, Hira Sing, and many other well-known Chiefs, conspicuous for bravery, being all killed at the head of their respective commands in attempting to check the British onslaught. The enemy still endeavoured to rally, but the pressure was too great; many thousands being precipitated headlong into the February 10th, river ; and as our soldiers, flushed with victory, hurled the Khalsa into the rapid stream, our Artillery opened a galling fire of grape and shrapnell on the fugitives, rolling over the helpless writhing masses as they struggled in the water. If it be true that Lai Sing and the Lahore Durbar had schemed the destruction of the Khalsa Army, they could not have succeeded more completely ; for there had been in India no such slaughter since the Battle of Buxar, 1764, when the dead of Shuja u'd daulah's Army formed a mole, over which the defeated survivors effected their escape. The river Sutlej, after the Battle of Sobraon, was the Golgotha of the largest proportion of the Khalsa Army. * It was asserted immediately after the battle that this boat had been removed by one of the Khalsa Sirdars, to cut off the retreat of any Seik fugitives from their front. AKTK1I Till: IJATTLK OF SOBRAON. 405 The Governor-General, in lii.s Notification published four 1846. -lays after this victory, refers to it sis being- "one of the most "daring ever achieved, by which) in open day, a triple line of " "biva>tworks, flanked by formidable redoubts, bristling with" "Artillery, manned by :\'2 Regular Regiments of Infantry was" -anlted and carried/' Thus ended the storm and capture of the last Seik stronghold ; and thus virtually terminated the Sutlej Campaign. The enemy lost between M)00 and 10,000 men, 60 pieces of heavy Artillery, and upwards of 200 camel swivel guns (zamburucks) ; but this grand result was not achieved without an immense sacrifice of life on our side. During the advance of the 2nd or General Gilbert's Division, 689 men fell within half-an-hour ; the 1st European Light Infantry losing 12 Officers, 12 Sergeants, and 173 of rank and file: their gallant General Gilbert being also wounded at the head of the Division, and Brigadier McLaren, who commanded our Brigade, and was referred to by the ( 1 onnnaiider-in-Chief in his dispatch as u one of the ablest of the senior Officers of the" "force," being mortally wounded whilst leading us to the assault. This Officer was beloved by the 1st European Regiment, having endeared himself bv his genial, kindly, fatherly bearing towards those who served under him; and his death was deeply lamented. It must be borne in mind that our Regiment had suffered so ivly at the Battle of Fero/shah as to muster little over 400 when it went into action at Sobraon. Of this number 1D7 fell in the latter battle: >o that nearly one-half of the combatants was cither killed or wounded during the tlnvr a>saults on the enemy's -tronghold at Suhraon. Of all rank> in the Hritish Army there were killed at Sobraon ;>20. and wounded 2Oi;;i. making a total of 2383. l>ef ore noon the battle was over, and the enemy had been driven from the ('ompany's territories. A strange calm succeeded 406 AFTER THE BATTLE OF SOBRAOX. 1846 the furious tumult which had raged since early morning. Then came the sad duty of burying our dead and collecting our wounded. Twenty-seven brave men of our Regiment were placed in one grave on the bank of the dry bed of the river from which they had made their three gallant assaults. The enemy were allowed to return to the left bank of the Sutlej for the same purpose, but they contented themselves with carrying away a few only of the bodies of their leaders ; amongst which was that of their grand old General Sirdar Sham Sing; those not removed being left as food for the jackal and the vulture. The scenes in camp that afternoon and during the whole night were sad in the extreme the watching beside the bed of a dying comrade, the stillness of the night broken only by the groans from the amputating tents there was no chloroform in those days these are the realities of war. The following is a list of the killed and wounded Officers of the 1st Bengal European Light Infantry at the Battle of Sobraon : Killed. Lieutenant F. Shuttleworth. Ensign F. W. A. Hamilton. Wounded. Lieutenant J. Lambert (mortally). Ensign G. H. Davidson (mortally). Lieutenant G. G. Denniss (severely). Lieutenant A. Hume (dangerously). Lieutenant T. Staples (returned slightly wounded, but part of foot amputated) Lieutenant D. C. T. Beatson (died next day). Ensign G. O. B. Palmer (slightly). Ensign P. R. Innes (slightly). Captain E. Magnay (severely). Lieutenant J. Pattullo (severely). AI-TKK TIIK HATTLE OF SOBRAON. 407 When the 1st European Light Infantry left Subathoo on the 1846. 10th of December, 1S4.">, there were present 24 Officers, and '2 joined afterwards : making a total of '2ti. At the battle of Ferozshah and the storm and capture of Sobraon, ( .l Officers were killed and 11 less severely wounded ; thus a total of 20 out of '2i\ Officers formed the casualty list during the campaign. The IM European Light Infantry which had been (540 strong after having left its sick in hospital, and men on duty with the Depot at Subathoo lost 40(j rank and file killed and wounded; l lt l, there being left for duty with the headquarters of the Regiment on the llth February only 6 Officers and 230 rank and file. It the lo.-> of a Regiment during a campaign be any indication of its good services, then assuredly the 1st European Light Infantry must be admitted to have fought well indeed; for seldom has a Regiment shown Midi a casualty list in any single successful campaign. Would that we could place on record the name of every Non-Commissioned Officer* and private soldier who signally distinguished himself and deserves special mention, for manv were the individual heroic deeds which can only be known by the general reMilt : but the Officers who fell were our intimate friends and companions, their manv kindlv, brotherlv acts bringing their memory more strongly before n*. Of Lieutenant John Lambert. McGregor in his " History of the Seik-." says, "To -peak of him a- nierelv a brother Officer " " would be doing injustice to hi- memory, he was on,- friend, the " " friend of the writer of these page>. and never have we known " " a more /ealmis, or enthu.-iastic .-uldier, or one who more fully " Mi.-taincd the honor of his profession. He had t-ilents of no " " ordinary kind, and had he been .-pared, poor Lambert would " * Servant-Major Moore of the 1st European Light Infantry was promoted to the rank of Knsiun for distinguished services in the field at Ferozshah and Sobraon. 408 AFTER THE BATTLE OF SOBRAON. 1846. " have been an honor to the fair town of Alnwick which gave " " him birth ; but, he died the death he coveted, fell fighting " " side by side with his gallant companions before Sobraon, " " universally lamented by his brother Officers." Captain R. 0. Napier, afterwards the hero of Magdala, says, " I saw that fine " " boy Lambert after Sobraon in the Ferozpoor Hospital, " " with one leg amputated, full of the same spirit that he had " " displayed at the Battle of Ferozshah ; but he did not recover." The author re-echoes McGregor's words. John Lambert was indeed "an honor to his profession." Ensign Fred Hamilton was as has been previously narrated left on account of ill-health with the depot of the Regiment when it went on service against the Seiks. It was a sore trial, and he begged with tears to be allowed to accompany his Regiment, but the Surgeon was inexorable ; but no sooner was his health sufficiently restored than he, at considerable risk, hastened to his post, too late to take part in the Battle of Ferozshah ; but alas ! in time to meet his death at Sobraon, where this handsome, gallant, brave young Officer lay a mangled corpse before the outer fortifications. He was shot down during the first advance, and in this helpless condition was cut to pieces by the enemy who sallied forth from the embrasures as the Regiment was driven back. Lieutenant Shuttleworth fell early in the day ; he was not, like young Hamilton, hacked and mutilated, but shot dead; and it does not appear that he moved after he fell. Shuttleworth, when our Regiment was ordered on Service, had obtained leave of absence to visit his home in England, but the rude blast of war cancelled his furlough ; and, whilst those near and dear to him were expecting his immediate return, he was lying under the cold earth close to the field of battle at Sobraon. There was also Gordon Hugh Davidson, the companion and dearest friend of the author. No one knew him so intimately, no one so appreciated his noble, honest nature, his sterling worth. McGregor speaks of him as " uniting the daring courage of a soldier " THE ADVANCE ON LAHORE. 401) to the meekest, mildest spirit." He was, indeed, brave as he was good. Gordon Davidson was shot by a musket-ball in the right breast, during our first advance, and was conveyed to the field hospital. The bullet was extracted from his spine, and so he was brought to our tent. We had left it together that morning full of hope and joy, but now his face was >hrunken and wan and hardly to be recognized. That night fever supervened, with parching thirst, a weary, helpless look, the last message the glassy, fixed eye, a deep groan, and all was over. McGregor continues, "Had " " a In-other fallen the grief could not have been more poignant" " than was that, of his young companion in arms who shared the" M same tent with him, and also watched his departing spirit." McGregor never wrote more truly. Shuttle-worth, Hamilton, and Davidson were buried on the evening succeeding the battle, in a small grove of trees close to February llth, (Uir (1 ;i m p- It was almost dark, the moon fitfully shining out, the dead march played by our band being the only >ouud a> the funeral cortege moved along: this was BO -mall that a stranger casually passing might perhaps have thought that, the dead Officers had but few friends. Alas! they wen- followed to their graves by all their companions who had survived the bloody campaign six brother Officers. Karly on the morning of the \'2\\\ of February our cam]) was .-truck, and we advanced towards Fero/.pore. where a double bridge of boats had been const ructcd ; and, on the 13th the whole force, with the exception of our heavy Artillery train, ~cd the Sutlej : and, making a rapid march, encamped at Ku.-ur. in th- Punjab, .-ixleeii miles from Fero/pore, and about thirty from Lahore. The remnant of the Khalsa Army, after the battle of Sobraon, had encamped at Kaebam. about eighteen miles east of Lahore; and with them were their Commanderia Tej Sing and Lai Sing; the del ot Lahore being guarded by (Jolab Sing's troops. On the l."th of Febrnarv a number of Seik ( 'hiefs, escorted 410 THE TERMS OF PEACE. 1846. by Cavalry and bearing a white flag, were seen to approach the British camp ; it was the Raja Golab Sing, who arrived with full credentials from the Maharaja of the Punjaub, to beg pardon in the name of the Lahore Durbar, for the offences which had been committed by their Army against the British power, and to- endeavour to negotiate terms of peace. The Governor-General assembled his principal Officers, and received the Raja in Durbar, but all the usual forms and cere- monies were purposely omitted ; the Raja advanced and offered to the Govern or- General nuzzurs complimentary presents but these were refused. The following were the principal terms demanded by the British Government ; and accepted by Golab Sing on the part of the Lahore Durbar : 1. The surrender of the Seik territory lying between the Bias and Sutlej rivers. 2. Payment of one-and-a-half crores of rupees (1J million sterling), as indemnity for the expenses of the war. 3. The disbandment of the present Seik Army, and its re- organization on an improved system, to be determined 011 in communication with the British Government. 4. The surrender of all the guns which had been employed against us. 5. The British to have complete control of both banks of the river Sutlej. The Governor-General then directed that the Maharaja Dulip Sing should be brought to the British Camp, which advanced the next day to Lulliana ; where the young Maharaja, in obedience to the Governor-General's order, arrived with his Chiefs, and at once tendered his submission. The usual salutes and other ceremonies were at first omitted, but on the Maharaja accepting the proffered terms, asking pardon for the offences committed by his Army, and begging that he might be restored to the friendship of the Governor-General, TIIK "ARMY OF THi: SlTLK-J 11KOKKN fl'. I the nuz/urs were again presented and this time accepted: and I! the Durhar broke up under a full salute. With this treaty terminated what may be called the first chapter of the conquest of the Punjab. The British Annv was now informed that as it was the intention of the Indian Council to re-establish the Seik Government at Lahore on friendly terms, that city would be protected from reimiary Man-li, pillage: and our soldiers therefore were ordered to receive one year's extra "batta" in lieu of plunder. The Rani, it was understood, promised a like amount; but it was well known that she had not the means, even if she had the inclination, to fulfil her promise. The British Army encamped on the plain outside the walls of Lahore on the 2<)th February : and now that the carrying out of the terms of the treaty had been satisfactorily arranged, orders were issued for the breaking up of the "Army of the Sutlej "" and the return of the troops to Hindustan. Lai Si nir was appointed to the Vazirship of the Lahore Durbar, and Tej Sing was nominated to the Chief Command of the Khalsa Army: both appointments being made with the approval of the Governor-General. But Lai Sing and Tej Sing felt that not onlv their positions, but their lives, would be in imminent danger as soon as the Khalsa Army should fully realise- that they had been betrayed by their leaders and these leaders the very men now placed in power at the instigation of the British (Invernment. Furthermore, not- withstanding that complete arrangements had been made for the governing power of the Seik Durbar, as well as for the political management and Military occupation of our newly- acquired provinces in the Pimjaub, the Rani and the members of the Lahore Durbar felt that their own personal safety and that of the young Maharaja could only he as>ured by the presence of a protecting force at the capital. It was therefore ordered that a British contingent should remain at Lahore until the end of the March, 1* It',. 412 THE FIRST EUROPEAN BENGAL FUSILIERS. 1846. year 1846, but no longer. The guns of the Fort of Lahore were, at the request of the Durbar, handed over to the charge of our Artillery ; and, some of our troops having been located in the city, the Rani and her son returned to the Palace, which they had hitherto considered was not a place of safety. On the 23rd of March the 1st European Light Infantry March 23rd 26th, commenced its return to India; on the 26th recrossed the Sutlej, and on the following day the Regiment was inspected by the Commander-in-Chief, who was overcome with genuine emotion as he realised the reduced condition of the Regiment truly but a skeleton of its former self. He spoke to the men feelingly and impressively of their gallant conduct during the campaign, and remarked that the number of wounded in the ranks proved how eager they had been to take their share of duty with their more fortunate comrades. To the Officers he said that, should Her Majesty be pleased to confer on him her gracious approval for the part he had taken in the late campaign, he should always feel that such approval was due to the Officers and men who had gained for him this great success. In conclusion, His Excellency announced to the Regiment that, in reward L for its distinguished services, he had obtained the permission of the Government of India to create the Bengal European Light Infantry a Fusilier Regiment, and thence- forward it was to be designated " The 1st European Bengal Fusiliers." The next day the 1st European Bengal Fusiliers continued its return march to Subathoo, which station it reached earlv in April, 1846. . ., April. Orders had previously been issued directing the 2nd Bengal European Regiment* to proceed to Subathoo ; and, as there was only permanent accommodation for one Regiment, the 2nd Europeans were housed in temporary buildings. They reached the station on the 20th of April, when they received a * Now the 2nd Battalion Royal Minister Fusiliers. DEATH OF COLONEL JOSEPH ORCHARD, C.B. 413 hearty welcome from their sister Regiment; and during the time 1846, that the 1st and 2nd were quartered together, nothing could have exceeded the good-fellowship which existed between the Regiments. I Miring the autumn of this year Colonel Joseph Orchard, C.B., again commanding the Regiment, met with an accident on parade which unhappily terminated fatally : his horse swerving and throw- ing his rider violently to the ground. One of the Officers ran to his assistance, but, quickly recovering himself, Orchard sprung to his feet, reprimanded the Officer for having left the ranks, and ordered the Regiment to "retire by double column of subdivisions from both flanks in rear of the centre." This was the last word of command lie ever gave it was in vain he attempted to remount hi& horse: the parade was dismissed, and the Colonel was assisted to his house near at hand, where he lingered for a few months, when he died February lUth, 1847 and was buried with all Military honours in the cemetery at Subathoo. Nothing could surpass the genuine grief of the Fusiliers; for Colonel Orchard was, in every sense, the father of the Regiment,. with which lie had served over forty years. He was not only respected, lie was beloved by all under his command; and his memory has always been held in affectionate veneration by all those who had the privilege of serving under him. The gloom cast over the Regiment was at this time enhanced by the terrible visitation of a very virulent form of Cholera, which created terrible havoc, especially amongst the young soldiers lately joined to fill the many vacancies created during the Sutlej War. Towards the close of 1*47 the 1st Bengal Fusiliers was ordered to Cawnpore. and on arrival the Regiment was placed under the command of Colonel (leorge Huyshe, C.B. In the following autumn the left Wing, under command of Major H. T. Combe, was detached to Agra, where it remained until the close of 1 *-!'.'. In the meantime events of importance had oc- 414 LIEUTENANT HEKBERT B. EDWARDES AT BUNNU. 184G. curred in the Punjab, calling for the interference of the British Government. As the time approached for the withdrawal of the British troops from Lahore, notwithstanding that the Governor-General had said, " in no case can I consent that the British shall remain in " " garrison " at Lahore, " for a longer period than the end of this " " year,"* complications had arisen which rendered the revision of this edict necessary. A treaty was consequently entered into on the 16th December, 1846, between the British Government and the Lahore Durbar, under the provisions of which it was agreed that " a British Officer with an efficient establishment shall be " " appointed by the Governor-General to remain at Lahore, " " which Officer shall have full authority to direct and control all " " matters in every department of the state." Colonel Henry Lawrencef was the Officer appointed by the Governor- General to this responsible position, and he applied for .and obtained the services of some of the ablest Officers in the Army ; amongst those so appointed being Lieutenant Herbert B. Edwardes, of the 1st European Bengal Fusiliers, who was dis- patched to the far-distant station of Bunnu, situated in a portion of the Seik territories ceded to the Lahore Durbar by the Afghans. This district had never been conquered, nor had it been, strictly speaking, even occupied by the Punjab troops ; it was about thirty marches to the north-west of Lahore, its inhabitants being warlike and independent ;. so that although the task which Colonel Lawrence imposed upon young Edwardes required sound judgment, courage, and skill, he proved himself fully equal to the responsibility. Colonel Lawrence's administration of the affairs of the Punjab lasted until the commencement of the year 1848. He inaugurated the principles of Government which he deemed suitable to the circumstances ; but he altogether lost sight of the fact that the * Proceedings in Durbar held at Lahore, 9th March, 1846. f Afterwards Colonel Sir Henry Lawrence, K.C..B. bearing disorde TV \\ mi : Ml LKA-I IN KKIJKLLION. etl'cct of the treachery of the Seik Chiefs on flic Khalsa was 1846. fruit, which threatened to terminate in mutiny and serious isorder. lie believed that the people of the Punjab were in cry way satisfied with the Regency of the British ; and, having : ved assuring reports from Edwardes, Nicholson, Bowie and others, lie anticipated no outbreak or difficulty ; so he resigned his hargeand accompanied the Governor-General Lord Hardinge England. Colonel Lawrence was succeeded by Sir F. Cnrric, Foreign retary to the Government of India; who, following his prcd policy, elaborated his plans, and trusting to the assurances of the Scik Chiefs by whom he was surrounded that the whole country was in a state of contentment and peace, looked forward to a future rule of tranquillity. The Khal>a Army was now fully convinced that it had been betrayed by Jt> Commanders in the last campaign, and it believed that it was in reward for such betrayal that the British had appointed Lai Sing and Tej Sing to responsible posts in the Seik Government. The Khalsa Sirdars believed that the victories ined by the lirifish were the result of treachery: and they concluded that their defeats were due either to gross mismanage- ment or utter fuhhl< in- : they therefore determined to have other struggle for the ma.-terv. ist'aetion lir>t ,-howed itself at, Mul tan ; Mulraj, the Governor of that province, having, since the clo.-e of the Sutlej Campaign, tried his strength against the Lahore troops and ated them. lritish were b<>;ind to maintain the authority of the Lahore Durbar: but before, the day of retribution Mulraj had been brought to reason, terms arranged, and further hostilities avoided ; Mulraj agreeing to cede about one-third of his province to the Durbar, and to pay a sum of i'J< ).(()() as >uceeion duty. Thus the quarrel was Mippo>ed to have been satisfactorily arranged; but Mulraj thought, or pretended to think, that he had been 416 THE OUTBREAK AT MULTAN. 1848. over-reached, and in consequence resigned his governorship ; but to his resignation was affixed a condition, viz., that it should be kept a profound secret. Sir Frederick Currie either found this condition irksome or perhaps impossible to maintain ; any way it leaked out r and much ill-feeling, in consequence, was engendered. Mulraj, being asked to cancel his resignation, refused; but it was not suspected at Lahore that he was one of the prime movers of an organized revolution in which the remnant of the Khalsa Army was deeply implicated. Two Officers, Mr. P. A. Vans Agnew and Lieutenant W. A. Anderson, were appointed by Sir Frederick Currie to proceed to Multan, and make themselves acquainted with the State of affairs in the province, preparatory to its being handed over by Mulraj to the Lahore Durbar. These Officers were accompanied by a body of the Lahore troops, who, on arrival at Multan, mutinied, and throwing off all disguise joined Mulraj 's Army, which now declared its intention not to surrender the Multan district. Vans Agnew and Anderson were attacked ; the former being struck from his horse by one of Mulraj 's soldiers and sabred before he could regain his feet, and the latter maltreated by the crowd, and so wounded that he was left for dead ; they were, however, extricated by Sirdar Khan Sing,, who had accompanied the British Officers from Lahore, and who had been appointed by the Lahore Durbar to succeed to the Governorship of the Province. The wounded Officers, with their escort and six guns, attempted a defence, but were overpowered ; Agnew' s head being severed from his body, and Anderson, who lay helpless on his bed, being hacked to pieces. This state of affairs at Multan was quickly reported to Edwardes. To have awaited orders from Lahore would have imperilled the status of the British at the Seik capital. Edwardes, therefore, in the absence of Regular troops, organized an Army from the raw levies at his disposal ; and, having made a report of his proceedings to his Chief, marched to attack Mulraj. LIE I TKNANT EDWAKDES MARCHES TO MULT AN. 417 Edwardes' whole force numbered only 1600 men; and was composed 1848. for the mo>t part of soldiers of conflicting interests and doubtful allegiance. The news of the murder of the two Officers reached Edwardes whilst he was at Dera Fath Khan, about iK) miles from Multan. He hastily communicated with the British Officers at the nearest stations, asking assistance; and one of the murdered Officers had, just before his death, sent a message to General Van Courtland, begging that he would come to his assistance with his Patan soldiers. Edwardes, having been reinforced by some of General Van Courtland's troops, attacked and defeated a large body of Mulraj's Army; and again, on May 20th, he met and defeated another Division of Mulraj's troops at Kineri; and, after nine hours' severe fighting, drove his enemy across the river Chenab, and thus deprived him of a large portion of his territories. Finally, having received some further reinforcements, and secured the co-operation of some friendly Seik Chiefs, Edwardes advanced on Multan itself. Here he was confronted by Mulraj's main Army, under the personal command of that Chief. Nothing July 1st, daunted. Edwardes gave Mulraj battle; and, after a desperate 4S - encounter, forced his antagonist to seek refuge behind his defend The 1st Bengal Fusiliers were justly proud of Lieutenant Herbert Edwardes.* His courage and forethought, his decision of * The following paragraphs of a Military letter, No. 15, to Governor- (leneral of India in Council, dated the 1st November, 1848, was published for ireneral information. "We have the gratification of apprizing you that tin- <>uern has bren graciously pleased to confer upon Lieutenant Herbert " Hiin Kdwardes, of the 1st Bengal European Regiment Fusiliers, the " ' local rank of Major in the I^vhore territories. We have further the " -faetion to state that H-r Majesty has been graciously pleased, by a " ial Statute of the Most Honourable Order of the Bath, to appoint" Major Kdwardes an extra Member of the Military Division of the Third " ' Class or Companion of that Order. With reference to your dispatches " and to those from the Government of Bombay announcing the Military" .a ions carried on against the rebel forces of the Dewan of Mooitan " '2 E 418 GENERAL WHISH'S FORCE ARRIVES AT MULT AN. 1848. character and noble bearing exercised a spell on all who were brought within his influence ; and it was this power and strength of will which mainly contributed to a success almost un- paralleled in Indian history. Had Edwardes been supported by a small British force with a few guns, it is quite possible that he might have averted the impending war the second chapter in the history of the conquest of the Punjab. But intrigue in the meantime was rife at Lahore ; for in July it was discovered that the Rani the Queen Regent was im- plicated in a plot which threatened to develop into open war. The Rani was sent a state-prisoner to the Fortress of Chunar, whilst some other leaders of the rebellion were tried and hanged. But, notwithstanding the sharp measures which had been adopted, the horizon was clouded ; and it soon became evident that a second Seik War was imminent. The Lahore Brigade, under General Whish, was ordered to Multan to support Edwardes; and the Ferozpore Brigade was moved to Lahore, both these Brigades being at once pushed on to Multan. On arrival, September 5th, Whish found Edwardes' force, now numbering some 20,000 men, encamped at Suraj Khund, about six miles from Multan. Whish, with his Engineer Officer, Napier, f found that the Fortress could not judiciously be assaulted without the heavy siege-guns, which had not yet arrived ; and it was not until the by this Officer, we passed on the 13th of September last a resolution, of " which the following is a copy : " " ' Resolved unanimously that this Court do present to Major Edwardes * a Gold Medal, in testimony of their high approbation of the important < services rendered by him in raising and organizing a large force in a 1 foreign territory under circumstances of the greatest difficulty, in 1 wresting within a very brief period an extensive tract of country from * the power of the rebels, in skilfully combining his forces with those ' of an ally and in signally defeating the troops of the enemy in two ' pitched battles, thus evincing the possession, in the flower of his youth, * of all those qualities which form and ennoble the character of the ' British Officer.' " f Afterwards Lord Napier of Magdala. Till-: FOKMATIOX OF "THK AliMY OF THE PUNJAB." 419 7th of September that the Siege of Multan commenced. But now 1848. an unforeseen difficulty presented itself. The Lahore troops under Sirdar Slier Sing, deserted from the British force; and, declaring their sympathy with the national movement, entered the Fortress of Multan and proclaimed their allegiance to Mulraj. The siege was raised; \Yhish blockading the roads leading into the town, but otherwise remaining inactive. On the 27th of December, reinforcements having joined the British Army, the }' Ilelah. ion at Ilelah. Soon after this junction, the Commander-in-( 1 hief received the .unwelcome intelligence that our Fortress of Atak, on the river 422 THE BATTLE OF CHILLI AN WALL A. 1849. Indus, had capitulated, having been beleaguered by Chattar with a strong Seik force ; and it was reasonable to suppose that Chattar Sing would now join Slier Sing. This was the view taken by Lord Dalhousie, the Governor- General, who sent immediate instructions to Lord Gough "under the altered circumstances" not to await the fall of Multan, but to strike at his enemy as soon as practicable ; and Gough, delighted to have gained the consent of Government,, determined to precipitate an action at all risks. Sher Sing occupied a position of considerable strength at Chillianwalla, with thick jungle in his front and rear, which afforded admirable cover, and on his left the village of Rasul. Gough's plan of action was to take his enemy in flank and force him back between unfordable rivers, deficient of supplies, and thus prevent the junction of his Army with that of Chattar Sing.. Gough neared his enemy on the afternoon of the 13th of January, fully intending to bivouac on the field and force Sher Sing to a battle on the following morning; but as soon as he sighted his enemy he could not resist the temptation of engaging him. Shere Sing opened fire first, and Gough could not brook the- insult. He at once hurled his Infantry at his enemy, with the simple instructions to his Generals that they had to capture the enemy's guns at the point of the bayonet. Gough seems to- have forgotten utterly all his carefully-digested plans ; angry at the temerity of the enemy, he sent his Infantry to punish them. General Gilbert's Division in which was the 2nd Bengal Regiment, occupied the right of our attacking-line ; the left was under Colonel Campbell, and in the centre our heavy guns. The British line advanced most cheerily ; but it had to push its way through dense jungle for a distance of nearly a mile before sighting the enemy; moreover, amongst this jungle were large.- January 13th pools and swamps, necessitating frequent detours and cans- 1849. ing some confusion, notwithstanding which the British mi: BATTLE or CIIILLIANWALLA. 423 Regiments soon formed up under a heavy fire and assumed 1849. some kind of order. The command was now given to rapidly advance, and our troops made a decided rush on the enemy with their bayonets, causing him to recoil; but the Seiks, soon recover- ing themselves, charged down on the left of our line, recapturing some of their own guns which we had previously seized from them. The enemy then made a determined onslaught, surrounding Colonel Campbell's Division on three sides. The Seik.-. seeing the right of our line exposed, brought round some guns and Infantrv, intending to take us in flank; but Brigadier Godby, discerning their object, wheeled back the two .Junury i:5tli, Companies on the right of the 2nd European Regiment, and fired some volleys on the advancing foe, which caused him to make a h< d at the Khalsa Infantry. Major I )a\ves, with his two troopsof Bengal Horse Artillery, did .-plendid service on this occasion, by coming to the relief and covering the 2nd Bengal European Regiment, just as it was very hard preed by the Seik Infantry and Artillery, fighting the Regiment both in front and rear. A- the enemy approached from the rcai' they emerged from the jungle, and it was now seen that they were advancing very Meadily with drums beat ing and colours flying ; when the Bengal Knrnpeans. >till rear rank in front, gave a hearty cheer as thcv iry i:.th, niched on the Khalsa line. The enemy hesitated as the Europeans approached, snmenf them ret iring,but most held their ground, and, receiving our eharge^nade a desperate resistance, usinu; their tulwars and knives with terrible effect. After some re lighting the Seik line fairly gave way; the Europeans, now 424 THE VICTOKY OF CHILLIANWALLA. 1849. making a rush at the Seik guns which had been galling them so severely, and capturing two at the point of the bayonet, and Godby, facing to his front, readvanced to his former position. This exploit of the 2nd Bengal European Regiment proved that in point of steadiness, discipline, and courage, even under the most trying circumstances, it was second to none in our Armies. The tide of battle was now turning in favour of the British. The left of our Army had re-formed, and was driving the Seiks back at the point of the bayonet ; whilst the right, having cleared the enemy from its rear, had regained the ground which it had lost. Our Cavalry led by General Thackwell and the Bengal Horse Artillery, were doing splendid service on both flanks. As if it had been preconcerted, the British Army now broke into a hearty English cheer ; and with a simultaneous rush forward, the enemy were repulsed along the whole line; and Gough, however justly he may be censured for his rash attack, had the satisfaction of seeing that he had driven the Khalsa from the field, thus winning the Battle of Chillianwalla. Darkness was now setting in. There were two courses open to the Commander-in-Chief he might hold the field, which he January 13th, na( ^ j ust won at so great a cost of life, or he might retire on Chillianwalla where was his depot of provisions and jimmunition. He decided on adopting the latter course, and retired to his former position. The following is the resume of this battle by that fearless and just critic, Colonel Malleson, who says, "The British Army then " " returned from the well-fought field, to win which had cost " " them, in killed and wounded, 89 Officers and 2357 fighting- " *' men, leaving on the field many standards lost, not captured " " six guns, and all their dead. It cannot be said of this battle " " that ' it was a famous victory/ Indeed, it can only be " " technically called a victory, and most certainly it was of a " " Pyrrhocan character." i Till; BATTLE OF GOOZEKAT. 425 The following is the casualty list of the 2nd Bengal European 1849. Regiment at the Battle of Chillian walla : Lieutenant Nightingale, very severely wounded. Lieutenant Bleamire, slightly wounded. Rank-and-file, killed (>, wounded f)4. Kiglit days alter the Battle of Chillianwalla* Multan fell .January iMst, 1849 and General Whish, with about 9,000 men, liastened to join our Headquarters Camp; but this increase would be fully eounterhalanced by the Army of Chattar Sing joining the Khalsa force. Chattar Sing, who was Slier Sing's father, now assumed the chief command of the Seik Army. Lord (Jough. for various strategic : reasons, changed his ground .-everal times, and finally, on the 20th of February, having been joined by the Multan force and a Bombay Brigade, pitched his ry L'oth, camp at Shadiwalla. In the meantime Chattar Sing also had several times changed his ground with the object of again inducing Gough to attack; but this time he was not to be tempted. The Seik Army finally took up its position lit of the village of (Jooxerat, with its right and left resting on t\vo streams, both of which were easily fordable; indeed the ,-tream on the enemy's right was nearly dry, and that on the left fiirmi-d no serious obstacle. Across and beyond these streams were bodies of the enemy's Cavalry. The two Armies, on the morning of the 21st February, faced each other: (lough's plan of action being to attack his enemy on his left and centre simultaneously, and drive him back on his Right Wing which he hoped to double up: and. during the Confusion, to hurl at him our Left Wing, with which he intended liter the Seiks past rallying. (leneraU (Gilbert's and Whish's Divisions, Supported by the greater part of the Field Artillery, were told off to attack the enemy's centre; the 2nd Kumpean Regiment being one of those * '1 ration, ' Cliilliamvjilla." inherited from the L'ml European 1 Fu-iliets. is l.onie on the Colours of The Royal Minister Fusiliers. 426 THE BATTLE OF GOOZERAT. 1849. appointed to capture the fortified village of Barrakalra, situated in the enemy's immediate front, and considered to be the key to his position. The 2nd Europeans advanced in line to the attack ; but Barra- kalra was defended by some of the best Eegiments in the Khalsa Army, selected by Chattar Sing for the post of honour, as they had displayed signal bravery at the Battle of Chillian walla. The 2nd European Regiment advanced to within a short distance of the village ; when they fired a volley, and the Left Wing, climbing February 21st, U P the mud walls, sprang on to the roofs of the houses,, many of them letting themselves down into the narrow and tortuous streets, and driving the enemy out at the further side. The Eight Wing in the meantime had passed round the village and engaged the enemy's supports; but as soon as the Seik Artillery outside the village saw their comrades being- overpowered, they elevated their guns so as to clear the tops of the houses, notwithstanding that the British and Seik soldiers were intermixed whilst they struggled for the mastery. Two Seik Colours were here captured by the 2nd Europeans ; the enemy bravely defended these standards, and every Khalsa falling before they were relinquished. But the battle was not yet over. The Seik Infantry, when they became aware how small was the force which had driven them from the village, returning in masses ; so that at this juncture it appeared as if the Regiment must inevitably be doubled up and February 21st, crushed. Fordyce's Horse Artillery, which had covered the attacking-party, having retired to obtain a further supply of ammunition, the enemy's Artillery, now unopposed,, poured showers of grape amongst the Regiment, which was at the same time threatened by the large masses in its front. The 2nd Bengal Europeans were now drawn up in line under a withering fire, but such was their ardour that it was with difficulty Colonel Steele could restrain them from rushing forward at the enemy's guns. Just as the Khalsa troops were approaching the THE VICTORY OF GOOZERAT. "British line, a portion of Fordyce's Horse Artillery came galloping 184&. up. and in a few seconds unlimbered their guns, and round after round of grape and volleys of musketry tore through the close ranks of the masses of the enemy in front. Under our well-directed fire the Khalsa soldiers faltered, and then slowly and sullenly retired. Fn.m this moment the victory of Goozerat became a certainty. Malleson, in his "Decisive Battles in India," p. 391, says of the capture of the position of Barra Kalra, "The resistance was determined, the bearing of the Seiks heroic. They met the " advancing foe face to face, and strove with undaunted courage '* " to drive him bark. Vain, however, were their efforts. Step " by step did the British troops make good their footing, until " ' at last they forced the enemy, still fronting them, to fall back " "on lii- M'cond line. The gallant nature of the defence may " " be gathered from the loss inflicted by the Seiks on their " assailants. In carrying the village of Barra Kalra, the 3rd " - Brigade ( L'nd Kuropeans, 31st and 70th Native Infantry) lost " " upwards of 300 killed and wounded." The 2nd European Regiment lost in killed and wounded and missing 143 including 1 Officer, Lieutenant Sprot, killed ; and 5 Captain Boyd, Lieu- tenant Klderton. and Ensigns Toogood, Sandford, and Matheson. \voimded. The British Cavalry and Be ngal Horse Artillery followed up the victory^,}' (inn/era!," and during the rest of the day the Khalsa Yl.iuary L'lst, Army, now thoroughly disorganized, fled in dismay,, throwing away its arms, clot hing, and accoutrements; so> that the whole line of retreat WB thickly strewn with guns. tent-, exhausted cattle. >tandards, and all the iuns inarched in pursuit; that '\-l.rii;uy L'L'.,,I. under (Jeiieral (Jilbert with whom was the j?nd Bengal Kuropean Regiment proceeding towards the river Tin- decoration. < (;,<>/, -rat." inherited from the 2nd European Bengal Fusilii re, is hoi-nr ( ,n tin- Culours of Tlu- Iloyul ^lunster Fusiliers." 428 THE TERMINATION OF THE PUNJAB WAR. 1849. Jhelum, which it crossed, still pressing on the track of the disorganized Khalsa Army. Gilbert followed his enemy with vigour, the British Column making one uninterrupted march of forty-seven miles, on which occasion the General expressed his admiration of the spirit and endurance of the 2nd European Regiment.* On the 14th of March the Khalsa Army, overtaken prostrate and helpless, surrendered unconditionally ; Chattar Sing, the Com- mander-in-Chief, and Sher Sing, his Lieutenant, together with the March 14th, principal Seik Sirdars, delivering up their swords to General Gilbert. Forty-one pieces of Artillery were surrendered, and the shattered remnant of the conquered Army laid down its arms in presence of its conquerors. The Khalsa may have been betrayed nt Ferozshah, but he had again challenged his foe. The battle had been fought to the bitter end. He had been, this time, worsted in fair fight. Defeated and exhausted, he submitted to his foe. Thus ended the second chapter of the subjugation of the Punjab, which was now annexed, March 29th, 1849, to the terri- tories of the East India Company, under whose Government that vast Province has prospered and improved ; and under whose laws all property has been secured from unfair exactions or Military plunder. The Khalsa, admitting the inevitable, trans- ferred his allegiance and services to his new rulers, under whom he soon proved himself on an equality with the best troops in the British Service. It was the Seiks who first shook the Indian Empire to its very foundation ; and we shah 1 see that, in 1857, it was the Seiks who afterwards saved it. * For their distinguished services during the Punjab War, the 2nd European Regiment was 18th January, 1850 designated the 2nd European Bengal Fusiliers, " to mark the high sense entertained by the Government " " of the gallant, exemplary, and praiseworthy conduct of the Regiment " " during the late operations in the Punjab." Government Gazette. - CHAPTER XVII. The 1st Bengal Fusiliers at Lahore The Regiment ordered into camp on? account of malarious fever Rumours of war with Burmah Previous treaties with Burmah The Burmese authorities insult the British flag Explanations demanded are met with repeated insults The Burmese troops fire on the British ships AVar declared with Burmah Rangoon occupied by British troops ( 'apture of the Town and Fort of Pegu Relief of the Pegu garrison The enemy pursued Martaban and Moulmien Attack on and capture of (longoh Arrival of the Column at Shoe Gyne The Flying Column advances on Ton^hoo Surrender of Tonghoo Return march towards Rangoon Detachment of the 1st Bengal Fusiliers capture Beling Thayetmyo and lay -arrisoned by the 1st Bengal Fusiliers Relieved by the 29th Foot The end of the L'nd Burmese War Return of the 1st Bengal Fusiliers to India. March, 1850. M MEDIATELY after the Punjab War, the Eight Wing of the 1st European Bengal Fusiliers marched from Cawnpore, and, joining the Left Wing at Agra,, the entire Kegiment proceeded to Lahore, the capital of our newly-acquired terri- tnrirs iii die Punjab; reaching its destination early in 1850. Lieutenant-Colonel David Birrell, lately returned from fur- lough. un\v resumed command of the Regiment. A< then- were not sufficient barracks in the newly-built canton- ment of Anarkulli for the accommodation of all the European force at Lain. re. the 1 >t liengal Fusiliers were quartered in the Huzari Bagh, or Royal (ianlen, a fortified portion of the city in which were the palare> of the Maharajas. Many of the Officers' quarters were eniMrueted of costly materials, the walls being ornamented in>ide with beautifully-carved marbles ; whilst some of the others,. the old gateways, were built of massive masonry. 430 THE FIRST BENGAL FUSILIERS AT LAHORE. 1850. The Regiment was quartered in the midst of a restless popu- lation, not yet habituated to our rule, and consisting of fanatics and discharged Khalsa soldiers, who had so lately been our enemies in the field ; yet such was the discipline maintained, that, although our soldiers were frequently insulted and molested in the streets, instances of retaliation on their part were very rare. In the month of June, 1850, the Officer on guard was in- formed that six Seik fanatics had broken into the square adjoining one of our barracks, which was used as " married men's quarters." Proceeding to the place indicated, he found the dead bodies of the six Seiks lying in the square. They had stealthily entered the enclosure a few minutes before the dinner-hour, and having bound the mystic thread around their wrists and drawn their tulwars, they had attempted to sell their lives as dearly as they could, and to inflict death on all the Europeans who might come across their path. Eleven of the married men of the Regiment had been wounded before the fanatics were killed, but fortunately none of our soldiers were fatally injured, they having defended themselves as best they could with legs of tables, chairs, and footstools, or anything else that came to hand ; their wives helping the men by clinging to the Seiks, who, however maddened with bhang, or thirsting for blood, never injure either women or children. It was afterwards reported that these Khalsas had said on the previous night that as, owing to the cessation of hostilities, they could no longer live by the sword, they elected to die by the hands of their late enemies, rather than exist in idleness and humiliation. In the autumn of this year, 1850, the river Ravee so over- September, flowed its banks during the periodical rains, that the esplanade and surrounding country were placed many feet under water, which also surrounded the Fort where our Regiment was quartered, producing malaria, so affecting both Officers and men that upwards of eighty per cent, were either on the sick- RUMOURS OF A WAR IN BURMAII. 431 iii hospital with fever. The Regiment was now ordered 1850. into ramp on some rising ground a few miles distant from the ( itv of Lahore ; but the sickness was so general and the mortality eo great that Sepahis were employed on our Regimental guards. Dr. IF. A. Bruce was at this trying time the Surgeon of our Regiment, and nothing could exceed his kindness and attention. Dr. Bruce had at all times been an universal favourite in the Regiment, both with the Officers and men, not only professionally, but as the life of the mess-table ; and whenever or wherever an aot of kindness was needed, his aid was unostentatiously ready. The scenes in camp during this severe epidemic were very dis- tre.-.-ing. the sick in their damp tents suffering much discomfort, and the ennstantly-occurring deaths throwing a gloom over the camp, which was not relieved until it became known that orders had been received at headquarters for the Regiment to march, as soon as practicable, to Meerut. The conveyance of the sick was a matter of considerable difficulty, no less than three thousand bearers being required to carry the dhoolies containing the ctol>er, invalids. These bearers, who were playfully termed "Brace's Brigade." were paraded during our march morning and evening. After a week's continual change of air the numbers of the bearers were materially reduced as our soldiers were restored to health. The di>ea>e. however, had told disastrously on the constitutions of the men : and on arrival at Mecrnt a medical board was assembled, , under the orders of the ( 1 ommander-in-Chief, to report on the health of the Regiment; when it was found that three- fourths 2 rumours were rife of a coming war with Burmah: and an intimation was received that in all probability the services of the 1st European Bengal Fusiliers would he called into requisition. P>!inn:ih adjoins the Hritish territories; its northern frontier 432 WAR WITH BURMAH IMMINENT. 1850. abutting on Assam ; its western coast facing the east of India ; the Bay of Bengal intervening. In 1784 Arracan, on the Burmese coast, which had been exhausted by a sucession of internal wars, fell an easy prey to the conqueror Bhodan Phaya, and was permanently annexed to the Avan dominion ; and it was this conquest which first brought the Burmese into actual contact with our Bengal frontier, followed by repeated acts of aggression on the part of the Burmese, leading to the war between the East India Company and Burmah in 1824~ This war terminated in 1826 ; and an agreement was entered into- between the belligerents, called " the Treaty of Yandabu," under the clauses of which the large provinces of Arracan and Tenasserim were ceded to the Company, and thenceforward became a part of our Indian Empire. Twenty-six years after the signing of the Treaty of Yandabu, our representatives in Burmah were subjected to constant in- dignities and repeated insults ; the conditions of the above Treaty were ruthlessly violated, and oppressive exactions levied on our traders. Finally, the Commander of a British vessel was wrong- fully imprisoned by the Governor of Rangoon, heavily ironed, and placed in the public stocks; by which insults discredit and disgrace were brought on the English flag. The Indian Government at once demanded satisfaction, and the admission of a British Resident either at Rangoon or Ava ;, and it was to enforce these demands that a British Squadron was dispatched to Rangoon. Consequent on this prompt action of the Indian Government, the Burmese King ordered the removal of the offending Governor, appointing a successor who it was stated had been instructed to satisfy the British demands. It soon, however, became apparent that the change of Governors was a ruse to tide over the difficulty, for not only was no satis- faction afforded, but the offending Governor was allowed to leave Rangoon with the plunder unjustly extorted from the British traders by his cruel exactions. THE TOWN OF RANGOON BLOCKADED. 433 The English Commodore (Captain Lambert, R.N.) now sent a 1852. representative to the Governor of Rangoon, soliciting an inter- view; but the request was rejected, and the Commodore's messenger grossly insulted. Still anxious, if possible, to arrive at an amicable settlement, Captains Fishburn, of H.M.S. "Hermes," and Tatler, the Chief Interpreter, together with other Officers, waited on the Governor; but the emissaries returned to the Squadron without having succeeded in gaining admission to the inner rooms of the Palace; it having been urged in excuse that the Governor was asleep and was not to be disturbed. It now became necessary to convince the Burmese that repara- tion would be compelled, as no reply was received to the Commodore's communications demanding satisfaction; and, as this was not otherwise to be obtained, he, on the 7th January, l s .~)^, seized one of the Burmese ships of war, blockaded the town of Rangoon, calling on all British subjects as well as Portuguese, Armenians, and Mussulmans to leave the town and seek protection on hoard II.M. ships of war. The property of the refugees who had claimed British protec- tion under the Commodore's orders was immediately confiscated by the Burmese authorities. 1 hiring the course of these events the aged Burmese Governor of the town of 1 )alla, near Rangoon, alone behaved with courtesy ; and lie, having communicated with the I British Commodore, obtained yet another day's grace to enable the Rangoon Governor to come to amicable terms; but, instead of endeavouring to avoid the threatened war, the latter forwarded a notice to the British ( 'oininodore. informing him that if he should attempt to pass the Btookade which had been erected at the mouth of the river, he would he tired upon by the lunnese u'lins. ( hi the ( .'th of .lanuarv the r>tirme>r .-hip which had been captured in the Rangoon harbour was towed down the river towards the sea, under escort of H.M. ships " Ilcrmo," " Kox," and " Phlegethon." On arriving opposite the stockade the Burmese 2 F 434 ARRIVAL OF THE 1ST BENGAL FUSILIERS AT RANGOON. 1852. guns opened fire on the convoy, and an Artillery fight ensued which resulted in a loss to the enemy of about 300 men. Thus opened the second Burmese War ; and on the 10th of February, 1852, the Indian Government decided to send a Military Expedition to Burmah, to insist upon an apology and compen- sation being offered. Military operations were commenced in April, when Rangoon was occupied by our troops, Martaban captured on the 5th of April, Bassain on the 19th of May, and Pegu was temporarily occupied in the early part of June, 1852. The 1st European Bengal Fusiliers, then under the command of Lieutenant-Colonel Tudor, had received orders to join the Army on service in Burmah, proceeding to Allahabad by river boats, and thence to Chinsurah by steamers. Two months were expended in transporting the Regiment to Calcutta, November, 1852. when it embarked on board the Frigates " Sphynx, "Muzuffar," and "Feroze," which conveyed it to Rangoon, arriving in the following November. There was much that was interesting and picturesque to be seen from the decks of the steamers as they made their way up the Rangoon river; the beautiful verdure of the sloping river banks, backed by the adjacent hills and studded with handsome Pagodas their rich gilding glittering in the sun formed a series of pictures hardly to be surpassed in tropical brilliancy and beauty. The magnificent and costly Pagoda of Syriam only preluded the still grander Shoe Dagon at Rangoon, close to which our vessels cast anchor. Rangoon was now garrisoned by H.M. 80th and 51st Regiments, the 1st European Bengal and the 1st European Madras Fusiliers, with a detachment of the 18th Royal Irish ; and in addition to the above were some Batteries of Field- Artillery and a consider- able force of Bengal and Madras Infantry. On the 19th of November an expedition was organized to capture the town and fort of Pegu, which fell into the hands of ATTACK <>N THE TOWN AXD FORT OF PEGU. 435 the British during the previous June, but had been evacuated 1852. ae we had not at that time sufficient troops at our disposal to garrison it, and had been re-occupied by the Burmese, who had strengthened its defences. It now became necessary for us to re-capture and permanently garrison tliis position, for which purpose- the following troops under Brigadier McXeill left Rangoon in four river steamers : 300 of the 1st Bengal Europeans, under Colonel Tudor, 300 of the Madras Europeans, 400 oth Madras Native Infantry, with some detachments of Artillery and Sappers and two field-guns. General Godwin accompanied the expedition and superintended its operations. The river being shallow the steamers were not engaged, but the force landed on the -M st, a dense fog prevailing; and having taken up their respective positions, commenced the march through do>e and difficult jungle towards the town of Pegu. The Bengal and Madras Europeans threw forward their skirmishers, these Regiments pushing on steadily, although the thick undergrowth was bre.ist-high, rendering regular movements impossible. Indeed, the .-oldiers were >cattered in single and double files, whilst the enemy, concealed around, were sending amongst them a dropping fire. The heat was so oppressive, and the exertion <-f pu>hing through the jungle so great, that several of the Kuropc:ms fell from fatigue, and some from sunstroke. Having at last arrived near the gateway of the town, General Godwin formed up his troops for the attack; but the soldiers were' so exhausted that it was found impossible to advance until time had been allowed to recruit their strength. After an hour's rest nearly the whole of the Bengal Fusiliers ovem -llccted together, and the troops were formed up for action under a lire from the enemy, still concealed 'ii all sides amongst the jungle. < " 'iiei-al Godwin now addressed the troops, complimenting them on their almost superhuman exertions -under such u'reat difficulties, : ,nd explaining to them the work they still had before 436 CAPTURE OF THE TOWN AND FORT OF PEGU. 1852. them. " Now," said lie, addressing the Fusilier Regiments ; " you'' " are Bengalies, and you are Madrassies ; let's see who are the " " best men." A hearty cheer was the response, when the Bengali and Madras Fusiliers led the assault towards the city gate, which was, after a short struggle, captured ; the Burmese soldiers being forced back and seeking shelter under the walls of the Pagoda on the platform above. About noon the whole of the town and Fort of Pegu was in our possession ; with a total loss in our Army of 3 Officers wounded, and from 30 to 40 rank and file killed, wounded, and missing. Sergeant-Major Hopkins,* of the 1st Bengal Fusiliers, was promoted to an unattached Ensigncy for his gallant conduct during the storm of Pegu. On the 22nd November the British troops returned to Rangoon; with the exception of the following, left to garrison Pegu: 200 Madras Fusiliers. 200 5th Madras Native Infantry. A detachment of European Artillery, with 2 guns. This small garrison tempted the Burmese troops to try and November 24th, re-capture the place, and they, having made a vigorous attack on our gun-boats, were easily repulsed ; but on the evening of the 27th they made a daring attack on the position held by our soldiers, assaulting ah 1 sides of the Pagoda simultaneously. After some hours' smart fighting they were driven back into the jungle, leaving many dead around the Fort. On the 3rd December the enemy renewed their attacks, con- December 3rd 13th, tinuing them with but little intermission until the 13th ; during which time the little British garrison were closely invested by large numbers ; but, animated by the hope of speedy relief, our soldiers succeeded in holding the position against the enemy, who, aided by their Artillery and Cavalry, kept up an incessant fire. * This Officer, having attained the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel, died at Meerut, in August, 1881. RELIEF OF THE PEGU GARKISOX. 437 The following description of the Pagoda which was held by 1852. the British troops will show how difficult was the task of maintaining their position against an enemy so numerically superior. The Pegu Pagoda is raised upon three terraces, each side of the upper terrace measuring about 210 yards. Twelve feet below is a second terrace which measures 320 yards along each face, and extends 40 feet from the inner wall ; the third terrace is 6 feet lower, the faces being increased to 450 yards, extending also 40 feet from the wall. Outside the stockades high grass impeded the view of the sentries, Avhilst numerous small Pagodas on the east and west sides also gave shelter to the enemy. On the north and eastern sides the interior of our stockade was commanded by ground higher than the platforms; and to hold this position, as well as to protect the walls of the town, we had but 435 men. A report of the trying and uncertain position of the Pegu Garrison having readied General Godwin, that Officer im- mediately organized a relief expedition, which he dispatched in the river steamer-. "Nerhudda" and " Mahanuddy ;" the latter vessel, however, with 250 of the Madras Fusiliers on board, becoming disabled, was obliged to return to Rangoon. The steamer " Xerbudda " proceeded up the river with the boats which con- veyed our troops, believing that they were followed by the " Mahanuddy." As the " Nerbudda " approached the village of Lower Seedee. it was found to be occupied in strong force by the enemy, who had planted stakes across the river to impede the progress of our steamers. Our troops were quickly landed; the enemy during this operation tiring from the surrounding thick jungle, which afforded ample cover. The Bengal Fusiliers moved up to some houses skirting the village, which they occupied, the enemy retiring on the village Upper Seedee, about a mile distant. Our pickets were now advanced: the troops passing a restless night in the 438 THE ENEMY PURSUED. 1852. village, whilst volleys and constant dropping shots kept all on the alert, and sometimes inflicted injury on our soldiers. On the morning of the 7th of December our troops advanced to the relief of the Pegu Garrison ; the detachment of the Bengal Fusiliers being now under command of Major Gerrard. On nearing the south-west gate of the City, a party of the enemy supported by Cavalry, posted on the plain, prepared to dispute our advance, but were quickly dispersed ; and our force continued its march, soon reaching the gateway, which was pro- tected by a wet-ditch and earthworks. The Burmese advanced from the surrounding jungle, and threatened the flanks of our Column, but a few shots forced them to return to shelter, when, our " advance-party " pushed quickly on to the eastern gateway of the City, which was entered without our progress having been further disputed ; and thus the beleaguered Garrison was relieved. During the afternoon the Bengal Fusiliers were sent to capture the stockades and defences to the south and west still occupied by the enemy, who, having been expelled, the works were at once demolished, our men returning at dusk to the Pagoda. During the following days the Burmese were employed in December 7th 15th, throwing up three lines of entrenchments on the plain beyond the jungle to the north of Pegu, and on the 16th December General Godwin advanced his force with which were 570 of the Bengal Fusiliers to drive the enemy o from their newly-formed position. On our Column reaching the plain the enemy seemed for the first time aware that we had taken the field, and a judicious and rapid movement might have ensured the capture of a large number of their elephants and cattle, which were feeding unprotected on the plain ; but General Godwin, intent on the. speedy capture of the position, took ground to the right, and turning the enemy's position, rapidly occupied their first line of entrenchments, when a halt was ordered ; during which the enemy, collecting their cattle, moved THE TROOPS RETURN TO RANGOON. 439 off in full retreat along the Shoe Gyne road. The whole of the 1852. entrenchments were at once occupied by our troops; who, after a te\\ hours' rest, leisurely followed the enemy, reaching the village of Lephandoon before sunset. It now became evident that General Godwin had been misled by the information received from the Burmese guides; and on the morning of the l*th December he beat across the jungle in the direction of the Shoe Gyne road, along which he proceeded aa far as the village of Montsagaim, where the enemy had again entrenched themselves. After some skirmishing during which the Burmese made merely a show of resistance the entrench- ments were occupied by our troops, and the defences levelled; ami, the surrounding country having been completely cleared of the enemy, our troops returned to the Pegu Garrison. General Godwin has been censured for not having followed up his enemv with greater rapidity and more decision, , and perhaps from a Military point of view, justly ; but may it not have been that the quality of mercy was too strong in him to permit the u-eless slaughter of these discouraged fugitives? The exposure to the dews at night, and the fatigue consequent ou marching under a tropical sun by day during the 17th and u | K . r J7 t i, L >otli. l' s th, produced much sickness amongst the Bengal Fusiliers, :?O of whom died of cholera alone a few d;iv> after their return to Pegu. About 700 of our soldiers having now been left to garrison the Fort of IVgu, General Godwin with the remainder of his troops returned to Rangoon on the Jind December. To clear the country of all the Burmese troops, and to drive them from the numerous strong stockades which they had erected ou the line of country extending from Martabau to Thonghoo, a Column wa> formed, consisting of l."() of the 1 >r Bengal Fusiliers under Major (ierrard, K>() of the Madras Fusiliers, together with a force of Artillery and Native Infantry, the whole under command of General Steele. The expedition embarked for 440 "East India Register," January, 1853. IST EUROPEAN BENGAL FUSILIERS. (Right Wing.) PLASSEY," "BuxAR," " GUZERAT," " DEIG," " BHURTPORE," "AFGHANISTAN," " GHUZNEE," "FEROZSHAH," " SOBRAON." Station, Burmah. Arrived, 1852. Season of Appointment. 1 NAMES. Bank in the REMABKS. Regiment. Army. 1800 1818 1819 1825 1828 1829 1837 1837 1840 1839 1840 1840 1840 1842 1842 1843 1843 1843 1844 1844 COLONEL. Sir W. K. Gilbert, Bart G C B 25 June, '32 ... 7 Jan., '41 ... 6 Aug., '43 ... 8 Oct '50 L.G. UNov.'Sl do. C. 16 July, '49 7 June, '49 ... 25 Dec., '43 ... M. 1 Dec., '48 M 2 Mch., '50 On Furlough. Hissar Stud. On Furlo'. Comg. 4th Punjab Cavalry On Furlo'. Civil Emp. On Furlo'. On Furlo'. G Hunter LIEUT. -COLONELS. G. Warren J C Tudor MAJOR. John G. Gerrard ... CAPTAINS. Jno. W. Bennett ... H T Combe 1 March, '50... 1 Nov., '44 ... 1 Nov., '44 ... 21 Dec., '45 ... 17 June, '48... 29 June, '49 ... 23 Jan., '50 ... 1 March, '50... do. 16 July, '51 ... 7 Aug., '52 ... 23 July, '44 ... 9 March, '45... 29 Oct., '45 ... 6 Feb., '4(> ... 10 Feb., '46 ... 10 Feb., '46 ... R. W. H. Fanshawe Geo. O. Jacob Geo. G. Denniss Edm. D. Byng South. Greville H.B.Edwardes,C.B. Alex Hume James Williamson... LIEUTENANTS. E. Cunliffe F. O. Salusbury C. O. B. Palmer P R Innes C. R. Wriford * Commanding Barrackpore, and Hon. A.D.C. to the Governor- General. 441 EUROPEAN BENGAL FUSILIERS (Continued). BMMOB Appointment, NAMES. Hank in the REMARKS. Regiment. Army. 1846 1>H 1-1.-. 1846 L845 l- 1.', 1845 1846 1846 1846 1846 1848 L848 L848 L848 1849 1849 1 86 1 1861 1861 1851 1818 L8ft7 1828 LIEUTS. (cont in G. C. Lambert 11 Feb., '46 ... 4 March, '415... 31 March, 'Hi 4 May, '46 ... 13 Oct., '46 ... 17 June, '48 ... 1 April, '49 ... 29 June, '49... 23 Jan., '50 ... 1 March, '50... do. 16 July, '51 ... 19 July, '51 ... 7 Aug., '52 ... 12 June, '49 ... 18 Aug., 'l!i ... 25 May, '50 ... do. 5 March, '51... LM Sept., T,l ... do. 17 Feb., '52 ... 18 Aug.. .',! ... ( I,,' ft Wm 1 M;uvli,'50... 1 Nov., '4-1 ... 9 Dec., '48 . . 27 Dec., '48 . . 11 Dec., '49 . . 12 Dec., '49 . . 10 Dec., '50 . . 20 Jan., T>1 . . 20 Feb., '51 . . 16 June, '51 . . 12 Dec., '51 . . 9-) 23 Dec., '42 ... M. 8 April. '46 M. 19 June. '46 2nd in command, Kemvan Battn. Civil Emp. Revenue Survey Dept. Pub. Works Gwalior cont. with Regiment On Furlo'. Asst. Adjt.-Genl. Peshawur Divn. Trevor Wheler W. R. H. I. Howell K. St. George H. F. M. Boisragon R. J. F. Hickey .. W. S. R. Hodson ... N. T. Parsons (.. M. Battye George Price . R. C. Birch \Y. Davison Wm. A. Pope H. Maxwell.... JM. LlKfTKNANTS. H. M. Wemyss H.Caulneld I. S. Ingram K. K. Kkins ( MiicFarlane L. B. Magniac ... I. W. Daniell K. A. C. Lambert ... MAJOR. John P. Ripley CAPTAINS. Jas. Ruth. Pond Douglas Seaton Adjt. to the Kegt., F. O. S.M.rsi'.r.:v. 15 Aug., 1848. Intr. and < t >r.Mr. W. R. H. I. HOWELL, 24 Jan.. isj-.i Surgeon ckades, but on our approach they were found vacated. The ( 'olumn now halted for four days ; the European soldiers amuMiig themselves by hunting and killing the huge snakes, large numbers of which were found in the jungles. An eight-mile march brought us to ( lougoh, after having viewed the enemy at some of their outposts, from which a sudden fire was opened on OUT advancing troops. ( Jongoh was defended by stockaded hrea*-t-\\orks, which were covered by a deep ditch, and numerous- pit- with bamboo spike.*. Tin- eneinv at first showed some con- fidence, firing round hot into the head of our Column; but our two howitzers and a rocket tube, having been with difficulty dragged to the front through the heavy swamp and long grass, and brought into action, the storming-party under Major Seaton of the IJeugal Fusiliers advanced. On reaching the Mockade it was found that the enemy had 444 THE BRITISH COLUMN ARRIVE AT SHOE GYNE. retreated, leaving from 80 to 100 dead ; many having been thrown January 19th, mto tne wells in order to poison the water. At 3 p.m. 1853. t ] ie troops encamped, having, during their trying march, suffered much from the sun overhead, and the swampy nature of the ground underfoot. After this affair at Gongoh the Burmese made no stand what- o purs to his horse, rode away towards Tonghoo. The pa>-age <>f the Sitanj river was accomplished on the 22nd Februarv, the greater part of the Column being carried over on el.r iury L'L'ii'l. elephants. The troops then formed up and marched towards Tonghoo, but they had not proceeded far when they were met by the Authorities of the district, who came to surrender them>el\e> and their ancient walled town of Tonghoo to the British General The troops were soon housed in the numerous Poonghee or priot's houses; which were airy, well- ventilated buildings, constructed of timber, with side-screens or windows of bamboo. These buildings are usuallv placed on piles- or .-takes, and raised about iJ feet from the ground, to allow the wati-r to How freely during the heavv periodical rains. A small detachment of Ramghur Horse was >ent from Tonghoo n pursuit of the retreating IJurmoe Army, ( 'aptains Fanshawe ml .Maxwell, of the Bengal Fusiliers, accompanying this Cavalry. 446 THE RETURN TOWARDS RANGOON. 1853. The British soon cleared the whole country of their enemies, expelling them from Martaban on the south, to 30 miles north of Tonghoo ; and thenceforward the country about this town was as quiet and peaceable as any of our home districts.* On the llth of April the 1st Bengal Fusiliers left Tonghoo en route for Rangoon, having been relieved by a detachment of the 1st Madras Fusiliers, the headquarters of that Regiment arriving soon after. The return under an April sun was trying, and rendered night marches a necessity. Before reaching Shoe Gyne our Regiment sustained a great loss by the sudden and unexpected death of Captain Edmund Byng, A.D.C., who died of heat-apoplexy, whilst being carried in a dhooly on the line of inarch. Captain Byng had lately returned to India from England, and was proceeding to rejoin his staff appointment, when, finding that his Regiment was oil service, he hastened to join the headquarters; but, as he was not acclimatised, he sunk under the heat, his health rapidly gave way, and he succumbed as described. Byng was one of those jovial characters always popular with his brother Officers, who deeply deplored his sad death. A detachment of the 1st Bengal Europeans, under Major Douglas Seaton, remained at Shoe Gyne, and the headquarters proceeded lay boat to Rangoon ; about 100 men under Lieutenant Hickey being left at Pegu, to reinforce the stockade garrison at that place. During the time that the detachment under Major Seaton was stationed at Shoe Gyne, the Burmese soldiers attacked a small garrison of Madras Native Infantry, who occupied a stockade at Beling, a village to the south-east. The Native Infantry were forced to retire, the European Officer in command having been dangerously wounded. It was now ordered that the Beling Stockade be re-taken, and the road between Mouhnien ;md * Major Gerrard, commanding the 1st European Bengal Fusiliers, received the thanks of Brigadier-General Steele for his ''ready and untiring aid 011 " 41 all emergencies." CM'TURE OF TMK l',KU\<; STOCKADK. 447 re-opened. Major Seaton, commanding the detachment 1853. of the 1st European Bengal Fusiliers at Shoe Gyne, was instructed to send one Company to join the force for the re- capture of Beling. No. 1 was the Company selected, commanded by Captain G. C. Lambert, Lieutenant Walter Davison being the Subaltern. A small fleet of country boats was collected as quickly as possible, and in these the detachment proceeded down the river Sittang to the town of that name, where they landed. They then marched towards Beling, the Sittang Garrison furnishing ns many men as could be spared, in addition to which were the Native Infantry who had retired from the Stockade at Beling. The combined force now advanced to the attack, the Company of the 1st Bengal Fusiliers being ordered to assault the front face of the Stockade, whilst some of the British troops were sent to cut off the enemy's retreat, should they uate their position. Captain Lambert's Company advanced, eo\ered l>y skirmishers, and were received with a sharp fire of small arma : nevertheless, they reserved their fire, and, rushing to the front. Micceeded in scaling the Stockade and opening one of the gates from the inside, through which the main portion of the British troops entering, the enemy heat a retreat through a sortie- gate in the real- face of the Stockade. The jungle proved so dense that the retreating Burmese managed to escape the vigilance of our tn.ops. who were waiting in ambush to pounce upon them. The British detachment remained a few days in the neighbourhood, and then, having garrisoned the Stockade, re- turned to their respective stations. The Governor-General in Council expressed great satisfaction at the manner in which these and other operations had been executed, and at the conduct and gallantry of the troops engaged. 1>)( ' t '" n ' tll(> '"d "' 1853 the 1st Kuropean Bengal Fusiliers, which had for many months Keen divided into small command.-, was again assembled together, and sent to garrison our newly- ac.juired frontier towns. Thayetmyo and Mecadav, and. hostilities 448 TERMINATION OF THE BURMESE WAR. 1853. having completely ceased, the Regiment enjoyed the repose and comfort to which it was fairly entitled, after its exposure to- trying climates and onerous duties performed during the past two* years. The second Burmese War resulted in the British territories on the east of the Bay of Bengal being vastly increased ; these now including the rich province of Pegu in addition to those of Arracan and Tenasserim, covering an area of 88,556 square miles,, with a population since estimated at 2,942,605.* Towards the end of 1854 the 1st European Bengal Fusiliers was relieved by H.M. 29th Regiment ; the former proceeding to Rangoon in flats towed by river steamers; and after a delay of a few weeks the Regiment was conveyed in the Company's trans- ports to Calcutta, where it arrived in February, 1855, having been absent from India two-and-a-half years. * For annexation of Burmah, Proclamation, 30th June, 1853, see Appendix C~ CHAPTER XVIII. Tin- 1st Denial Fusiliers quartered at Dugshai Discontent in the Native Army Annexation of Oude Increasing Mutinous feelings in the Native Army Outbreak at Lucknow Outbreak at Meerut Mutiny arrested at Lahore The 1st Bengal Fusiliers ordered to join the Army before Delhie Battle of Buengal Fusiliers proceeded up- country in river steamers to Dinapore, where it occupied the barracks built in 17t)8; described in those days as being on a "grand scale," but now Condemned a- unfit for the accommodation of European soldiers. In .January, !>.'>;. the Regiment inarched from Dinapore to ( 'awnpniv. the Right Wing and I leadquarters proceeding on to I>ug>hai, a newly-built cantonment on the second range of the Himalaya.-. The Right Wing marched from Dugshai in Novem- ber, and the Left Wing from ('awnpore in December, to I'mballa; , here the Regiment joined the Camp of Exercise, and in March, Sf)7, the entire Regiment proceeded to Hugshai. Encinic.- fmm without there were none at this time, hut for the 2 <; 450 GROWING DISCONTENT IN THE NATIVE ARMY. 1856. past few years there had been a growing feeling of discontent in the ranks of the Native Army, which in some instances had broken into open mutiny, quickly crushed by decided action, but still smouldering. As far back as 1844 some of the Native Regiments had expressed dissatisfaction, the old " batta " question having been revived and put forward as the ostensible grievance. Then came the Seik Wars ; when the victories gained by the Company's troops for a time silenced the mutterings of the Native soldiers. The Sepahis hated and dreaded the Khalsa, whose dis- comfiture was a source of much congratulation, the more so as the Sutlej and Punjab triumphs were partly achieved by the co-operation of our Native army. But, however satisfactory our conquests may have been to the Sepahis, they soon experienced, with something approaching to dismay, that the increased extent of our territory entailed harder work and extra responsibility, without a proportionate increase of pay. There was a more galling grievance : the Seiks had been invited to take service in our Army, and, the offer having been heartily responded to, the Sepahis trembled lest these stalwart Northmen should prove so useful to our Government that the services of the old Native soldiers would be thrown into the shade, and, possibly, ultimately dispensed with altogether. These suspicions engendered discontent, the more so as reports were being freely circulated, and believed, to the effect that the British were about to deprive the Sepahis of their caste, by surreptitiously mixing bone-dust with their food, tearing down the purdahs from their zenanahs, forcing all widows to re-marry, and ruthlessly interfering with all their religious prejudices; finally compelling the Native soldiers to defile themselves by taking between their teeth pig's and bullock's fat, which it was stated was being used in the manufacture of the new cartridges.* * The following extract from a petition presented to a Commanding Officer of a Native Infantry Regiment shows the true feeling of the Sepahis at this time, .and sets forth their grievances : ''The representation of the whole Station" x < is this, that we will not give up our religion. We serve for honour and " Till: ANNKXATION OF THE KINGDOM OF OUDK. 451 Hut whilst dissatisfaction and suspicion had been gaining ground 1856. in the Native Ariuv at the frequent accessions to the Company's lerritories. the large enlistment of the Seiks, the widely-circulated reports touching interference with caste prejudices, the Gover- nor-General (Lord Dalhousie) in Council, under orders received from the Court of Directors, ->nd January, 1856, was directed to pursue a course of policy which would at once have fanned the embers; of discontent into a flame, had the Native Army been at fhat time fully prepared for unanimous action. Sir James Outram, the English Resident at the Court at Lncknow, was instructed by the Calcutta Council to inform the King of (hide that our Government had decided that he was to be deposed, and the East India Company to rule in his stead. The King was urged to abdicate, and by treaty to appoint the East India Company to the Government of his kingdom, the King being provided with a maintenance allowance of 120,000 religion : if we lose our religion, the Hindu and Mahomedan religions will " be destroyed. If we live, what shall we do V You are the masters of the " country. Tin- Lord Sahib (Governor-General) has given orders, which he " i\vd from the ( 'ompany, to all Commanding Officers to destroy the " religion of the country. We know this, as all things are being designed " . < Tiiment. The Officers of the Salt Department mix up bones with " tin- salt. The Oliicer in charge of the Ghee mixes up fat with it : this is " well known. These are two matters. The third is this: that the Sahib " in charge >!' the sugar burns up bones and mixes them in the syrup the" sugar is made of: this is well known all know it. The fourth is this :" that in the country the Hurra Sahibs (( lovernment-( 'oimnissionors) have " ..rderi-d the llajas. Thakurs. Zemindars. Mahajuns. and Ryots, all to eat" r. and Knglish bread has been sent to them ; this is well known. " And there is another affair, that throughout the country the wives of" ille men. in fact, all das>es of Hindus, on becoming widows are to " be married again this is well known. Therefore we consider ourselves" as killed. You all obey the Orders Of the Company, which we all know. " P.ut a King, or any other man. \\lio acts unjustly does not remain. With " reference to the Sej.ahis, they are your servants; but to destroy their" . council assembled and decided to -ive them muskets and cart rid. made up with greased paper to bite; this is also evident. We wish to " nt this to the (iciieral that we do not approve of the new musket " and cartridge: the Sepahis cannot use them. Von are the masters of the" country ; if you will give us all our discharge we will yo away." 452 THE ANNEXATION OF THE KINGDOM OF OUDE. 1856. per annum. In the event of a refusal, Sir James Outram was ordered to publish, in alternative, the annexation order which he already held. The King was at first obdurate ; then, bursting into tears, prayed for time, promised to reform, and finally refused to sign the proposed abdication. " He uncovered his head, placed " " his turban in the hands of the Resident, and sorrowfully '" " declared that title, rank, honour, everything were gone, and " "that now the British Government, which had made his" "grandfather a King, might reduce him to nothing and consign " " him to obscurity."* But Outram's orders were peremptory ; he issued the annexation order, and Oude became British territory. The Kingdom of Oude had for many years been in a chronic state of misrule and anarchy, its people calling loudly on our Government for reform. Colonel Sleeman, who had for many years been the British representative at the Oude Court, drew a painful picture of the state of the country during his tenure of office; saying the landowners "take to indiscriminate plunder "" " and murder," " no road, town, hamlet, or village is secure " " from their merciless attacks robbery and murder become " their diversion, their sport ; and they think no more of taking " " the lives of men, women, and children who never offended " them than those of deer or wild hogs. They not only rob " " and murder, but seize, confine, and torture all whom they " " seize and suppose to have money or credit, till they ransom " " themselves with all they have or can beg or borrow." No wonder, then, that the people of Oude called loudly for redress and reform. A very large proportion of our Bengal Native Army was enlisted in Oude, being subjects of the dethroned King. The anarchy and misrule which had existed around their homes did not in any way adversely affect their interests or comfort, for, being soldiers in the Company's Army, they had always the right of appeal for redress to the British Resident ; nay more the * Kaye's " History of the Sepoy War." Vol. I., p 150 11 IF. nlTI'.RKAK AT LUCKNOW. 453 knowledge of this right placed them in an exalted position 1857. amongst their l)rctlin i ii, giving them an influence and power otherwise unattainable. Hence, service in the Company's Army had always been p ..pular in Oude, and in some families was Id to be an hereditary right. The annexation of Oude to the territories of the Last India (Company placed redress in the hands ot' all alike, and deprived the Sepahis of what they held to he a distinctive right: and this was another fire-brand adding fuel to the .-mouldering heap of discontent which was being daily developed into a flame. The annexation of Oude was the last act of Lord Dalhousie's administration. It was reserved for his successor, Lord Canning, to complete the work. Colonel Sir Henry Lawrence, who had so successfully trans- formed the Punjab from its previous state of anarchy into prosperity and confidence, was now appointed Chief Commissioner in Oude: the government of the Punjab having been handed <\er to his brother. Sir John Lawrence. Sir Henry had but a short time assumed office when his serious attention was directed to the mutinous feelings existing, not only in the Regular Native Regiments, but in those which had been trans- ferred to our service from that of the deposed King. Sir Henry Lawrence had with him at Lucknow II. M. ."> 2nd Foot, some Cavalry, and Knropean Artillery. On May :>rd it was reported by the Brigadier that the 7th Oude Irregulars had assumed a dangerous, defiant attitude, and were unreservedly talking of bloodshed and murder. Though late in the evening, Lawrence con- eei\ed that the time had arrived for action : and, ordering out the troops at his di>po.-al, marched right through the rebellious City in the direction of the line- of the 7th ( hide Irregulars. It was a fine, cloudless night, and the moon was shining brightly. After a march of about seven miles the Kuropean troops arrived at their dotination, taking up ground so as to command the mutineers in front and on both flanks. The 7th Kegimeiit was 4")4 THE MUTINY AT MEEIIUT. 1857. found already drawn up on parade. Lawrence's decided action had taken them by surprise, and they were paralysed ; death was staring them in the face ; they broke their ranks, and some fled in terror, whilst others, assuming a repentant air, gave up their arms and accoutrements. The fugitives were pursued by our Cavalry ; whilst those who had submitted were marched back under charge of the 32nd Foot ; the whole party returning to Lucknow before daybreak. But this insubordination amongst the Irregulars at Lucknow, was merely the forerunner of the discontent which had been surely spreading throughout the entire Bengal Native Army. Meerut, the headquarters of the Bengal Artillery, the Cara- bineers and 60th Rifles, was considered comparatively safe ; but it was here that the flames first burst forth in all their fury, leaving no doubt that the Mutiny of the Native soldiers was not confined to one district or cantonment, but that it was national ; the whole of the Sepahi Regiments, well-drilled, well-armed, and full of confidence, were resolved to try issue with the handful of our Europeans, separated by long distances, and spread over a vast tract of country. At Meerut, on the 10th of May, the Native troops rose in Mutiny ; breaking open the jail, killing all Europeans within their reach, firing the houses of their Officers, and hurrying in the direction of Delhie, where they were joined by the Muti- neers at that city, who rose and murdered all the Europeans who fell into their hands, without respect to age or sex ; and, pro- claiming the aged King of Delhie, Emperor of Hindustan, closed the gates of the Fortress, and set at defiance the British Govern- ment. The thunder-cloud had burst ; but the fury of the storm was not yet realised at Headquarters. Had the action of the Sepahis been simultaneous at all the Military Stations throughout the Presidency, the effect might have been fatal ; but the intelligence of mutinies, conflagrations, and hideous wholesale murders, Ml TINY A U RESTED AT LA MO UK. 455 arrived at intervals : allowing time for our Coniinandcrs to issue their orders and complete arrangements for resistance. All reports received by the Commander-in- Chief tended to show that the Sepahi Regiments of the Bengal Army were, with- out exception, more or less implicated; and it was patent to all that the great question on which the maintenance of our power existed was, whether the Seiks would declare for or against us. Sir John Lawrence was Chief-Commissioner of the Punjab. It was he who had asked the- Seiks whether they would be governed by tin- pen or the sword; they had chosen the former, and now all c\e> \\ere anxiouslv turned towards .John Lawrence, hoping that by his influence with the Seiks, India might be saved. The P>rit ish had governed the Punjab for close on ten years; the people appreciated the blessings of security of property which our rule had ensured ; they found that our Judges were just, and our Magistrates listened patiently to their complaints of wrong. This was a state of things to which they had previously been >fraiigers. They had not, like the Ilindustanees, forgotten, in the lapse of years, the difference between the undue favouritism of Native rule and the impartial justice of the liritish Government; and, moreover, the Khalsa hated and despised the Sepahis, with I whom they had no interests in common: but, notwithstanding all these considerations, their decision was trembling in the balance, and it needed a master-mind to turn the scale in our favour. John Laurence was the man who broHght his influence to bear : he turned the >cale in our favour. Then from Lahore came the as>uring intelligence that Mr. Robert Montgomery, the Judicial Commissioner, in concert with the Military Commanders, had, with decision and courage, by a clever device, succeeded in disarming the disaffected Sepahis at that Station, and transferring the guardianship of the Fort from their charge to that of the 811 Foot : and thus, without bloodshed or destruction of property, the Capital of the Punjab was secured 456 " East India Register," December 31, 1856. FIRST EUROPEAN BENGAL FUSILIERS. (Right Wing.) PLASSEY," " BUXAR," " GUZERAT," " DEIG," "BHURTPORE," "AFGHANISTAN," " GHUZNEE," "FEROZSHAH," " SOBRAON." I NAMES. Bank in the REMARKS. Regiment. Army. 1798 1815 1809 1820 1837 1840 > > 1842 1843 1844 1845 1844 1845 H >5 ?> 5 COLONEL. J. Maclnnes 13 May, '25 ... 5 Dec., '53 ... 16 Oct., '51 ... 4 July, '53 ... 29 June, '49 ... 1 March, '50 16 July, '51 ... 18 April, '53 1 October G. 4 July, '36 L. G. 28 Nov., '54... C. 28Nov.,'54 C. 14 July, '58 5 March, '56 Lt.-Col. 28th Nov. '54. ^Furlough do. Civil Employ. Punjab Cavalry On Furlo'. do. do. Sub.Ast.Com.Gen. 2nd in comd. Kem- van Battn. 2nd in comd. 15th In. Cavalry George AVarren ... LIEUTENANT-COLONEL. J \Velcliman MAJOR. Geo O Jacob CAPTAINS. Geo G Denniss Southwell Greville... H.B. Edwardes, C.B. Alex. Hume Ellis Cunliffe F. O Salusbury C. O'B. Palmer C R Wriford 20 March, '54 5 April, '55 ... 14 Jan., '56 ... 1 Feb., '56 ... 5 March 13 Oct., '46 ... 17 Juue, '48... 1 April, '49 ... 29 June Edwd. Brown . . Geo. C. Lambert ... Trevor Wheler W. R. H. I. Howell E. St. George LIEUTENANTS. H. F. M. Boisragon R. J. I. Hickey W. S. R. Hodson ... N T Parsons 457 FIRST Kl'UOPEAN BENGAL FUSILIERS (Continued). 1845 1848 1848 186] > NAMES. Rank in the EEMABKS. Bogfanenft. Army. LIKUTS. (continued). G. M. Battye 23 Jan., '50 . 1 March ... . 1 March ... . 10 July, '51 . 7 Aug., '52 . 18 April, '58 . 5 March, '54 20 March, '54 10 May 9 Dec., '54 . 4 Oct., '55... . 8 December . 20 Jan., 'AC. . 4 January Civil Employ. Dep. Pub. Works Dep. Pub. Works Furlo'. Geo Price R. C. Birch \V l)avison H. Maxwell H. ]\I J. Morland 1 S. Ingnim C. MacFarlane L. B. Ma^niac I. \V. Daniell 17 June, ;>.". ... 5 Dec E. A. C. Lambert ... M"> 18 December 7 March, T,r, i:. April 27 June J. S. Walters .. W C Cox 1854 M T. A. Butler W. A. D. Cairnes ... J.M i N. H. Wallace A. G F. D. M. Brown N. Ellis A. K. Chapman Wing.) MUOR. L. C. L897 Jas. Ruth. Pond 1 Dec . '."> ...1 90 Jan., '54 .. 1 Douglas Seaton 10 Feb.. It, .. 20 Jan.. '64 ... Furlo'. Facings, Dark Blue. Adjutant to tin- Itrginu-iit. II. M. Wwns, :J July. \Vi. <,>uartcrin: march as soon as arrangements could be completed to Umballa,. where further orders would await them. The soldiers of the Regi- ment were immediately assembled on parade, the weakly men being formed into a depot for the protection of the sick and Station of May 13th, Dugshai ; and, such was the energy displayed by all, that at 1857 4 p >m> on the same day on which the order had been received,, the Regiment commenced its march towards Umballa, probably never in finer condition to take the field, both in physique and discipline.* The Regiment was 800 strong, there was not a recruit in the ranks, and there had for many months preceding been almost a total absence of crime. Orderly room was held but once a week; and more frequently than otherwise there was a clean sheet. The march to Umballa, a distance of 60 miles, was accomplished in 38 hours ; the Regiment arriving at their desti- * The following Officers were present with the 1st European Bengal Fusiliers when the Regiment marched from Dugshai on May 13th, 1857 : Major G. O. Jacob. 2nd Lieutenant A. G. Owen. Captain G. G. Denniss. F. D. M. Brown. S. Greville. N. Ellis. C. Wriford. ,, A. R. Chapman. Lieutenant W. S. R. Hodson. ,, W. H. Warner. J. W. Daniell. E. A. C. Lambert. Regimental Staff. J. S. Walters. Adjutant Lieut. H. M. Wemyss. J. A. Butler. Intr. and Qr.-Mr. Lieut. C. MacFarlane, W. A. D. Cairnes. Surgeon J. P. Brougham. N. H. Wallace. Assistant-Surgeon Charljes. TIN-: r,\TTu: >r IUDI.KK-KA-SKIJ \r. l.V.' nation at 7 a.m. on the l">th May. Orders were received on the 17th for four Companies of the Regiment to proceed at oner to Kurnaul, the remaining Companies and Head- quarters following on the 21st Mav. It was from this place, 1 that Lieutenant \V. S. Il.nUon, 1st Bengal Fusiliers, performed the daring feat of riding hy himself with dispatches through a hostile country to Meerut and hack. K><> miles. The British force was now a--emhling at Aliporc. one inarch out of Delhie. The Headquarters and six Companies of the 2nd Bengal Ln-ilier-. under Captain Boyd, had joined the Army from I'mhalla, four Companies having remained at that Station under Captain Harri> to keep open communication with the Punjab. The 1st Bengal Fu.-ilicrs were appointed to the 1st Brigade, 21st Junr 7tli. under Brigadier Showers: and Colonel Welch- man and Captain Brown having joined on 5th June from Dugshai, the former assumed command of the Regiment. On the 7th June Lieutenant Butler arrived at the Ilead- niarter- from leave of ahsenee. having, in his anxiety to he at hi.- po-t, ridden across country on one horse, 110 miles in -1O hour-. All heing in ivadiuo.-, on June 7th. orders were issued for a ral advance inward.- Delhie. the troops, on account of the 8X068- ive heat, marching at midnight. As the town of Uudlce-ka-Serai,. held in great force ly the enemy, was on the road hetwecn Aliporeand 1 )elhie, an immediate at tack on it was ordered. For thispurpose, on the early morning of the Sth Jun . NTofl. " and I) Companies of the Keugul Ku-ili.-r-. under coininan under >uch a hcavv Vrtillery tire that they were ordered to take ground to their right and await the arrival of their Headquarters. The whole Kegiment now advancel to the attack aero the open plain, the enemv's lire perceptihly increa.-ing at every ,-tep. BO that !><> or :(> of our men 460 THE 1ST BENGAL FUSILIERS BEFORE DELHIE. 1857. were killed or wounded ; amongst the latter being Captain Greville and Lieutenant Ellis. The Regiment was now ordered to take advantage of some rising ground about 400 yards in advance of the enemy's main battery, from which position it attacked a village, defeating a large body of the mutineers, who had kept up a galling fire on our iidvancing troops. A general assault was next made on the enemy's position at Budlee-ka-Serai, which was completely suc- cessful ; they being forced to retire from the village on their main Army at Delhie, hotly pursued by our troops as far as the Ridge,* Avhere the 1st Bengal Fusiliers, after having been fighting and marching for fifteen consecutive hours, joined the British head- quarter camp. The 2nd Bengal Fusiliers also rendered excellent service at the attack on the enemy's position at Budlee-ka-Serai. On June 9th there was some severe skirmishing, when Drum- Major Me Gill, of the 1st European Regiment, a man selected for this post on account of his grand stature and splendid figure, was accidentally left wounded on the field, his body being recovered the next morning, terribly mutilated. On the llth of June a memorandum was presented to General Barnard, commanding the British Army before Delhie, by a Committee which had been appointed by him to survey the ground and recommend a plan of attack. Lieutenant W. S. Hodson, of the 1st Bengal European Fusiliers, now attached to the Quartermaster-General's Department, was a member of this Oommittee, which recommended that our troops should storm the city at once by a coup-de-main at the Cabtil and Cashmere gates, advancing under existing cover to within 400 and 900 yards respectively, the main assault being made at the Cabul gate " by " " the channel through which the canal flows from the city." This scheme, which had been elaborated with great care, and at * ' ' The Ridge " is an outcrop of rocks forming- a natural defence in front of the ground occupied by the British Army. PK<'I><.-AI. TO fAIillY THE CITY BY A COUP-DE-MAIN. 461 considerable personal risk, was approved of by the General, and im- 1857. mediate orders were issued for its execution ; but, when the troops nbled in the evening, 300 of the 1st Bengal Fusiliers were absent, being on picket at our outposts, under Brigadier Greaves; who declined the responsibility of withdrawing his men without written orders. lie was confirmed in his resolve, as some of our advanced batteries were under charge of Native soldiers whose loyalty he doubted. As it was deemed by the General injudicious- to attempt the assault without these 300 men, the execution of the -chemc was deferred and ultimately abandoned. The project for a coup-de-main which had been recommended by the Committee was bold and undoubtedly feasible, and, had it been carried into effect thus early in the siege, there is every on to believe that the contemplated assault would have been succcs>ful. I Jut General Barnard feared that, could he occupy the city, with its extensive fortifications, he had not sufficient troops at his disposal to hold the position; but, on the other hand, had Delhie been captured by our troops in June, and the enemy driven out before they had gained confidence, it is pro- bable that our casualties would have been fewer than in September, when the defences had been strengthened and the numbers of the mutineer- vastly increased. It must, however,. be borne in mind that had we failed in our attempt on account of the smallne.-s of our force, tin- effect would have been indeed disastrous. After the abandonment of the scheme for an immediate assault there were daily .-kirmishe- with the enemy : during one of which, on the \'1\\\ June. Lieutenant Thomas ( 'ade.ll, of the 2nd European P>cngal Fn.-ilier-, won the Victoria Cross, for having "brought in from amount the enemy a wounded bugler belong-"" "ing to hi- own Regiment : " and a second time proceeded with three men of II.M. 7."th Regiment, under a very heavy fire, and u brought in a man of the 7.">th who was most severely wounded." On the 17th June 300 of the 1st European Bengal Fusilier- 462 ATTACK ON THE BED GAR SERAI. 1857. formed part of a force ordered to drive the enemy out of a de- fended position, called " Eed Gar ;" and the work was performed June 17th with courage and decision, one of the enemy's heavy guns 1857. being captured by our troops. But here Captain E. Brown* was dangerously wounded, the little finger of his right hand being shot off, a bullet passing through his left wrist, striking his chin, smashing his right collar-bone, and from thence lodging in his chest ; in addition, he received a flesh wound in his right breast. On the 19th and 20th June the Right Wing of the Regiment, under Major G. O. Jacob, was engaged in some severe encounters with the enemy in rear of our camp ; the fighting was chiefly after dark, our men behaving with gallantry and steadiness. Again, on the 23rd June, the whole Regiment was engaged from day- break till dark. There was a prophecy, dated immediately after the Battle of Plassey 23rd June, 1757 to the effect that the Company's rule would last only one hundred years. This prophecy had often been quoted by those who for the last few years had been inciting the Sepahis to mutiny ; and no doubt the feelings of the muti- neers were worked upon by its repetition when they made their determined attack on the 23rd June, 1857. To the 1st Bengal Europeans it w T as painfully memorable ; for although the enemy failed to make the slightest impression on our defences, they succeeded in severely wounding our Commanding Officer, Colonel Welchman, whilst gallantly leading his Regiment to the front. Falling from his horse he was carried to the rear, when it was found that the elbow joint of his right arm was completely shattered. Private John Me Govern, of the 1st European Fusiliers, during the action on the 23rd of June, gained the Victoria Cross for gallant conduct, " he having carried into camp a wounded com- " " rade, under a heavy fire from the enemy's battery, at the risk " " of his own life."f * Now in H.M. Body Guard. f Extract from " The Victoria Gallery, an Official Chronicle." Tin: KM-: MY ATTACK THE BRITISH CAMP. !;;' During this engagement the 1st Bengal Fusiliers lost 40 men, ] S ;,7. of whom 11 were killed. The 2nd Bengal Fusiliers, who also rendered excellent >ervice, lost Lieutenant Jackson, and 7 men killed and ID wounded. The heat during these mid-day encounters was telling adversely _>;} n \ j une goti^ on our men, who suffered terribly from ex- 1857 - hanstion and thirst, frequently terminating in cholera, sunstroke, and death. On the 1st July Lieutenant Money joined the Headquarters of the 1st European Bengal Fusiliers, in command of a detachment of about 200 men from the Regimental Depot at Dugshai. The ranks of the Regiment having been seriously thinned by casualties from the effect of exposure and losses in the field, this addition to it.- strength was most opportune. On July 9th an abortive attack was made by the enemy on our cam}). There had been heavy firing all the morning from the enemy's batteries, and about 11 a.m., our guns on the "General's" Mound " opened fire, when the alarm and assembly were sounded. Whil.-t the Kegiment was " falling-in " a heavy musketry fire was kept up on the right, the bullets frequently cutting through the tents: at the ,-ame time a frightened mob of our camp-followers, rushing through the camp, crying out that the enemy were following them, and had already captured two of our guns. There being no time for regular formation, the Regiment went otl'at the double to the right rear of our camp, where it was met by some of our Native Artillerymen, who said that our own Cavalrv had mutinied and were attempting to carry away our guns. For about ten minute.- the moM complete clamour and confusion pre- vailed. We had little over 100 men in all, the rest of the ic 9th, Hegiment being on picket duty : and we suddenlv found our- >el\e- confronted by about 500 Cavalrx . We BOOIk, however, drove them hack, and the altair was over before reinforcements came up. On Sunday, July ~)[}\, (leneral Barnard's seat at church was 464 THE ATTACK ON THE SUBZI MUNDI. 1857 vacant, he having that morning been struck down by cholera, and before evening he was dead. He had written to Lord Canning some few months previous, " Cannot you find some tough job for " " me to do ? " The "job " which had been found was too " tough " for him : he, like Henry Lawrence, falling whilst trying to do his duty. General Reed succeeded, by seniority, to the command of the Army ; but he soon resigned, his health having completely given way under the anxiety and responsibility of his position ; and the command now devolved on Brigadier Archdale Wilson. It was, perhaps, fortunate that our troops before Delhie were at this time in complete ignorance of what had been taking place at a distance from their scene of action. The reports which had reached our camp were encouraging, and produced a reasonable hope of the speedy arrival of additional troops. It was not known that at Cawnpore the British were beleaguered in their entrench- ments, that the city of Lucknow was in the full possession of the rebels, and that nearly all the Stations, Civil and Military, in the Bengal Presidency, were in the hands of the Mutineers. During the afternoon of the 14th *Iuly the 1st Bengal Fusiliers were ordered out to clear the Subzi Mundi of the enemy. Marching straight down the road which leads to Delhie, the Regiment received the fire of the enemy on both flanks ; No 1 Company being now ordered to skirmish on the right and No 2 on the left. The enemy showed considerable determination repeatedly charging in masses with fixed bayonets ; but they were finally driven back into the gardens and enclosures about 300 yards from the city. Anticipating an immediate attack on the Fortress, the enemy closed the gates, and poured a heavy grape-fire from the Moree Bastion, which, ploughing through our ranks, killed and wounded several of our men, whilst the shot from our own batteries in our rear, passing very close over the Regiment, caused some confusion. The enemy's Infantry, now forced back towards INK RETl'KX FIIOM THE Sl'U/I ML'NDI. 465 tlio city walls, sought refuge in the passages which lead to the 185; entrance gates, and their ( 'avalry at tlic same time, ImiTiedly galloping along the counter-scarp, eager to escape, plunged into the sortie passages already filled with their Infantry and fell headlong amongst the mass of fugitives, checked by the gates having been closed; when, however, the enemy realised that we had no intention of storming the Fortress they threw open the gates, and gradually succeeded in absorbing the quivering mass of horses and men vainly endeavouring to extricate themselves. The objects for which the British detachment had been employed 14th, having been attained, and the Subzi Mundi cleared of the 7 ' enemy, our troops were ordered to return to camp. During these operations. Lieutenant H. M. Wemyss, the Adjutant of the Ixegiment, was hit by a musket-ball on his side; but he refused to go to the reai-. and continued to perform his duties. Lieutenant J. W. Daniell was also wounded; but in his case the injury was so severe that lie was obliged to retire, " though the brave young " " Officer was loth to do so, and endeavoured, by attempting to " k% whistle, to hide the agony he suffered."* The 1st Bengal Fusiliers during this engagement lost 64 killed and wounded. As our troops were returning to camp, after their hard day's work, they passed two men of the Seik Infantry assisting a wounded comrade, who was unable to walk; but the enemy's fire became M hot that they refused to carry the wounded man further, and left him to the mercy of the pursuers. Captain (in-ville ordered the Seiks to bring on their comrade; but they, having declined to further risk their lives, left the Seik to his fate; whereupon, (ireville ran back a distance of some fifty yards, under a >torm of bullets, placed the wounded man on hi* back, and carried him to a place of safetv, for which act ho received the thanks of Brigadier Showers, in command. The heat in camp at this time was terrific, and it appears marvellous that
  • ea>e was not more prevalent. The men were *" 1st r>rii-:il Fnsilk-rs in the Di-lhii- Campaign," by J. P. Brougham. 2 n 466 THE NEWS OF THE MASSACRE AT CAWNPORE. 1857. exposed during the day to a tropical sun, and all night to malarious dews; the air was tainted with every kind of nauseous smell ; there July 14th 23rd, was a total absence of any attempt at sanitary arrange- ments ; camels and other animals, who had died or been killed, lay in all directions in close proximity to the camp, and dense clouds of flies rendered it unsafe to eat or drink without muslin having been previously placed over the face, the drinking-pot and plate. There thus appeared to be every enticement for disease ; but, with the exception of occasional cases of sunstroke and cholera, and the casualties of war, our troops were far more healthy than we had any reason to expect ; comparing not unfavourably with the time when our European troops are housed in barracks, with every comfort and luxury about them. Does not this state of things argue that occupation is more necessary to the well-being and health of the European soldier in India than all the punkahs, tatties, and other inventions for inducing the men to remain unoccupied in barracks ? On the 24th July news reached our camp of the treacherous capture and terrible fate of General Wheeler's garrison at C awn- pore, where " a great multitude " of women and children had been fiendishly hacked to pieces by the town butchers, under the orders of the ever-infamous Doondoo Punt, called the Nana. Up to this time the troops before Delhie had been cheered by reports of the rapid advance of a European force ; but now the naked truth had been told ; Wheeler's brave force, consisting of Officers, soldiers, with many women and young children, had been betrayed into a confidence which cost them all, save four,* their lives. All communication between Delhie and the lower provinces was closed, and the little British Army before Delhie must accomplish, unaided, the stupendous work it had undertaken ; our sole hope being in the courage, discipline, and determination of our soldiers. * One of the four who escaped from Cawnpore, Lieutenant Delafc afterwards joined the 101st Royal Bengal Fusiliers, and commanded Regiment for several years. ATTACK OX Till: HKITISII CAMP. 467 It became evident, on the morning of the 1st August, that the 1857. enemy hwl arranged an elaborate plan for a vigorous attack on the British position. At 6 a.m. on that day, masses of Sepahi Regiments were drawn up in battle array in front of our defences, :and an attack by successive Divisions was continued until the morning of the v>rd, the firing on both sides being during this time uninterrupted. The shouts and yells from the enemy were loud and long ; but in the main their attacks lacked earnestness, though the Sepahis made some bold rushes at our batteries, in front of which, where three determined charges had been made on the ^nd instant, their dead were now lying in heaps. At one point the dead were so numerous that they were heaped up, and used as cover for the attacking-parties, who advanced through tin* embrasures, in some instances engaging our gunners in a ;; r ,l % hand-to-hand fight. The noise at this time was almost deafening; the constant roar of the Artillery and Musketry, the bugles sounding the advance along the whole front, whilst the shouts of the Native Commanders were distinctly heard, urging their men on to the attack. This grand effort to push us from our position behind the ridge tailed, and, as the British troops had all been acting solely on the defensive, our losses were comparatively trifling. The 7th of Augu.-t w:i> rendered memorable by the explosion of the enemy'.- powder-magazine in the very heart of the city; this was a gran.l >ight, producing, at tin' in.-iant of explosion, -in enormous cloud of dense smoke, which (juickly rose, over- -hailowing the whole city with a heavy black pall, which was -lowly .-wept ly the wind aCIOtf the plain. The constant out po>t-duty, although it was always undertaken with the utmost alacrity and good-humour, was found to be very irk>ome to the >ol : those of the l>t IVngal Fusi- lier.- being coiiMantly on duty at "The Metcalf Stables," f The Mosque,' 1 and "Flagstaff" pickets; "but the most" resulting and unwelcome outpo.-t was commonlv called 'The* 468 ATTACK ON THE ENEMTS PICKETS. 1857 " ' Valley of Death.' It was a small old ruined mosque or " " shrine in the gorge of the valley, in rear of our batteries, and " " was under a plunging fire from all the enemy's missiles that " " passed over them. There was 110 cover, as it was impossible " " to enter the building, owing to its being literally crowded " " with cobras, and on the road where two of our sentries were " " posted, there were dead camels lying in the last stage of de- ' " composition. A night on this picket, in the thick, muggy ' " atmosphere of the rainy season in July and August, under a '" " heavy fire, was almost too much for the best-intent ioned ' T " soldier to bear." ' On the llth August the 1st European Regiment was attached to the Flying Column, under General Nicholson, who with his- troops from the Punjab, had joined the besieging Army on the 7th. On the 12th of August the 1st and 2nd Bengal European Regiments were employed with a force under Brigadier-General Showers, ordered to surprise some of the enemy's pickets outside the Cashmere Gate, the detachment quietly moving off at 2.30 a.m. The 1st Fusiliers were to attack the picket at " Ludlow Castle," whilst the 2nd, under Major Coke, advanced against some pickets in the " Ivoordsia Bagh." The night was very dark, and the ground difficult. Major- Coke was severely wounded soon after his party had started. Nos. 8, 9, and 10 Companies of the 1st Bengal Fusiliers, under Captain Greville, were now ordered to form the attacking party,, and advance in skirmishing order to the front ; the remainder of the troops being held in reserve. The ground was open in front, and, under orders previously issued, strict silence was observed. As the advance-party moved along an order was given by their Commander in a whisper to fix bayonets, and pass the word on to the next files ; and this order was obeyed without a sound. A challenge from one of the enemy's sentries broke the stillness : * From the Diary of an Officer of the 1st Bengal Fusiliers. -' Ilookum dar .' " As we closed upon them silence was no i,s:,7, longer necessary ; and the soldier challenged by the sentry replied, "Take that!" and, firing at the same time, shot him dead. It being still quite dark, there was great difficulty in ascertaining our exact position, or that of the enemy, hut, from the direction of the challenge, it was evident that we had overlapped their position. Greville, therefore, closed his troops on their left, and at the >ame time brought their right shoulders forward, quickly forming his Companies in good order opposite " Ludlow Castle." The a ttac king-party now opened fire, preparatory to their charge. The enemy attempted to bring their batteries to bear on the ad- vancing troops, but there was evidently no order amongst them, for they hesitated ; and, after firing two of their guns, the main body of their troops attempted to escape. Our men at once August 12th, closed on the Battery from whence the two shots had been lx~i7 fired ; and Private Reagan, rushing upon a 24-pounder howit/er, which was charged with grape, attacked the gunners Single-handed, and bayoneted one of them just as he was applying the portfire. Unhappily, Keagan fell, badly wounded and permanently disabled : but this brave man had the satisfaction <>f knowing that in risking his own life he saved that of many of his comrades. At this time the day began to dawn, enabling the Jittacking-partv to completely clear the post of the enemy, and <'arry off four of his guns '2 9-pounders, 1 (i-pounder, and 1 24-pounder howitzer which, with their tumbrils, horses, and Appointments, were at once escorted into camp. Captain S. el]iie. makes >pecial reference to " the " '* Meadiuess. silence, and order with which the 1st Bengal " *' Fusiliers advanced to the attack on the enemy's guns, which " *' Avas well conceived and gallantly executed bv Major .Jacob " - and the Officers and men of the Regiment under his command, '* 470 THE BATTLE OF XUJJUFGHUR. 1857. " and Captain S. Grevillc of the Regiment commanded the " " skirmishers who made the first attack on the guns/' The total loss of the Brigade on this occasion was li) killed and 93 wounded. The 1st Bengal Fusiliers had 4 killed and 2& wounded; and the 2nd Bengal Fusiliers, who also behaved with great gallantly, lost 1 Officer killed (Lieutenant Sherriff) and 7 men wounded. On the 24th August the Flying Column, under General Nicholson, was sent from our camp against the enemy, who held a strong position at Nujjufghur. An Officer of the 1st Bengal Fusiliers, who was present, gives the following description of the expedition : " Our Column marched out of camp at 11 p.m. on the 24th, ' r " taking the route across country, the ground on account of the " " rains being very heavy, so that we had repeatedly to unharness "" " the horses from the tumbrils and guns and drag them through " the morass, putting 100 of our men to each gun. At noon on " " the 25th we halted for an hour, when grog was served out to " our men. At about 4 p.m., whilst the men were wading " " through a jheel up to their waists in mud and water, the enemy ' " opened fire on our Regiment with shrapnell from an old " " ruined Fort, which was concealed by some rising ground at a '* " distance of about 400 yards. Some of our Horse Artillery " " and Cavalry had made a detour round the morass to our right " front. Our Regiment was now ordered to form line, taking "' " advantage of the cover afforded by a small ridge directly in " front, and at a distance of about 300 yards from the Fort. " " General Nicholson addressed the troops, and turning to the " " Regiment, he said : ' I have nothing to say to the 1st Fusi- ' " ' liers ; they will do as they always do.' Major Jacob now " " gave us the order to advance in line, which was done in mag- " " nificent style, the men reserving their fire, although the " " enemy's Artillery and Musketry was pouring shot amongst us. *' When we were at a distance of about 100 yards from the Fort, "" TIM-: BATTLE M .!.!( n;iM K. 471 August iMth iUth, " Jacob gave the word to prepare to charge, when " 1857. 1857< " the front rank eame to the long trail, the whole " " advancing straight as an arrow, when Jacob, seeing the men " " were as steady as rocks, gave the word to charge, when, with " u a wild eheei 1 . the Regiment dashed at the Fort, and scrambling " " over the defences came face to face with the mutineers, who " " held their ground until our men were close upon them, when " " the enemy gave way ; the Fort being quickly cleared of the " " mutineers, our Regiment formed up on the other side, and " " then rapidly advanced on the enemy's camp, which was to our " " front ; but the capture of their Fort had evidently disheartened " " them, for they fled across the canal, leaving the whole of their " " camp equipage, baggage, and 13 guns in our possession ; we " pushing on towards the canal bridge, which we destroyed.'' " The enemy now returned to the bank of the canal, and " bringing with them two ( .>-pounders, opened a galling fire on " " our working-parties, but Major Tombs, having brought up his " IIoi>e Artillery, forced them to retire with the loss of one of " " their tumbrils, which he blew up with one of his shells. About " " two hours after sunrise next day we commenced our return " "march, halting at 11 a.m. for breakfast, this being the only " * meal the soldiers had partaken of since they left our camp at " "11 p.m. on the 24th; thus they had been 36 hours without " " any regular food. Elephants were sent out from camp to bring " " in our wounded and footsore men. but one only of these useful " animals was required to a5>t 7 of our men who had been " injured by an explosion. The Regiment reached our camp " *' about 1 p. m. (n the iMith August, after an absence of 41 hours, " during which time our men had only partaken of one meal." On the 4th of September, our siege-train having arrived in camp, preparations for the assault of the city were commenced with vigour. On the night of the 7th the 1st Bengal Fusilier.- were employed in front of the Cashmere Bastion, breaking ground for the breaching batteries. It was anticipated that our working- 472 PREPARATIONS FOR THE GRAND ASSAULT. 1857. parties would be called upon to drive in the enemy's pickets, but it was found that they had all been previously withdrawn. Our first battery was about 300 yards from the Cashmere Gate, and we had run up a breastwork affording sufficient protection to our working-parties before the enemy opened fire, although we were near enough to hear them talking in the Bastion before we com- menced our work. On the night of the 9th September the 1st Fusiliers were employed in making the breachiiig-batteries in front of the " Water Bastion," the enemy keeping up a heavy fire all night, and shelling us from their batteries in " Selim Ghur ;" but only two men of the Regiment were wounded. On the morning of the llth our batteries opened fire, but soon afterwards a troop of the enemy's Cavalry, consisting of about 100 men (Ghazis) who had probably sworn to die or drive us from our advanced position were seen suddenly to emerge from the " Subzi Mundi," and make a bold dash at our right breaching- battery ; but when within eighty yards they were received with a salvo of grape from our guns which mowed them down like grass. As the smoke cleared off there were but a few who had not fallen, and they quickly turned and fled. The enemy now appeared to be fully roused to a sense of their September 12th, impending danger, fighting with increased earnestness 1857. anc [ determination; they at this time commenced to make counter-trenches and rifle-pits, repairing during the night the breaches effected by our guns during the day, mounting more guns and constructing additional batteries between the " Moree " Bastion and the Cashmere Gate ; but before these could be com- pleted our assault was to be delivered. On the 13th of September arrangements for the assault, as recommended by a Council of War, were approved of by General Archdale Wilson, and ordered to be carried into effect. The 1st Bengal Fusiliers, which had left Dugshai 800 strong, were now reduced to scarcely more than one-half; about 400 only DISPOSITION or THI-: BRITISH AR.MV. 473 being available for the contemplated assault. A like diminution l.s.">7. <>f strength had taken plan- in other Regiments, so that the force at the disposal of the (iencral consisted only of about 1700 Europeans and 1DOO Natives, of whom about 1300 were Seiks and the remainder GHoorkahs. Thus General Wilson had only about :>;(}() thoroughly reliable troops for the assault, besides 850 of the Maharaja Golab Sing's soldiers, many of whom had not been disciplined or used to war. The Army v\as divided for the attack into five Columns, the First, commanded by Brigadier-General Nicholson, consisted of Rank and File. 1 st Bengal Fusiliers 250 H.M. 7:>th Regiment 300 Jnd Punjab Infantry 450 Thi> ( 'olnmn was ordered " to storm the breach near the Cash- " "mere liastion, and escalade the face of the Bastion." General Nicholson, having been appointed to command the advance forming-party, ;icmbled the Commandants and seconds in command of his troops, and explained to them in detail how they were to act as soon as they had escaladed the walls; ending his Instruction* with the following words: " Don't press the enemy " ' Too hard : let them have a golden bridge to retire by." The Second Column was placed under the command of Briga- dier .Join-. ( Mi., and consisted of Hank and File. L'nd Bengal Fu>ilicrs 250 II. M. Sth Regiment L^O 1th Seik Infantry :',;,n This Column was "to Morm the breach in the " Water " - Bwtkm." The Third Column, commanded by Colonel Campbell. 1I.M. "L'.ld. CMUHMrd of 474 DISPOSITION OF THE BRITISH ARMY. 1857. Rank and File. H.M. 52nd Regiment 200 Kumaon Battalion 250 1st Punjab Infantry 500 This Column was to be held in readiness " to assault by the*"" " Cashmere Gate after its explosion by the Engineers should have ' r " taken place." The Fourth Column, commanded by Major Reid of the Sir- moor Battalion, consisted of a detachment of the 1st Bengal Fusiliers (150 men), detachments of H.M. 60th and 61st, together with the " Guides Infantry " and the " Sirmoor Battalion," and about 800 of the Jummoo troops (Golab Sing's). This Column was ordered to clear the gardens and blocks of buildings "at " " Paharunpore and Kishengunge, and to enter the city by the "" " Lahore Gate." The Fifth Column, commanded by Brigadier Longfield, con- sisted of- Rank and File. H.M. 60th Rifles 200 H.M. 61st Regiment 250 4th Punjab Infantry 400 Belooch Battalion 300 This column formed " the Reserve." On the 14th September the Headquarters of the 1st Bengal Fusiliers marched from the camp at 3 a.m., having been selected by Brigadier-General Nicholson to lead the first assaulting- column in the attack on Delhie. It is to be regretted that some unexpected delay took place, the engineers reporting that during the night the breaches must be cleared by our heavy guns before- the assault, and it was not until some time after sunrise that the- 1st Bengal Fusiliers, under Major Jacob, advanced; his Adjutant, Lieutenant Wemyss, being beside him. On reaching "Ludlow"* "Castle" the scaling-ladders were brought to the front; Nos. 1 TIIF. A>-U LT OX DELHI K. 475 and '2 Companies of the Regiment forming the first escalading- 1857, party, under Lieutenant G. N. Money.* Nicholson, before ad- vancing to the assault, had separated his storming Column into two Divisions; the 1st Bengal Fusiliers forming the first ; H.M. !~>t\\. the second. On emerging into the open, a terrific fire was poured on the cscaladers. \\li<>. with a cheer, ran forward at the double, followed September nth. closely by the rest of the Regiment. On ncaring the Cashmere Bastion, it was seen that the ditch was so filled with fallen masonry, that our men were enabled to glide down the incline, and plant the escalading ladders with such rapidity that the top of the ramparts was quickly reached amidst a storm of bullets, and missiles, hurled down from the walls above. Notwithstanding this opposition, the ramparts were gained before the Mutineers had collected their forces in sufficient numbers to make a very determined resistance; and thus a firm footing was obtained on the breach before any attempt had been made to blow open the Cashmere gate. By this time the 7f)th Regiment had scaled the walls, forced the breach Nicholson's two Divisions having joined the battle for the mastery on the ramparts raged with fierce fury. ( )ur men, though vastly out-numbered, fought with uncontrolled vehemeuce, striking down the mutineers with their clubbed muskets where they could not succeed in thrusting home their bayonet.-. The dense masses of the Sepahis now crowding to the front could not withstand the eager onslaught of our men,. 14th, wno f ()r nearly three months had been thirsting for this day of retribution. This was not the usual excite- ment of battle, it was the individual burning lust of re\enge for the atrocities committed by the Mutineers, and it is hardly :ble t<> reali/.e the inten>itv of passion that animated every liritish heart that day. There were volunteers in our ranks,. Conductors, and Non-commiimied Staff' who had lost all that had made life mo>t dear; and these men dealt death around * Now in H.M. I'xxlv (luard. 476 THE ASSAULT ON DELHIE. 1857 at every stroke, crying aloud, above the din of war, "Where is my wife ? " " Where are my poor children ? "* It was a just Almighty retribution, beyond the influence or control of man. Brigadier-General Nicholson now gave instructions to his Com- manders to push forward, storm, and occupy the Church, as well as the adjacent buildings ; all of which were held in strong force by the enemy. Nicholson led the 1st Division against the Church, which, after a gallant assault, was captured at the point of the bayonet ; the 2nd Division at the same time succeeding in possess- September 14th, i n g itself of many of the buildings in the vicinity of the 1857. "Main Guard" and the Church. These important positions having been secured, and small parties left in possession, the 1st Bengal Fusiliers and H.M. 75th assembled at the " Main Guard," when orders were issued for the troops to push on in the direction of the Lahore Gate. In the meantime Lieutenant G. Money, who, before the assault had received his Commanding Officer's orders to push along the walls to his right as soon as he got inside, proceeded to execute these instructions. As soon as the Cashmere Battery had been cleared he turned to the right along the lane below the ramparts, accompanied by Sergeant-Major Ilolford and some of the men of Nos. 1, 2, and 3 Companies. Money supposed that the main Column under Jacob was following; but, as just stated, it had gone forward as soon as it escaladed the walls to storm the Church. Money's party, therefore, was unsupported. After having proceeded a short distance down the lane between the houses and the ramparts our detachment came to a slope leading up to the ramparts ; which Money, followed by Hoi- ford and a number of his men, ascended. The ramparts being defended by the Mutineers, there was hard fighting as the party pushed forward, and they, having proceeded about half-way to the Morec Bastion, saw a 12-pounder gun in front worked by the enemy. This gun was quickly turned towards the advancing * An Officer of the 1st Bengal Fusiliers writes, " I saw this myself." party, and rapidly loaded with grape; and it now became a race 1857. between the gunners and the Fusiliers as to whether the latter could reach the gun before the former could load and fire. When within a few yards of the muzzle, the gunners leapt aside, and the port-fin- was applied; the priming flashed, but the gun was dumb. It now appeared that in their panic and ((infusion the enemy had neglected to prick the cartridge, so that it did not ignite. Kxpecting that the attacking party would be blown away, the S.-pahis had stood their ground; but in a couple of seconds we were upon them, not one escaping. The Moree Bastion was soon pteml cr lltli. niched, and it was found full of men busily working ls " )7 - their guns, their whole attention fixed on our breaching" It itteries outside. The gunners were all " Golunda/es." armed with swords only,. A\ ho, surprised at our sudden entry, jumped in numbers through the embrasures and escaped, whilst others turned and attacked the assailants, sword in hand. One stalwart fellow rushed on Lieutenant Moiiev. .-lashing at him so fast right and left that he had great difficulty in defending himself with his light regula- tion sword, when Private Patrick Flynn, No. 3 Company, came to his Officer's assistance, rushing at the gunner with his musket at the charge. The Mutineer jumped aside and evaded the thrust, and, at the -aim- time catching the mu.-kct under his left arm, nimed a Mow at FI vim's head; but the hitter's impetus had been .-< iTeat that the two men appeared locked in each other's arms, that the hilt of the mutineer'.- .-word came on Flyn's head; who, half .-tunned, dropped his musket, and at the same time slight Iv falling back, gave hi- enemy a -traight hit between the eyes which sent him head over heels; and before he could recover nm-elf Money ran his sword through him. In a .-hurt time the bastion was ours; but the Artillery working in our No. 1 Siege Uattervon the plain nut.-ide, being in ignorance of what had taken place above, still poured salvos of grape on the Moree Bastion, con- 478 THE ADVANCE TOWARDS THE LAHORE GATE. 1857. tinning until our signals were understood, when the Artillerymen outside mounting the parapets, gave a ringing cheer of recognition. Immediately below the Moree Bastion, on the plain in front of our Siege Batteries, the enemy had cut trenches and rifle-pits, which were filled with their men, who, startled by the behaviour of our Artillerymen to their front, now for the first time realised what had taken place above. For a few seconds they stood September 14th, stupified, not knowing how to act, whilst we turned 1857. upon them one of their own guns, which caused them to leap from their trenches ; and, as they bolted across the open plain, they had to run the gauntlet between their own guns above and ours below. By this time it became evident that the main Column had not followed in support, and Money was hardly pressed ; when, fortunately, a party of the 9th Lancers appeared below, the Officer in command asking how things were going on. On learning that we had some difficulty in holding our own, he dis- mounted some dozen of his men who had been instructed in gunnery, and they, clambering up into the battery, took charge of the guns. Fortunately there was a breastwork in rear of the Moree Bastion with one embrasure, in which we placed a brass 6-pounder gun. Two or three determined attacks were made by the enemy to regain their lost position, charging up close to the muzzle of this gun, and wounding two of our Lancer gunners. Matters were now looking serious; for the numbers of the enemy in front of our breastwork increased, whilst ours, in defence, diminished. Colonel Greathead (commanding H.M. 8th Foot) now arrived with some of his own men, part of the 75th, 2nd Bengal Fusiliers, and Punjab Infantry. Almost immediately afterwards, the Headquarters of the 1st Bengal Fusiliers, under Major Jacob, arrived; having been delayed whilst re-capturing some of the buildings close inside the Cashmere Gate. Our Regiment now pushed on towards the Lahore Gate, to ADVANCi: T<)WA1M)S Tl I K I.AIloKK CATE. 47U reach which we had to force a passage through ;i narrow defile 1857. running parallel with, and immediately below, the rainj)art. It 1 Ml), W;ls ^'hilst the Regiment was advancing towards this defile that Major George Jaeob fell mortally wounded. " He, poor fellow, was shot in the thigh, and died that night." "As he lay writhing in his agony on the ground, unable to" ''stand, two or three men went to take him to the rear, but a" :nse ot' duty was superior to bodily pain, and he refused their" * k aid, desiring them to go on and take 1 the guns!" As soon as Jacob fell, Captain Greville, the next senior Officer who was close at hand, assumed command of the Regiment. In addition to the many guns on the ramparts there were three placed by the enemy to sweep the defile; one of these was on the rampart immediately above, one below at the entrance to the defile, and the third also on the rampart above, but about 100 yards in rear. This last gun was protected by an iron bullet-proof screen, from behind which the enemy fired with impunity on the approaching Column, a heavv fire being al>o kept up from the gun above and that at the entrance of the defile. A portion of the ; ment was above on the ramparts, and a portion below, < \ ille with the latter. On pre>M-d the men, driving back the enemy before them; and the guns referred to were soon reached. (Jreville now called out to the party above to "Spike the guns!" There was a moment's hesitation; when Colour-Sergeant Jordan ran forward, followed b\ Corporal Keefe (X<. :\). Privates Bradley and L. Murphy. .Jordan spiked the gun with Corporal Keefe's ramrod, which he .-napped of}' in the vent, pacing the broken portion to Captain (Irevillc, who. rushing forward, >piked the gun below. Corporal 14th, KM-fe, Privates Bradley and L. Murphy, were all killed iu assisting Colour-sergeant Jordan to spike the gun. round which "the bullets fell like hail." * Extract from a letter written l.yan Otli.vrof the lu'^inirnt who witnessed the occurrence. 480 ATTACK ON THE BURN BASTION. 1857. It was now seen that the houses on the city side of the defile as well as the flat roofs above, were occupied by crowds of men r who poured on our troops a murderous fire from the windows*,, loopholes, and housetops ; whilst the gun behind the iron screen on the ramparts swept the passage with rapid discharges of shrapnell and grape. The defile was at most only about 12 feet wide, projecting buttresses and towers narrowing it in some places to 3 feet ; whilst at the end of the Pass was the " Burn Bastion," bristling with heavy guns and filled with the enemy's Gunners and Infantry. Greville deemed it advisable to break into the houses, and thus attempt to take the enemy in rear and flank ; but it was ordered otherwise, Nicholson calling out to the Fusiliers to " Charge down the lane ! The 75th will charge " " along the ramparts and carry the position above." Our Officers and men now pushed forward towards the Burn Bastion, which Lieutenants Butler and Speke and about a dozen soldiers attempted to climb ; but finding it closed at the gorge. and loopholed inwards, they could not ascend more than a few feet. Butler, being convinced of the fruitlessness of the attempt, ordered his men to drop down and protect themselves, intend- ing to follow ; but he found that he was pinned in between two bayonets, which had been thrust at him through the loop- holes, on either side. Whilst in this position he received a blow on his head from a stone cast at him from above, felling him to the ground ; but, recovering himself, he quickly fired his revolver through the loopholes, and escaped from under the Bastion bef< the enemy could recover himself. General Nicholson, now in front, shook his sword in defiance September 14th, il ^ the multitude of the enemy around, who, with shouts 1857. an( j yells, poured grape, bullets, and stones on the party below. Nicholson, "our best and bravest," was struck down mortally wounded ; Speke, " gentle everywhere but in the " "field," also fell mortally wounded; and Greville, in re-forming the Regiment, was shot through the right shoulder. TIIK CAHTI. (iA'lK (K'Cri'IKD. tain Caultield (doing duty), Lieutenants Wemyss, Butler, 1*"7. and Woodcock, all fell at this time ; as well as a large proportion if the rank and file. Captain Stafford (doing duty) now assumed eommand. The attempt to force the pass was evidently hopele : the men were utterlv exhausted, having been twelve hours under .mus. engaged in a desperate conflict, parched with thirst and faint from want of food. Captain W. Brooks, of II. M. 7 ")th Regi- ment, having, by seniority, assumed command of the Column, ordered the troops to retire on the Cabul gate. Brooks says, in his dispatch, " Finding that each effort only caused" "further lo>s. without MICCCSS, I formally drew off my men" "and retired to the Cabul gate," and in his dispatch of the 7th February, 1S.~>S. he says, "The 1st European Bengal Fusi- " ' liers, which had been led to the escalade of the left face of the" "Cashmere Ba>tion b\ the late Brigadier-General Nicholson," "after effecting an entrance into the town, stormed the Church" "and adjacent buildings, and charged the enemy as they" "retreated from the Water Bastion; we then moved on in" " pursuit of tin- enemy. Major Jacob being wounded immediately " on our quitting the Cabul gate. The command of that Regi-" incut then devolved upon Captain (Ireville, a gallant Officer," " who has >erved with it on many a hardly-contested field, and on" this occasion was at it- head when the Regiment captured two " gun-. I am most desirous the good and gallant services ren- " "dered by Captain (Jreville should he duly acknowledged."* Considering the fearful loss sustained, and the hopelessness of the attempt to force th- pa-sage, which was closed at the further end. Captain Brooke'.- order tor the- retirement of the 1st Bengal Fu-ilicr> to the Cabul date, before there wis further nl.i-r 14th. >sicrilice of life, was. under the circumstances, not only ju>tifiable. hut was well-judged and right. The passage of this lane should never have been attempted. "And if the" " operation of turning out the Sepahis had been left to the " * Delhic dispatcher. 2 i 482 OPE RATIONS OF THE SECOND COLUMN. 1857. " 1st Fusiliers and the 75th, we should have cleared the ram- ' " parts and lane without loss ; instead of rushing at them, we " " should have entered the houses and got in the enemy's rear."* During the fighting on the 14th September Sergeant J. M'Guire and Drummer M. Ryan, of the 1st Bengal European Fusiliers, gained Victoria Crosses for conspicuous gallantry ; having, " at the assault on Delhie, when the Brigade had reached the " " Oabul Gate, the 1st Fusiliers and 75th Regiment and some " " Seiks were waiting for orders, and some of the Regiments " " were getting ammunition served out (three boxes of which " " exploded from some cause not clearly known, and two others " " were in a state of ignition) when Sergeant M'Guire and " " Drummer Ryan rushed into the burning mass, and seizing the ; ' " boxes, threw them one after the other over the parapet into " " the water. The confusion consequent upon the explosion was " " very great, and the crowd of soldiers and Native followers who " " did not know where the danger lay were rushing into certain " " destruction, when Sergeant M'Guire and Drummer Ryan, by " " their coolness and personal daring, saved the lives of many at " " the risk of their own." f The second Column, under Brigadier Jones, with which was the September 14th, 2nd Bengal Fusiliers, under Captain Boyd, were told 1857. O ff to escalade the left breach in the Cashmere curtain close to the Water Bastion, and the supporting party, taking ground to the right, gained the ramparts without any great opposition; but the ladder-men, principally of the 8th Foot, having to make a slight detour in the open, were exposed to a galling fire from above, which wounded both the Engineer Officers directing the movements, and struck to the ground twenty-nine of the thirty-nine ladder-party. Notwithstanding this loss the ladders were successfully placed, and the Water-Gate Bastion carried. On reaching the summit, the Column tore along the * Extract from a letter from one of the Officers in command, t " The Victoria Cross, an Official Chronicle." arty at the Moree l s -~>7 Hast ion, whilst others fought their way as far as the Cabul Gate, o stubborn, and the fire so tremendous, that the < 'olumn was ordered to return to the Church, where it joined the reserve, which had by this time made its way into the City. Our attention must now be directed to the 4th Column, under Major Kcid, for with it was the heft \Ying (about 150 men) of the 1st Bengal Fusiliers, under Captain C. K. Wriford. Reid had orders to take ground to the right, and, after having cleared the .-uhurhs of Ki>sengunge. Trevelyangunge, and Paharunpore, to advance on the Lahore Gate, through which he was instructed to push his way into the City. With the 1st Bengal Fusiliers, under * Mallcson. ],. :\(\. Vol. II. t Kay.-. ]-. 596, Vol. III. 484 OPERATIONS OF THE FOURTH COLUMN. 1857. TVriford, were the following Officers : Lieutenants E. A. C.. Lambert, A. G. Owen, W. H. Warner, F. D. M. Brown ; and Captain McBarnet (55tli N.I.) doing duty. The 4th, or Major Reid's Column, was principally formed front the pickets occupying the "Crow's Nest," "Subzi Mundi," "The Mound," and "Fakir's Tomb" outposts. This was a faulty formation, as detached bodies of men are never so effective as an entire Regiment, and in this case specially so ; as Reid's Column was called upon to attack a very formidable position, which the enemy had been vigorously strengthening for weeks past, and to- reduce which a very much stronger force, with an efficient Artillery, was absolutely necessary. The Cashmere Contingent (Golab Sing's), which was attached to the 4th Column, was separated into two Divisions : that under Major Lawrence, 800 strong, was employed as a Reserve to the 4th Column ; that under Captain Dwyer, 400 strong, acted against the village of Eed Gah on the right, where it was early in the morning completely defeated, 4 of its guns being captured by the enemy. Unfortunately some delay took place in the advance of the 4th Column, on account of the non-arrival of the Horse Artillery,. who had mistaken their orders. Reid was unwilling to advance without his guns ; but heavy firing to his right in the direction of the detachment of the Cashmere Column convinced him that they had already engaged the enemy, and might want help ; he therefore ordered a general advance, without waiting for his Artillery. The 60th Rifles second to none in the Army and the Ghoorkahs were sent on in front to clear the ground for our advance; but there was no room to deploy, so they advanced along the road, where they soon found themselves opposed by a breastwork close to a narrow bridge, covered by a second breast- work some distance in front and traversing the road. As our troops advanced, those leading, were shot down in such numbers that the road became cumbered by the heaps of our THK FOI Kill ( ol.T.MN KKTMM-:. *lead and Avounded. Reid no\\ gave the order, "Fusiliers to the" 1857. - front," and with a wild rush they charged across the bridge, unavoidably trending under-foot the wounded men who lay on I he road. Reid led this charge. l>nt >oou fell badly wounded, -.nid was carried to the rear: when Captain Muter, of the 60th Kifles. the Senior Officer in front.* assumed command. Captain Wriford, and many of the Officers in advance, were engaged in .-ingle combat with the Mutineers, who pelted our troops from behind their brea.M works, with brickbats and other missiles; whilst our ranks were being rapidly thinned by the musketry fire poured upon us by the thousands of the enemy behind their barricades. Here McBarnett wa> shot dead, and lieutenant Owen was severely eptcn bri 14th. Bounded in the head, but was saved from falling under ls; '~- the tulwars of the enemy by Lieutenant E. A. C. Lambert'8 protection, until the arrival of Corporal Kingon, who carried the wounded Officer to the rear. Here also fell Sergeant Dunleavy. of the- 1 M Hcngal Fusiliers: whhcd their way through a garden and a mosque; but the fire wa> -till very heavy, and no cover was found under which the broken detachment- could be formed up. To advance without Artillery was certain death to all: for the road leading to the Lahore (Jate \va> defended by many thousands of Cavalry and Infantry. It wa> impossible to do otherwise than retire on our pickets: and although thi> cuir>e was. under the circumstances, judiciou>. the object for which the 1th Column had advanced had not been attained. Thus terminated this di>astnus affair; in which the composite Column lost one-half its numbers. The impracticability of the undertaking with so >mall a force and without Artillery i> admitted by all : and it would have been far * Major LJIWUMMV, serving with the Caslnnciv < f ..inin.ifriit, was tlic n.-xt Otticer with thr ( 'uliimii. and tn.ik foiinnajul later on. 486 THE POSITIONS OF THE BESIEGING ARMY. 1857. better had the 4th Column been employed in making feint attacks and attracting the attention of the enemy, whilst the escaladeiv were employed against the breaches and walls of the City. The retreat of the 4th Column was conducted with great September 14th, difficulty, and with many risks. Lieutenant Evans, of 1857. the Bengal Artillery, who commanded some of our guns at the " Crow's Nest " picket, seeing the dangerous position in which the retreating Column was placed, judiciously brought his guns to bear on the enemy, who were pressing on us ; and thus,, covering our retreat, prevented what otherwise might have been a terrible disaster.* The positions of the besieging Army on the 14th September was as follows : The 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Columns had succeeded in gaining a footing inside the City ; but they were with difficulty * A monument, the epitaph on which was written, at Captain Wriford's- request, by Dr. O'Callaghan, Surgeon-in-Chief of the besieging Artillery,. Delhie (now Surgeon- General, retired), was erected at Kissengunge by the- 1st Bengal Fusiliers : " HERE REPOSE THE FOLLOWING OFFICERS, NON-COMMISSIONED OFFICERS, ANC/ MEN OF THE IST BENGAL FUSILIERS, KILLED IN THE ATTACK ON THE ENEMY'S FORTIFIED POSITION OF KlSSENGUNGE, ON THE MORNING OF THE SUCCESSFUL- ASSAULT AND STORM OF DELHIE. CAPTAIN G. G. MCBARNETT, 55TH N. I. (ATTACHED). SERGEANT ALFRED WEBB. PRIVATE GEORGE W. COOK. MICHAEL HUTCHINSON. . JOHN DEHENNY. SAMUEL PIVET. JOHN LAVERY. AUSTIN DUNLEAVY. CHARLES FRENCH. CORPORAL CHARLES POGSON. WALTER HASTINGS. THOMAS RODGERS. WILLIAM STEPHENSON. WILLIAM FISHER. JOHN WOOD. PRIVATE JOHN TENPENNY. JOHN MCGOVERN. JAMES STAPLETON. ,. ELIJAH TAYLOR. DENIS MOONEY. FAMILIAR WITH THE ASPECT OF DEATH, WHOM THEY HAD CONFRONTED IN so MANY BATTLES FROM WHICH THEY ALWAYS EMERGED VICTORIOUS, THEY MET HIS LAST INEVITABLE CALL HEREWITH INTREPIDITY, FALLING ON THE 14TH SEPTEMBER,. 1857, IN THE FAITHFUL DISCHARGE OF THEIR DUTY. THIS MONUMENT WAS ERECTED BY THEIR OFFICERS AND FELLOW-SOLDIERS OF THE IST REGIMENT EUROPEAN BENGAL FUSILIERS IN THEIR REMEMBRANCE, WHICH. IS PART OF ITS GLORY. THE REST REMAINS WITH THE LORD." INMDK Till-: CITY <>F I>KLHIK. 487 holding their own, whilst the Engineers were rapidly constructing 1857. barricades and loopholing the houses. The 4th Column, terribly reduced in numbers, occupied our outposts in rear of Hindu Rao's house. General Archdale Wilson, in Chief Command, disappointed and shaken at what he deemed to have been a failure, wished to withdraw from the attack; but, before issuing orders, consulted with Colonel Baird Smith, his Chief-Engineer, and Neville Chamberlain his Adjutant-General. Baird Smith's reply to his Chiefs question "whether he" thought we could advance," was characteristic of the man. "We " ntit*f do BO." Neville Chamberlain's opinion was not less firm. "To hold at any cost the positions taken, to fortify them, and to " make them the base of a fresh attack at the earliest moment." ' The L")th of September was comparatively a day of rest, and towards evening the 1st Bengal Fusiliers were moved into some S(],t, ml,.!. i:>tli. f tn(1 houses, which had been placed in a semi- defensible condition by our Engineers, detachments of the Regiment being placed on the ramparts between the Moree" Bastion and the Cabul (iate: the former being now held by a party of our men under Lieutenant Money. About this time a serious casualty occurred, which must here be noticed. Six Sergeants and six Orderlies of the 1st European Bengal Fusiliers were in a small brick room, where the daily rations were being >erved out to the men. There was only one small window, facing towards the enemy, who were at this time firing on the building. Suddenly a shell was seen to lodge on the window-sill, and, falling into the room, it immediately ex- ploded, nine out of the twelve men being killed; Colour and Canteen-Sergeant London, one of the best Non-Commissioned Officers in the Regiment, amongst them. On the 1 lith a forward movement was made ; when ( 'olonel Burn, who had been appointed to the command of the 1st European * Malleson's "History of tin- Indian Mutiny." Vol. IT., p. f>7. 488 THE EXEMY DESERT THE CITY. 3857. Bengal Fusiliers, with whom were Lieutenants Cairnes and Vibart (doing duly), occupied a large house about a quarter of a mile in advance. The Headquarters of the Regiment came up next day, leaving only a small party under Lieutenant Money at the Moree Bastion. During the 18th and 19th there was constant fighting and skirmishing, when some decided advantages were gained. Lieu- tenant Wallace with '20 men occupied a house further in advance, in the direction of the Burn Bastion, and Lieutenant Vibart with a like number of men succeeded in possessing himself of an important position ; and these advantages having been gained by sapping, our loss was small. On the 19th September the Burn Bastion was captured, and on the 20th the Headquarters of the 1st Bengal Fusiliers advanced to the Lahore gate, which the enemy had now deserted. In the meantime Colonel Brind, with the 8th Foot and 1st September 20th 22nd, Bengal Fusiliers, had occupied the Juinma Musjid, 18W' and the enemy was rapidly evacuating the city, which was finally captured on the 20th. On the 23rd the Left Wing of the Regiment, now only about 80 strong, . under Lieutenant E. A. C. Lambert, marched through the Lahore gate, and joined the Headquarters, which occupied a large house near the Delhie September 23rd, gate. On this day Lieutenant Cairnes, who had taken a foremost part in the siege, and who, by his courage and example, had done admirable service, was seized with Cholera, to which he succumbed in a few hours. His deatli was a sad blow ; he was popular with the Officers and a favourite amongst the men. But an incident full of interest savouring of romance an incident which materially affected the future was at this time occurring; the prime mover and Instigator being an Officer of the 1st Bengal Fusiliers. Lieutenant W. S. Ilodson called by his brother Officers " the " " Indefatigable" in addition to his duties as Head of the Intelli- gence Department, commanded a Cavalry Regiment, commonly l.lF.f TKNANT HSON TAKKS TIIK KINC IMMSOXEK. 4S ( .) known as " Ilodson's IIor>e:" rlic troopers, Seiks wild-looking, 1857. determined men, clothed in dark-blue with enormous scarlet rurhans and sashes venerated Ilodson; wbo was a Commander after their own hearts, and whose word to them was supreme. Information readied Ilodson that the Emperor, with his two sons licr L'Otli, ;ul( l grandson, had taken refuge in the Mausoleum of Houmayun. which, with its surrounding buildings, forms an important suburb of Delhie. 'Phis tomb, built of richly-carved pure white marble, covers a vast extent of ground, and is ex- ijuisitely and wonderfully truthful in its proportions; its dome and minarets, of the same material, towering above in graceful beauty. Ilodson. without delay, obtained the permission of the General iu Command to sei/e the King: the sole condition attached to this pei-mission being that His Majesty was to receive no personal injury or insult. Delighted with the almost plenary powers conferred upon him, Ilodson, having >eleeted a few of his troopers, galloped off in the direction of Iloomayon's Tomb. The place was crowded with soldier-, follower.- of the fallen King; so Ilodson, unwilling to suddenly alarm the crowd, coneealed his men amongst some buildings close at hand, and sent a me-.-age to the King informing him that he must Mirrender, for our troops were waiting to receive him. Terrified at the a>pcct of aflair>, the King submitted, on the -ule condition that "Ilodsuii Bahadour" would spare his life. Ilodx.n. supported by a few of his troupers, soon appeared before the entrance of the tomb. The Koyal (Juanls on duty at the gate approached: Ilodx.n. too. advanced, and drawing his cigar- box from his pocket, ordered the K ing'> .-entry to fetch a light. Half-Stupefied and overawed, the man obeyed: the escort \\atchiiig with pride the 9Ong~froid of their leader. Now the Emperor liahadour Shah, the last ivproeutat ive " of a dvnaMy "the mo>t magnificent the world had ever seen,"* came- slowly * Kaye, Vol. III. 490 THE KING'S FOLLOWERS CIIVE UP THEIR ARMS. 1857. towards the gate, borne in his palanquin. Hodson, approaching, saluted his Koyal prisoner, and again assuring him that his life was secured, the King moved on, guarded by Hodson's men, who, entering the Imperial City by the Lahore Gate, passed along the Chandnee Chouk to the Kotwallee, where the King was handed over to the Principal Civil Officer for safe custody. No promises of safety had been made to the Eoyal Princes,* who still remained concealed in Hoomayon's Tomb, and who, the next morning, September 21st, were ordered to be unearthed, Hodson, this time, with his second in command, Lieutenant MacDowell, and 100 picked troopers, again proceeded to the tomb. The Princes begged the promise of their lives, but Hodson replied that he " had come to seize the Shahzadahs, and '" " he intended to do so, dead or alive." The prisoners, who now surrendered at discretion, were placed in a cart, and the cortege moved on towards the city. There were still some 6000 servants and followers of the Royal Household in the enclosure of this marble tomb, but none had had the courage to draw sword to- rescue their King from imprisonment, or his sons from death. The crowd pushed rudely forward, when Hodson, with Macdowell by his side, and four troopers only at his back, ordered them to- lay down their arms. Instinctively they submitted ; there seeming to be a magic in Hodson's commanding figure and address. At his bidding the crowd all laid down their arms ; they knew there September 21st, nac ^ been treachery in their camp, and that their only 1857. hope of safety lay in submission to the man whose look was proof that he meant to be obeyed. The collection of the ceded arms was left to Hodson's troopers.. he riding after the Princes, who had by this time neared the jail, where the surging crowd, including many escaped convicts, was- pressing on the carts and escort. Dashing forward and haranguing his troopers, in a voice which he intended to be heard by all, Hodson exclaimed that the prisoners " were the butchers who "" * Mirza Khaza, Sultan Mirza, and Mirza Abu Bhr. TIIK DKATI! OF TIIK DKI.HIK PRINCES. fc - had murdered our wives and children." and that they should 1857. sutler for their crime. lie then ordered the procession to stand still, the Princes to dismount and strip: when, sei/ing a carbine from the hand of oi.e of his troopers, he shot his Royal prisoners dead with his own hand. This act of Hodson's has been severely challenged. lie was a man who had risen early into power: and there were those who wen- jealous of his rapid rise: further, we should not, in times of peace, judge of those who swim in blood; and, lastly, Hodson asserts it to have been his belief that, had lie not deprived the Princes of their lives, the rebellious crowd which surged around would have rescued them, and the Mutineers would thus still have their leaders to urge them on to further deeds of bloodshed and iv>i>tanre. Rightly or wrongly, Hodson believed these Princes to have been the instigators of the sickening murders of those helpless wives and daughters who wen- within the walls of Pelhie at the time of the outbreak: the revolting incidents of these massacres causing a ll brave men's blood to boil with horror and disgust. Hodson deemed it right that the bodies of the perpetrator.- Mich foul crimes should fester on the road in front of the Kotwallee, where, a few months previous, they had gloated over scenes too sickening to contemplate, and too revolting to- detail. In so prominently referring to the incidents connected with the death of the>e Princo. it i- just that we should, in conclusion, quote Ilodson's '\vn word.-: "I cannot help," he says, " being "" 'pleased at the warm congratulations I receive on all sides for" "my success in destroying the enemies of our race. I am too'* u COnsciotlfl of the rectitude of mv own motives to care what the ' r "few may >ay, while my own conscience and the voice of the" " many pronounce me right." The following is an extract from a letter dated September lSth r , from an Officer of the 1st liengal Fusiliers before Delhie. 492 ACCOUNT OF THE WOUXDED. 1857. to his wounded comrade with the Depot at Dugshai, giving an interesting account of our disabled Officers :- " In our Regiment, McBarnett, attached (5 5th. Native In- " fantry), killed. Our poor Major (Jacob), thigh broken, leg " " amputated, and died about 10 o'clock at night on the 14th, " " and was buried yesterday evening. All who were in camp " -' followed. It is a great loss to our Regiment, and is much felt " 4 ' by both Officers and men ; a better soldier never stepped. " " Poor Greville is hit again the third time through the " *< shoulder ; a bad wound, but the doctor thinks he will do well. " " He is much cut up at Jacob's death. Then Wemyss is hit in " " the calf of the leg ; but it is only a flesh-wound. Speke is " " wounded in the body ball not found ; a bad wound, but the " " doctor is in hopes of his doing well (since dead). Owen " " wounded across the whole of the right side of the head, the " *' skull laid bare ; and hit just over the left eye by another " " bullet. Lambert is slightly wounded in the leg by splinters. " *' Poor Sergeant London was killed yesterday by a shell burst- " " ing in the midst of sixteen men, and it killed and wounded " " fourteen of the party. I believe there is only six file of your " " Company left. No. 10 Company had (5 killed and 15 wounded " *' at Kissengunge. I really do not think we shall be more than " " 100 or 150 strong after we come out of Delhie. Our fellows " " saw lots of women and children in the streets when they went " " in, and I am happy to say not one of our men fired a shot at " 4< them. A great many of them ran up to us." Immediately after the fall of Delhie, the sick and wounded of the 1st Bengal European Regiment were sent to the Regimental Depot at Dugshai. Colour-Sergeant Hardy, No. 4 Company, was promoted to the rank of Ensign, for distinguished gallantry in the field. But before closing the narrative of the Siege of Delhie, a well- deserved tribute must be paid to the memory of the dead. Ml i: DKAD COMRADES. The following i> from the pen of an Officer of the Regiment : ' Captain Speke * wa> devotedly fond of his profession, more " "particularly that which calls forth the active energies: and " " tor a fight there was no better man than Speke, and his hardy, " " wiry frame lifted him fur the hardships of such a campaign. " He entirely gained the hearts of the men of his Company, by " carrying in one of the wounded men. Private Brock, who had " "' his leg Chattered by a round-shot : and the poor fellow, I am k - told, said to the Doctor, after he had been under the knife, " " ' Oh, doctor, if I die. tell Captain Speke how much I felt his ' ' kindne.' Yes, the>e are indeed the acts which bind men " * and Officers as one, and make them invincible in fight. In " " all our lights Speke had his share, escaping unhurt till the " ' last. Strange to say, he had almost no pain, and maintained " ' his mental powers, though his wound was very severe. " ' Firmly, yet humbly, did he depart this life, deeply lamented " 41 by all who knew him." Then la>t, hut hv no means least, was Major G. O. Jacol>. who- died commanding his Regiment almost in the hour of victory; and wliox- kindly, generous, considerate nature was shown in death as in life-. He and ( Jreville occupied the same tent, in which they both lay wounded : but .lacub'> fear lest his involuntary groans should disturb bi WOUnded comrade and friend, seemed to oecupv all his thoughts. " I know you are badly wounded and in "" ' pain." said he, u but pray pardon my groaning. I try not to " " disturb you, but I cannot help it." Greville, utterly exhausted from fatigue and lu of blood, >U-pt for half-an-hour ; when, waking suddenly, he >aw the >heet drawn over the face of his t words had been in perfect harmoiu with tin' whole tenor of hi> life, shown in his never-failin- r** courtoy and eon.-'uleration f>r ntlu-r>. (icoi-ge Ogle Jacob was * Captain Krii'_, r ul I-'usiliers. 494 SURGEON-3rAJOR J. P. BROUGHAM. 1857. brave and chivalrous in battle, respected by all, and most loved by those who knew him best. But, having paid a well-deserved tribute to the memory of those who, dying, added lustre to the annals of the Regiment, it is right that prominent reference should be made to the services of Dr. J. P. Brougham the Surgeon-Major of the 1st Bengal Fusiliers whose tender care and unremitting attentions con- duced so much to alleviate the sufferings of the wounded. Dr. Brougham won the esteem, thanks, and goodwill of his Commanders, brother Officers, and the rank and file of his Regi- ment, so many of whom had been under his care in the field hospital before Delhie.* * See Appendix G. CHAPTER XIX. State >f the Country after the Capture of Delhie 1st Bengal Fusiliers form part of Colonel Gerrard's Flying Brigade Battle of Narnoul Colonel (u-n-ard's Death The Regiment returns to Delhie Sir Thomas Seaton Appointed to Command the Flying Brigade Advance towards Luckuow Battle of Gungehri Action at Puttialee Capture of Mynpoorie Lieu- tenant Ilodson opens Communication with the Commander-in-Chief's Camp The 1st Bengal Fusiliers join the Commander-in-Chief s Army Affairs at Lucknow whilst the Siege of Delhie was progressing Affairs at Cawnpore under Windham Arrival of the 1st Bengal Fusiliers at Cawnpore Advance on Lucknow Attack on the British Camp at Lucknow Sir Colin Campbell in Command at Lucknow Preparations for the Siege of the City The 1 st Bengal Fusiliers attached to General Outram's Brigade Outram's Brigade Enfilade the Enemy's Batteries Capture of the " Yellow House " Lieutenant Thomas Butler, 1st Bengal Fusiliers, Captures the Enemy's Line of Batteries Sir Colin Campbell Storms the City of Lucknow Hodson's Death Outram's Brigade cross the Gumti Capture of the Residency 1st Bengal Fusiliers with Sir Hope Grant's Force Action at Barer- Kneiny Repulsed from an Island on the River Gogra Action at Sahadit (Jungr Return to Dugshai. LTHOUGH tlio neck of the Mutiny had been broken by tin- capture of Delhie, there was still rou^h work in store for our troops. Tens of thousands been previously pointed out. the ryots the cultivators of the soil mechanics, arti/ans. tradesmen, in short, all who had a .-take iu the prosperity of the country, all who valued life and 491) COLONEL GERKAKDS FLYING COLUMN. 1857. protection of property, had not been inimical to our rule ; and now these men unceasingly implored that our troops might be sent into their districts to convert the existing chaos into its previous order, and drive out the hordes of the mutinous Sepahis, who were perpetrating the vilest crimes unchecked, and inflicting the most odious tortures on the villagers, with the object of extracting money and forcing supplies. Immediately after the capture of Delhie Colonel Gerrard, who had first joined the Bengal European Regiment in 1825, was appointed to its command; and, as he was an Officer both respected and beloved, his return was a matter of much con- gratulation and joy. On the 9th November the Regiment was ordered to encamp outside the Cashmere Gate of the city, and to be in readiness to march the next morning in a westerly direction against several strongholds occupied by the Mutineers. The 2nd Bengal Fusiliers had already marched, forming part of a force under Brigadier Showers, who had proceeded towards the Maywatta District, to the south and west of Delhie ; where they had been doing good service in reducing some Forts, and relieving many villages which were oppressed by the rebels ; and re-establishing order in our provinces. On the morning of the 10th of November the 1st Bengal Fusiliers left Delhie, our Colonel, Gerrard, having been appointed to command the force, consisting of about 2500 men; the 1st Fusiliers; two squadrons of the Carabineers; a troop of Bengal Horse Artillery ; an Eurasian Battery, commanded by Colonel Yan Cortlandt ; the Seik Guides' Corps, Cavalry, and Infantry ; the Mooltanie Horse ; and some Seik Infantry Regiments, forming the Brigade. The only important action fought by this Brigade was on the 16th November, near the town of Narnoul. We left our camp at one a.m. in light marching order, all sickly men and heavy baggage having been placed in the Fort at Kanoudj a somewhat THi: I1ATTLE OF NAHNOUL. 497 formidable stronghold, protected by three lines of outer defences. 1857 The capture ot' this Fort might have given us some trouble, had it not surrendered to Showers' Brigade previous to our arrival. The advance of Gemini's force was conducted with much difficulty in account of the sandy nature of the soil, some ten hours being occupied in covering twelve miles of road. The sun was very oppressive, and the sand and dust, being blown about by a strong wind, trying. The enemy in considerable force were known to be near at hand; indeed, on the previous day- Nbvember ir>th they had held a position of great strength clos by, and why they had elected to accept battle on the open plain whilst they had good cover was a marvel to all. The village of " Xarnoul" was soon reached, when heavy clouds of dust ivomber Kith, indicated the position of the enemy, now seen approach- ing on our left front. The British troops prepared for action: the centre of the first line being occupied by the 1st European Bengal Fusiliers, immediately in front of which was our llrigadier, too conspicuous amongst the Staff by his red coat and orders. The fight, as usual, commenced with an Artillery duel, -ucceedcd by the rapid advance of our Cavalry, the Carabineers and Guides making a gallant charge; but the enemy, nothing daunted, had also advanced and many hand-to-hand conflicts riiMied. A mo>t determined onset was made by the Carabineers on the enemy's Field Artillery: when the gunners, keeping boldly to their posts, were >ahivd to a man, and the Carabineers con- tinuing their onward movement encountered the enemy's Cavalry, hastening to the a->i>tauce of their gunneiv-. No sooner had our Cavalry ridden through the enemy's So? ember li'.th, lotteries than their Infantry were seen advancing from the let't flank: when, re-taking their guns, which had not been spiked, they scut a few rounds of grape amongst our Infantry, wounding Lieutenant Wallace and 3 of our men, and killing a private soldier named Gritfin. The IJcugal Fusiliers * The Fort of " Narnoul " was mluced during the Maratlia War, in 1803. 2 K 408 THE DEATH OF COLONEL GEUKAltD. 1857. quickly charged the battery, re-taking the guns, which they spiked. The whole British force now advanced ; and the fight, which had hitherto been principally sustained by the Cavalry, be- came general. Our Horse Artillery, pushing to the front, poured round-shot, grape, and shrapnell amongst the enemy, forcing him to seek shelter behind the walls of the gardens and broken ground to our left, under cover of which he was attempting to retreat towards his camp. As our force advanced, it was seen that the unevenness of the ground was caused by a stream which cut through the gardens, the banks being covered with brushwood and trees. Colonel Gerrard, in front, was a conspicuous object, seated on his white charger. His Brigade-Major, Lieutenant G. N. Money, of the 1st Bengal Fusiliers, whose horse had just been shot under him, was by Gerrard's side. At this moment two shots were fired from amongst the brushwood in the nullah, one passing close to Money's head, who, thinking the man who had fired belonged to one of the Seik Regiments close by, called out, "Look out where " " you're firing! you nearly hit us." Almost immediately afterwards two more shots were fired from the same place, and Colonel Gerrard, turning round, said, "I've got it; I'm afraid I'm done" " for." Both his arms were hanging helpless by his side. Money quickly approaching helped him off his horse to a bank close by ; and as he sat down he looked at his side, and said, " It's gone " " clean through me. I'm afraid I'm done for." Money, mounting Colonel Gerrard's horse, went to fetch Dr. Brougham, who, as soon as he had examined the Colonel's wounds, said, "I'm afraid," " Colonel, there is no hope." " My poor wife, my poor children," was all he answered, and two hours afterwards he died, whilst the battle was still raging in front. In the meantime the Regiment, pushing forward, crossed the nullah, and arrived before a small mud Fort held by some of the enemy, who were defending it with one brass gun. The Fusiliers charged forward, captured the gun at the point of the bayonet, and driving the enemy before them, on to tlie plain beyond, 1857 followed them to their camp, where another gun was captured. P>ut, through >ome oversight, neither of these guns was spiked : and. as the Regimei.t pushed further to the front, the enemy returned, and. re-occupying their position, opened a sharp grape fire on our left flank. Lieutenant Warner, who was sent back with two Companies, re-took the guns, which were this time spiked. On the fall of Colonel Gerrard, Captain Caulfield (3rd Native Infantry, doing duty with the 1st Fusiliers), being the next senior Officer, had assumed command of the Brigade; and Lieutenant Maefarlane an Officer of only six years' service commanded the Regiment. It was now seen that a large body of the enemy had taken refuge in a Serai, situated on the outskirts of the town; a square building occupying a large space of ground, with high masonry walls, built for the accommodation of travellers, as a protection again>t robbers, rather than soldiers. But it possessed some strength, having been partially fortified, and a gun placed in position to protect the entrance gate. The Regiment >oon forced its way inside, but the inmates with November Kith. f'W exceptions escaped ; < ,nc, lagging behind, was shot by Lieutenant Frank P>ro\vn with his revolver, whilst three others took refuge iii a small turret on the top of the wall. Order.- were given to the Sergeant-Major to send up some of our men to despatch the Sepahis in the turret: when Private McGovem, who \\a> standing near, said, "I'll go. Sir, bv myself;" and, suiting the action to the word, ascended a little staircase at. the main gate. The ( Mlicer then told the Sergeant-Major to send at least half-a-do/en men. but he replied, "' Oh, never mind, sir;'* k> he'll be no luss/' Mc( ioycrn, it seems, heard this remark, and de- termined to do the work by himself: so he mounted the narrow staircase, and reached the top of the wall, where the three Sepahis were waiting for him. These fired at once, but McGovern, 500 THE VICTORY OF NARNOUL. 1857. jumping down a couple of the steps, escaped unhurt, and, before the enemy could reload, he, mounting the steps, shot the man in front, and rushing on the other two bayoneted them without giving them time to recover. Private McGovern, who had already won the Victoria Cross for distinguished bravery on June 23rd, 1857, was a well-known character in the Regiment, his reckless, dare-devil acts being the talk of the Army ; and had lie been as abstemious as he was brave, he would have been of sterling worth. The Serai was the last position vacated by the enemy, now November 16th, ^J^g from the field, protected by their Cavalry; who 1857. throughout the day had behaved with great bravery, repeatedly engaging the British Cavalry in single combat. The enemy's camp, equipage, cattle, and eight guns fell into our hands. For conspicuous gallantry during the action at Narnoul Lieu- tenant Francis David Millet Brown, of the 1st European Bengal Fusiliers, was awarded the Victoria Cross, " in having, at the ' r " imminent risk of his own life, rushed to the assistance of a " " wounded soldier of the 1st European Bengal Fusiliers, whom *' " he carried off under a heavy fire from the enemy, whose " " Cavalry were within forty or fifty yards of him at the time." The objects for which the Brigade had been sent out having November 29th, been fully attained, it now commenced its return march ; 1857. reaching Delhie on November 29th. But there was a sad gap in the ranks of the 1st Bengal Fusiliers, which had left on the field of battle its gallant and generous-hearted Colonel. There was no complaint too trivial, no wrong too slight, to escape the attention, and secure the relief of Colonel Gerrard ; known as the soldier's friend, he was ever ready to listen patiently to their injuries, and to redress their wrongs. The melancholy loss of their brave Colonel was deeply felt and generally deplored by Officers and men alike; there were few amongst them who had not felt the beneficial influence of his noble character, and his WITH roLoxKi. >I-:.\T>N"S COI.I.MX. 501 memory will be deservedly cheri.-hed })y those who love to honour 1857. and respect the good, the noble, and the brave. On the return maivh from Xarnoul, Lieutenant-Colonel Thomas Scaton. C.B., having been appointed to succeed Colonel (ierrard. assumed cominand of the Regiment and Brigade. But there was no rot yet. More arduous duties had to be heartily undertaken and conscientiously performed. The l>t Bengal Fusiliers had returned to Delhie only a few hours when they received orders to hold themselves in readiness to advance towards Lucknow, taking with them a convoy of miscellaneous -lores, cattle. <.. fur the Commander-in-Chief's camp. This soth iK'ci-mi.er .sth, <'<>voy would, on the line of march, cover over eighteen miles of road; and every soldier knuws that this convov dtitv must involve much exposure and considerable ri>k. with little renown. But the importance attaching to the safe and speedy arrival of thi- convoy at the ( 'ommander-in-Chief's camp could hardly be over-estimated. he being at this time so crippled for want of carriage. X<-.. that his movements were retarded ami the efficiency of his force impaired. The Brigade told off for this escort duty was placed under command of Colonel Thomas Scaton, and consisted of the 1st Bengal Fu>iliers, detachments of the Carabineers and Dth Lan- B, llodxm's Horse, and some Regiments of Seik Ini'antrv. The force marched from Delhie at '1 a.m. on the ( .th December, and. a few days afterwards, on reaching Allyghur, the strength i he 1-t Fu>iliers was incrca>ed by the addition of KM) aucn under Major Kid from the )>rd Kurop(\-ui lvC!_;-iment . On the llth of December the Brigade reached Gungehri, when- wa> a >mall liritish force of Belochees aixl some European Artillery, beyond who.-r camp the 1 >t Fn-iliers pitched their tent-. The morning meal was being prepared, when suddcnlv the assembly was xnindcd tVom the ( 'uimnamler's tent, and all Jiatjtened to their pu>ts. The Briti>h camj) was >urroundcd by 502 THE SKIRMISH AT ALLYGHUR. 1857. cultivated fields, the high growth of the crops obstructing the view. The Brigade was quickly formed in line ; the Fusiliers being in the centre, flanked by the Seik Infantry, and the Cara- bineers and Lancers on the extreme right, Hodson's Horse on the left. Our Horse Artillery pushed to the front, whilst our heavy guns, preparing for action, were moving slowly into position in rear of our line. The enemy was now seen in considerable strength moving on our left, apparently with the intention of taking our Brigade in flank; Seaton, therefore, changed his position, advancing along the right side of the high road, our Horse Artillery opening a pretty heavy grape-fire, which to our surprise was only feebly answered. It was now seen that the enemy was retiring, his guns merely covering his retreat. Evidently the attack had been intended for the Belooch camp, the enemy having been in ignorance of the arrival of our Brigade. The brunt of the skirmish fell on the Cavalry, the Carabineers and Lancers dashing boldly forward at the enemy's guns ; but during their advance they encountered a more searching fire than they had anticipated, both of Artillery and Musketry. The Mutineers being concealed amongst the brushwood and sand-hills picked off our troopers as they charged to the front. The enemy's guns were captured, the gunners being sabred at their posts, their Infantry taking to flight ; but this success was not gained without heavy loss, three of the Carabineer Officers and six men having been killed and fifteen wounded. Hodson, who had been watching his opportunity, now dashed forward with his Cavalry, his course; being marked for many miles by killed and wounded, amongst whom were 23 of his own troopers. The captured guns, one i) and two 6-pounders, were brought into our camp ; and it was nearly 3 p.m. before our troops resumed their breakfast. The next day our Brigade inarched along the road where the skirmish had taken place. On their arrival in camp at Khans THK -KIKMI-H AT Till: I'l TTF A LF.K. iber l.")th, (uuge. the inh:il)it:ints were loud in their praise of the ls:>7. gallantry of our troops, and were grateful to us for having relieved them from the presence of the Mutineer Army,* who had hurried through the town after their defeat. On the 17th I )eeeniher, whilst on the line of march, Colonel Seaton received trustworthy information that the enemy were encamped near the road about two miles from Puttialee. ^< aton now concentrated his troops, and rapidly prepared for action: placing, as pre\ iouslv. the 1st Bengal Fusiliers in the centre, >omc of our Horse Artillery, British Cavalry, and Ilodson's Horse on the right: >ome Horse Artillery and Seik Infantry on onr left : our heavy guns hringing up the rear. As our Brigade advanced, we reached the summit of a slight eminence, from which was >een the town, surrounded by houses in walled gardens, the conntrv generally being studded with groves of trees. The enemv were drawn up in front of the town, and appeared December 17th, determined to make a vigorous stand; so our Horse Artillery opened fire, which was quickly replied to. It wa> ha/y weather, and. as the grass and crops stood some six feet high, it was difficult to see what was going on ill front ; where Colonel Scnron and his Staff, escorted hy a troop of Hodson's Ilnrsr. >aw the enemy limbering up their guns, evidently intent I- must nut l>e at all fancied that (luring the- late emeute the people " ' of Hindoostan have united with tin- simple view of driving the English" from thrir i-i.untry. Many had a much more pleasant object in view, and " it was that of helping themselves to property, to whomsoever it might belong, always provided that such might he obtained without personal " ri>k. \\'here they eotdd get a good fat buniah (eorn-ehandler). he was " plundered without the slightest hesitation: and. in fact, at this very" idrabad. the following: new motle of extracting rupees was" j.raelisrd i.y the Mutineers and parties o}' armed peasants upon the " wealthy, as I was informed l,y the people of the place: The persons" > >u>peeted of l..-in-- guilty of having money had one or two hooks inserted " under the shoulder-Hades or other tender part. He was then pitched " into a well, and allowed to >ink fur alumt half-a-minute, and then drawn " 11 up liy a rope attached to the Imoks. In sober truth, these men have" practised greater hiin-m-s ii] sach other than they have upon us." , IhlJtn Cunijinlijii, 1858. 004 THE COLUMN ENTERS 3IYNPOORIE. 1857. on beating a hasty retreat. Not an instant was to be lost, so Seaton, followed by his Staff and escort only, dashed forward at the guns, and sabring the gunners who were completely taken aback by the suddenness of the movement the guns were cap- tured, with the loss of only one man. This gallant charge relieved the Infantry of much trouble, whilst Hodson and his men rode quietly forward, keeping to the right of the road on which the enemy were retreating, until, reaching the open country, he dashed amongst the Mutineers, punishing them severely, and pursuing the flying, disorganized masses for several miles; killing no less, it is said, than 600 men. Our Infantry, in the meantime, had scoured the gardens and town, killing a vast number of the Mutineers found hiding. Seaton' s bold dash had so hastened the retreat of the enemy that our loss was insignificant ; whilst we captured their camp, cattle, 13 guns, with tumbrils and ammunition. On the 21st December our Brigade approached the old Military cantonment of Mynpoorie, adjoining which was the large and important town of that name. Here resided a Rajah named Tej Sing, who was in open rebellion, and announced his determination to make a desperate resistance; but the simple manoeuvre of taking his troops in flank, in place of advancing along the main road, which he had protected by earthworks and guns, so dis- organized the enemy that they fled, after having fired only a few badly-directed shots. In the town a gun foundry was discovered, with moulds probably stolen from our gun factory at Futtehghur ; there was also a new 8-inch howitzer of our own make : this gun had never been fired. Whilst at Mynpoorie, information was received that the Com- mander-in-Chief's camp was only distant about 30 miles. Hodson, " eager as usual to be foremost," volunteered to open com- munication. Permission having been granted, he started off with 100 of his men, but lie had only proceeded one march (to Bewar) the inf anc lON's COLI .MX IIKACIIKS UKAlHjl AIM !.!>. ~>0f> when he learnt that we had been misinformed as to the position 1857. >\ tin- Chiefs ('amp. Ilodsun, to execute his design, would have tn cover some 20 additional miles; and many of his IIOIVM - having shewn >igns of fatigue, lie picked out 20 of the most lively, and. leaving joined by Brigadier Walpole'fl Brigade: thi> latter < Mh'ccr now assuming command of the united Forces. B\ this junction communication was completely opened from Calcutta to Lahore. < >n the 1th January Walpole's force marched into Futtchghuiv where was the Headquarter.- of the Army under Sir Colin Camp- bell. Colonel Seaton was appointed to command the Futtchghur Brigade, and districts to the- South and West ; a task requiring 506 RETROSPECT OF THE DEFENCE OF LUCKNOW. is;>7. decision and judgment, he having but a weak force to perform duties full of danger and difficulty. Captain Ellis Cunliffe and Lieutenant Montague Hall rejoined the Regiment at Futtehghur ; and the former, by virtue of his seniority, assumed command. Before entering on fresh scenes of action, it is necessary that we should briefly note events which had occurred since the out- break of the Mutiny at Lucknow, when on May 3rd, 1857, Sir Henry Lawrence had taken energetic measures to punish the 7th Oudc Irregulars for their disaffection. The discontent then openly manifested was but the murmur of the coming storm ; and although a few of the Native soldiers, who still professed loyalty,, continued to serve with our troops, their presence was at first felt to be a source of danger rather than a protection. The Native troops were, with few exceptions, in open mutiny, and the number of our Europeans so small, that measures were speedily taken to occupy the Residency and the adjacent buildings, which were now being hurriedly placed in a state of defence. Soon afterwards the Military Police broke into open revolt ; and as they and their fellow-Mutineers now assumed a dangerous and warlike attitude, the Residency was at once made " the " " great point of concentration " and occupied by the European inhabitants and the British soldiers, as well as some loyal detachments of Native Infantry Regiments,* and the doubtful Native Artillery of the ex- King. On the 25th of June the rebel Army took up its position at " Chinhut," eight miles from the Residency. Lawrence per- sonally commanded the British force, which he had ordered to- proceed against the rebels, intending to drive them from their position and assert British authority. But there were traitors in our camp ; the ex-King's Artillery purposely disabled our guns, * Lieutenant 11. II. M. Aitken defended the "Bailie Guard" with his men of loth Native Infantry, and gained his V.C. <>F TIIK DKFKNCK OF LUCKXOW. ;><>< our tmops were forced to retire, and the battle of " Chinhut " ls:,7. terminated in disaster, deteat, and heavy loss. Tin- rebels now occupied the city in great force, our outposts \vere withdrawn, and our troops, amounting to only 927 Euro- peans, and 7r>;> loyal Native soldiers, were concentrated within the inner defences of the Residency. On the ith July Sir Henry Lawrence was killed by a shell, which hurst in his room, whilst he was dictating his orders. He \vas succeeded in the command by Major Banks, who was shot on .Inly '2'2\u\. In the garrison were liS ladies and (5(5 children, all -utieriiig terrible hardships, and undergoing acute privations. The u-arrison, on reduced rations, still defended itself with iinHinchiug valour ; the soldiers at the different posts knew no rest, there were no reliefs, each man's order was to defend his post till death if needs be. for succour there was none. On September 2.")th, Outram and Havelock, with their brave troops.'" Micceeded in cutting their way through the narrow streets of the city and gaining an entrance into the Residency .f Their advent was hailed with unbounded joy ; but the transports of the defender- wen -oiuewhat modified, when they reali/ed that they had been reinforced, but not relieved, and that a greater number of mouths must now be fed from their supplio, already alarmingly insuth'cieiu. Hut the troop- returned to their posts and fought * Aiiion-.-t the troops under Havdoek. who so valiantly fought their way into tin- Kesidrney. \\as an Artillery Company of veteran soldiers of the ImalM Battalion." all of whom had volunteered for this da nacrous service. Of these l.rave old soldiers only a very tV\v survived th" hardships of the eampai-n. Four Ollieers of the " Invalid Battalion" also plaeed their services- at the di.-posil of tht> Coinmander-ill-Ghief for active service during the Mutiny: of these four, three -Captains. W. II. Ilaslewood, 1\. \V. II. Fau- sha\ve. and P. II. limes had been invalided from the 1st European Helical l-'usili-rs. Thi'V were all promoted, at the conclusion of the Mutiny, to Majority ined services rendered." f Lieutenant Montague Hall, of the l.st Helled Fusiliers, served \\ith al Ilaveloek's I-'oree as A-.-i-tant I-'n^ineer. rcndcrim: valuable service at the actions at Mun.irh-war. L'."'!''! to L'oth September. I*.~i7. and the adv." of IIa\-flock'> Foree into the Kesideliey. 508 THE RELIEF OF LUCKNOW. 1857. on, hoping almost against hope, that real relief might come at Isat. At length Sir Colin Campbell arrived, and on the night of the 22nd November succeeded in creating such an alarm amongst the enemy, by making a feint attack on the Kaisar Bagh that the beleaguered garrison, including the ladies and children,* escaped, through tortuous passages and under ruined buildings, in the dead of night, followed by the garrison, who silently retreated unperceived. The enemy, in ignorance of the escape of the garrison, continued to pour their accustomed fire into our deserted posts ; and it was not until after daybreak that the Mutineers discovered that the Residency had been evacuated at night and everything of value removed or destroyed. But Havelock only survived the relief .a few hours ; he had been gradually sinking for weeks ; and the insufficient food hastened his decline. At the first halting-ground he passed away. Sir Colin left 4000 men with 35 guns under General Outram nt Alambagh, close to the city, to remind the enemy that though the beleaguered garrison had escaped, Lucknow was ours. He, with 3000 men to guard his convoy of women, children, and wounded, hastened to secure the safety of Cawnpore, where Oeneral Windham, "a brave and adventurous soldier,"! had been left with an insufficient force to combat the Gwalior Contingent, numbering some 15,000 men, Cavalry, Artillery, and Infantry, .all drilled and disciplined by us, and led by Tantia Topi, one of the few Native leaders admitted to be a General of no mean capacity. Sir Colin knew that the non-receipt of news from the Cawn- pore Garrison boded no good, and therefore left his camp and, followed by his Staff, hurried forward to Cawnpore. It was on the evening of the 29th November, 1857, that he crossed the bridge of boats over the Ganges. Firing was heard, and it was evident that a battle was being fought ; but Sir Colin had yet to * Of the 68 ladies, 1 had been shot, and 6 had died ; of the G6 children, '28 had perished. f Malleson. TIII-: FII;-T r,i:N<;\i. rr>iLiKK> AT CAWXPOKK. 1 :irn that Tantia Topi was BO far the victor, and that Wiudham had I858u heen forced tn >crk the shelter of his entreiichinents, after having MI tie red heavy loss.* But the Commander-in-Chief s arrival at ( 'awnpoiv materially changed the aspect of affairs ; for, quickly hurrviiig to Windham'fl camp, and having gained all necessarv infonnation. and instructed Windhani to keep close, he returned ; his camp across the river, promising to bring relief the next morning. True to his word, dayhreak found Sir Colin with hi> relief troops in the field: confidence was now restored, and a succession of glorious repulses forced Tantia Topi from the positions he had gained with the loss of camp, guns, cattle, and a large proportin of his Army. Nor was this all. Sir Colin, at the head of his ( 'avalrv. pur>ued the defeated foe through the town of IJithoor. where he raxed the palace of the infamous Nana to the ground: and, still pressing on, captured the Fortress of Futtehghurt (January iird, !*,")*) : the day following which Walpolr's force, with which were the 1st Bengal Fusiliers. marched into Futtehghur ; bringing under its escort the much- needed >upplies and carriage for the Headquarters Arinv. On the iJTth January the 1st Mental Fusiliers connnenced it- march to Cawnporc, reaching its destination on Fehruary 3rd. And wa> this the ( 'awnpoiv that we had onlv a short time previously known o \\rll:' the Assemhly Rooms and adjacent luiildings a heap of ruins, the floors and walls of which had heen so Lately Saturated with blood the Well at the entrance gate, now the tomlt of hundreds of murdered women and children, amongst whom were many who had heen our friend t he Barracks, where * Captain Kllis Cunliffe anl Lieutenant X. T. Parsons, who had lately arrived fi.ua Fn-laml, finding I'oinmuniriition closed, were unable to join their Krjrinicnt , \\riT attached to II. M. nt indent uinU'r Tantia Topi. Lieutenant vei'ely \viuii 1 1 v I'-th ittnl. luenced its march towards Liu-know, crossing the' (langes by the bridge <>f boats, and reaching Oonuo tin- same afternoon, where it occupied the admirably-designed defence-, constructed }>y the Rifle Brigade. AW halted at Oonao until the llth February, when we proceeded on our inarch. As the Briti.-h Army approached the capital of Oude the desola- tion of the surrounding country was almost painful. Extensive sandy plains, which had lately been cultivated, were now "sparsely" k covered with thorns and wiry -Trass;" the villages, deserted and in ruins, all forming a strong contrast to the appearance of the ( onntry through which our Regiment had passed on its march to Futtehghur. On the L'.'lrd of February we sighted the British camp which had been left by Sir Colin Campbell at the Alsunbagh.* under < ieneral Outram : who had. notwithstanding the repeated attempts of the enemy to drive him from his position, manfully held his ground, and given some severe lessons to those who had the temerity to attack him On the iMth February, at 7 a.m.. a desperate attack by upwards of :><>.( )()( men was made on the British position; but Outram's force had been augmented by AValpole's Brigade, as well as by the 7th Hu.->ai>. Ilod.-on'> Ilor>e. and some troops of Bengal Ilorsr Artiller\ . The battle wa> hotly contested: and at 10 a. in. the enemy wa< threatening the British left, whil.-t a main attack was being made along (,ur whole front and right, the enemy occupying position in rear of our Fort of " Jellalahad." ()utram now >aw his ojiport unity, and grasped it. l)a>hing to the enem\'s right with a strong force of Cavalry, he, at the same time, attacked him vigorously in front : whilst another force of Ca\alry WBl ><-nt nuunl to take him in rear, and our IIor>e Artillery, under ( )lpherts and Kemmington. attackeil him in Hank, * Cajitain Trevor WheK-r joiiu-d tin- Kr^inicnt on its arrival at tin- 512 PREPARATIONS FOR THE FINAL ASSAULT OF LUCKNOW. 1858. creating much confusion. Just then Outram completed his plan y by flinging the Queen's Bays and Hodson's Horse at him, and February 28th, seizing two of his guns. This movement caused the 1858. enemy to reel back, but not in absolute flight. The Mutineers still received our repeated charges with a bold front ; and, notwithstanding that they had been forced to give ground, they again brought their masses of Infantry to the attack. Seizing a grove of trees in advance of a village occupied by our pickets,, who, from want of ammunition, were forced to fall back, the enemy pushing forward ; and were in the act of possessing them- selves of the village when they were met by a troop of our Cavalry, hastily dispatched to reinforce the picket ; and the village was regained. All night the enemy endeavoured to seize the left of our February 26th, position ; but, towards morning, they realized that their attempts were futile, and drew off towards the city. General Outram had been ordered, on 24th November, 1857, to firmly retain his hold on the Alambagh. For upwards of three months he had done so in the face of many difficulties ; his force of under 4000 men being opposed by an Army consisting mostly of trained soldiers, and estimated at 120,000. The trust which the Commander-in-Chief had reposed in Outram had been nobly fulfilled; and on the 1st March Sir Colin. Campbell arrived at the " Alambagh," and assumed the chief command of the Army before Lucknow ; now numbering 20,000 men the choicest in the British service and 120 guns. With this Force, not only was the capture of the city a foregone conclusion ; but any lavish expenditure of life would be unnecessary. In rear of the British camp at Alambagh where our Brigade was placed was a large jheel or morass, which, on account of the heavy rains, had assumed the proportion of an im- passable lake. Our camp in rear, was defended by an outpost called "the two-gun picket." This lake afforded protection to our rear, but when it should become dry and passable after fc PIIKI'AKATIONS FOK T II K >IK<;i: <>l' LI ('KNOW. the rainv >ea>on. it would have required a much stronger 1858. picket t<> have afforded protection to our camp. This was obviated by the ingenuity of Lieutenant Ilutchinson,* who, collecting all the spare coimuissariat elephants, walked them up and down the jhecl; so that, baked by the sun, it became a perfectly impassable bed of pitfalls. The jheel now afforded a protection as reliable as if it had been filled with water. The City of Lucknow may be said to somewhat represent the form of a triangle: the apex pointing towards the east, the north side of the triangle formed by the river Goomti, the south by a canal, and the base, facing west, about HJ miles in length, by fortified houses and works. In the centre of this triangle is the City of Lucknow, consisting of noble palaces, mosques, houses with gardens, and close, narrow, winding streets. The " Alambagh," or Garden of the World, is situated south of the apex of the triangle, and on the plain near at hand is a palace called the "Dilkusha," or the Heart's Delight, and "La Martiniere," a handsome building erected by Captain Claude Mai-tine : who, with his Company of Frenchmen, joined the IJengal Kuropean Regiment in 17ti.">. The " Alambagh " was the point from which Havelock and ( hitram had attempted the relief of the Residency on September ^."ith, 1S.~>7: and it was from this place, al>o. that Sir Colin Campbell had effected the relief on the I'l'ud of November following. A> the previous advances had been made from the direction of the " Alambagh," the enemy evidentlv anticipated that the capture of the City would on thi> occasion be attempted from the same ba>e : and they had planned their defence- accordingly. The canal on the south face of the city ITU defended by a triple line of works of enormoii> strength, erected, at a great expenditure of' labour, l>\ trained engineer:*: but the river face, 6881 and north, was comparatively undefended; and, as the left or north bank wa> higher than that on the Citv >ide, our guns could be worked with great efiect. ' N<>\\ (' IHT;I! (l.-..r^r Hutrliiiisoii. IJny;il (late Ufii^al) I 1 '.; 514 PREPARATIONS FOR THE SIEGE OF LUCKNOW. 1858. The Commander-in-Chief was fully alive to the want of judg- ment displayed by the enemy ; and formed his plan of attack so as to profit by it. He ordered a strong force under Outram to gain possession of the left bank of the river Gumti, east and north. The apex of our supposed triangle towards the east is irregular, and connected with the south or canal face of the defences by a wet, sandy channel. Sir Colin Campbell fixed his Headquarters at the "Dil- kusha," where he would remain with the main Army until assured of the success of Outram' s movement ; which was to- be made known by raising colours on the roof of a tall building, called the "Yellow House" or " Chukkur Kothi," easily visible from the top of the Dilkusha, and the occupation of which would be a sure indication that Outram' s force had succeeded in taking the enemy in reverse. The "Martiniere," situated on a plain between the "Dilkusha," and the enemy's line of works on the canal, was still held in strong force by the rebel Army. The Commander-in-Chief had 110 intention of disturbing him until, finding that Outram had suc- ceeded, he could advance with his main Army to attack the city from the south and west, when a Brigade, under Adrian Hope, would be sent forward to clear the Martiniere. The British Army was now of sufficient strength to warrant Sir Colin Campbell in dividing it into separate corps d'Armee; and he would thus be enabled to enfilade the enemy's batteries on the canal, and also effect his entry into the City without any great sacrifice of life. The plan of attack having been arranged in its minutest details, the movements of our troops commenced on March 2nd at 2 a.m.; when the 1st Bengal Fusiliers struck camp, and, with a heavy battery of siege-guns under their escort, proceeded to occupy a position somewhat in rear of the " Dilkusha." But next day orders were received to leave our camp standing, and proceed to the protection of one of our heavy batteries "-lose Till-: 1>T !',KN(.AL IIMLIKKS IN (JEN. OUTJJAM's UUIUADK. ')\'t , -,,1 to the " Mahummcd Bagh," a garden to the left of the ]858. I >ilkush:i," in the centre of which was ;i large masonry house surrounded hy well-constructed walls.. The '' Malmmmed Uagh" within TOO yards of the enemy's batteries, from which a heavy fire was being maintained: hnt no damage was done, as the !> irimenr was well under cover. Ar night the movements of the enemy could be distinctly heard; indeed, our guards were relieved by the sound of the enemy's gongs. Our heavy guns, which had now opened fire from the "Dil- kusha " and "Mahummed Bagh " batteries, soon succeeded in silencing those of the enemy; and 011 the morning of the 5th our .">th. 1^'giment returned to the "Dilkusha" camp to find that the whole of the 3rd, 5th, and 6th Brigades of the British Army, and a large portion of our siege-train, had pitched their camp close at hand. It now became known that our Brigade was to proceed with the Division under General Outram, to carry out the first [Mi't of Sir Colin Campbell's operations. The right flank of our I >ivi.-ion nearly reached the bank of the river Gumti, which, after leaving the City, makes a sudden bend to the south. Our Jeft flank stretehed out towards the " Alamhagli." whilst between the right and left flanks there was an interval, at this time occu- pied by IIod>on's llor-e. 1 ;<)() strong. On the morning of the (\{\\ of March our Division struck camp .and took ground to the right: and thus, circling round the apex of ie triangle, it would gain the ea.-t and north banks of the umti. whieh \\eiv de-lined to he the scene of our operation.-, the early morning our Ixegiment OIOMed the river by one of ie bridges whieh iiad been constructed by our Engineers. The iv l.roke bright and clear, and the goodly array of P>riti>h troops a grand sight the (^ueen'> lia\ s, t he '.Mb Lancers, and the ild trouper- of the Punjab Cavalry, with our splendid Hor-e Artillery and Light Field Uatterie-. Then on our right and left \v( ! the iMrd Koval Wel-h and I he 7'Jtb Highlanders, with two 516 1ST BENGAL FUSILIERS IN GEN. OUTEAM's BRIGADE. 1X58. Battalions of the Rifle Brigade close by: all looking ready for the work in hand. The ground was undulating, and in some places heavy ; water was scarce, and the sun soon shone out in great power ; but the troops, making a joke of their discomforts, were all cheerful and full of excitement. Just as the Regiment, after having been marching several March 6th. hours, emerged from a grove of trees, through which it had passed, on to an open plain, the sound of heavy firing wa> heard ahead. Our Horse Artillery galloped to the front, and, quickly replying with shot, grape, and shell, prevented the enemy from approaching our line. But the Fusiliers now changed position ; halting, sent pickets to the front, whilst the rest of the force,, reposing under the cool shade of a grove of trees, partook of a kind of picnic meal ; and soon proceeding on, encamped that night near Chinhut, where Sir Henry Lawrence had met with his reverse. Early on the morning of March 7th our men were aroused by an Artillery fire from the enemy close by, some of their shots passing through our camp and wounding a few of our soldiers, Our Regiment was quickly under arms ; and none too soon, for the enemy in force were seen approaching our camp. Our troops. moving to the front, caused them to halt ; and the Rifle Brigade., skirmishing very effectively, made them keep their distance, and prevented them from observing our movements, which was evidently the object they had in view. Having failed in effecting their reconnaissance, they retired ; and the villages in front were occupied by two Companies of our Regiment under Captain Salusbury. The Headquarter! now returned to camp. On this day Captain Hume joined the Bengal Fusiliers ; and in virtue of seniority assumed command. The cd. and moving up a slight incline, a sandy plain was seen at our feet, on the further side of which was a trench or outer defence: and beyond stood the u Yelk)W Ilon-e." The trench was qnicklv passed, the eneiuv driven back, and the " Yellow Ilou-e" wa< captiii'ed. Lieutenant Money led the advanced party, consisting of '1 of our Companies: and. believing that the house had lu-cii cleared of the enemy, he halted outside, but -non -(.me -hot- tY>m the base- ment of the house wounded some of our men. In the meantime the Colours of the 1st Kuropean Bengal Fu>i- liers hail been planted on the roof ,f the " Yelhw Hou-e:"but "it was discovered that, although the upper stories of the building liad been cleared of the enemv. the lar^c arched ba>eiuent was held 518 CAPTURE OF THE "YELLOW HOUSE." 1858. by a few determined rebels, who intended to sell their lives as dearly as possible. It was no easy matter to dislodge these men : for it was quite dark inside, and the basement was intersected by numerous walls. Our men advanced, and three times rushed inta- the building ; but they could see nothing, though they knew the enemy must be concealed inside. Captain E. St. George,, followed by Lieutenant Magniac, entered one of the passages, and shot some of the enemy with their revolvers; but here St. George. fell, a musket-ball having passed through his body. An attempt was now made to burn the rebels out ; some of the thatch of the old Cavalry lines close at hand being placed to windward and fired, but without effect. Holes were also made in the floor above p and live shells dropped into the passages below, which, exploding,, startled the occupants, who, nine in number dashed out, and ran the gauntlet towards the river. All fell save one, who, plunging into the stream, swam for his life, and probably might have- escaped, had not Hospital-Sergeant Wilson, who was bringing in some wounded men, taken a steady aim at the fugitive just as he reached a shallow in the centre of the stream, and he, too, rolled over, mortally wounded. We were now complete masters of the " Yellow House " and March 9th, the ground some distance in advance ; and the signal of our success had been shewn aloft to the Commaiider-in-ChieL Our loss had been small, the enemy having been taken in reverse - and whilst the Companies under Money had been employed as- just described, our troops had cleared the jungle and villages covering the position to the north and west. So confident was Outram now of success that he would have pushed further on ;. but orders were received from the Chief telling him to hold hi.- ground, but nothing more. Sir James Outram in his dispatch says " the left Column of " "attack, composed of the 1st Bengal Fusiliers supported by two " " Companies of the 79th Highlanders, carried the Chukr Kothee '*" "(or Yellow House), the key of the rebel position, in jrallant " Tin: KM: MY > U.VTTKKIKS KNFILADKD. 519 "-tvle, and thereby turned the strong line of entrenchments" 1868. which had been constructed by the enemy on the right bank " k * of the Goomtee." General Outrani now gave orders for a party of the 1st Bengal ir |,. Fusiliers to retrograde along the river bank with some heavy guns: and, having reached the junction of the (Juinti and the canal, to enfilade the enemy's batteries, which >rmed their first defence on the city side of the canal. The cpcditioii was commanded by Major Nicholson of the Engineers. ic Infantry was under Captain F. O. Salusbury. Arrived at their destination, the enemy's works were seen to be of enormous strength; but no replv was made to our enfilading fire, which raked through and through their batteries in flank. Nicholson now formed the opinion that these batteries must be deserted : and Salusbury, anxious to test the accuracy of the surmise, offered to get some boats and cross the river with his men : Nicholson refusing to sanction the proposal, as he was loth to let his gnus be left without support. Lieutenant Thomas Butler, one of Salisbury's subalterns, now came forward to solve the difficulty ; volunteering to personally ascertain whether the fortification- on the opposite bank of the river were occupied by the enemy or not. It should be borne in mind that, though it appeared that no great numbers were inside the fortifications, the chances were that there would be many of the Mutineers in or about the place; and those acquainted with the hal>its of the Natives of India will fully reali/e the danger of the task which Butler had proposed to undertake. Nichol.-on, whilst warning Butler of the risks he ran, gave his consent : and Butler, throwing off his coat, took to the stream, which wa> here some sixtv vards across, with a strong current flow- ing at the time. Arrived on the inner hank, Bu tier looked round; the inside of the enemy's works was still as silent as the grave; but, even BO, it needs some nerve to storm a fort alone. Passing to the real". Butler gained an entrance unopposed: and. mounting 520 LIEUT. THOMAS BUTLER GAIXS THE VICTORIA CROSS. 1858. on the parapet, signalled with a white flag which he had improvised, to a Staff Officer of Adrian Hope's Brigade. This Officer came near, but sent no aid ; and so Butler was left unarmed, and cold and wet, to garrison the Fort alone. Gesticulating for help, Butler was seen by an Officer of a Highland Regiment on the plain in front of the Martiniere, who, rapidly advancing with his men, occupied the Fort. The Seiks soon followed, when Butler, relieved, swam back ; having performed an act of cool and daunt- less courage, which won for him the Victoria Cross, and his Regiment the honour of adding one more to the long list of heroes who have adorned its ranks.* On the evening of the 9th March the Companies under Salusbury rejoined the Headquarters of the Regiment, and bivouacked near the " Yellow House." The success of Outram's Division was complete. He had possessed himself of the left bank of the river, occupied the " Badshah Bagh " and its surroundings, silenced the enemy's batteries on the right bank of the river, and finally enfiladed those on the south face of the triangle, forcing him to vacate his defences. It was now time for Sir Colin Campbell to act. On the morning of the 9th the Commander-in-Chief, seeing through his telescope the Colours of the 1st Bengal Fusiliers floating on the top of the " Yellow House," sent Brigadier Adrian Hope with his Brigade to seize the Martiniere. This was quickly done, the enemy having withdrawn their guns across the canal. The 42nd Highlanders, forming part of this Brigade, had * Extract from " The Victoria Cross, an Official Chronicle." " Lieutenant Thomas Adair Butler Date of act of bravery 9th March, " " 1858. Of which success the skirmishers on the other side of the river were " " subsequently apprised by Lieutenant Butler of the Bengal Fusiliers, who " " swam across the Goomtee, and, climbing the parapet, remained in that " " position for a considerable time under a heavy fire of musketry until the '* "work was completed." Krfract from Lteutenant-Geiieral Sir James Out'am's Memorandum of Operation* t tlF MA.101I W. S. HUDSON. 521 r -lievcd Lieutenant Butler of his charge, and then swept down the 185S. l : ne <>t' work-. penetrating as far as Banks'fl house. Next day. the lOtli, there was sonic skirmishing, but our Regi- i lent was not engaged. Our cam]) changed ground, but was still in rear of the "Yellow House:'' which was not occupied, us the Regiment bivouacked out until the morning of the llth, when it took po-sessiou without opposition of a Mosque which commanded the iron bridge, nearly opposite to the Maclii P>awn. But, during this day. vast progress had been made by the main Army under Campbell. The two sides of our triangle had been completely (gained; and the base had been assaulted with such success that l>ank>'s IIoHsr" and the "Begum Koti " were occupied before ilghtfall, and the " Kaisar l>agh " or "King's Palace" was almost within our grasp. It was at the storm of the "Begum Koti" that Major \V. S. Ilodson,* of the 1st Bengal European Regi- ment and Commandant of "Hodson's Horse," was mortally wounded. Major llod>on. who had ordered his Regiment to parade, pre- paratory to crossing the canal, rode to the front to select a fitting -pot : bin .-eeing Brigadier Napier advancing on the "Begum Koti." Ilnd.-on joined his force; and after pa.-sing through the breach he pressed forward to >ee what was going on inside, when -hot fired by a Mutineer from a window entered his side, giving lim hi- death-wound. Ilod.-ou's ,-hort career wa> one of marvellous brilliancy ; and, lad he not .-uccumbed to his wound, it is more than likely that ie would have lived to be one of England's ^reate.-t >oldiers. >ut it was otherwise decreed. Ilodson had many friends, but ie had .-ome enemies: and we a.-k these latter to sav of his leinory a- of his soul " Jlequi&Cai in j On the llth. ll'th, Kith, and llth of March, although the lin Army, under Sir Colin Campbell, was making vast pmgi in IlmUm lial received his Brevet-Majurity for distinguished rvi<-. - 522 PROGRESS OF THE MAIN ARMY UNDER CAMPBELL. 1858. pushing its way into the very heart of Lucknow, our Division* was comparatively inactive. Outram, burning with anxiety to take a leading part in the fray, sent to the Commander-in-Chief,. to ask permission to be allowed to cross the iron bridge, but Sir Colin's policy was irrevocable; India was reeking with British blood, and the capture of the City of Lucknow must be accomplished without needless loss of life. Awaiting the Chief's reply, Outram drew up his troops opposite the bridge, the tete-du-pont of which was occupied in great force by the enemy, who, with some guns, which they were serving welly prepared to dispute our passage across ; these occasionally firing at our troops, and doing some injury ; one of the bullets, passing^ through Lieutenant Ellis's padded coat, and slightly wounding Captain Salusbury in the left leg. An Aide-de-Camp now arrived with the Chief's reply, which only gave permission to Outram to cross the iron bridge, if he could do so without the loss of a single man. This condition; rendered the assault impossible, without disobeying orders ; so Outram unwillingly withdrew his troops. Before the loth the main Army had stormed the "Imam Bara," March llth to loth, the second line of the enemy's works being thus 1858. turned. On the 14th the Chief penetrated to the China Bazaar ; and thus the third line of the enemy's defences was gained. The "Moti Mahal," the " Chat tar Munzil " Palace.. the " Tara Koti," all fell into our hands ; and, before the day was over, the "Kaisar Bagh" was captured. Its cellars, con- March 14th, taining embroidered cloths of priceless worth, gold and silver ornaments, jewels of every description, diamond tiaras, and gorgeous Royal Standards, banners, china, jade, and every kind of valuable, all fell into our hands. The captors, " drunk with plunder," revelled in the spoil, heaping on a bonfire in the centre court the rich brocades and gold embroidered shawls, in order that they might collect the melted gold. <;I:N. OtJTRAJi's IIIMCADK KNTF.K u < KNOW. 523 By this time the Mutineers were streaming out from the 1858. captured city; and Outram'e Brigade returned to camp hchind the " Yellow House," where, for the first time for five days and nights, the men were unaCCOUtred. On the llith of March our Brigadier received permission to cro>s the river near Sccundra Bagh," over a hastily-constructed pontoon bridge, floating on casks; so, marching past the i\'2m\ me-house or, rather, where the house had stood we reached the " Kaisar Bagh," when an attack was ordered to he made on tin- ".Residency," which still contained some of the rebel troops. A rush in the face of a few wild shots, and the "Residency" was in our hands: the defence of which now formed a feeble contrast to the occasion on which Outrain and Havelock, with their hravc Residency force, held the position for months, in the very teeth of countless multitudes. Our troops, still pushing on, seized the ruined Fortress of " Machhi Bawn," from which Captain Salusbury. with his Company, pushed on up to- 'he gateway overlooking the "Ilusanee Bagh," capturing three guns upon the river-hank, and one at the gateway of the len Lieutenant Charles Macgregor.' attached to our Regiment, usual, to the front, and greatly distinguished himself by igaging in single combat with "one of the bravest of the" rebels." whom he reduced to eternal Mihmis>ioii by sending is sword through his body up to its hilt. Brougham MJ8, Mac returned looking very warm and exeeedinglv wild and" The detached dutio upon which our Regiment was now ;th L'oth. employed were not unattended with danger, tor Lieutenant.- Maxwell and Ellis ncarlv came to an itimely end. One ot' our >oldicr>, having mi>undei->tood his -, >et fire to a powder iactor\ : which, exploding, >erioii>lv No\v Maj'.r (inn-nil Sir Charlrs Mac-i -..!. K.C.I',., ( >.I. ( .I.K.. tT -( ii'iu-ral of tlio Army in 524 THE CAPTURE OF LUCKXOW. 1858. injured four of our men; but, happily, there was no loss of life. Lieutenant Ellis, who was near at hand at the time of the explosion, escaped minus his eyebro\vs, whiskers, and moustache, and was fortunate enough not to lose his sight. By the 21st of March the city of Lucknowhad been completely cleared of the Mutineers ; and a few days after the townspeople commenced to return to their homes. Gradually the shops were opened, buildings repaired, and the streets were again crowded with citizens eager to trade. The fields around became green with cultivation, the dead lay silent in their graves, and all was peace again. During the operations against Lucknow the following Officers of the 1st Bengal Fusiliers were wounded : Captain Salusbury (slightly). Captain St. George (dangerously). Lieutenant Ellis (slightly). # rank and file being killed and 21 wounded. The total loss of the British Army was 127 killed and 595 wounded. During the following April a flying Column under Major- General Sir Hope Grant was organized to restore confidence in the Fyzabad district, and rid the country of some powerful bands of Mutineers, who were looting the villages and destroying the peace of the inhabitants. The 1st European Bengal Fusiliers served with Sir Hope Grant's force. On the 13th of April an engagement took place against some thousands of the rebels near Baree ; when an attempt was made to seize our baggage, which straggled over o miles. The 1st Bengal Fusiliers were ordered to assist the rear-guard in repelling the attacks of the enemy's Cavalry, who had succeeded in rounding the village, the point of our assault. They were charging down on the baggage when they encountered Nos. 5. and 6 Companies of the Eegiment under Captain Cunliffe, who, allowing the Cavalry to come within 30 yards at the charge, said, ik Steady, men, and give them a volley." The order was carried out so efficiently, and the -KM::\IIMM-> AI-TKI: TIII-: CAI'TI 1:1: OF LIT/KNOW. ~>'>~) :iiin of our soldiers was so true, that a vast number of tin- enemy tell and the remainder fled. The rebel Cavalry was said, on this occasion, to nave been commanded in person by "The Moolvie," one of the principal leaders of the Lucknow rebellion. This man had been formerly !laced in irons by our Commissioner for sedition; but, having scaped, became our bitterest enemv. During September the 1st Bengal European Kegiment was employed in driving a large force of Mutineers from an island in the river Gogra. not far from Durriabad, where the Regiment was quartered. The expedition was completely successful, the enemy being defeated with heavy loss. In this engagement the Regiment had one man killed, and four wounded: again on the lith October the Mutineers were attacked, and this time dispersed with the loss of main men and one gun; finally, on the 30th October, Captain Trevor Wheler,* of the 1st Bengal Fusiliers, commanded a force, with which were about 200 rank and tile of hi> Regiment under Lieutenant W. \Varner, a troop of Hodson's Horse under Lieutenant F. Brown of the 1st Bengal Fusiliers, and about !'.<)() Artillery. Native Cavalry and Infantry. Whelcr's force left Durriabad on the early morning of ttOth October, and. having marched rapidly for about 15 miles, Came on :he track of a large body of the Mutineers near Xawab-Gunge. 'ursuit was ordered, and the detachment, - after marching for l " miles through a countrv much intersected by ravines, came " upon the enemy's piekets. These wen- speedily dislodged. '' ami the movement for attacking the main body was at once " commenced although somewhat impeded by our having to " Cross a nullah, which required to be partially bridged before " our guns could cn over. This difficulty overcome our advance became a rapid one. ami having come upon the main body a running tight was kept up for more than two hour- " and over more than five miles of country. In this advan-- " Nn\v Colonel Sir Trrvor Wlu-lcr. IJjirt. 526 SAHADIT, THE LAST SKIRMISH. 1858. " the enemy was driven from village to village and eventually " " discomfited at Sahadit-Gtmgc, where we captured 5 guns, " " complete, with bullocks and munitions of war, one elephant " " and much baggage." ' This skirmish is specially worthy of notice on two accounts. It was the last occasion on which the Regiment, under its time- honoured designation of 1st European Bengal Fusiliers, was engaged against the enemy ; and, secondly, it was the first engagement in which Ensign Cavagnari who had lately been gazetted to the Regiment had been engaged ; his Commanding Officer specially recording " with satisfaction the cool courage " of this promising young Officer, who, as Major Sir Louis Napoleon Pierre Cavagnari, K.C.S.L, nobly sustained at Cabul in 1879 the character he had established thus early in his career, and added one more to the long list of heroes who have shed lustre on the annals of the " Bengal European Regiment." In March, 1859, the 1st European Bengal Fusiliers returned to Lieutenant T. A. Butler, V.C. their station at Dugshai, arriving Lieutenant Frank D. M. Brown, V.C. April 18th, after two years as severe Sergeant J. M. Guire, V.C. and continuous campaigning, as per- Private J. McGovern, V.C. ] ul p S Wils ever experienced by any Drummer M. Ryan, V.C. Regiment; and during which its Officers, and rank and file, had gained no less than five Victoria Crosses. The Sepahi Mutiny War was now over. The neck of the rebel Mutiny had been broken at Delhie, its heart had been plucked out at Lucknow, and its limbs had been severed from its carcase far and wide. The rebellion which had assumed such gigantic propor- tions, and caused British supremacy in India to tremble in the balance, had been fought out ; and it will ever be remembered with pride that it was the 1st Bengal Fusiliers who led the main storm- ing-party at the Siege of Delhie, fulfilling the confidence placed in them with courage and determination unsurpassed in British history. * Extract from dispatch dated Durriabad, 31st October, 1S.">S. Till: KM) <)F THK Ml" TINY WAR. All honor, then, to the multitude of brave >oldiers who gave 1858. their lives and blood to uphold and extend the glory of England; jind all honor to the Regiments who fought so well to retain under British rule thu>e Indian Possession.- of which England is - . ju>tly proud, and which form the brightest jewel in her Imperial Crown. CHAPTER XX. HILST the 1st European Bengal Fusiliers was quartered at Durriabad 1858 a Proclamation* was issued by the Queen of England intimating that Her Majesty had assumed the Government of India from the East India Company ; that the troops in the Indian Service would be transferred to that of the Crown ; and, in 1861, a Royal warrant f directed the amalgamation of the European troops lately in the service of the Company with those of the Royal Army. In 1857 the Regular Army of the East India Company numbered 237,476 soldiers; of whom 15,207 { were enlisted in Great Britain. The Company, which may aptly be described as having been a Republic under the suzerainty of the Crown of England, had ruled with liberality and consideration for the feelings and interests of its servants for upwards of 250 years; engendering feelings of regard and gratitude towards a highly-popular form of government. The conditions of its service suited the require- ments of those younger sons who sought to be the fathers of their own fortunes; and to whom a Commission in the Indian Service was not only a provision for life, but promised a career to the deserving of honour and distinction. * See Appendix D. f See Appendix E. % In addition to these troops in the Company's service, there were 24,263 soldiers of the Royal Army in receipt of pay from the East India Company. AMALGAMATION. 529 Service in the ranks of the Company's European Army suited, 1858. in many instances, not only the class from amongst which our recruits are usually obtained, but was adapted to those of all grades of life, who, for various reasons, wished to lose their identity, to disconnect the new from the old life, and to obtain employment in a land from which return to their native country S in exceptional cases only, attainable. Of the many such found their way into the ranks of the Company's European jiments. by far the larger proportion became an honour instead a disgrace to their country. Right Iv or wrongly, it was with feelings of apprehension that it realized by a large number of the Company's servants that time had arrived for a change which would uproot old associa- , and possibly deprive them of privileges hitherto exclusively ir own: and, further, there were far-seeing men who, as in >x's time, dreaded that India, under the immediate control of the nie Government, might be sacrificed to party ambition; and n the safety of our Indian Empire jeopardized, to create a ihble popularity in the see-saw of public opinion at home. lly, there were many who thought that the nomination of the >vernor-General of India by a non-political body had been a irantee that our Ea>tern Possessions would be protected from danger of falling a prey to party politics in England, tending lower the Governors of India and their officials in the estima- m of its people. The Company'- Army had at all times been conspicuous for loyalty and devotion to the Crown : having for centurio jht under the British Hag, its soldiers ever foremost in the KiiLi'Iand'.- honour; and it was no lack of loyalty that i>rd M.nie of its >er\ants to view with apprehension and iv the change which had become inevitable. It tells wrll tor the internal dix-ipline of the 1st European ngal Fu>iliers that, although after the annexation proclamation 'lowed an interregnum of year-, during which the Officers 1 M 530 AMALGAMATION. 1858. of the European Regiments were removed to a general list, and directed to " do duty " only with their former Regiments, and although a large proportion of the Company's European Army was in a dissatisfied state, closely bordering on mutiny, there was no single instance of insubordination in the ranks of this Regiment. Under the Royal Warrant the amalgamation of the Indian with the British Armies was effected ; the Officers and men of the Indian European Regiments being invited to volunteer for general service. The Commissioned Officers were guaranteed, under Act of British Parliament, all the retiring and other privileges which they had held under the East India Company ; the rank and file being offered a bounty for volunteering, and to count their former service for pension. It was further announced that Her Majesty had been pleased to confer upon the 1st European Bengal Fusiliers the honourable designation of the " 101st Royal Bengal Fusiliers ; " the 2nd European Bengal Fusiliers being nominated the " 104th Bengal Fusiliers." The volunteering of the 1st Bengal European Regiment took place on May 2nd, 1861, when the following 17 out of 39 Officers with 588 rank and file volunteered for the 101st Royal Bengal Fusiliers : Major A. Hume, Lieutenant M. Hall, Captain (Brevet-Major) F. O. T. A. Butler, V.C., Salusbury, N. H. Wallace, E. Brown, F.D.M. Brown, Y.C., G. C. Lambert, W. S. Jervis, R. G. F. Hickey, W. H. Warner, N. Tc Parsons, J. C. Partridge, Lieutenant L. B. Magniac, G. IT. Holley, J. W. Darnell, T. E. Harden. AMALGAMATION. 531 LIST OF THE FIRST OFFICERS OF Il.M. 101ST REGIMENT (ROYAL BENGAL FUSILIERS). ,'' "ISrxAi:." " GUZEUAT," " DEIG," " "AFGHANISTAN," " ( I III XNF.i:." " FEKO/SII All,'' "SoBKAON," "PEUr," "DELHIE," "LUCKXOW." RANK NAMES. BANK. NAMES. Colonel Lieutenant Nelson Ellis. Ijeut.-Colonel . G. S. Goad. Major .. A. Hume. H. H. Chapman. F. O. Salusbury. 5) W. S. Jervis. < Captain E. Brown (Bt. Mjr.J W. H. Warner. M G. C. Lambert. >i J. C. Partridge. R. G. F. Hickey. 5J M. C. Smith. X. T. Parsons. J> J. S. Bagshaw. 5 C. .M. L. Clark. n A. Harrison. II. (I. Pclaf. n C. W. RiggB, Major). ?> G. H. Holky. H. C. Moller. J. E. HanU-n. < S. A. Hunter. Ensigns C. Pakriihum. - L. B. Magniac. II. P. Airey. J. W. Danirll. A. Peel 79 M. Hall. F. O. Fulh-r W. L. L",,is. K. 11. A. (^uinet Lieutenant T. A. P.utlrr. V.C. C M Si,,cklry. N. H. Walla.-,- (^uart- miaster . !'. Farraut. F. D. M. Brown, V.C. I'niforiM. Scarlrt. Facin-s. I>luo. 532 AMALGAMATION. LIST OF THE FIRST OFFICERS OF H.M. 104TH REGIMENT (BENGAL FUSILIERS). " PUNJAUB," " CHILLIANWALLAH," " GOOZERAT," " PEGU," " DELHIE." EANK. NAMES. RANK. NAMES. Colonel Lieutenant L. Smith. Lieut. -Colonel . W. Birch. T. A. Hunter. Major G. Gayiior. C Piou. J. Bleaymire. V^ J- fe T. H. Lewin. Captain W. D. Harris (Bt. Mj.) C. M. Boswell. " H J. J. Hockley. W. R. Birney. C. H. E. Grseme. H. M. Evans. C. Clark. M. G. Taylor D. W. Becher. H. Spalding J. Hind. H T. J. Quin. L. J. Trotter. H. Carter. A. Willes. ,. W. II. Brind. > J. G. Campbell. H. P.iEvans. G. A. Bishop. Ensigns H. F. Showers. F. J. Conway- Gordon R. C.fRichardson. ,, C. K. Mylne. ]\I. F. Stokes. Lieutenant Sir. A. K. Lake, Bt. H. J. Woodward. r A. L. Douglas. Uniform, Scarlet* Facings, Blue. AMALGAMATION. 533 The following 15 out of 41 Officers of the 2nd Bengal 1858, European Regiment volunteered for II. M. 104th Bengal Fusiliers : Lieutenant G. A. Bishop, Captain (Brevet-Major) G. Gay n or, Captain (Brevet-Major) T. Bleaymire, W. D. Harris, ( J. Clark, I). W. Becker, L. J. Trotter, Lieutenant A. Willes, SirA.K.Lake,Bart., A. L. Douglas, T. A. Hunter, H. Spalding, H. Carter, W. H. Brincl, H. P. Evans. Distinct reference has not been made to those European legiments in the East India Company's service both Cavalry Infantry \vhich were hastily raised in England for service in 'iigal in consequence of the Indian Mutiny ; for these Regi- were in no way connected with the services of the Bengal Snropean Regiment. Owing to the imincnx' interests at stake, and the vast numbers >f individuals who were concerned, the process of amalgamation, unmeneing with the Royal Proclamation, November 1st, 1858, vas not finally carried out until after a lapse of upwards of o years. During this interval serious complications arose, Inch, at one time, threatened to assume the form of a European [utiny. The tn.op>. with >ome -how of justice, put forward a claim a "bounty" on transferring their >ervices from the Companv the Crown: but on its having been announced that the ''bounty" claimed wa> granted, all di>cimtent disappeared, and the prnce-- ..f amalgamation was peaceably ejected. His Royal liglme the Field-Marshal Commanding-in-( 'hief then 5>Mird the following (icneral Order: "'Hie (leneial Commauding-in-( 'hief has received Her" 534 AMALGAMATION. 1858 " Majesty's commands to make known to the British Army " " serving in India that the arrangements for consolidating the "" " European forces of the Crown in that country have now " " been completed." " His Royal Highness hails with satisfaction an event which " he trusts may be conducive to the best interests of the " " Empire, whilst it will be of advantage to the troops whom it " " may concern." " He feels persuaded that the glorious deeds of arms for " " which the Line and Local Troops have been ever conspicuous " " will not be forgotten by them now that they are about to join " " one united Army, and that the only feeling of rivalry which " " will henceforth exist between the various corps will be a high " " spirit of emulation as regards discipline and good conduct " " during peace, and of gallant bearing and devotion, should their " " services be hereafter called for in the field." " In the name of the Army, the Commander-in-Chief most " " heartily and cordially welcomes to the ranks of the general " " service of the Crown, the Officers, Non-Commissioned Officers, " " and soldiers of the local services of the three Presidencies in " " India," " GEORGE," " General Commanding-in-Chief." Lieutenant-General A. B. Roberts, C.B., who had for many years commanded the Bengal European Regiment, was appointed its Colonel; and Lieutenant-Colonel (now Major-General) F. O. Salusbury, C.B., who had served in the Regiment since 1842 r shortly afterwards assumed command of H.M. 101st Royal Bengal Fusiliers ; and under this latter Officer the Regiment took a prominent part in the Umbeyla Campaign, specially distinguishing itself on the 13th November, 1863, when, led by Colonel Salus- bury, it carried at the point of the bayonet the " Craig's picket, ' v RECAPITULATION. :i difficult position in the- upper heights, which had fallen into the 1858. enemy's hands.* II. M. 101st Foot evinced throughout this campaign, the same courage, discipline, and efficiency for which, a- the " Bengal European Regiment," it had ever been prominently distinguished. On the I'.'jth (f February, l it -elf: the 1st and '2nd Bengal European Regiments again united under one designation, and although its new :itle bears no reference to the country or service in which these >attalion> gained such >ignal distinctions, we may rest assured the "Royal Munstcr Fusiliers" will ever maintain the iru< ter tor loyalty, discipline, and courage, displayed by its M-edecosor, the Bengal European Regiment. RECAPITULATION. "The History of the Bengal European Regiment: and I low Helped to Win India" has been told; its triumphs and its rieS, itfl reverses and its failings, have all been faithfully re- rded: it> birth, infancy, and Military maturity forming perhaps c must varied and extraurdinary narrative of the career of v Military body to be found in ancient or modern history. F<>r a niiiiv detailed account of the Umbeyla Campaign see Appendix F. Frontispiece. 536 RECAPITULATION. 1858. The Officers and soldiers composing the " Bengal European Battalion" entered upon their Military duties far from their Native land, and on arrival in India they found themselves embodied in the service of the East India Company, without the prestige, patronage, or support of their parental Government; their career embracing as varied records of Military adventure, hardships, daring, and victory as can be found in Greek or Roman history. Embarked in their profession, they had to advance into and subdue vast provinces, and even Kingdoms, supported by trained Armies, enormous wealth, and unknown resources. Engaged in these campaigns, they had to endure heat greater than that of Parthia or Persia ; to traverse swamps and forests at least equal to those described by Tacitus in Germania or Holland ; it may safely be said that in the early part of their history they had scarce a better or safer base of operations than Cortes or Pizarro ; and that, in fact, they carried this base with them, in their own self-reliance, fortitude, and courage ; and had these attributes failed, then there was nothing left but flight, dispersion, and death. For many years of the East India Company's wars and conquests, the Bengal European Regiment, expanding at times into several Battalions, formed the main strength of the small Armies which conquered and annexed the vast provinces and kingdoms now forming the Presidency of Bengal; in whose fortunes, it may be said, rested the supremacy of British power and the foundation and consolidation of our Indian Empire in Bengal. The achievements which led to this crowning result have been detailed in the preceding pages ; but, in addition, we will take a panoramic view of the signal and glorious exploits of this Regiment. Commencing with the defeat of Native Armies in Lower Bengal, they soon afterwards carried the British flag into the North- Western Provinces of India; deposed and appointed the Nawabs of Bengal, brought the Nawab Vazir of Oude, and even the Mogul RECAPITULATION. 537 Emperor of Hindustan, as allies or suppliants into the British 1858. "amp. In this career they confronted, defeated, and pursued the Marathas and the Kohillas : dietated the Government of the dngdom of Oude ; and replaced upon his apparently lost throne ic blind and persecuted Mogul Emperor. Thus far we have lanced at tin; services and conquests in which the Bengal inropean Regiment took part in the early days of its career against the Native powers: but, serious as w r ere the dangers LCOnntered and obstacles overcome, more serious and more mgerous were the wars in which the Regiment took part i i nst the French and the Dutch for the possession of iindustan: skilled Commanders, with well-disciplined Armies, >k the field against the British, either as opponents with lative allies, or as subsidiary forces with Native Monarchs or taetenders. These campaigns, in which the Bengal European Regiment took prominent a part, finally swept away the flcwr-do-ly* of France id the tricolor of the Dutch from the plains and Fortresses of ia : and left England further unmolested by foreign inter- 'rence. to pui>ue her career of dominion and civilization up to ur own time. But their victories were not confined to Bengal alone. Twice, ider most critical circumstances, the Regiment went to the aid the >ister Presidency if Madras: and there, in two separate unpaigns. vindicated the power and honour of the British arms linst vastly superior numb. Then followed the battle and the strm of Deig. the disastrous ir-i sieges of Bhurtpore, and the second Maratha and Pindaric r aw. To these wars succeeded a com])aratively long period of peace, luring which were effected in the Regiment many improvements internal economy, impracticable during the turmoil of war and ip life. At the second siege of Bhurtpore the l>t Bengal European 538 RECAPITULATION. 1858. Regiment, in this state of efficiency, took a prominent part in the operations under Combermere ; the final siege and capture of this Fortress, which in 1805 had resisted onr repeated assaults. After this memorable campaign there again followed a period of cantonment life of thirteen years, until the outbreak of the Afghan War in 1839, when the Bengal European Regiment formed part of the British Army of invasion under Sir John Keane ; whose marches through deserts and passes, with the hardships endured, the assault and capture of the Fortress of Ghuznee, and subjection of Cabul, have been fully detailed. But a short interval of peace intervened for the 1st Bengal European Light Infantry up to the sudden invasion of our territory by the Seiks in 1845; the Battles of Ferozshah and Sobraon, Avith the details of exploits and terrible sacrifice of life, have been recorded, as well as the expressions of gratitude received from H.M. the Queen, the Parliament of England, the Commander-in-Chief, and the Government of India, In 1852, the 1st European Bengal Fusiliers and the 2nd European Regiment traversed India from Meerut to Calcutta, to embark for Burmah, where they took prominent part in the operations which led to the defeat of the Burmese, the capture of Rangoon, and the annexation of Pegu. But four years of tranquillity until the outbreak of the great Indian Mutiny 1857 in withstanding and subduing the storm of which both the 1st and 2nd Bengal Fusiliers took such distinguished parts, from Budlee-ka-Serai, on the 8th June, through the investment, storm, and capture of Delhie, up to the termination of the war, October, 1858 ; including many minor and difficult operations. The reader may probably have surmised that a Regiment born under such rude circumstances, and amidst such untutored sur- roundings, brought up in the distraction of campaigns, battles, and sieges, and scarcely in communication with Europe, might have been defective in the performance of Military duties, and RECAPITULATION. 539 rarelos in many of the requisite accessories of Regimental 1< training. Such, however, was by n< means the case; for when thoc European Regiment* were relegated to the British Crown, they were not in any Military attribute or social organization, a whit inferior to any Kcgiment in the British Line, past or m. Into that Line, on the 2nd May, 1861, passed the Bengal >pcan Kegiment, with its decorations and its services richly i blazoned, gloriously renowned, and brightly coloured with lat impalpable halo called Glory the glory of Duty well jrformed. YIYAT IMPERATRIX. APPENDICES, APPENDIX. 543 PPENDIX A. DECORATION-. IN the year I*L'*. the 1st Bengal European Regiment bore upon its Colours the following decorations : IMassey." Kohilcund," " Mysore," "Deig," ' Bhurtpore." The -Jnd Bengal Kuropean Regiment bore upon its Colours the same decorations, with the exception of " Bhurtpore," at the siege of which it was not present. In the year 1830, these Regiments appear in the " East India Register " as bearing the decoration " (Ju/.erat " in substitution for " Mysore," and in 1831 " Buxar " was substituted for " Rohilcund." At this time the 2nd Bengal European Regiment had become the Left Wing of "The Bengal European Regiment" I full Hi- fimf. The decoration "Rohilcund," was borne upon the Colours of the Regiment in commemoration of the two Rohilla campaigns, 1774and 1794, in both of which the old 2nd Bengal European Regiment served before it was absorbed into the 1st in 180:>. when the latter inherited the decoration; and it is unaccountable why "Rohilcund" should subsequently have been withdrawn. Milton. Although the Bengal European Regiment was not present at any aetion fought in "Mysore." it had rendered singularly distinguished services against llaidar All. the ruler of Mysore, when he invaded the Carnatic. Full el-tails of tliis ranipaign have been recorded in Chapter XL, and it appears highly probable that as no decoration independent of medals was, at the time, granted for the four years' campaign against llaidar All, that the word "Mysore* 1 was subsequently placed on the Colours of the Regiment for the same service; some of the Regiments of the Bengal Native Infantry bore the word Carnatie" on their Colours, but the decoration was not granted to I"..M. 7:'>rd,* the Bengal, or the Madras Kuropean Regiments, although the last \\as allowed to wear the decoration Sholingur." It is clear, then, that if the _.d Kuropean Regiment did not bear either Mysore " or " Carnatic " on its ('..lours, it was entitled to ' Sholingur." which was granted to the 1 'in-lit of Madias for the same service, and inherited by " The Royal Dublin Fusiliers." Ot The decoration. < lu/.erat." which is borne on the Colours of The Royal Minister Fusiliers." and which was granted to tin- IJengal European Regiment" in substitution of one of the decorations withdrawn, is ill commemoration of the campaign in "(iu/erat" in the Bombay Presidency. 1804-'). In the first "Onsen*" war. 1780, under General (ioddard, no ' AfUnvards the 71st Foot; now 1st Battalion Highland Lilit Infantry. 544 APPENDIX. Bengal European soldiers were employed, and even had they served during that war no decoration was granted. In the second " Guzerat " campaign,. 1804-5, under Colonel Murray, some of the Bengal Native Infantry Regiments served ; and the decoration " Guzerat " was granted to such Regiments, but the- " Bengal European Regiment " was at this time fighting, under General Lake,. at the battle and siege of " Deig," and the unsuccessful assaults on Bhurtpore. The Regiment, not having been present during either of the campaigns in " Guzerat," was not entitled to the decoration. Whilst reviewing the subject of " Decorations," prominent reference must be made to " Condore " having been placed on the Colours of the Madras European Regiment, and inherited by the Royal Dublin Fusiliers, in place of on those of the Bengal European Regiment, which was the only British Regiment employed in the campaign in the Northern Circars, under Colonel Forde, during which the memorable battle of " Condore " and the celebrated siege of " Mussulipatam " were fought. It is a crying injustice to the " Royal Munster Fusiliers" that it should be denied the Decoration, " Condore," to which it is clearly entitled. The subject of the Decorations to which the Royal Munster Fusiliers are entitled was referred, in April, 1883, by Colonel Montagu Hall (then com- manding the Regiment) to the Horse Guards. The correspondence was forwarded to the India Office for report. Lord Kimberley states that " The Bengal European Regiment " was present at the action of " Condore," but the " Madras European Regiment " was not ; and that, in his opinion, " Con- dore " should be placed on the Colours of the Royal Munster Fusiliers. See Appendix B, and G.O., Commander-in- Chief in India, November 22nd, 1868 ; also Military Department, Fort St. George, September, 1877, &c. The Decorations to which "The Royal Munster Fusiliers," as successor to the 1st and 2nd Bengal European Regiments, is entitled, are as follows : "Plassey," "Condore," "Buxar," " Rohilcund," " Sholingur," "Deig," "Bhurtpore," "Afghanistan," " Ghuznee," " Ferozshuhur," " Sobraon," " Pun- jaub," " Chillianwallah," "Goozerat," "Pegu," "Delhi," " Lucknow." APPENDIX B. GOVERNOR-GENERAL'S TRIBUTE TO H.M. 101ST ROYAL BENGAL FUSILIERS. HEADQUARTERS, November 2nd, 1868. "The Commander-in-Chief in India " " has great satisfaction in [publishing the Right Honourable the Governor- " " General's order, No. 1010, of October 30th, 1868, in favour of the 101st " " Royal Bengal Fusiliers." " As shown by this order, the record of this Regiment contains the history " " of the advance of the British Arms from Calcutta to the Indus, and in- " " eludes many campaigns beyond the limit of India." APPENDIX. 545 ' Ft is with a feeling of no ordinary gratification that His Excellency is able " ; - to assure the 101st Foot, when bidding the corps farewell, that in point of " " order, discipline, and efficiency the Regiment, as now organized, is well " 4i worthy of its glorious history." "No. 1010, dated Octobei 80th, 1*08. The 101st Royal Bengal Fusiliers " " being about to proceed to Kngland. His Excellency the Viceroy and" \ernor-(;eneral in Council cannot allow this Regiment, the nucleus" " of which has existed in this Presidency, in some shape or another, for " *' more than L'<>I> years, and which has been formed as a Regiment, expanding " " at times into several Battalions, for 112 years, to take its departure with- ' " out expressing in the strongest terms the appreciation of the Government " " of India of its most valuable and distinguished services." Sueessively as the I'.engal European Regiment, the 1st European Regi- " in. nt. the 1st European Light Infantry, and the 1st Bengal European " " Fusiliers, tin- Kegiment served the Honourable the East India Company for " " more than loo years : and besides being actively engaged in nearly every " " part of its own Presidency, was detached to the Northern Circars of the " Iras Presidency in 17.">x, and has subsequently served out of Bengal, in " ' tic Carnatic, in Java, in the Island of Celebes, in Afghanistan from" ' (ilm/.nee in one direction to Pushoot on the borders of Koonur in another, " ' ; and in P>urmah." M The distinguished conduct of the Regiment in the field as the senior " I'.attalion of Infantry of the Piengal Army was proverbial; and its Colours " covered with the names of operations in which it bore a prominent " " part. Some air not thus recorded, but the following list includes the more " 11 imiMirtant of the campaigns, battles and sieges in which the Regiment" has lit-en engaged : Defence of Fort William, against Suraj-o'-daulah in 1756, when four" " Companies, of which the Corps was composed, were almost annihilated." " Capture of the Fort of Budge Budge, recapture of Calcutta, battle of " ;p'Me. siege and capture of Chandernagore, capture of the Fort of" M Kutwa. and l.attle of Plassey, 1756-1757." < Mpaign against the French in the Northern Circars, in 1759, including " " the battle of Coiidore, and the siege and capture of Musulipatam." - D, feat ,,f the Dutch force at P.edarrah. L759." Campaign against the Kmp.-n.r of Delhie 1760-61, including the battles " pore, Ileei-jior,'. and Suan, in which latter the French Mercenaries" ' \\.-re .lefeated, and theii 1 leader, the celebrated !M. Law. taken prisoner." \Var against the Meei- Kassim. rx-Nawab "f Mursliedabad. 17('':'>-65, and " "present at the l.attle of Manjee. near Patna, where four Companies" '- wen- over\vlielmeuch a Corps to take its place in England with the Bat- " talions of Her Mit Gracious Majesty there stationed." By order of H.E. the Comraander-in-Chief," " II. E. LONGDEN, COLONEL," " Adjutant-General" APPENDIX C. NOTIFICATION. "FORT WILLIAM, FOREIGN DEPARTMENT." 30th June, 1853. IN the proclamation by which the Province of Pegu was annexed to the " British Dominions in the Kast. the Governor-General in Council declared " tluit he desired no further conquest in Burmah, and was willing to consent " that liostilities should cease. Thereafter the Burman troops were " everywhere withdrawn. The King was dethroned by his brother, the " M. ii-d'ion Prince, and an envoy was sent from Aven to sue for peace. " The Bui-man envoy, confessing their inability to resist the power of the " British Government and submissively soliciting its forbearance, announced " its \\illin-ii. to si-ii a 'Treaty in accordance with the Proclamation, " objectin-- only \n the frontier being placed at Meaday. The Government " of India, while it maintained its undoubtful right to fix the frontier where " it had been placed, at the same time gave signal proof of the sincerity of " its desin- for the renewal of friendly relations between the states; for, in " the hope of at once concluding a treaty of peace, the Governor-General in " Council consented to withdraw the frontier from Meaday. and to place it " in strict continuity to the most liberal wording of the Proclamation, " immediately to tin- northward of Pr<>me and Toung -itics, which have" been described at all times as within the Northern limits of Pegu, in the oflicial records of transactions between the tv. But when this concession was offered, the Burnian envoy, wholly" receding from his previous declarations, refused to assent to any ta fttj by " which a cessimi of territory should be made. Thereupon the negotiations " fci once broken off. the frontier of the British territories was finally" lived to the northward of Meaday and Toungoo, and the envoy was " directed to ([iiit the camp." The envoy proceeded to the capital, whence he has now conveyed to " 548 APPENDIX. " the Government of India the sentiments and proposals of the Court of " " Ava." " The King expresses his desire for the cessation of War. The King " " anounces that ' orders have been issued to the Governors of the districts ' ! " ' not to allow the Burmese troops to attack the territories of Meaday and ' : " * Toungoo, in which the British Government have placed their garrisons. ' ' " Furthermore, the King has set at liberty the British subjects who had " " been carried prisoners to Aven ; and he has expressed his wish that 'the ' " ' merchants and people of both countries should be allowed, in ' : " ' accordance with former friendship, to pass up and down the river for ' " ' the purpose of trading.' Mindful of the assurance he gave that " " hostilities would not be resumed so long as the Court of Ava refrained " '' from disputing our quiet possession of the Province of Pegu, the " " Governor- General in Council is willing to accept the pacific declarations " " and acts of the King as a substantial proof of his acquiescence in the " " proposed conditions of peace, although a formal treaty has not been " " concluded. Wherefore the Governor- General in Council permits the " " raising of the river blockade, consenting to the renewal of former " " intercourse with Ava, and now proclaims the restoration of peace. The " " Army of Ava will no longer be maintained on a war establishment. At " " the same time, a force will be permanently retained in Pegu, adequate " " for its defence and fully prepared for the event of war. The Governor- " " General in Council, while he announced the successive events of the war, " " has gladly seized each fitting occasion for bestowing promptly on the " " several Officers whose services were mentioned with distinction, the " " cordial thanks and approbation of the Government of India. His " " Lordship in Council deems it unnecessary now to repeat in detail " " acknowledgments of individual merit that are still so recent ; but he cannot " " close the record of this war without again conveying to the services " " generally an assurance of the admiration with which he has viewed the " " combined exertions, which under God's good providence, the supremacy " " of our power in the east has once more been asserted and upheld, (here " * : follows the thanks of the Government to individual Officers)." " In testimony of the sense that is entertained of the services and conduct " " of the combined force, the Governor-General in Council is pleased to " " direct that a donation of six months batta shall be issued to all the " " Officers, Non-commissioned Officers and men of the several Naval and " " Military forces that have been employed during the progress of the war " " with Burma. And it shall be the further care of the Governor- General " " in Council to bring their services and conduct under the special notice, " " and to commend them to the most favourable consideration of Her " " Majesty's Government, and of the Honourable Court of Directors." " By Order," " (Signed) J. P. GRANT," " Official Secretary to the Government of India." AI'ITAPIX. APPENDIX D. PROCLAMATION. " VICTORIA, by the Grace of God, of the United Kingdom of Great Britain " M and Ireland, and of the Colonies and Dependencies thereof in Europe, " *' Asia, Africa. America, and Australia, Queen, Defender of the Faith." Whereas, for divers weighty reasons, we have resolved, by and with the " advice and consent of the Lords Spiritual and Temporal, and Commons in " Parliament assembled, to take upon ourselves the Government of the " territories of India, heretofore administered in trust for us by the Honour- " able Kasr I n dia Company. Now, therefore, we do by these presents notify " and deelare that by the advice and consent aforesaid, we have taken upon " ' ourselves the said Government, and we hereby call upon all our subjects " ' within the said territories to be faithful, and to bear true allegiance to us, " our heirs, and successors, and to submit themselves to the authority of those " whom we may hereafter from time to time see fit to appoint to administer " tin- ( iovernment of our said territories in our name and on our behalf." ' And we, reposing especial trust and confidence in the loyalty, ability, " and judgment of our right trusty and well-beloved cousin and councillor " Charles John Viscount Canning, do hereby constitute and appoint him, " 14 the said Viscount Canning to be our First Viceroy and Governor-General " in and over our said territories, and to administer the Government thereof " in our name, and generally to act in our name and on our behalf, subject " " to such orders and regulations as lie shall, from time to time, receive from " ' us through one of our principal Secretaries of State." And. we hereby eontinn in their several offices, civil and military, all" persons now employed in the service of the Honourable East India Com- " pjiny. subjeet to our future pleasure, and to such laws and regulations as " ' may hereafter be enacted." We hereby announce to the Native Princes of India that all treaties and " elm-augments made with them by. or under the authority of, the Honourable " Kast India Company are by us accepted and will be scrupulously main- tained : and we look for the like observance on their part." \Ve desire no extension of our present territorial possessions; and while " " we will permit no ai/urc^sion upon our dominions or our rights to be attempted with impunity, ire shall sanction no encroachment on those of " others. \\'e shall respect the rights, dignity, and honour of the native " ' princes as our own. and we desire that they, as well as our own subjects, " " should enjoy that prosperity and that social advancement which can only be " cured by internal peace and good (iovernment." M We hold ourselves bound to the natives of our Indian territories by the " 550 APPENDIX. " same obligations of duty which bind us to all our other subjects ; and those " " obligations, by the blessing of Almighty God, we shall faithfully and con- " " scientiously fulfil." " Firmly relying ourselves on the truth of Christianity, and acknowledging " " with gratitude the solace of religion, we disclaim alike the right and the '' " desire to impose our convictions on any of our subjects. We declare it " " to be our Royal will and pleasure that none be in any wise favoured, none " " molested or disquieted, by reason of their religious faith or observances, " " but that all shall alike enjoy the equal and impartial protection of the law ; " " and we do strictly charge and enjoin all those who may be in authority under " " us that they abstain from all interference with the religious belief or " " worship of any of our subjects on pain of our highest displeasure." " And it is further our will that, so far as may be, our subjects, of whatever " " race or creed, be freely and impartially admitted to offices in our service, " the duties of which they may be qualified, by their education, ability, and " " integrity, duly to discharge." " We know and respect the feelings of attachment with which the Natives " " of India regard the lands inherited by them from their ancestors, and we " " desire to protect them in all rights connected therewith, subject to the '' " equitable demands of the State ; and we will that, generally, in framing and " " administering the law, due regard be paid to the ancient rights, usages and " " customs of India." " We deeply lament the evils and misery which have been brought upon " " India by the acts of ambitious men, who have deceived their countrymen by " " false reports, and led them into open rebellion. Our power has been shown " " by the suppression of that rebellion in the field ; we desire to show our " " mercy by pardoning the offences of those who have been thus misled, but " " who desire to return to the path of duty." " Already, in one province, with the view to stop the further effusion of '' " blood, and to hasten the pacification of our Indian dominions, our Viceroy '' " and Governor-General has held out the expectation of pardon, on certain " " terms, to the great majority of those who, in the late unhappy disturbances," " have been guilty of offences against our Government, and has declared " " the punishment which will be inflicted on those whose crimes place them " " beyond the reach of forgiveness. We approve and confirm the said act " " of our Viceroy and Governor- General, and do further announce and pro- ' " claim as follows : " Our clemency will be extended to all offenders, save and except those " " who have been or shall be convicted of having directly taken part in the " " murder of British subjects. " With regard to such, the demands of justice forbid the exercise of mercy. " " To those who have willingly given asylum to murderers, knowing them " "to be such, or who may have acted as leaders or instigators in revolt, their " " lives alone can be guaranteed ; but in appointing the penalty due to such " " persons, full consideration Avill be given to the circumstances under which " AI'PKNDIX. 551 ' they have been induced to throw off their allegiance, and large indulgence " ' will be shown to those whose crimes niay appear to have originated in " a too credulous acceptance of the false reports circulated by designing men. " " To all others in armsagainst tin- ( lovernmcnt . we hereby promise uncon- " litional pardon, amnesty, and oblivion of all offences against ourselves, our " 11 Crown and dignity, on their return to their homes and peaceful pursuits. " I is our Royal pleasure that these terms of grace and amnesty should" ' be extended to all those who comply with these conditions before the first " " day of January next." When, by the blessing of Providence, internal tranquillity shall be " -lored. it is our earnest desire to stimulate the peaceful industry of India, " promote works of public utility and improvement, and to administer its " ( .overnnieiit fur the benefit of all our subjects resident therein. In their " ; - prosperity will be our strength : in their contentment, our security; and in " their gratitude, our best reward. And may the God of all Power grant" 14 unto us, and to those in authority under us, strength to carry out these our " wishes for the good of our people." Proclamation dated November 1st, 1858." AITKMHX ]:. CIAL P.\n:i:s. Foin WILLIAM Mi I.ITAIIV DEPOT, APRIL lOxn, 1861. 1 l_l)isi'ATcn L>S. paras. ID. 11. 17. i':5. I'll. It is desired by H.M.'s Govern- " incut to maintain as integral Re-iments. tiie three oldest European Kegi- " nients of the P.en-al Presidency, and all of the three Regiments of the " Madras and Bombay Presidencies are to keep the men who are in each of " these Corps, and who may volunteer fi.r 1 1. M/s General Service in the" ueiits. which, when transferred to the Line, will represent those to" which they now respectively belong." 1:'. II. M. having -racioii^ly determined to mark her estimation of the " services of her Indian Armies, by conferring the distinction of 'Royal'" upon three of the Knropean Keu-iniciit-. and by selecting for this honour " one IJegimeiit from ea.-h Proid.'iicy. the ^election of whicli has been left " by II.M. to the judgment and discretion of the ( lovernor-( ieneral of India. the Viceroy and ( ioveni<.r-( teneral in Council has much gratification in" announcing that the following IJr.uriinents will henceforward bear the '' honourable designation of Royal Me^inients ' " : 'I'he 1st 15,-n-al rusili t .,<." The 1st Madras Fnsili. The 1st Bombay Fusiliers." 552 APPENDIX. " 14 The three older Regiments in the several Presidencies will thus be ' r " converted into Regiments in H.M. General Army, and will be re-numbered "" " and designated as follows " : " The 101st Regiment of Foot (Royal Bengal Fusiliers)," " The 102nd Regiment of Foot (Royal Madras Fusiliers)," " The 103rd Regiment of Foot (Royal Bombay Fusiliers)," " The 104th Regiment of Foot (Bengal Fusiliers)," " The 105th Regiment of Foot (Madras Light Infantry)," " The 106th Regiment of Foot (Bombay Light Infantry)," " The 107th Regiment of Foot (Bengal Infantry)," " The 108th Regiment of Foot (Madras Infantry)," " The 109th Regiment of Foot (Bombay Infantry)." " 15 DESPATCH 28, paras. 17, 23-26. The Corps transferred to H.M. " " Service will retain all honorary distinctions which they have won. These " " will be borne on appointments and Colours, or in the Army List, in such "' " manner as H.M. Government may think best suited to the arm of the n " Service to which the Corps belong." " 21 The immediate issue of bounty to men volunteering is hereby " " authorized on their making the declaration appended to this G.O. before a " " justice of the peace or magistrate." APPENDIX F. THE following is an account of the services of H.M. 101st Royal Bengal' Fusiliers whilst employed in the Umbeyla Campaign, 1863 : " In August, 1863, rumours were current of the disturbed state of our " " relations with some of the frontier hill tribes in connection with the colony " " of fanatics at Litana and Mulkol, and also of the uneasy feeling existing " " amongst the hill tribes in Hayara ; it was therefore determined to send " " the 101st Regiment into the Hayara hills, partly as a demonstration, and " " partly for the recovery of the men's health, which, though it had gradually " " improved since their arrival at Rawul Pindi, was still very unsatisfactory. " " The regiment took up quarters at Abbottabad, and on the 4th October " " orders were received from Sir Neville Chamberlain, K.C.B., commanding " " in Hayara, for the regiment to move across the Indus to a place in " " Ensufyze called Swabage, and it was further directed that the regiment " " must be at that place by tbe 14th of October, which was effected, although "" " the marches were very difficult. It was well known that whatever service " " was to be performed the 101st would share in it, and the young soldiers, " " for with very few exceptions the whole of the regiment was comprised of ' v " very young soldiers, and had never seen service, burned with ardour for ' r APPENDIX. 555- their maiden fight, and remembering the gallant deeds of the old regiment " " were eager to liave their first brush with the enemy under the new colours " ' <.f the llst. After a halt of a few days the camp was broken up, and the ' r " force destined to enter the hills assembled on the 18th of October. In "' udditiou to tin- 101st there were the splendid 71st Highlanders, under the " "command of Colonel Hope. C.B., some Royal Artillery, and numerous" " (though weak) native corps. On the 20th of October the Ensufyze Field "' " Force (as it was n.iw designated) entered the hills under the personal" " command of Sir Neville Chamberlain by the Umbeyla Pass, leading from "' " Knsufy/.e into the ( 'lnnnla valley. The force arrived at the fort of the pass " " after a most fatiguing march. The enemy were quite taken by surprise, or " 11 otherwise tin- pass could not have been forced without much labour and very " -CM re loss, in consequence of the natural difficulties and many splendid " " opportunities offered for defence, there being on each side, within gunshot, " hills whieh were almost inaccessible. The pass itself was filled with dense "' ; - ungle and enormous stones, an immense water-course running down the " u centre. The troops could only move in single file. At first there were no "' .-igns of the enemy, but after the first three days they appeared in vast " 11 numbers ami lost no opportunity of attacking the position of the British " " :roops. The ditties imposed on our troops were very severe indeed, far " ' larder than usually fall to the lot of soldiers; for nearly four weeks the " t% men never had tin ir accoutrements off, save for the purpose of washing, " .ind for live weeks no tents were pitched, the men lying on the bare "' ' Around without a covering of any kind. On the 13th of November, the " ' loist. led by Lieutenant-Colonel Salusbury, carried a position in the upper " ' weights on the right defence called the Crag picquet, which had fallen into " ' the hands of the enemy, and which so long as they held it commanded our " M upper camp entirely. The loss to the 101st was 5 killed and 20 wounded, " md the Regiment received the thanks of the (ieneral Commanding for"' " :his exploit. On the l*th of November the (Jeneral changed his position" "on the left heights and established himself on the right height.-. The" 11 enemy then made several attacks, and inllieted considerable loss on the " " British forces. Amongst those killed was Lieutenant Chapman, Adjutant " " of tin- In 1st. Lieutenant Chapman was as gallant and noble a soldier as " M ever wore the British uniform, and although he was mortally wounded, he " ' knelt down beside Captain Smith, of the 71st. who had Keen badly shot, " M and be-aii todn>s his wounds. He refused to be carried away, as he said it '' was useless, he being mortally wounded, but he urged the removal of" " Captain Smith. In the meantime the enemy made a desperate rush, and " bod, these oilieers fell into their hands and were hacked to pirees. their " 14 heads being cut off and their bodies shockingly mangled. In Lieutenant " M Chajiman the l">lst lost an otlierr of i-are ability, of untiring energy, the " M perfert t\|ie of an I-', ng 1 ish ge 1 1 1 1 cina n and a British oilieer. On tin- 2<>th of " " November the enemy madeam>>t vigoj-oiis assault on the British position, " 11 particularly against the Crag pie.juet. which was partly eonijirised of men ' r * from the l<>Ut Ke-imeiit. This was attacked l>y overwhelming numbers "' 354 APPENDIX. " and finally overpowered ; the 101st lost two officers and eleven men killed, " " and 25 wounded. [/The two officers killed were Ensign Algernon Sanderson " ' ; and Assistant-Surgeon Pile, both of whom behaved with marked gallantry. " " On this day General Chamberlain was wounded, and the 71st (led by Colonel " Hope, C.B., who was also wounded) lost several men. About the 6th of " " November the British forces received some reinforcements, amongst them " " the 7th Royal Fusiliers and the 93rd Highlanders, half a battery of Royal " " Artillery, with two or three native regiments, bringing the strength up to " " nearly 9,000 men. General Garvock, commanding the Peshawur Division, " " also arrived to relieve General Chamberlain of the command. On the 15th " " the enemy's position was attacked, and the forces were divided into two " " divisions of 2,500 each, the remaining 4,000 being left in charge of the " u camp. The 101st behaved with great gallantry. Nothing could resist the " " daring advance of the Regiment, and the men did not stop until the prize " " was theirs. In the assault only one was killed and 13 wounded. Other " " engagements took place, the 101st rendering valuable service. The men " " experienced great hardships, having to lie on the bare ground with only a " " blanket to protect them from the rain. After a treaty had been concluded. '' " the Brigade to which the 101st was attached destroyed several villages " " occupied by the "fanatics," the Brigade encamping again at Ensufyze on " " the 1st of January, 1864. The Brigade was then broken up, and the 101st " " left on its way back to quarters at Rawul Pindi, having in the campaign " " lost 87 officers and men, killed and wounded. The officers wounded were " " Lieutenant C. Rigge and Ensign C. Stockley. Brigadier Wilde, C.B., who " " commanded the Brigade of which the 101st formed part, conveyed to " u Lieutenant-Colonel Salusbury and the officers and men by general order " " the high appreciation he entertained of the cheerful, high-spirited, willing, " " and soldierlike manner in which all duties had been performed and all " " hardships borne by the Regiment. Twice the Regiment did good service " " under his command, first in retaking the Crag picquet on the 13th of " " November, and secondly in storming the conical hill on the 15th of " " December, 1863. Colonel Wilde testified to both officers and men having " " faithfully done their duty with credit to themselves and honour to their " " Regiment. The 101st marched into Rawul Pinder on the llth of January, " " 1864, and left on the 20th of December for Dugshai. On their departure " " a general order was issued by Brigadier- General A. Tucker, C.B., express- ' " ing the high estimation in which he held this distinguished Regiment, and '' . " his deep regret at its departure from under his command. He also spoke " " of the exemplary conduct of the men, which he said reflected the highest " " credit on Lieutenant-Colonel Salusbury and the officers. The Brigadier " " went on to say that when detached from his Brigade to join the force " " assembling on the frontiers, their cheerful alacrity in meeting and over- ' " coining all difficulties, their gallant bearing and their indomitable pluck " " when brought hand to hand with the enemy was notorious, and it was with " " peculiar gratification that he (the Brigadier- General) had placed on the " breasts of so many soldiers of this gallant Regiment the medal bestowed " APPENDIX. 555 (!! them by Her Majesty for ; distinguished service in the field/ (Jallantly " ' hs.d the 101st, in the recent campaign, maintained the fame of the old '' * 1st Bengal Fusiliers, whose various victories they bear inscribed upon '' * their present Colours." APPENDIX G. EXTRACT OF LETTEII FROM LIEUTENANT- COLONEL DOUGLAS SEATON TO CAPTAIN BIDDULPH, REGARDING THE SERVICES OF SURGEON-MAJOU J. P. BROUGHAM. TH KIM-: is one Officer who has been recently moved from the Regiment " " to superior employ, whose great services I desire to bring prominently to ' ? " notice. Surgeon J. P. Brougham, M.D., is the Officer I allude to ; it '' ' is impossible to speak too highly of the professional services of Dr. '' Brougham, no praise of mine can be too great for all he has done for'' " the officers and soldiers of this llegiment as its Surgeon to Delhi, and : ' " from the day of its march from Dugshaie until he was appointed Field '' Surgeon in September last, his exertions have been unwearied, unre- ' ' i litting. and invaluable, the large number of wounded men, the numerous '' " cases of amputation, the remarkable success which attended all his opera- "' " tions, are well-known. I only allude to them to recall them to notiee. " Let mi- mention that most unfortunate' circumstances have alone pre- " vented tlic eminent sn-viers of Surgeon Brougham being brought " forward to notice, indeed, he with others have suffered much by the '' " following contingencies : " Colonel W-l>hman. severely wounded at Delhi, sent away invalided. unable to write a despatch." Major Jacob, killed at Delhi, no despatch from him." "Colonel II. P Bui n. Lieutenant-Colonel Dunsford, Captain Caulfield, '' Id command for too short a p.-riod t. wan-ant their bringing Officers''' rioee to notice." Colonel Cerrard. killed at Narnoul, no despatch." Urigadier Sir F. Seaton, in command forsix weeks, too actively employed '' " to be able to review the services of the Iti-^inicnt." Mains Cunliffe and Hume and Major 1 >ennis.s, all on command for '' 11 short periods, and as temporary Commandants, did not feel themsel\ " justified in noticing the past conduct of their Officers without being '' "specially called upon to do SO." .May I. therefore, avail myself of the opening now offered me, and solicit " ( ieneial Sir Hope Grant's recommendation of this most excellent and highly- "" 55f> APPENDIX. " deserving Officer. I believe that the whole Regiment would be greatly " " gratified to see that much -respected medical adviser and friend awarded. "' " So impressed am I from all I have been told of the value of Dr. " " Brougham's services, I believe I am only doing him simply justice in ' r " bringing his services to notice at this particular time. I believe the " " General knows quite sufficient of Dr. Brougham to accept with kindly " " consideration this appeal on his behalf." INDEX. A. ni. Sir Itnltrt. at the battle of Bitowra, 275. Arhiniitij. Lit tin mint A. l-\. volunteers for tin- Uni-al Kuropean Kegi- taeni from ELM, sith. 178. Ad-iin.t. .1A//W ./o/,/,. coiniiiands the r>i n-;il Anny, 144; defeats the < IK my at Kutwah, 147; at the battle of (ieriah. 149; captures tin- enemy's fortified camp at Stiti. : :>:; ; .-I. .1-111 and rapture of the tortitieations at I'ndwah Xsihi, ' <',(! ; capture of Patna. 17:1 ; his death. 171. .I.//'/ /,'/'>/-. victory on. under (ilenn, A'tm /. ( 'a/itaii/. comniaiuls tli. <:al Kiiropean lle^imenl at Con- dorr. 71 : his death. 7'.'. .I'/'""'. -M''- r^//>'. his murder, lid. Al'iin, d'ir Xintf. Mmperor of Delliie. death of. 1 11. '/. battle of. 896. A!i. 'i 'int. r.i-n-al I-'.IM Regiment, -allantry at the siege I'.hmtpnre (1806), 302. Ahfi'n, f./'i //ft iiin/t George, i Kuropean Regiment, hia death, 1'i!'. .!/ iln />/. finri rimr < ,', IK rul. his policy re^ardinir lihurtjioiv. :;L'I;. A i -i i<-li< i in I, is deceived into joiniiiLT iu ihe ]>lot airaiust Siraju \\ daulah. -M : his death, 68. Ai'sim. 1:17; is murdered. -. Groductive of mutiny, 2.'! 2. J'idirra. battle of. against the Dutch. 558 INDEX. Bcatson, Lieutenant, Interpreter and Quartermaster 1st Bengal Euro- pean Regiment, severely wounded at the battle of Ferozshah, 390; mortally wounded at the battle of Sobraon, 406. Beerpore, battle of, Captain Knox defeats the Army under Kuddum Hussain, 122. Benares, City of, occupation of, 212. Bengal European Regiment, formation of, 16 ; nominal roll of the first Officers, 17 ; capture of the fort of Baj Baj, 25 ; assault and capture of Hugli, 29 ; at Chitpore, 32 ; capture of Chandernagore, 41 ; capture of the fort of Kutwah (1757), 55 ; at the battle of Plassey, 59 ; accom- pany the British expedition to the Northern Circars, 72 ; the battle of Condore, 76 ; capture of the French camp, 79 ; occupation of Rajamundri, 81 ; capture of the French settlement at Narsurpore, 83 ; at Mussulipatam, 86 ; left wing engaged at the battle of Bederra, 104; take the field against Shah Alam, 112 ; defence of Patna (1760), 120; battle of Seerpore, 117; battle of Suan, 130; de- tachment of, under Captain Car- stairs, escape from Patna, 140 ; pursued by the Nawab Mir Kas- sim's troops, are defeated and made prisoners, 141 ; at the battle of Kutwah, 147 ; at the battle of Geriah, 149 ; capture of the en- entrenched position at Suti, 153 ; assault and capture of the fortifi- cations at Undwah Nala, 159 ; at the capture of Monghyr, 164 ; murder of four companies, 165 ; desertion of foreign soldiers from, 183 ; defence of Patna, 191 ; battle of Buxar, 204 ; occupation of Benares, 212 ; battle near Benares, 218 ; capture of Allahabad, 219 ; capture of Chunar, 220 ; battle of Kalpi, 221 ; capture of Bridge- ghur, 253 ; capture of the fort of Karrungalli, and relief of Wandi- wash, 257 : assault of Chilam- bram, 259 ; Porto Novo, 261 ; 2nd relief of Wandiwash, 263 ; cap- Bengal European Regiment cont. ture of Tripassore, and battle of Pollilore, 264; Sholinghur, 265; Veracundalore and Yellore, 266; Arnee, 267 ; Cuddalore, 269 ; battle of Bitowra, 275 ; capture of the fortress of Gwalior, 287; battle of Deig, 289 ; capture of the fortress of Deig, 293 ; siege of Bhurtpore (1805), 298; form part of Lord Lake's flying column marching to Lahore, 308; ex- pedition to Macao, 311 ; expedi- tion to Java, 312 ; Nepal War, 316 ; Pinclarie War, 318 ; capture of Bhurtpore, 334 ; Afghan War r 339 ; at siege and capture of Ghuznee, 352 ; siege and capture of the fort of Pooshut, 359 ; made Light Infantry for services during the Afghan War (1839-40), 359 ; the Sutlej War, 369; the battle of Ferozshah, 379; the battle of Sobraon, 399 ; created the 1st European Bengal Fusiliers, 412 ; at Lahore, 429 ; in Burmah, 434 ; storm and capture of Pegu, 435 ; relief of the Pegu garrison, 437 ; capture of the Gongoh stockade, 443 ; at Budlee-ka-Serai, 459 ; at Eed Gar, 462 ; Subzi Mundi, 465 ; attack "Ludlow Castle," 468; at Nujjufghur, 470 ; at the attack on the Cashmere Bastion, 474 ; at the siege and capture of Delhie, 475-488; at the battle of Narnoul, 497 ; at the affair at Gungehri, 501 ; action at Puttialee, 503 ; at Mynpoorie, 504 ; at Alam-bagh, 513 ; at the assault of Lucknow (March, 1858) 516; with Sir Hope Grant's flying brigade, 524; at the action at Baree, 524; designated H.M. 101st Royal Bengal Fusiliers, 530 ; designated the 1st Battalion Royal Munster Fusiliers, 534. Bitowra, battle of, 275. Bhurtpore, Fortress of, attempt to cap- ture (1805), 297; siege and capture of, 327. Bridge-gJiur, the Fort of, captured by the British Army under Maior Popham, 253. INDF.X. 559 ]>'rnll, Lieutenant-Colonel I>m-!71 : appointed Brigadier on the field at the battle of Sobraon, |IL'. Bind- ll.li. 'I'll, prisoners confined in, and their Bufferings, 11 : names of those prisoners who died. 12. Llmik< iilnit/i i/. ( '42. J'.a/iilxii/ /s'/irojinii/ Hi'initnt. detach- iiient arrives at ( 'aleiitta and roll of ( Mlicers accompanying the detach- nient. -in : at the battle of Chan- derna-ore. 1 1 ; capture of Kutwah. :>:>: 1 uitle of Plassey. .">:> ; incor- ].orate; defence of Patna. I'.il : battle Of liuxar. ^\\ detach- ment ineoi-pofated with Bengal Klll-opeail Ileoilliellt. 7>. . I),-, (inhrnl. cures the dimjrhtiT of the Kmperor Shall .lehan. :'. : establishes a factory in Belli:;.!. I. Ca />><"' a TlioiiHi*. Bei iLral Kuro- pean Regiment, at the siege of Pooshiit.':;:,s : his death. :)SO; and chani.-t.-i-. il'.'L'. >/,/. f'lifihn'n. -2l\<\ I-'uropea! incut, eoinniaiids his 1 ,' the assault on Delhie. ' ttrn
    • . firiiiif/f'rtinL\ I.ii '< n'ii, I, volunteers for service with the Bengal Mnro- i Ki 'j-inieiit from II. M. Mtli. l',i-r. ./. /'.. Suri, r eoii-Major U' B. irj.il Fusiliers, hia services durin.ir the Mutiny war. -l'.4 ; at the battle of Narnoiil. I'.'ti. rtrn. < '< i/ttn in Ithnirtl. 1st Bengal tiers, dangerouaty wounded at Kuropean Regiment, w.mnded at the sifrc of Bhurtpore (1806), 300. llrnini. L'n nt< mint Frmil I). 3/., 1st 15eiiLral Fusiliers, at the battle of Xarnoul. 4!>'.> : distin^uislied l>ra- very. awarded the Victoria Cross, :><><>; commanded a detachment of Ilodson's Horse at Saluu lit. 526. lirii'-c. II. A.. Suru'eon 1st Bengal Fusiliers, at Lahore, 431. 1'injmit. Lu nt< mint 7'., Bengal Euro- pean Regiment, wounded at the battle of Deig, :>!:.'. Jjiihranf >'///'/. Raja of Benares, at war with the British, 204; par- doned and restored to his musmul by Lord Clive, '2'2'^. llin-'ltt. J//\, survives the sufferings of the " Black Hole," 12. War, 431. . Li(nt( limit l\ .!., 1st Bengal Fusiliers, at the Buru Bastion, Delhie, 480 ; wounded at the bat- tle of Delhie, 481 ; bravery at Lucknow gains the Victoria Cross, 519. , battle of, 204. KJ. ( 't., 1st Bengal Kuropean Regiment, died of cholera durini.'-a.-s.iMlt of Delhie. Cul'-iiffii. formed into a Pr<-sidency town. .", ; raptured by Siraju 'd daulah. 1:'.; Recapture of, 27. 560 INDEX. 'Callender, Captain, of the Madras Service, death of, 90. Campbell, Sir Colin, Commander-in- Chief, relief of Lucknow, 508; hurries to the relief of Cawnpore, 508. 'Campbell. Captain Dugald, Bengal European Regiment, killed at the capture of Baj Baj, 25. Candy, Lieutenant Henry, Bengal European Regiment, killed at Bhurtpore, 333. 'Carey, Mrs., 11. 'Carnac, Major, takes command of the Bengal Army, 128 and 185 ; de- feats the Emperor's Army at Suan, 130 ; takes M. Law and his French followers prisoners, 131 ; com- mands the Army at the defence of Patna, 120 ; accompanies Lord Olive to England, 242. Comae, Lieutenant Jacob, volunteers for service with the Bengal Euro- pean Regiment from H.M. 84th Regiment, 70. Carr, Ensign, Bengal European Regiment, killed at the capture of Baj Baj, 23. Carstairs, Ensign, joins Bengal Euro- pean Regiment, 13 ; promoted to Captain-Lieutenant, 56 ; is de- feated at the battle of Manji, and his death, 141. 'Caulfield, Captain, (d.d.) 1st Bengal Fusiliers, wounded in Delhie, 481. Cavagnari, Lieutenant Louis N. P., 1st European Bengal Fusiliers, at the action of Sahadit, 526. Cawnpore, the surrender of, 466 ; battles under Wyndham, in Feb- ruary (1858), 508. Champion, Major, appointed Major of Brigade to Adams' Army, 149 ; appointed to command the expe- dition against the Rohillas (1774), 245. Chance, Ensign, Bengal European Regiment, wounded at Bhurtpore, 306. *Chandemagore, the French settle- ment of, British capture of, 41. Charnock, Mr. Job, Company's Agent, driven from Bengal and establishes a Company's factory at Kalikata, 5. Chat field, Lieutenant ./., Bengal European Regiment, wounded at the battle of Deig, 292. Chete Sing, Raja of Benares, made subject to the Company, 250; heavy impositions levied on, 250 ; territory confiscated, 251 ; is made prisoner by Warren Hastings, 251 ; is defeated and flies, 252. Chilambram, Fortress of, assault of, 259. Chinhut, battle of, 506. Chitpore, battle of, 32 ; treaties after, 36. Clnmar, Fortress of, attack on, 214; captured, 220. Clark, Captain Charles, 1st Bengal European Regiment, at the battle of Ferozshah, mortally wounded, 390. dive, Mr. Robert, promoted to . Lieutenant-Colonel, 14; appoint- ed to command the second expedi- . tion for the relief of Bengal, 14 ; forms the Bengal European Bat- talion, 16 ; battle of Baj Baj, 21 ; battle of Chitpore, 32; treaty with Mir J'afar for the Soubadarie, 50 ; assembles a council of war before the battle of Plassey, 55; at the battle of Plassey, 58 ; gives 50,000 to form " Lord dive's fund," 222 ; raised to the Peerage under the title of Lord Clive of Plassey, and promoted to the rank of Major- General, 224; his Trading As- sociation, 227 ; leaves India for the last time, 242. Cochrane, Captain, loses his life in attempting to save Raja Ram Narian, 114. Combermerc, Lord, commands the Army against Bhurtpore (1826), 328. Condore, battle of, 76 ; the decora- tion " Condore " wrongly granted to the Madras, instead of the Ben- gal European Regiment, Appen- dix A. INDEX. it, Marquis : retreats from ( 1 on- dore, 81 : surrenders tin- fortress of MuBsulipatam to Colonel Forde, Cook, Mijnr, 2nd Europe-in Regi- ment, wounded at the attack on the K,,..d///// Willittm, Bengal Kuropean Regiment, his death, L69. , siege of, 269. . < ''t/'f'ii'/i Jnli/i, volunteers for service with the Bengal Euro- pean Keiriment from II M. 84th, 17s. f 'iidijfc. Curtain A7//X, assumes the commainl of the 1st Ueiigal Fusi- liers, ,")iii; : is fiiLraged at CHWM- jM.re in tlie rights against 'I'antia Toj)i. ///.."! in : r.-j.ulses the enemy at Baree, '- 1. D. ; . (lovenior-( General, his ]>oliey durini; the Punjab War, 422. Dnnnll. Lt'7; pn unott-d to Captain, and died (17SS), 168. 561 Williiini, Bengal European Regiment, leads assault on the Jungeena Gate, Bhurtpore, : severely wounded, 335. //. L'mih //ant \\'n!t( r, at Beling, 447. . battle of, 473. Dtimia. Litntiiifint G. G., 1st Bengal iMiropean Regiment, wounded at the battle of Sobraon, 406. l)<'inUnn, C'ufif'rin, of the Bengal Kuropean Regiment, wrongly exe- cuted for murder, note, 70. Mahomet, The Amir, sends force to assist Ghuznee against the British (1L> ( J), 347 Douglas i Sergeant, Bengal European Regiment, escape from Purneah, 167 ; his death, 168. V, Lieutenant John, Bengal European Regiment ; his death, 169. DniL-e, Mr., Governor of Calcutta, repairs the defences of Calcutta, 6 ; deserts the garrison of Fort William, 9. />////)> >/////, proclaimed Maharaja of the Punjab, 368 ; seeks peace after the Sutlej war, 410. l)n,iliers. commands the I! raiment at the relief of I: - -"11 Of I'. L".!. 138 : < 'Inel (id-rani ap- pointed to command the 1st Ben- gal European Kegiment. P.'<; ; killed at the baitle of Narnoul, _ -lured by his Ke.uimrnt, :>"". 1 ili.ii-.iK i . description, :'>\~ : -ie^-e of, iiU'i rt. ( i( IK rul sir 11'. /,'.. coiinnands tin- 2nd Divisiiin of tin- Army of Smlej. :7'. : gallant charge of, the battle of Sobraon, #98; ounded. -40."). . L!< ut< ixnit \ViHimn. defeats 'in-iiiv on the river Adji. 14."): appointed Aide -de-Camp to Major Adams. 14! : killed at the battle iah. 151'. . Ct'laml. commanding 2nd Kuroj" -an li'egiinent. is appointed llriiradier in the Army of the Punjaul.. 41'.l: at the hattle of Chillianualla. 41':!. f itnin 'I'limim*. volun- m li..M.Mthfnrthe IJi-ii- I-iuropean licirinn-iit ( '. . .'//. battle i.f. lL'.". (ii'iii/li. , r ' Meniral luirojit-aii IJi-iriim-nt. liis fr'i-in,-. r\< }\i< |n>st in the detence oi K.-i-t William. '. : nied by Court Martial, toiind -uiltv 11. but pardoned. ////.vA/rt .A//,rn-n i i:al i ]eau Ke^imeiit. his death. 169. d'rt r/'lli . ]J> iitiiiuiit SunthiriH, 1st Beiiiral Kunican Ke.irimeut, at Fero/.shah. :;s;} : forces the bar- rieade. :;s4 : Captain (ireville wounded at liudk-e-ka-Serai. 4 : assumes com- mand of the Regiment during .ilt on Delhie. 479; severely wounded at Delhie, 480. ri. skirmish at, 501. f. campaign in, 292. 'o/: flic Fort of, capture of. i'^7. H. Hiiiflur Alt'. Peshwar of Mysore, his antecedents, 255 ; at the battles iiilambram. 259 ; Porto Xovo, : Tripassore, iV4 ; Pollilore, i't'4 : SholinL'hnr. 2ilii-rs. at Mun-lewar, with Haveloek's force at the relief of Lucknow, 510. "//. I^n^i'in J-'ra/L'.. 1st 1' Kur-'pean IJrginicnt. killed at the battle of Sobraon, 406 ; his char- acter. 408. Il'iiitilto/i. Li, ntt mint Ab .r., Bengal Kuropraii IJfu'iiiM-nt. wnmni. theiegeofBhttrtpore( Li Ilnrilf ni/< . Sir IL /////. Go vernor-( ral. reverses Lord Ellenboro s-ikpolicy.:J70; serves as second in commands, right wing of Army ..f th,. Sutlej. :;7!'. ' .///- nit itnt. 1st !' liers.pn'nmtedtoan Kn.- [ hie. 4l2. wod, Lieutenant Walter K.) P.. n- gal KuriH-an IJrgimcnt. wounh--. Bengal Furopean Heu-iment. his death. 169. .nil/if. Lii'ifiiHinf. 2nd Bengal Furo- pean Kegiment, wounded at tin- battle of Bitowra. i ; 7;. Jnnliin. Colour-Sergeant, let Bengal Fusiliers, captures and spikes the enemy's gun at Delhie. 47!'. K. A'alj,;. battle of. 221. Xnmlulmr, hardships endured on the road to (ls:!l>). 348. .Kamaigatti, J-'ortrt** nf. capture of, Kassimbazar, tin J-'urfnn/ of. seized by Siraju'd daulah. 17. i*v> Jn/ni. assumes command of the Army of the Indus." :;il. e, f'nrjinml. 1st Bengal Fusiliers. _ bravery at Delhie. is killed. 47'.'. /\' //. .\rrliilmltf. Suiyeon of "Dela- \vare." 14. /.'< "I* mint f ',,/,,, /. Belled Furopean Regiment, commands expedition to .lava, ami his death. .".14. Ki iii/ni/. f 'nj, t,iin 1',.. Bengal Fui'o- pean Regiment at Feroxshah. his death. :;*(>. hulmi. their religion. fii'l/mlrirk. Major, commands force sent from Madras to the relief of Bengal. 1:1 : is the tir.-t command- ant of the Bengal Furopean 'nent. 17 : commands expedi- tion against the fort of Hugh. 27. Kno.r. ( 'nj.fiit'ii. raises th' Patna. 121 : appointed (Juarter- master-(o iieral to Major Adams' Army. 1 I!' : appointed to com- mand the 2nd Furopean 1. nient. 22i : hi> death, note, 22! . Kojiirk ////V//I/X. Tit. Bengal Furo- pean Uegiment trsinsport the heavy guns over, :\\:\. Ktlinlsnii. /./'( lift iiflnl f'.. volunteers for service with the Bengal Furo- pean Regiment from ELM, Mth. K/ttrn. victory of, 246. Kmirali. the Fort of. capture of. 66 : the battle of. under Ad 147. L. I . d'( in nil. reduces the Foil of Alighur. capture of the city of Delhie, capture of Au-ra. Laswarie, 7 : siege of Bhurtpore (l^u). i".)7 ; raised to the Peerage. his death, 309. Lninlx rt. /-w/x/y//? G. C., 1st Bengal European Regiment, before So- braon,398; Captain < i. < . Lambert commands expedition against the Beling Stockade, 447. Ltnuhtrf, Limit iitmt It. A. C., 1st Bengal Fusiliers, at Delhie. saves Lieutenant Owen's lit. Lambert. I.H iitcnnnt J.. 1st Bengal European Keuiiuent, mortally wounded at the battle of Soi,. 406 ; his character. 4<>7. Law, Monsieur, at Kassimbazar^ 44; joins the Emperor's Army, and with his French Artillery attack Patna. li ; <): is taken prisoner by the British with his folio \vers. 1:51. I.tin-ri /in . Cnli, in f >'// I/tun/, as British Resident at Lahore. 414 : as Chief Commander of Oude, !"'"> : his difficulties and his death. 606-7. l.uirri iH-i, Sir Jn/m. Chief C'om- mandei 1 at Lahore, 4."i.". London, Colour-Sergeant, 1st Bengal Fusiliers, his death. J.in-kunir. Mutiny of troopt the ELendency l-tVnd-d. tinally caj.t uivd. .".L y 4. &uskiagton, Afr., Member < I murder of. at Parna. ' M. Mnt',1,,. exj.edition to. :)lo. .}/'.. Beii-al Fu>ilieis. commands the nient at the battle of Xanioul, 499. 566 INDEX. Lieutenant Charles, at Lucknow, 523. Mackay, Ensir/n Walter, Bengal European Regiment, his death, 169. Macleod, Ensign Duncan, Bengal European Regiment, his death, 169. Madras, threatened by Haidar Ali, seeks succour from Bengal, 254 ; state of, in 1782-83, 267. Madras European Jtef/hnent, detach- ment accompanies expedition under Lord Clive for the relief of Bengal, and Officers' names who accompanied the expedition, 15 ; at the capture of the Fort of Baj Baj, 21 ; assault and capture of Hugli, 29; at the battle of Chitpore, 32; capture of Chander- nagore, 41 ; capture of the Fort of Kutwah, 55 ; the battle of " Plassey," 58 ; detachment in Bengal incorporated with the Bengal European Regiment, 70; in Java, 312. Macpiay, Lieutenant Edtcard, Bengal European Regiment, wounded at Ghuznee, 353 ; severely wounded at Sobraon, 406. Macpiiac, Lieutenant L. B., at Luck- r.ow, 510. Mahomed^ Taki Khan, gallant con- duct of, at the battle of Kutwah, is killed, 147. Manakchand, defence of Baj Baj, 23. Manninf/ham, Mr., deserts the Garri- son of Fort William, 9. Afarkar. the Armenian, re -captures Patna for the Nawab Mir Kassim, 139 ; defeats the British troops at Manji, 141. ^lartine, Claude, is attached with his French Company to the Bengal European Regiment, 142. Afattheics, Lieutenant John, promotion of, 71-98. Maxton, Lieutenant A., Bengal Euro- pean Regiment, wounded at the battle of Deig, 2! 12. Maxwell, Lieutenant Hamilton, expe- dition in Burmah, 445 ; Avith General Havelock's force at Luck- now, 510. AfcBamett, Captain, (d.d.,) 1st Ben- gal Fusiliers, killed at Delhie, 485. McGill, Drum-Major, killed at Budlee-ka-Serai, 460. McGovern, Private John, 1st Bengal Fusiliers, bravery of, awarded Victoria Cross, 462 ; bravery of, at the battle of Narnoul, 499. McLaren, Brigadier, his death, 402 ; Commander-in-Chief 's opinion of, 405. McLaren, Buyler, his death, 402. M'Guire, Serjeant J., 1st Bengal Fusiliers, bravery of, awarded Victoria Cross, 482. Mcerut, mutiny of troops at, 454. Merriman, Lieutenant T., Bengal European Regiment, wounded at the battle of Deig, 292 ; wounded at the siege of Deig, 297. Metcalfe, Sir Charles, induces the Governor to adopt a decided policy against Bhurtpore, 328. Minchin, Captain, deserts the Gar- rison of Fort William, 8 ; dis- missed the Company's service, 18. Minto, Lord, Governor-General, his policy towards Afghanistan, 337. Mir J'nfar Khan, enters into treaty with Clive for the Soubadarie, 50 ; at the battle of Plassey, 62 ; meets Clive at Daudpore, 00 ; deposed, 127 ; is a second time a candidate for the throne of Bengal, 144 ; a second time pro- claimed Nawab of Bengal, 148 ; his death, 190. J\fir Kasxiin. Khan, elected Shazada of Bengal, and enters into a treaty with the British for the throne r and the coup d'etat, 126 ; pro- claimed Nawab, 127; reforms his army, 135 ; is deposed, 144 ; seeks the protection of the Nawab of Oude, 175 ; disgrace and death,20(X JMiran, Shazada of Benr/al, with Caillaud's Army, 115 ; conduct at the battle of Seerpore, 117 ; is killed by lightning, 124. Afoltimore, Captain, Bengal European Regiment, killed, 92. INDEX. Mmn i/. L'nuti Hunt (i. X.. 1st 1'. iliers. leads the escalading party against the ( ashmen- Bas- tion. Delhie. 47.")-. captures the Mon-i- Bastion. 477 ; hor>.- shot under him at the battV of Xar- lioiil. 4'JS; at the YelloNV House." Liu-know. .".17. Moiii/lnir. /"'orf a ml ('it'i<>f, created by Mir Kassiin into the capital of IVniral. !:'>.">: captured by the British Army under Adams. H!4. Montgomery^ > S Y/- li<>l,in- de-matn disarms the Srpahis and secmvs the Fort of Lahore. 4:>.">. MI inn . ( 'ft . 4i'7. MITIIH. Mu'ir. IJi-n^al Kuropean 1 1- gun Dt, ---apes the tortures of the' "Black I loir." \'2 : leadft the attack at I'ndwah Nahi. l."7. .V"/T/\, l.!rnt< mint I^Jiiiiiinl. \\ European IJeiriment. gallantry at Uhurtjioiv. :',(IL': is wouniled. 80S; leada the s\vimmin^-pai-ty at the L'nd attack on Uhurtpore (1806), : Motighfl, Adams attacks Mir sim's Army at. 14s. I'liilifi. 1st Kuropean Ii'f.LriiiM-nt. at the l.attlr of carries the KYirimrn- tal Colour, 880; his death, his eharactrr. :! ( .)L\ Mtiltun. liesirired liy Kdwarde- 417 ; captured l>y the Annv undei- (ieneral \Vhi>h. 4iV.. IMn/tro, Mnjnr lUrtnr. aj)point.' // :' : insubordination in the British Army, 86; Forde's plan. of attack, 87 ; siege and capture- of the Fortress, 91. N. . the founder of the Seik reli- gion, .')!>.">. nfiii /. ]>ri. War, :JHi. (ii-iK ml Join, arrives at Delhie. and commands the attack- ing party on enemy's pickets r outside Cashmere Gate. 468 f at Nujjufghur, 470; commands fir>t Column of the attacking liritish force before Delhie. and leads the first assault on Del- hie. 171 : is mortally wounded,. .V iijlitinifnli . J.!nit( mint. 1'nd Kliro- ]>ean l{ t -^imeiit. >rverely wounded at ( 'hillianwalla, \'2^. \intli I!tliint. at Kero/.shah. 379. AW///,-///*, (.'(ijitnin Jnlni. Bt-n^ai Kuropcan Ke^iment. wounded r . battle of. 470. .568 INDEX. 0. Ockteriony, General Sir David, com- mands Division during the Nepal AVar, 317 ; Resident at Malwa, 325 ; his policy disapproved of by the Government, 326 ; his re- signation and death, 327. Orchard, Lieutenant- Colonel Joseph, (C.B.), Bengal European Regi- ment, wounded at Ghuznee, 353 ; receives Duranee Order, 355 ; com- mands force against the Fort of Pooshut, 358 ; appointed Brigadier in the Army of Reserve (1840), 361; appointed Brigadier to the 7th Brigade, Army of the Sutlej, 398 ; his death, 413. Oude, annexation of, 453. Outram, General Sir James, Resident at Lucknow, 451 ; commands at Alam-bagh, 511 ; battle at Alam- bagh, February 25th, 1858, 511 ; appointed to command the Divi- sion of the Army at Lucknow, to turn the enemy's position from the north of the Gumti, 515. >Ou-en, Lieutenant A. G., 1st Bengal Fusiliers, wounded at the attack on " Ludlow Castle," 469; wound- ed in the assault on Delhie, 485. P. Palmer, Ensign C. O'B., 1st Bengal European Regiment, wounded at the battle of Sobraon, 406. -Parsons, Lieutenant N. T., 1st Bengal Fusiliers, severely wounded whilst engaged under Windham in the defence of Cawnpore, note, 509. Patna, the city of, assaulted by the Shazada Shah Alam, 96 ; the siege of Patna raised, 96 ; de- fended by Ram Narian and a detachment of the Bengal Euro- pean Regiment, under Captain Cochrane, 113 ; the siege of, raised by Major Caillaud, 115 ; seized by Mr. Ellis, 138 ; recaptured by Patna cont. Mir Kassim's troops, 139 ; des- cription of the defences of, 170 ; assault of by the Army under Adams, 171 ; its capture, 173 ; British Army beleaguered under the walls of, 192. Patirghur, defended by Fyzulla Khan, 248. Paton, Surgeon G., Bengal European Regiment, services at Ghuznee, 354. Pattullo, Lieutenant ./., 1st Bengal European Regiment, severely wounded at Sobraon, 406. Patuta, the battle of, against Chete Sing, Raja of Benares, 252. Pegu, City, storm of, 434 ; relief of, 437. Perry, Captain Ambrose, Bengal European Regiment, his death, 169. Pindaric War, description of the Pindarics, 318 ; expedition against, 320. Plasxdj, the battle of, 58. Pollilore, the battle of, 264. Pooshut, Fort of, attack on, 358. Porto Nbvo, battle of, against the French, 260. Pije, Captain, at Baj Baj, 21 ; his death, 35. Q. Quetta, description of, 342. Quin, Corporal, Bengal European Regiment, saves his Officer's life, 334. R. Rajamundri, town and fort of, cap- ture of, 8>. llanniagar, battle of, 420. Ram Narian, Raja, Governor of Pat- na, defeated by the Emperor's troops, 113. INDKX. 569' ,. /V/'-"/'. 1st PM-n-Ttl Fusiliers, bravery <>f. at the attack on t; Lud- li.w Castle," 4i;.i. Mini*"/. < '"j't'i/'n Sir Tlii-inti*. Bengal Furopean Regiment, wounded at thesiegeof Bhurtppre(1805),306; commands expedition in .Java. 314. Residency, tin- suffering in. ami noble defence of. 507-8. lln'H-h. /;//>///// Jnfui I!.. Bengal Ftiro- pean Regiment, his death, HID. /,'m/7/, LiaUiiKiut Munri'-i. Bengal Furopean Regiment* his death, 169. R,,l,.,(C.B.), Ben- gal F.uro] >ran Regiment, com- mands the Kegiment in 1 *:.'.">. 3 I'D : Shah Shuja's force during Af-hun War (1839), and re- ceived Durance <)rd.-r. 355; a].]M)intrl Colonel to H.M. 101st P)rn--al Fusilirrs. .">:' i. , /-;//.>-y//// Until //. Pt-ngal Euro- pean Kev-iiiu-nt. his death, 169. ll>ln rt*. l.n-nti mint l-'i't i> ( .. ]l,ti>trt*m. /.if nft niii.i. L'nil IJi-ngal Kuroi.ean Kr^inu-nt. woumU-d at the l.attle of Bitowia, -7*'. Itnliin.tiiii, Knsitjn ./. H.. volunteer.- tor service with tin- P>cimal Kun- ].ean Re-inn-nt from H.M. 84th KeL;-inicllt. ITS. /in/,, rttntt, Lit nff iinitf 'ritnimt*, pro- of. !i\ . their origin, country, and character. 1'!^ : d-t'ratcd at the l.attle of Kutra. L'H'.. "//'/-, IJ( nit nan! '/'liaind*. volunteers f.ir service \\itli the Pn-n.n"d Kum- peaii Ke-'iineiit from II. M. Mtli. 176. ('ijituiii. Pen-'al European lle.u-iinrnt, his death, 'I'l'l. Il'intst I, ( 'nlnm I. coiiiiiiandsthe Dutch Army \\ Inch invades lU-n^al. 1"1. liiinjit >'/////. Maharaja of the Punjab. arbitrates between the F.mJishand the Maratlia ters into alliance with the I>riti>h to place Shuja-ul-Mtdk ou the throne of haiiistan. :':'.!: n-m--'anixrs the Khalsa Army. :\(\7 : his death. 366. Drnmmtr M.. l>t Bengal Fusiliers. lrav-ry of. awarded Victoria Cross. 482. s. Jiuuj. agrees to assist the- French at ^lussulipatam, 85; checked by Forde, 87. Sale, General, commands the storm- ing-party at Ghuznee (1839), and wounded at, 351 ; killed at the battle of Mudki, 377. .W//.V/;///-//. I'lntnin E. W., Bengal European Ke^iment, killed at Charikar, near Cabal, note, 360. &////>///////. Kiiaiiin F. O., at the battle of Ferozshah ; is wounded under the Queen's Colours, 380 ; Cap- tain Salusbury, at Lucknow, commands Infantry detachment against enemy's batteries, 519 ; wounded at Lucknow, b'2'2 ; cap- tures three guns at the " Husanee IJairh." :>i'3 :' Lt-Col. appointed to command H.M. 101st Royal Bengal Fusiliers, 534 ; commands the Regiment during the Umbeyla campaign. Appendix F. Seaton, Captain Douglas, 1st Bengal Furopt an Regiment, at the bat- tle of Feroszhah. 3S3 ; commands; the Regiment at the battle of Sobraon. commands ex- pedition again>t the Gongoh stockade. 1 13. Si a tun. <'<>l<>u!*. Slrahiin, the AI>1< *< aman, enters the Fort of Baj Baj alone. 24. Sutm. battle of , under Major Carnac, ISO. Subzt Mima 1 ,', battle of. 4I4. Su mm. tin- Alsatian, appointed by Mir Kassiin t> reform the Murshe- dabad Army. !:'>.">: defeats the Uritisli trooj)sat Manji, 141 ; mur- ders the Kn-lish prisoners at Pat- na. 165. Sufi, capture of the enemy's en- trenched position at. 1 { , capture of, L ; ">L'. T. Ti\ ( 'ii/ifniit .1. II'.. \vollllde(l at Ghuznee, Thinl Li'u'it Dragoon$, II. M.. -allant conduct at the battle of I-Yro/- shah. under Col-.n.-! White. Thirtt tilth Riijinnnt. II. M., at siege of dim/: Thirty-ninth Foot, II. M.. aCCOm- jianies ( 'nl'.ni'I < '! : iition ihe relief of lirn^al. and Officers' names who accoini>anied the expedition, 1-1 : at the cap- ture of the Fort of Haj Baj. !'." : Tit irt >/- ninth Foot. H.M. cont, recapture of Calcutta. L'7 ; assault and capture of Hugli, ^9 ; capture of Chandernagore, 41 ; capture of the Fort of Kutwah, r>5 ; at the battle of Plassey, 59 ; the de- tachment in Bengal incorporated with the Bengal European ! ment, 70. Tijt/itio Sahib, Peshwar of Mysore, succeeds his father, Haidar Ali. 268. 7'/vy///r>jT, the Fort of, capture of, 264. Tnictten, Captain Tinman M., com- mands the Hank battalions at tin- reduction of Fort Gwalior, 287 ; commands expedition to Macao, 310. 572 INDEX. Walcot, Ensign,survive$ the sufferings of the "Black Hole," 12; death of, 38. Wallace, Lieutenant H. M., 1st Bengal Fusiliers, wounded at the battle of Narnoul, 497. Wandiwash, Fortress of, relief of, 257 ; 2nd relief of, 263. Warner, Lieutenant W. H., 1st Bengal Fusiliers, at the attack on " Ludlow Castle," 469 ; retakes the enemy's guns at the battle of Narnoul, 499 ; commands detachment at the action of Sahadit, 525. Warren, Lieutenant George, Bengal European Eegiment, leads his company to the assault of the Jungeena Gate, Bhurtpore, 333 ; is severely wounded, 334 ; Major, wounded at Ghuznee, 353 ; re- ceives Duranee Order and Brevet Lieutenant-Colonelcy, 355. Watson, Admiral, commands British Fleet sent to the succour of Bengal (1756), 15 ; at Baj Baj, 25 ; at the recapture of Calcutta, 27 ; protests against the attack on Chandernagore, 39 ; ultimately consents to assist in the assault of, 41 ; refuses to be party to Mir J'afar treaty, 51. Watson, Ensign, Bengal European Regiment, wounded at the siege of Bhurtpore, 303. Watts, Mr., surrenders the Kassim- bazar factory to the Nawab, 7 ; retires from Kassimbazar, 52. Wedderburn, Lieutenant, at Fulta, 13. Welchman, Colonel, commanding 1st Bengal Fusiliers at Budlee- ka-Serai, 459 ; severely wounded, 462. Wemyss, Lieutenant H. M., 1st Bengal Fusiliers, wounded at the battle Wemyss, Lieutenant H. M. cont. of Subzi Mundi, 465 ; assault of the Cashmere Bastion, 474 ; wounded in Delhie, 481. Wheler, Captain Trevor, commands British force at Sahadit, 525. White, Captain Martin, in Bhurtpore, 129. Williamson, Lieutenant, 1st Bengal European Regiment, prepares to protect the station of Subathoo against the Seiks, 372. Wilson, Brigadier Archdale, com- mands British Army before Delhie, 464. Wilson, Lieutenant-Colonel, Bengal European Regiment, leads the assaulting party at Bhurtpore (1826), 334. Winckbeck, Ensign, Bengal European Regiment, killed at Patna (1760), 114. Wood, Lieutenant W. H., Bengal European Regiment, wounded at the siege of Bhurtpore (1805), 300. Woodcock, Lieutenant, 1st. Bengal Fusiliers, wounded in Delhie, 481. Wriford, Ensign Charles R, 1st Ben- gal European Regiment, wounded at Ferozshah, 390; commands left wing of his Regiment at Delhie, 483. Y. Yorke, Captain, volunteers for the Bengal European Regiment from H. M. 84th, 70; wounded at Mussulipatam, 91. XTRACTS FHOM REVIEWS. " Colonel Innes has executed the task he undertook with great skill and fidelity. Whilst the affection which the author bears to his corps is jippaivnt iii every page, we are bound to add that he has not allowed that feeling to interfere with the scrupulous impartiality which has directed his pen throughout the work. It is evident that he has written from first hand; that he has carefully scrutinised the original documents; and has accepted only those conclusions which have for 3ed themselves upon his judgment. The result is, that he has produced a work which should be in the library of every soldier. In all its aspects it has a special value, and we do not hesitate to recom- iiund it to soldiers and civilians alike, as being interesting, instructive, an 1 well written ; and above all, a record thoroughly to be trusted. It is difficult to write too strongly of its merits." Army and Xtiry Mmjir.'nn' for June, 1885. " One sentiment pervades the book, and one object is kept constantly in view, the author's warm attachment to his old regiment, and his :est resolve to do all by his pen as he did by his sword, to preserve its renown unforgotten and undimmed." Army ami Xt of heroes who have been associated with The Bengal European intent, llight nobly has he fulfilled that trust. Our earnest hope oi laying down this book is that the history of every regiment in 01 r army could be set forth in an equally able manner. The plans furnished are useful, and nothing but praise can be accorded to the g neral get up of the volume. In compiling 'The History of the lieiigjil Kuropcan Kegimeiit, and how it helped to win India," the author has rendered good service, not only to those whose good fortune it is or has been to be connected with the corps, but to the larger and ever increasing circle who take an interest and find a value in regi- mental records." Tin- llmti'l J/ro/r, June 13th, 1885. EXTRACTS JTIROM: REVIE^VS. continued. "In 'The History of the Bengal European Kegiment,' Lieut.-Colonel limes goes over most of the events of the English occupation in India. He has personal reasons for illustrating with effect the services of this portion of aur armies, and he writes with so exact and soldierly a spirit that it is not unendurable that he has dealt largely with the sections of the Indian History which Macaulay so brilliantly treated. His treat- ment of later periods, especially those of Sepoy or Sepahi mutiny, has the fulness and value which personal knowledge gives. Though essentially a soldier's book, it has considerable historic importance, and those not very deeply versed in Anglo-Indian affairs need not be deterred from its perusal." The Contemporary lieview for May, 1885. " We need hardly say therefore that the author is animated by a genuine hearty love for the subject on which he writes, and has essential qualifications for the task he has undertaken." The Overland Mail, June 26th, 1885. "This handsome and tastefully bound volume is not an ordinary book ; it is not a mere list of names, and dates, and events, more or less inaccurate, as unfortunately many of our regimental histories are ; nor is it a compilation from gazettes and dispatches ; but it is a clear and connected narrative of high literary merit. The old Bengal European Eegiment is fortunate in having at last an adequate record of its glorious services ; and Colonel Innes may be congratulated on having attained his object ' to rescue from oblivion the glorious name of The Bengal European Eegiment, the last remnant of which, in July, 1881, disappeared from the official Army list.' ' Colburn's United Service Magazine for August, 1885. " The feats accomplished by individual officers and men constitute materials for many a score of romances. We could with pleasure linger over this excellent book, which is punctiliously accurate, though never dry and prolix. In conclusion, it is only just to add that the maps contribute largely to the elucidation of the text." The United Service Gazette, May 16th, 1885. " The 1st Bengal European Eegiment, known by various names, and now represented by the 1st Battalion Eoyal Munster Fusiliers, possesses one of the most unique and romantic records of any Eegi- ment in the Army, and Colonel Innes has done a good work in rescuing it from oblivion. The colors, shot-riddled and stained with the blood of the gallant boys who carried them over the " Yellow Hell" of southern Asia, hang in Winchester Cathedral ; and there can be few better lessons for a young soldier than might be read to him by Col. Innes under their tattered folds." The Academy, Oct. 3rd, 1885. 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