The History of the British Empire in India Volume 2 (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1835 edition. Excerpt: ... fought, in which the English proved victorious. The enemy fell back upon Geriali, where they were joined by the main body under Causim in person; and on the 2d of August they again risked a battle in an open plain, near Soottee. It was the most serious affair in which Europeans had ever been engaged with Indians, for the firing continued warm and close upwards of four hours, and the 84th regiment, attacked both in front and rear, was at one moment in great danger; but the steadiness of the men, and the cool courage of the officers, prevailed at last over the impetuosity of thir assailants. Meer Causim was defeated with the loss of all his cannon, one hundred and fifty boats loaded with provisions, and a large quantity of stores; while his army was saved from utter destruction only by taking shelter in an entrenched VOL. II. N camp, which had been formed on the banks of the Oodwah. Closely pursued by the English, with whom no reconciliation was to be expected, and rendered desperate by the prospects which everywhere met his gaze, Meer Causim began to indulge upon his unfortunate prisoners the cruelty which was natural to him. Ramnorain, with several other natives of rank, were put to death, but the English, though they suffered a more rigorous confinement, were, for the present, spared. Meanwhile his army, reinforced by fresh levies, kept within their lines on the Oodwah. The position was strong, being covered by a nullah, or lake, as well as by the rugged banks of the stream, and during five weeks Major Adams, though he earnestly desired it, could make no impression. At last a deserter, grown weary of Meer Causirn's service, and returning into camp, offered, on promise of a pardon, to guide a body of troops by a ford through the nullah;...